Free Event Features 88 Local Students Performing on Violas, Violins, Cellos

11/25/2013

Media contacts: Christine Gillette, 978-934-2209 or Christine_Gillette@uml.edu and Nancy Cicco, 978-934-4944 or Nancy_Cicco@uml.edu

LOWELL, Mass. – The UMass Lowell String Project, comprised of more than 80 musicians ages 8 to 18, will present a free concert for the public on Sunday, Dec. 15.

The Winter Showcase, which starts at 3 p.m. in Durgin Concert Hall on UMass Lowell’s South Campus, will feature three String Project ensembles as well as the UMass Lowell Youth Orchestra. The groups – which will perform for students, parents, teachers and members of the community – will showcase the education and growth as musicians the 88 members have developed this semester. 

The String Project offers group instruction on string instruments such as violin, viola and cello to Lowell public school students. Master teacher Donna Nagle and UMass Lowell student music teachers create a unique and creative music experience for project participants. 

Supported by UMass Lowell and 2013-2014 season sponsor Johnson String Instrument of Newton, the String Project plays an integral role in the local arts culture. Since 2001, the project has worked to create a vibrant community and has contributed to an innovative music education for children in the region. 

This fall, UMass Lowell music faculty member John-Morgan Bush became the new director of the program, which has been redesigned to place an even greater focus on building community through music and using music to inspire and enrich the lives of students, parents and teachers associated with the project.

“String Project students, who range in age from as young as 8 to high school seniors, have worked diligently to develop their skills over the last few months and are eager to showcase them for friends, family and the public,” said Bush. “We hope you will join us in supporting them at the Winter Showcase.”

Durgin Concert Hall is located on the first floor of Durgin Hall, 35 Wilder St., Lowell. Free parking is available in the nearby Wilder Lot. 

UMass Lowell is a national research university located on a high-energy campus in the heart of a global community. The university offers its 17,000 students bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in business, education, engineering, fine arts, health, humanities, sciences and social sciences. UMass Lowell delivers high-quality educational programs, vigorous hands-on learning and personal attention from leading faculty and staff, all of which prepare graduates to be ready for work, for life and for all the world offers. www.uml.edu