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Strings Department

Core Philosophy

Studying a string instrument at SSC opens many doors beyond private instruction. We offer classes in musicianship, theory, specialty genres such as fiddle and Suzuki group classes, as well as multiple ensemble opportunities including chamber ensembles tailored for the level and interests of the student. At SSC, you may choose to study violin, viola, cello, double bass or guitar through traditional or Suzuki methods of learning and harp through traditional lessons.

Our faculty are some of the Boston-metro area’s finest musicians, holding advanced degrees from world-renowned conservatories and universities, with years of teaching experience in many specialty areas including Irish traditional fiddle, Baroque music, pop, rock and more. . Beyond SSC, you’ll find our faculty performing solo and with major ensembles both locally and internationally. The Conservatory Concert Series, as well as other performance series, showcase our amazing faculty for families, students and community members of the south shore.

Strings Department Chair Christine Hedden believes in a holistic approach to learning music. Her teaching philosophy is strongly influenced by her experience in Dalcroze Eurhythmics at Carnegie Mellon University, where she completed her B.A. in Music Composition and her B.A. in Viola Performance. She holds an M.M. in Music Composition from University of Michigan where she had the opportunity to delve into studies of free improvisation and collaborative arts.

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Strings Department Faculty

String Department Programs

Private Lessons

Most students may begin traditional lessons on violin, viola, cello, guitar and bass when they are four or five. Suzuki instruction on violin, viola, cello, bass and guitar may begin for children at age four. Private lessons are 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and 60 minutes in length. SSC also offers harp lessons, which can begin at age 7.

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String Department Recitals

String Department Recitals are a celebratory performance opportunity each semester. All events are FREE. Pre-registration is required for all events.

  • Saturday, June 13, 2026, 2-5 pm
  • Saturday, December 13, 2025, 2-5 pm
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String Festival

Saturday, May 23, 2026, 12-5 pm
Hingham Campus

The String Festival (formerly the String Competition) inspires students to strive for the highest standards of technique in their performance. The judges, a panel of professional musicians, provide students with written feedback to nurture the student’s continued growth and development. All students perform for prizes of Gold, Silver, and Bronze awarded based on their total score.

New this year, the String Festival will include additional events beyond the adjudication and awards. More information is coming soon!

Practice Challenge

Students earn prizes based on the number of practice days within a 30-day window. New this year, there will be an extra prize for students who go beyond the 30-day in the spring semester!

  • Fall Practice Challenge: October – November 2025
  • Spring Practice Challenge: February – May 2026

Printed copies of the Practice Challenge Log and Rules are available at the front desk of both campuses.

SSC Harp Ensemble

South Shore Conservatory Harp Ensemble is comprised of conservatory students enrolled in private harp lessons. The ensemble meets regularly and performs a variety of music including folk harp arrangements and classical compositions. The ensemble is appropriate for many levels and allows participants to develop skills essential for orchestra and chamber music playing. If interested, please contact Sarah Stuart.

HuiMin Wang Concerto Competition

Competition Rules
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Other Classes and Programs