04
"Music reaches parts of the brain that other things can’t, it’s a strong cognitive stimulus that grows the brain in a way that nothing else does, and the evidence that musical training enhances things like working memory and language is very robust."
—NeuropsychologistMastering an instrument requires mental organization of physical tasks practiced consistently over time, developing the outlook that long term quality effort leads to success.
One study by a neurologist concluded that a piece of music four minutes long would involve 400 to 600 separate motor actions per second. Musicians train their bodies to accomplish mind-boggling feats of efficiency.
Playing music includes determining the expressive intent of the composer, infusing one’s own emotional expression into the performance and providing an emotional outlet for the listener. For a young student, speaking through music can be one of the most healthy ways to process feelings.
Musicians exercise independence by playing their part accurately while others play something entirely different, yet they are interdependent as they mesh their part with those, sometimes even adjusting in mid-performance to what is happening with the other players around them. The resulting impact, whether on one individual or a theater full of hundreds, is powerful.
School strings classes are offered free of charge where students learn to play an instrument in a group setting. Classes are held in ten locations during the school year.
Ages: Students in fourth grade or above may participate.
Levels: Beginner, intermediate, middle school orchestra, and high school orchestra levels are offered.
Families are encouraged to rent an instrument rather than buy, especially if the student is not yet ready for a full-sized instrument. The DGSP assists families with renting an instrument, providing families with an instrument of the correct size for their student.
To learn more, contact Greg Binger gbinger@greatlakescfa.org
Individual lessons are one of the most efficient ways to develop strings skills by customizing one-on-one lessons to a student’s strengths and areas for growth.
The Suzuki Method specializes in teaching young students with a strong emphasis on parental involvement and learning music by ear.
Ages: Students as young as four years old.
The Dorothy Gerber Youth Orchestra is a full symphony orchestra made up of advanced students conducted by Dr. Reimer who perform at a variety of events throughout the year and have the opportunity to go on annual tours and work with great musicians from leading ensembles and universities in the region.
Levels: Advanced students who have graduated from the junior orchestra level. Students from around the area are invited to audition for acceptance in the DGYO.
The mission of the DGSP is to offer strings education to every family who is interested, regardless of financial status. If your family requires assistance to participate in the DGSP, please contact David Reimer at 616.828.8321 or dreimer@greatlakescfa.org to discuss your options.
For full faculty, visit dorothygerberstrings.org
The Cummings Quartet is the professional ensemble representing the Dorothy Gerber Strings Program, mentoring students, and performing throughout the region.
Dr. David Reimer Program Director Doctoral of Musical Arts in Violin Performance
Dr. Benjamin Wu Assistant Director Doctor of Music Arts in Viola Performance
Elizabeth Bert Private Lesson Instructor Bachelor in Instrumental Music Education
Rodrigo Quintana Instructor Master of Music in Violin Performance and Pedagogy
Peter Tolias Classroom Instructor Master of Music
Greg Binger Instructor Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance
Beth Deininger Classroom Instructor Bachelor in Violin Performance and Masters in Music Theory
Derek Weller Private Lesson Instructor Master of Music in Bass Performance