Simply Strings
Simply Strings Registration
NOW OPEN!
Registration for the 2024-2025 school year is NOW OPEN!
START DATE: Monday, September 30, at 3PM.
LOCATION: Sheppard Elementary School Library
Inspired by El Sistema, Venezuela’s acclaimed, social-action music network, Simply Strings develops musical excellence and promotes social engagement. Beginning in second grade, children in this program receive daily, intensive ensemble instruction two hours a day, five days a week after school. The program is based at Sheppard Accelerated Elementary School in the Roseland School District.
- Registration
2024-2025 - Program Philosophy
- Important Dates &
Weekly Schedule - Weekly Traditions
- Homework Club
- Parent Association
- History
&
Gallery
Registration Information 24-25
Please click either buttons up above to be directed to the online registration form.
Please read below to see if your child is eligible.
*While registering, please give a valid email you check constantly. This is our main way of communicating.
Class Offerings & Grade Level Requirements
– Pre-Orchestra (2nd Grade ONLY)
– Introduction to Violin 1 (3rd – 6th Grades)
– Level 1 (3rd – 6th Grades)
– Level 2 (4th – 8th Grades)
– Chamber Ensemble (6th – 11th Grades)
*We do not accept students in the TK/Kinder/1st grade.
Roseland School District Students
Simply Strings is a free program for any student in the Roseland School District, including the following schools:
(Elementary Schools)
– Sheppard Accelerated Elementary
– Roseland Creek Elementary
– Roseland Elementary
(Middle School)
– Roseland Accelerated Middle School (RAMS)
(High Schools)
– Elsie Allen High School
– Roseland Collegiate Prep
– Roseland University Prep
Out of district students
If your child’s school is not part of the Roseland School District, you must complete a financial aid form to see if your child is eligible. For more information on how to get access to the form please contact Ryan Contreras at rcontreras@srsymphony.org.
Santa Rosa Symphony’s Simply Strings Program: Overview
The Santa Rosa Symphony’s Simply Strings program is a comprehensive initiative designed to introduce young students to the world of music through string instruments. This program offers engaging and educational experiences for children at various skill levels, emphasizing both musical instruction and performance. Participants benefit from expert guidance, hands-on learning, and opportunities to perform, all within a supportive and nurturing environment. The program aims to foster a love for music, develop instrumental skills, and encourage artistic expression, contributing to the students’ overall growth and enjoyment of the arts.
Simply Strings Mission Statement
We believe music education can effect positive social change. Our mission is to inspire children to strive for excellence through music learning and ensemble participation.
Simply Strings Vision Statement
Through musical engagement, children grow into empathetic, resilient, and fully engaged citizens, committed to continued individual growth.
Simply Strings Guiding Principles
- Music is a joyful instrument of social change
- Accessibility is fundamental: all children should be given the opportunity to participate
- Ensemble experience develops invaluable life skills such as empathy, cooperation, dependability and commitment
- Mentoring and peer support strengthen confidence, encourage responsibility and maintain engagement
Simply Strings Quote
Through the Simply Strings program, I have noticed students build confidence, learn time management and self-discipline skills. They are encouraged to takes risks and most importantly, they feel a part of a positive, musically focused community.
– Jenny Young, Principal, Sheppard Accelerated Elementary School.
Weekly Class Schedule
Monday: 3:00PM – 5:30PM
Tuesday: 3:00PM – 5:30PM
*Wednesday: 1:00 – 3:30PM
Thursday: 3:00PM – 5:30PM
Friday: 3:00PM – 5:30PM
*Wednesday is an early start/dismissal day
Simply Strings Important Dates
Session 1: Monday, September 30 – Friday, November 22
Session 1: Friday, November 1// NO CLASSES
Session 1: Monday, November 11// NO CLASSES
Session 1 Recital: Friday, November 22
Session 2: Tuesday, January 21 – Friday, March 14
Session 2: Thursday, February 20// Free Concerts for youth Field Trip @GMC Stage
Session 2: Monday, February 10// NO CLASSES
Session 2: Monday, February 17// NO CLASSES
Session 2 Recital: Friday, March 14
Session 3: Monday, March 24 – Friday, May 16
Session 3: Monday, April 21// NO CLASSES
Session 3 Recital: Friday, May 16
Weekly Traditions
Now in its 11th year Simply Strings has grown to include many weekly and daily traditions that studnents and staff can be apart of.
Click HERE to see an outline of our Simply Strings Traditions
Musical term of the week
Session 1 (Week 1): Allegro
Session 1 (Week 2): Dolce
More info coming soon.
Musician/Composer of the week
Session 1 (Week 1): Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Session 1 (Week 2): Manuel Ponce
More info coming soon.
Fun Friday’s
More info coming soon.
Introducing the NEW Simply Strings Homework Club
The Simply Strings Homework Club provides dedicated time each day for students to complete their homework in a supportive environment. This program is available before class and during recess, held in the library.
During these designated times, the library will be transformed into a quiet study area, equipped with tables and chairs for students to work comfortably. Staff members will be present to monitor students in the library. Our Homework Club is designed to give students up to 45 extra minutes each day to focus on their assignments, allowing them to make the most of their time before heading home.
Homework Club Meeting Times
Monday: 3:00PM – 3:30PM & 4:30PM – 4:45PM
Tuesday: 3:00PM – 3:30PM & 4:30PM – 4:45PM
*Wednesday: 1:00PM – 1:45PM & 2:30PM – 2:45PM
Thursday: 3:00PM – 3:30PM & 4:30PM – 4:45PM
Friday: 3:00PM – 3:30PM & 4:30PM – 4:45PM
Join the Simply Strings Parents Association!
The Simply Strings Parents Association supports the well-being of our children and the Simply Strings program. Our purpose is to establish and develop a solid foundation for our community. We work to improve all aspects of the program, with a focus on the following areas: Food and Care, Gratitude, Solidarity, Celebration, Investments/Donations.
Becoming part of the parent committee is a great way to support the program and your child. For more information and any questions about the parent committee and the open leadership positions available, please contact Mr. Ryan.
Dedication and commitment from all Simply Strings families is vital for the success of our program.
Questions about Simply Strings? Contact Education Programs Manager, Ryan Contreras:
Email: rcontreras@srsymphony.org
Work Phone: (707)546-7097
Photos by Ryan Contreras and Susan and Neil Silverman Photography