UNM String Lab School

The UNM String Lab School (SLS) offers high-quality instruction in violin and cello for children and adults, and serves as the teaching laboratory for university students pursuing degrees in String Pedagogy. Instruction draws from a large variety of pedagogical traditions, most notably those of Susan Kempter, Paul Rolland, Shinichi Suzuki, and Mimi Zweig.

SLS students benefit from a dynamic and supportive learning environment that blends private instruction, group learning, and a community-centered approach to music education. All instruction takes place on the UNM campus in the Center for the Arts (CFA), with most performances held in Keller Hall —one of the CFA’s premier venues, where more than 170 faculty, guest artist, ensemble, and student recitals are presented each year.

Program Offerings – Spring Semester, 2026

Violin Program (Group + Private Lessons)

Our violin program blends weekly group classes with weekly private lessons for all enrolled children.

New to the Program?

• Contact the Director, Dr. Aaron Jacobs, to schedule a free trial lesson.
  Families with children of all ages and playing levels are encouraged to inquire.

Beginning Violin Students

• Private lessons are taught by the Director during the first semester.
• Students also receive weekly Practice Partner lessons with university pedagogy students at no additional cost.
• Designed for ages 5 – 8 (flexible by inquiry)

Violin Students with Previous Experience

• Private lessons are taught by university string pedagogy students with oversight and support from the Director.
• Group classes are organized by age and playing level.
• Families with children of all ages and playing levels are encouraged to inquire

Spring 2026 Overview (all violin students)

• 12 weekly 45-minute group classes
  Co-taught by the Director and university string pedagogy students.
  Saturdays at 9:00 AM from January 24 – May 2 (no class Feb 14, Mar 21, or Apr 4)
• 12 weekly 30- or 45-minute private lessons
  Scheduled according to mutual availability between January 20 – May 8
• Live piano accompaniment is provided during classes and performances to enhance musicianship, ear training, and ensemble playing skills.
• Performance opportunities in Keller Hall, one of the CFA’s premier venues.

Spring 2026 Tuition:

• $480 – 30-minute private lessons + group classes
• $600 – 45-minute private lessons + group classes

Private Lessons for Teens and Adults

Private-lesson-only instruction is offered for violin, viola, and cello. Please note that availability is very limited as we transition toward an instructional model in which all students (except adults) participate in both group and private instruction.

Spring 2026 Overview:

• 12 private lessons per semester with a university graduate student instructor, with oversight provided by the Director. Lessons are scheduled according to mutual availability between January 20–May 8
• Live piano accompaniment is provided as needed for performances
• Performance opportunities in Keller Hall, one of the CFA’s premier venues

Fall 2025 Tuition:

• 30-minute lessons: $240
• 45-minute lessons: $360
• 60-minute lessons: $480

Family Involvement

Consistent evidence and extensive experience have shown that the amount learned and the speed with which it is learned is directly associated with the degree to which family members are involved with a child’s study. Whether it is a parent, guardian, grandparent, or caregiver, it is required that a supportive and engaged adult attend private lessons and group classes with children and assist them during at-home practice sessions. Studying the instrument alongside a young student is also encouraged for those who are interested and can be very motivating. Consistent, daily musical activities and music listening reinforce learning and help to establish practice as a daily habit.

Instruments

Beware of cheaply made “violin-shaped objects” sold online, and do not purchase or rent an instrument without our guidance! Proper sizing and setup are essential for success. Your teacher will help you determine a correctly sized instrument. Remember: too small is better than too large.

Tuition Waivers and Payment Plans

Tuition waivers are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis to those who express need. To apply, download the Tuition Waiver Application and return it via email to the Program Coordinator. Please do not register until you receive a response and allow time for processing. The UNM String Lab School is not responsible if a class fills up before a waiver is granted.

An optional payment plan is available, with the first payment due at the start of the semester and the second due mid-semester. If you wish to use a payment plan, please contact us before registering.

Protection of Minors

In accordance with UNM Minors on Campus policies, a parent or guardian must accompany all minor children into and out of university facilities and remain on site for the full duration of each class.

UNM Music Prep School

To explore additional offerings—including Children’s Chorus, Early Childhood Music, Group Piano, Group Guitar, and Music Composition—please visit the UNM Music Prep School website.