Youth Community Strings Program
An afterschool music education program for beginners!
Presented in partnership with
- The Saint Paul's Baptist Church
- A to B Kid Shuttle
- Four Strings Violin Shop
- String Sprouts
CAITLIN BARRY
Caitlin Barry is Project Manager and Lead Instructor for the Richmond Symphony’s new Youth Community Strings program, which launches Fall 2023. A violinist and music educator, she brings nearly two decades of teaching experience to her position. Caitlin began playing the violin, learning the Suzuki method, at age five. She received her degree in Music Education from VCU, also completing Suzuki Teacher Training. She started teaching violin privately while in college and has run a successful Suzuki violin studio since. She has also had teaching experiences in both public and private school programs. Caitlin launched a sought-after violin program at Patrick Henry School of Science and Arts from 2015 through 2018. Previously, Caitlin taught Music Together classes for Richmond Public School Preschools, working with nearly 300 children each week.
An active performer, Caitlin performs with RVAStrings, an ensemble composed mostly of string teachers in the Richmond area. She also plays fiddle with her brother, singer-songwriter and frontman for the band AVAIL, Tim Barry. Caitlin’s two daughters are learning to play the violin. Daughter Grace has played in the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Program for the last three years.
Funded in Part By
The James and Lucia O'Connell Fund for Classical Music Education
Pete & Sandra Chase
Overview
Youth Community Strings is a free, daily after school program for children who love music! Our program promotes civic engagement and social change through music making. Designed for young elementary students with no previous musical experience, children are guided from the beginning of their musical journey. Through intensive music education, students develop life skills that will help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Participants receive a robust music education, learn to play an instrument, and find a sense of belonging through playing music. There is no cost to participate and all instruments and supplies are provided!
Program Details
Why Participate?
Students learn to play the violin and at the same time, acquire these traits and more:
A Head Start In Musical Education & Appreciation
Our students are given a head start in their music education by beginning at a young age. They are introduced to the violin at a prime developmental time. As they grow into proficient musicians, they will have opportunities to hold leadership roles in their school orchestras and the skills required to participate in high level ensembles. The confidence and growth students experience in their music-making will transfer into all areas of life.
Community Building & Participation
Community! Families find a new sense of belonging within our program. Making music together naturally lends itself to community building. We also come together for events and outings that support our musicians as well as their families. Students have the opportunity to give back to the community through a variety of performance opportunities.
Registration is now closed.
Registration is done by lottery process
Capacity is limited. If we receive more applicants than we have space for, a lottery will be held with priority given to families who have demonstrated financial need in their application. A waitlist of excess applicants will be formed and names will be drawn from the waitlist if space becomes available.
Interested in learning more about Youth Community Strings? Email us at YCStrings@richmondsymphony.com
or call 804-788-1541 ex. 153
Support
The Program
To support us or volunteer, email us at YCStrings@richmondsymphony.com. In addition, we are also looking for string instrument donations and community allies.