BSB playing at the Philo Country Opry

Take advantage of our free trial membership offer to try out the band!  You can come to rehearsal September 15, 22, and 29 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and see what it’s like to be in the band.  You do not need to prepare anything–our teachers and current band members will help you know what to do! 

This offer includes kids aged 6-18 who already play one of these instrument types: bowed strings, plucked strings, keyboard/piano, percussion, flute.  Other instruments by consent. (Beginners or children younger than 6 who would like to play should contact us. If there is enough interest we can make a group for you!)

At the end of the trial period you can decide if you want to be in the band.  If you do, then you should register.  The trial period is absolutely free; if you sign up there is a fee to participate.  Financial aid is available if needed. Contact Robin Kearton if you have questions. 

Rehearsals are held in room 7, upstairs at C4A.  Enter through our door at 103 North Race St (next to Courier Cafe) and follow the signs. 

The most well-known of our ensemble offerings, the Bow-Dacious String Band consists of 20-40 kids, aged 6 through high school, who get together weekly to play popular music styles on violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, mandolin, banjo and other stringed instruments. We also welcome accordions, pianos, melodicas, flutes, and percussion.  Other instruments with instructor consent.

This band performs a lot–over 350 times since we started in 2003! The repertoire is drawn from traditional and popular music genres from around the world.  Our emphasis is on developing strong ensemble skills, soloing, improvising, and learning applied music theory as it relates to the tunes we play. Band members also get experience with public presentation and develop leadership skills, and create friendships through music that can last a lifetime!

Students are divided into groups according to age and skill level, and each group receives instruction that is just a bit challenging for their level. Placement in groups is at the discretion of the director.

Eligibility:

This group is for kids only. Adults who want to play may find their own peer groups in our Cretaceous Band or other adult ensembles.

You do not need to take private lessons to play in the band, but you do need to know how to play your instrument. Although we don’t accept absolute beginners into the band, admission standards are designed to be inclusive. Violin, viola, and cello players need to be able to play Twinkle or an equivalent tune without stopping. Other instrumentalists should contact us to see if they are ready to join the band.

Please contact us if you have questions!