Bringing strings to the stage

Handel, meet Harry.

Thursday night, the "Strings in the Schools" after-school program will present its first concert of the season at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada.

The selections for the 45-minute concert will range from classic compositions by Strauss and Handel to modern blues and folk tunes and even music from the "Harry Potter" movies.

"These kids are amazing. The beginners had nine lessons and will be on stage playing," said Sue Kitts, instructor for the program.

The program, which began last year, allows about 80 students from second grade through high school the chance to learn and perform on string instruments. The bulk of the students are between second and fifth grades.

"Carson City has never had a strings program with the schools," Kitts said. "We want to offer students interested in string instruments the same opportunities as those in band."

"Strings in the Schools," is a program of the Carson City Symphony Association. It's funded by grants from the Nevada Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Sierra Philharmonic League and private donations.

The students meet once a week for two hours throughout the school year to learn and practice the selections for the group's two concerts.

"What these students are managing to accomplish just meeting once a week is incredible. If you think about it, they have gone to school all day and are staying after to be involved," Kitts said.

Kitts, who also provides private lessons on violin and viola, said students who are involved in music, especially strings, see benefits in all areas of their lives.

"I enjoyed orchestra, and I think music helps everything. Reading, math, leadership skills, social skills, performing skills," Kitt said. "Plus, music is something you can do for the rest of your life, whether it's with a philharmonic, forming a quartet or just by yourself."

The performance is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and preference will be given to parents and guests of the performers.

If you go

What: "Strings in the Schools" concert

When: 7 p.m. Thursday

Where: Children's Museum of Northern Nevada, 813 N. Carson St.

Cost: No cost, however seating is limited

Call: 267-6924

• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.