OUR PROGRAMS

Strings Classes

The Dorothy Gerber Strings Program offers string classes in several area schools by assigning qualified teachers to meet with students in classroom settings multiple times per week for instruction. Beginning, intermediate and school orchestra levels are offered free-of-charge.

In 2019-2020, schools hosting the DGSP classes include: Beaver Island Community School, Boyne City Middle School, Boyne Falls Public School, Central Elementary School in Petoskey, Charlevoix Elementary School, East Jordan Elementary School, Lakeland Elementary School, Ellsworth Community School, Harbor Light Christian School, Pellston Middle  School, Petoskey Middle School, St. Mary Catholic School.

Suzuki Program

The Suzuki Method is an iconic movement of string education that features private and group lessons. The Suzuki method specializes in teaching very young students by the "mother tongue" method, with a strong emphasis on parental involvement and learning music by ear.  Students may begin as young as four years old. Suzuki lessons are offered for a moderate cost and scholarships are available for those in need.

Suzuki lessons are available in:

• Charlevoix (Christ Episcopal Church)

• Petoskey (438 E. Lake Street)

Individual Lessons

The Suzuki Method is an iconic movement of string education that features private and group lessons.  The Suzuki method specializes in teaching very young students by the "mother tongue" method, with a strong emphasis on parental involvement and learning music by ear.  Students may begin as young as four years old at DGSP studios in Charlevoix and Petoskey. Suzuki lessons are offered for a moderate cost and scholarships are available for those in need.

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Private lessons are available in: 

• Beaver Island (Beaver Island Community School)

• Boyne City (Boyne City Middle School)

• Charlevoix (Christ Episcopal Church)

• Elk Rapids (Lakeland Elementary)

• Petoskey (438 E. Lake Street)

Dorothy Gerber Youth Orchestra

For students who desire a more advanced level of music-making, the DGYO is offered weekly. DGSP teachers coach students to play in the context of an orchestra, where each instrument section plays independent parts for an exciting musical experience.

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Rehearsals: 

• Monday, 6:00 - 7:30, Charlevoix Elementary with Dr. Reimer

"The Dorothy Gerber program influenced our son in numerous positive ways! Our son joined the program at age 8 and stayed involved for eleven years. He went from a beginner to a topnotch musician who enjoyed ensemble music camp over the last two summers. We are extremely grateful to the program for providing free classes and scholarships on rental instruments. Without the support of the Gerber family, our son would not have become the fine cellist that he is today.

This year's cello concerto and duet ensemble with violinist teacher were most rewarding. Plus he was delighted to be assigned the role of an assistant. He has enjoyed playing on many levels of orchestra from beginning to youth orchestra - concert, chamber and symphony.

Music has built his confidence and his memory skills. Attending music class was the highlight of my son's week. I truly believe it is food for the soul. There were always expert teachers to teach proper technique and to share beautiful classical music; they demonstrated ways to interpret the music with feeling and emotion. This expertise and modeling were essential in developing his musical artistry. The program also impacted our son’s community involvement. He played in the Youth Orchestra, at local Fiddler's Jamborees, at festivals, at square dances, at church events and even for other orchestras when they needed a cellist. He learned to serve the community joyfully with his talents. He learned to be patient with himself, focused and disciplined through practice.

The glowing smile on my son's face at the end of this year's spring concert was so satisfying. All the work had culminated in very special memories. The love of music and the skills acquired will last a lifetime! I cannot thank the Gerber Family enough for their love of music and their continual gift of encouragement to young people so that they can develop to their full potential!"

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–Robin Ray