Overview
First String Experience provides early years string training for young children with no previous experience.
The course emphasises the encouragement of basic musical skills, physical ease with the instrument and the enjoyment of playing, through group tuition and ensemble playing.
All sessions are held on Saturdays at the Academy, teaching coinciding with normal school terms. We encourage parents/guardians to show enthusiasm and interest, both in accompanying children to the sessions and in helping to sustain interest through the week. A concert is given by each year group at the end of each term.
Classes and Activities
Parents/guardians must accompany children to all sessions throughout the course.
First Year
Saturdays, 9.15–10am
Sessions concentrate on initial musical development, working imaginatively with pulse, rhythm and pitch. It is essential for a parent to accompany each child to these sessions. This pre-instrumental year lays the musical foundations for the tuition on string instruments that follows in subsequent years.
Second Year
Saturdays, 10.30am–12.30pm
A choice is made from violin, viola, cello and mini-bass for the second year onwards.
The two-hour sessions consist of four 30-minute periods – a large ensemble session, a group instrumental lesson, general musicianship and a period for musical games and refreshment or further ensemble playing. Much emphasis is placed on comfort with the instrument and an overall physical co-ordination and ease.
The instrumental lessons are typically in groups of five to six and the musical material we use forms the basis of the ensemble playing. The general musicianship sessions explore all elements of music, including note-reading, in an active and stimulating fashion.
Third Year
Saturdays, 1–3pm
Third year is a continuation of the ensemble sessions, group instrumental lessons and general musicianship sessions from second year.
Fourth Year
Saturdays, 3.15-5.15pm
To include a more advanced programme of Orchestra, musicianship and chamber groups and is by audition only.
Entry requirements
First Year
There are no formal entry requirements for entry into the first year of First Strings Experience, as this course is intended for children who have not had previous strings tuition.
Fourth Year
Entry to the fourth year of First Strings Experience is by audition, taken from the third year cohort.
Wellbeing
We believe that students thrive when their wellbeing is prioritized, which is why all of our Junior Academy programmes integrate techniques for managing anxiety, enhancing practice routines and improving memory.
More performance, less assessment
Through focusing on individual and group performance, we create a nurturing environment where you can grow without the pressure of constant evaluation.
'Confident young performer' programme
This programme, designed for 12-18-year-olds, is built around fostering both musical ability and mental wellbeing. It provides essential tools to manage the demands of being a musician, including workshops on the Alexander Technique.
You will work closely with Helen Kuby, a wellbeing coach and specialist in performance psychology. Through individual lessons and ensembles, Helen will help you build confidence through music while teaching you to understand your body and mind, particularly when it comes to over-practicing and performance anxiety.
One-to-one performance coaching sessions
Our tailored one-on-one coaching sessions offer you the chance to develop your musical skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. You will receive individualized attention to help you progress at your own pace, helping you to feel confident and capable in your performances.
Independence and teamwork
We encourage you to think independently, solve problems on your own, and take ownership of your personal growth. We also place a strong emphasis on teamwork, teaching you the value of cooperation, understanding and tolerance. Our supportive and approachable staff are always on-hand to guide you, preparing you for your musical journey and for life in general.
Community and belonging
In September, we host a Saturday morning welcome day before the term begins, offering an opportunity for you to meet with the other students and take part in orchestral rehearsals. This event helps build a sense of community where everyone feels valued and connected and no student is left feeling isolated.
Term Dates 2026/27
Summer 2026
Saturday 25 April - Saturday 11 July (10 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 23 May & Saturday 30 May
Autumn 2026
Saturday 19 September - Saturday 12 December (11 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 24 October & Saturday 31 October
Intensive Day: Saturday 12 September
This includes all Junior Academy, Primary Academy and Junior Jazz students.
Spring 2027
Saturday 9 January to Saturday 20 March (10 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 13 February
Summer 2027
Saturday 17 April - Saturday 10 July (11 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 29 May & Saturday 5 June
With Thanks To
Junior Academy is very grateful to donors and benefactors whose assistance has greatly facilitated the implementation of our plans. Alongside various anonymous benefactors, these include:
- The Leverhulme Trust
- The Wolfson Foundation
- Musicians Benevolent Fund
- Susan Lawrence Travel Bursary Fund
- Julian Bream Trust Scholarships
- Benslow Musical Instrument Loan Scheme
- Department of Education Music and Dance Scheme (MDS)
- ABRSM
Junior Academy is supported by the Music and Dance Scheme Access to Excellence programme. The aim of the scheme is ‘to help identify, and assist, children with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education, which will enable them, if they choose, to proceed towards self-sustaining careers in music and dance’.