Violittles

About Violittles

• Cohort-based beginner violin classes for K–3 students in a group setting
• Focus on creativity and ensemble learning
• Changing the demographics of performers in concert music

Why the Cohort-Based Approach?

• Foster community and long-term relationships among students
• Encourage collaboration and group learning 
• Create opportunities for parents and guardians to work as a team in the development of students 
• Identify innovative ways to teach students that is scaleable 

What Students will Learn

• Parts of the instrument
• How to hold and care for the violin
• Basic bowing and fingering techniques
• Simple songs and rhythms
• Music reading fundamentals
• Playing in a group setting
• Listening and musical cooperation skills

What to Expect

• Orientation session for parents and students before classes begin
• Weekly 60-minute sessions at the Academy—650 Marshall Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104
• A multi-year program that prepares students for private lessons and ensembles.
• Group learning focused on building confidence and musical skills

Tuition & Fees

• $800 annually
• Limited scholarships available
• Additional ensembles may have extra fees

Student Requirements

• No prior experience or music reading needed
• Students are expected to attend all sessions
• Students must be able to commit to at least three (3) years of focused study
• Parents are encouraged to participate in regularly scheduled Parent Council meetings to support student success

Instruments & Materials

• Students provide their own instrument; rentals available through Walker West at affordable rates
• Weekly take-home materials help parents support practice and musical growth

Performance & Growth

• 1–2 performances per year to showcase progress
• Optional summer camp for continued learning
• Pathway to advanced ensembles and private lessons

Equity & Access

• Prioritizes students from under-resourced and underrepresented communities
• Builds confidence, musical skills, and connection to broader string programs