September 3rd, 2019
The Penn Yan School District remains unique among the majority of school districts today in that it maintains an active and thriving string program. This program, available to students beginning in second grade, offers a variety of educational opportunities. These may include Orchestra and/or Chamber Group Performances within the School District, and may even include participation in All-County Festivals, Area All-State, or NYSSMA Solo & Ensemble Festival.
Students who are interested in joining the string program can expect certain goals and responsibilities:
- Instruments, accessories, and books need to be brought regularly, so that the learning process is not interrupted and the child feels comfortable with his or her own instrument.
- Concert participation is expected. Students will be taught with the intent to participate in performances to create a positive final experience. Specific concert dates and information will be handed out at the beginning of the school year.
- Above all else, students will be expected to try their best!
Instrument Rental
Here are the names of a few music stores that do rent stringed instruments and have quality service:
Music in Arts: Based out of Pittsford, N.Y., this company rents stringed instruments at an affordable price. As a result of the quantity of instruments that are typically rented in the District, this company also services the school once a week to deliver materials and take care of needed repairs.
Violins and Violas: School Year=approx. $110 with insurance.
Violas (15”): School Year=approx. $150 with insurance.
Cello: School Year=approx. $210 with insurance.
The String Instrument Shop: Located just off of Route 250 in Fairport, Paul Strelau sells, rents, and repairs stringed instruments. The prices are very reasonable and repairs are quick and well done. Their rental prices include:
Violins: School Year=approx. $154
12 Months=approx. $175
Violas: School Year=approx. $175
12 Months=approx. $199
Cellos: School Year=approx. $267
12 Months=approx. $303
The String House: Located on Monroe Avenue in Brighton, this family-owned business sells, rents, and repairs stringed instruments. Although their prices tend to be a little more, they are known for great quality and maintenance as string specialists. Their rental prices include:
Violins & Violas: School Year=approx. $130 with insurance.
12 Months=approx. $150 with insurance.
Cellos: School Year=approx. $235 with insurance.
12 Months=approx. $255 with insurance
The insurance policies cover all major parts and mishaps in the case of accidents, but do not cover broken strings. The school currently maintains a fair number of cellos and basses that can be used in place of a rental. Especially considering the rental costs, the availability of cellos or basses should not necessarily be a factor in whether or not the student should pursue an interest.
Students will need to have one lesson book, approximately $8.00, and violin and viola students will need a shoulder rest. The prices of these vary between $2.00 and $25.00, depending on the need, interest, and advancement of the student. I also recommend buying a music stand (approximately $15.00) so that students can have their music directly in front of them for practicing and to ensure good posture.
Scheduling Lessons
Lessons are scheduled in such a way as to avoid missing math and specialty classes, but sometimes time, numbers, and lesson slots require a schedule adjustment for the student. I try to keep similar instruments and age groups together for both clarity and convenience.
If you are interested in starting your child in the String Program, please fill out and return the information slip attached to me at PYE at your earliest convenience. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me at the Elementary School (536-3346, X-3165), the Middle School (536-3366, X-5126), or by e-mail ([email protected]).
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Tracey Ingerick
PYE/PYMS String Teacher
Penn Yan Elementary String Program Information for 2019-2020
Student’s Name: ____________________________________________________
Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Name: __________________________________________
Home Phone #: ____________________________ Best time to call: ___________________
Preferred E-mail: ____________________________________________________
Current Teacher: _____________________________________ Current Grade: ___________
Instrument most interested in: (please prioritize your choice(s) numbers 1-4)
Violin _____ Viola _____ Cello _____ Bass ______
Any Past/Current Music Involvement (if applicable):
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________