Strings
Violin - Viola - Cello - Double Bass
About our Strings Program
String instruments demand patience, precision, and excellent foundational training — and at LyriCo Conservatory, that foundation is built right. Our strings program in Gainesville offers instruction in violin, viola, cello, and double bass for students of all ages and experience levels.
Beginning students start in the Suzuki Method, which emphasizes listening, repetition, and parental involvement to build a natural relationship with the instrument. As students advance, instruction transitions into traditional method and expands to include music reading, theory, and repertoire development.
What You Will Learn
- Posture & Bow Hold: Develop proper instrument setup, balanced posture, and efficient bow grip for control and tone.
- Intonation & Ear Training: Strengthen pitch accuracy through listening exercises, scales, and interval recognition.
- Left-Hand Technique: Build dexterity with shifting, finger placement, and vibrato fundamentals.
- Bow Control & Dynamics: Explore articulation, tone production, and expressive bowing across dynamic ranges.
- Ensemble Skills: Learn to blend, follow a conductor, and communicate musically within small and large groups.
A Note For Parents
Parental involvement in early string education is one of the most significant predictors of a child’s progress. We welcome and encourage parents to sit in on lessons, especially in the early stages, and our faculty will help you support your child’s practice at home.
Our String Teachers
Abigail
Carpenter
Violin
Abigail Carpenter is a Georgia-based violinist with 18 years of performance experience. She is pursuing her Master’s in Music Performance at the University of Florida, studying with Dr. Janna Lower, where she also serves as the Master’s Violin Assistant and principal second violin of the University Symphony Orchestra. Abigail earned her Bachelor of Music in Performance from the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University, studying under Professors Boris Abramov and Samuel Vargas. An active orchestral and chamber musician, she has performed with ensembles such as the Albany Symphony Orchestra, Columbus Ballet Orchestra, and University of Florida Graduate Quartet, and has attended renowned festivals including Sewanee, Montecito, and MasterWorks.
Nicolas
Chalise
Violin
Songwriting
Voice
Nicolas Chalise is a rising senior at the University of Florida studying Music Theory and Composition. As a composer, lyricist, music director, vocalist, violinist, and pianist with over a decade of experience, his background provides students the space to explore a variety of musical interests. He has been a featured composer in the University of Florida Undergraduate Composition Concert for the past three semesters, has performed as a violinist in the University of Florida’s Symphony Orchestra, and has worked as a music director at theaters like the Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory and Star Center Theater. He also worked as an educational intern at the Patel Conersavatory this past summer! This fall, he is slated to compose for Moon Unit Trio and NOIS Saxophone Quartet, as well as workshop an original new musical. From string quartets and chamber music to pop-style song writing and theatrical works, his passion surrounds helping students develop confidence, technical skill, and creativity in their own artistic voice.
Sophie
De
Violin
Sophie De is a Gainesville-based violinist pursuing her Music Performance degree at the University of Florida under Dr. Janna Lower, where she is also a 1st violin member of the UF Symphony Orchestra. She began her training in Armenia, earning a First-Class Diploma from the Al. Hekimyan Professional Music School. Passionate about music education, Sophie has taught music school students in Armenia and served as a violin section teacher and concertmaster for the Alachua County Youth Orchestra. A multi-award-winning soloist, she won the FSMTA Senior String Competition and the David Hubbell Concerto Competition, alongside international prizes in Switzerland and Serbia. Her extensive orchestral credits include performing as a substitute with the Gainesville Orchestra and serving as concertmaster under Itzhak Perlman for the PMP Super Strings Orchestra.
FAQ
How old does my child have to be to start taking violin lessons?
Music lessons are great at any age! But we focus on primary instruments starting at around 5.
Do you offer violin rentals?
For String Instruments, we Highly recommend https://www.gviolins.com/
They have an assortment of sting instruments for sale and rent.
Do I need to stay for my child’s lesson?
You are welcome to drop off your child and return a few minutes before their lesson is done! If you would like to sit in on your child’s music class, we always have an open door policy and you are free to sit in at any time.
How long does it take to learn an instrument?
There is no set answer of how long it takes to learn a string instrument. With regular practice, a basic level of playing can be accomplished in a few months. Most of our students take lessons on a long term basis because they want to be constantly improving and they find the lessons enjoyable.
How many students in each group class.
Classes range from 5- 8 students. Class size varies to make sure all students get individual attention.
Can I watch group classes?
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How much do classes cost? What's included?
You can see our tuition Here
All books, level wristbands, and access to our knowledge base and scheduling software are included.
Do you have any perfomances?
Yes we do! For music students, we have two big events every year (typically one in the winter, and one in late spring). We also offer smaller performance opportunities throughout the year as well.
How long do classes run?
These classes will run year round, but if you want to withdraw we just ask for a 30 day notice.
String basics
Tempo
Rhythm
Style
Ensemble Playing
Posture
Bow Technique
Intonation
LOCATION ADDRESS
3601 SW 2nd Ave, Gainesville
FOR FURTHER INQUIRY
(352)-756-0005
EMAIL ADDRESS
LyriCo@LyriCoConservatory.com
Have more questions?
Click Below and We'll Send You More Info
Have questions or just want to learn more about what LyriCo has to offer? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know which programs you’re interested in, and our team will personally follow up with information tailored to your goals. Whether you’re looking to teach, take a class, or get involved in our creative community, we’re here to help you find your place at LyriCo.
FOR FURTHER INQUIRY
(352)-756-0005