One of Elemental Music’s most rewarding programs each season is our volunteer mentor opportunity.

This volunteer program offers advanced high school string players the chance to tutor students in Prelude, our beginning string program, each week over Zoom. The high school mentors reinforce and support what the students do in weekly rehearsals with Prelude Director Erin Little. At the same time, the Prelude students feel inspired and excited to learn from high school musicians!

Ms. Little invited the ten Prelude mentors to be a part of our upcoming March 4 concert, and Prelude students are thrilled to have the opportunity to meet their mentors in person and perform their concert pieces together in a side-by-side performance. This will be a special moment in Elemental Music history, as it is the first time that mentors and mentees will perform together!

Samohi cellist Sophie is a former Elemental Strings musician who has returned to volunteer as a mentor. When asked about her experience as a mentor, she said, “I’ve seen how much this program positively impacts both the mentor and the student. Being a mentor has not only reminded me to be more mindful of the technique and musicality of my student, but also in my own work.” She continued, “It’s an interesting challenge to teach things that you’ve already learned, but I believe that it’s crucial in any musician’s education. It’ll be a fun experience to play along with the students at the side-by-side concert, too!”

We know that this will surely be an inspiring experience for our young string players to perform alongside their mentors, too. We can’t wait!

Visit our Calendar Page for more information about the upcoming concerts!