String Methods
Class Information
Levels Offered: Beginning & Intermediate
Meeting Day: Wednesdays
Class Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Santa Ana College — Room N-114
Instrument loan options may be available through the college or by local rental programs. Please contact the instructor for current availability and recommendations.
Contact Us
Joseph Kaye
Director of Orchestras
kaye_joseph@sac.edu
Course Mission
The String Methods program provides accessible, high-quality instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass for both aspiring music educators and community members. The program fosters musical growth, technical development, and ensemble skills in a supportive, welcoming environment for learners of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Through hands-on instruction and ensemble-based learning, students develop confidence as musicians while building skills that transfer to school, community, and lifelong music-making settings.
About the Program
String Methods is open to college students and community members who wish to learn or continue developing on string instruments. Whether preparing for a career in music education or simply exploring a new instrument, students receive structured instruction in:
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Violin
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Viola
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Cello
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Bass
No prior experience is required for the Beginning level. Instruction emphasizes proper technique, music reading.
Beginning String Methods
Designed for students with little to no prior experience on string instruments.
Focus areas include:
- Instrument setup and care
- Bow hold and left-hand position
- Basic tone production
- Reading music in first position
- Ensemble fundamentals and rhythm skills
This level is ideal for true beginners and those returning to strings after a long break.
Who Should Enroll
The program welcomes:
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Music Education majors
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Performance majors expanding secondary instruments
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Adult learners and community musicians
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Parents, retirees, and first-time string players
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Students preparing for ensemble participation
Classes are structured to support mixed backgrounds while maintaining clear learning progressions for all students.
Intermediate String Methods
Designed for students with prior string experience or who have completed Beginning String Methods.
Focus areas include:
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Expanded finger patterns and shifting
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Improved tone production and articulation
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Ensemble balance and blend
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Introduction to intermediate-level repertoire
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Refinement of technique and musicianship
Students may advance to this level by instructor recommendation or placement assessment.
Who Should Enroll
The program welcomes:
-
Music Education majors
-
Performance majors expanding secondary instruments
-
Adult learners and community musicians
-
Parents, retirees, and first-time string players
-
Students preparing for ensemble participation
Classes are structured to support mixed backgrounds while maintaining clear learning progressions for all students.
OAP (Older Adults Program) Option
Community members may enroll through the **Older Adults Program (OAP)** at **no tuition cost**.
OAP students participate fully in class instruction and ensemble activities alongside enrolled college students. Parking permits may still be required by the college.
This option provides a low-barrier entry point for adults who want to learn an instrument and make music in a social, supportive environment.
Learning Experience
Students will engage in:
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Group technique instruction
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Guided ensemble rehearsals
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Sectional-style skill development
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Individual playing checks and feedback
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Optional performance opportunities with college and community ensembles
The class environment mirrors real orchestra settings while maintaining a beginner-friendly pace and supportive atmosphere.
Pathways & Connections
Students in String Methods may continue into:
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Santa Ana College Orchestra Ensembles
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Santa Ana Symphony Orchestra (SASO)
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Local school and community ensembles
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Transfer programs in music education or performance
The program supports both academic pathways and lifelong participation in music.