Strings & Harp

Strings & Harp Studies at WCM

WCM's strings faculty provide expert instruction on the violin, viola, cello, double bass, and harp, helping students of all ages develop a beautiful tone, healthy technique, and strong musicianship. Younger students can find their first musical home in the Suzuki Strings program, while advanced school-aged students can explore more intricate repertoire and learn valuable skills for musical collaboration in WCM's Chamber Music Institute. In WCM's Strings program, pathways to excellence are built every day!

Private Lessons or Suzuki Strings? What is the Difference?

Suzuki Strings approaches music the way children learn their first language—by immersing them in sound. Students develop skills through listening, ear training, repetition, and memorization, with music reading introduced gradually as they gain confidence. A unique feature of the Suzuki method is that parents play an active role, attending lessons and supporting daily practice at home.
Traditional private lessons, by contrast, often place less emphasis on parent involvement and move more quickly into note reading and independent practice.
Suzuki is especially well-suited for very young beginners who thrive with parental guidance, while older students, or those already playing in school orchestras or ensembles, may prefer the more independent structure of a traditional private lesson path.

Not sure which is right for your child? Contact us—we’re here to help!

New Student Lesson Discount

$225 for Six 30-minute Lessons*
$375 for Six 45-Minute Lessons*
$450 for Six 60-Minute Lessons*

Music lessons at WCM are available in a wide array of instruments and genres—with a trial lesson offer to help you get started. Join a community of over 10,000 students and schedule your first lesson today!

*Does not include $45.00 annual family registration fee, or $1.00 per lesson historical preservation fee.

What You'll Find at WCM

Celebrating over 126 years of musical excellence, the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music is the largest community music school in the state.

Expert Teaching Artists

100+ educators inspire students through outstanding individual, group, and ensemble instruction.

Diverse Programs

With classes for a wide range of genres, instruments, and interests, there’s something for everyone.

Accessible Education

Community partnerships, tuition assistance, and merit scholarships make music education accessible to all.

Performance Opportunities

Students shine in concerts, recitals, music hours, and more—in a positive, encouraging environment.

Convenient Resources

Dedicated student services team, multiple convenient locations, and practice room access for students.

Proven Legacy

From Grammy winners to Broadway stars and Oscar honorees, WCM alumni excel as musicians and in diverse fields, proving music opens doors to limitless possibilities.

Learn more about wcm