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 – Fall Semester, 2025

Beginning Violin Program

Designed for children ages 5–8 (flexible by inquiry). Interested families should contact the Director, Dr. Aaron Jacobs, to schedule an appointment for a free trial lesson and violin sizing.

Fall 2025 Overview:

• 12 weekly 45-minute group classes
  Co-taught by Aaron Jacobs and university string pedagogy students.
  Saturdays at 9:30 AM from September 6 – December 6 (no class October 11 or November 29)
• 12 weekly 30-minute private lessons
  Taught by Aaron Jacobs and observed by university string pedagogy students.
  Scheduled according to mutual availability between August 18 – December 13
• Weekly “Practice Partner” lessons
  Taught by university string pedagogy students, scheduled by mutual availability, and offered at no additional cost.
• 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.

Fall 2025 Tuition:

• $480

Private Lessons (Violin & Cello)

For players of all ages. Instruction is tailored to individual goals and experience levels.

Children and Young Adults:

• Private lessons are offered for beginning cello students and for violin and cello students with previous playing experience.
• Beginning violin lessons for children ages 5–8 are offered through the Beginning Violin Program only.

Adult Learners (age 18+):

• Adult beginners and continuing players are welcome.

Fall 2025 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 August 18–December 13
• “Sharing Classes” are held three times per semester. These special gatherings offer a warm and supportive space for students to perform for one another, play music together, and enjoy fun activities together as a group. Fall 2025 dates: 5:00 PM on Sept 26, Nov 7, and Dec 5. Attendance is optional.
• Live piano accompaniment is provided as needed for Sharing Classes and 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

Group Classes

Group classes for children, organized by playing level, are an integral element of our teaching philosophy and are expected to be offered as a regular component of instruction as early as Spring or Fall 2026. As these offerings are phased in, registration options for children will combine both group and private lessons under a single tuition structure.

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 for all families. Tuition may be paid in two equal installments, with the first payment due August 18 and the second due October 5. If you wish to use the payment plan, there will be an option to select it on the registration form.

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.