Dozens of Columbia County students are picking up violins and cellos for the first time through a new district program designed to build confidence, discipline, and musical skill.
The Columbia County Strings Academy, coordinated by Fine Arts Coordinator Danielle Starcher and led by instructor Kim Chavous, introduces students in grades five through 12 to the fundamentals of orchestral performance.
Starcher said the program focuses primarily on violin and cello for beginners, while an intermediate group includes viola players. The goal, she said, is to help students discover their talents and develop lasting confidence through music.
“We really want to build their musicality through learning the strings instruments, but also build their confidence,” Starcher said. “We want them to see that they have different talents and gifts.”
About 80 students are enrolled this season across four introductory classes and one intermediate group. Students meet weekly for hands-on instruction, emphasizing both technique and teamwork.
Rather than immediately handing out instruments, instructor Kim Chavous began the first session by teaching bow control, helping students master movement and precision before producing sound. During the first session, students practiced with bow-only exercises and were even given homework to reinforce what they learned.
Even in its first week, the program has already fostered connection and encouragement among students. Starcher recalled two brothers helping one another during practice, offering advice and support as they learned together.
“Yesterday, when I was in a class, there were two brothers that were working together, and it was just really sweet to see them come together as siblings and encourage one another and also provide constructive criticism to help each other grow.”
The Strings Academy will culminate with student performances at Arts at the Plaza, Columbia County’s annual fine-arts showcase, on April 25, 2026 at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center.
Intermediate students will perform on the main stage, and beginner classes will also play in the lobby the same day. Starcher said the event gives families and students a chance to see how much progress can happen in just a few months.
“It’ll be a wonderful day to kind of see the growth that they’ve had. But it’s also a wonderful opportunity for our beginning students to see where they can potentially grow by being able to observe that intermediate group perform.” said Starcher
