Student requirements are 1 year of instrument study and a willingness to learn tunes by ear (without music). Teacher recommendations are requested for new students. The students are divided into groups according to experience and age with a intentional focus on forming healthy social groups that learn well together. Each day begins with activities for the entire group; singing, dance, rhythmic movement, and musical games. Afternoons include swimming at Prospect Lake or in the Green River, ensemble playing (band), specialty projects and arts and crafts.

The staff are experienced, local teachers, many of whom have taught at Berkshire Summer Strings for most of the ten years the program has been held. They have a desire to share musical traditions from many countries with a younger generation of instrumentalists and wish to create an enthusiastic, nurturing and structured environment for learning.

The Youth Program is Monday - Friday, from 9:00am with options for a half day, full day or an extended day.

Throughout the week we will have singing, contra-dancing, ensemble playing, tune sessions, song and tune writing sessions, outdoor recreation and games, artistic activities and some additional surprises! We offer instruction on fiddle, viola, mandolin, ukulele and recorder, and welcome cello, banjo, and guitar players, too.

Student groups are formed with care to ensure that all participants are challenged and engaged at their level of ability. Registration is required for each child wishing to attend.

Youth Program Fees

Full Day   $375 9am - 3:30pm

Extended Day $430 9am - 5:00pm

Half Day  $290 9am - 12:45pm

Sibling discount of 10% on 2nd tuition available thanks to the Berkshire Summer Strings Scholarship Fund. 

Non-refundable application fee of $50 will guarantee your child’s place after they are accepted into the program.

Payment balance due July 15, 2024.

Email erika@berkshirestrings.com if you have questions.

Schedule Sample

  • Arrival at French Park

  • 9am “Morning Campfire”: Singing, dancing, movement games (parents welcome to attend)

  • 10:00 snack

  • 10:15 Morning Class I

  • 11:30 Morning Class 2

  • 12:30 Lunch and free-recreation; Half-day Dismissal

  • 1:30 Afternoon Period 1

  • 2:30 Afternoon Period 2

  • 3:30 Full Day Dismissal

  • 3:45 Beginner and Advanced Jams

  • 5:00pm Extended Day Dismissal

WE ACCEPT CASH OR CHECK FOR ALL PROGRAM FEES, WORKSHOPS AND CONCERT TICKETS.

Credit, Debit Card, PayPal, Venmo and Berkshares ALSO ACCEPTED.

Checks can be made to Berkshire Strings.  Mailing address:

Berkshire Strings  c/o Erika Ludwig   PO BOX 392   South Egremont, MA  01258

Limited financial aid may be available thanks to the generosity of donors to the Berkshire Summer Strings Scholarship Fund. Contact Erika for more information.

Please consider making an additional donation to the program. Each year we have been able to offer assistance with fees thanks to the monies raised at Berkshire Strings Jams and from your generous contributions. Every dollar you donate will go directly towards the support of a child's summer music experience. THANK YOU!

Our songwriter's workshop in dress rehearsal for the Camper Concert 2015

Photos from past Berkshire Summer Strings seasons 2014 - 2022