Empire State Youth Orchestra will pilot an early string education program in partnership with the Schenectady City School District, introducing violin instruction to Pre-K and Kindergarten students. The initiative, funded by New York State Council on the Arts and administered by the NYC Arts in Education Roundtable, positions Schenectady as the first Upstate New York site for the NYC Arts Office Early Childhood Strings Pathway Program.
The program reflects growing research linking early music learning to cognitive development, social-emotional growth and long-term success. ESYO serves as the only program in Upstate New York selected to pilot the statewide initiative, which is implemented in partnership with the NYC Public Schools Arts Office.
Dr. Carlos M. Cotto Jr., Superintendent of Schenectady Schools, emphasized the partnership invests in cognitive and social-emotional foundations that can drive long-term student success. By introducing violin instruction at the earliest levels, the program removes barriers and ensures excellence in the arts is accessible to all students.
Zoë Auerbach, CHIME and Young Leaders Director for Empire State Youth Orchestra, explained that when young children have access to high-quality string instruction from the earliest stages of formalized learning, musical ability can develop based on potential and dedication rather than circumstance. The program creates true pathways to advanced musical study and other pursuits throughout students’ lives.
The pilot builds on ESYO’s existing CHIME program (Creating Harmony Inspiring Musical Empowerment), which provides music education to young musicians across the Capital Region. ESYO is currently constructing a new Youth Music Center in Scotia, which will serve as a permanent home for the organization’s ensembles and programs.
The Albany-based organization has provided youth music education across the Capital Region for decades, with programming ranging from orchestral ensembles to community partnerships. The early childhood strings program expands ESYO’s commitment to equitable access to instrumental music education.
For more information about Empire State Youth Orchestra and the Early Childhood Strings Pathway Program, visit esyo.org.
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