Beginner Strings

Beginner Strings is for students completely new to playing their musical instrument (no previous experience is required). Consisting of mainly Year 2 students, some exceptions can be made for younger children that already have experience. Students spend one year in this group learning how to play their chosen instrument and be part of a musical ensemble.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

We are currently recruiting for Beginner Strings 2026. Please contact us at fps.strings@gmail.com for more information about registration.

INSTRUMENTS

Below is a list of instruments offered in our strings program. To see our very own FPS students demonstrating the instruments, please click here: https://www.fpspandc.com.au/strings/instruments

Violin
Viola
Cello
Double Bass

It is important that the correct sized instrument is selected for each student. Please come to our Information Evening and our conductors will be happy to help with sizing. Alternatively you can find more information in our Strings Handbook or view videos on how to select size, both can be found on our Useful Resources page.

https://www.fpspandc.com.au/strings/useful-resources

INSTRUMENT HIRE

Most families choose to hire their instrument through the strings program; however, you can use your own instrument or choose to hire externally (see list below). All information regarding hiring will be provided.

External instrument rental providers:

https://www.violins.com.au/

List of 2nd hand instruments for sale:

https://bit.ly/3UdCpLT

CONDUCTOR

Our Beginner Strings Conductor is Pip Birkett.

Pip spent her youth teaching and playing the violin in orchestras before choosing a corporate career and keeping music as a hobby. Following the birth of her three children, she returned to her childhood passion of music.

Throughout the last nine years, Pip has been heavily involved in the strings program at Forestville Public taking various strings groups. Pip is currently studying for her Bachelor of Music/Education, and is a member of the University of New South Wales Orchestra.

REHEARSALS

Beginner Strings rehearsal:

Friday mornings 7:45am – 8:45am

Students are expected to arrive on time so they can set up the hall ready for rehearsal. Every rehearsal requires a parent/ carer volunteer to supervise. Their role is to assist in the running of the rehearsal under the direction of the conductor.

It is requested that notice be given for any missed rehearsals. A musical ensemble is like any other team – it needs all its members in order to function successfully. Children joining the program are asked to commit for the full year, and to attend all rehearsals and performances.

The Conductors are very happy to speak with parents to discuss their child’s progress. Conductors will ask the students to take their music to their tutors. It’s especially important to speak to the conductor if your child is having any difficulties. It’s our experience that these concerns are often easy to resolve when they are addressed early.

TUTORS

In addition to the weekly rehearsal, every student is required to have tutoring each week with a teacher specific to their instrument. A tutor will teach the student how to play their instrument whilst the strings rehearsal is where they learn to play as a group. If you need assistance with tutors please contact fps.strings@gmail.com

FEES

Invoices for Beginner Strings are sent out at the beginning of the year via email.

Fees for 2026:

Beginner Strings Fee (non-refundable) - $550
Sibling Discount (only on full program fee) - $50/ both students (only on full program fee)
Double Bass Discount - $100 off program fees for the year

Instrument Rental with FPS Rental Program 2026

For more information on the FPS Rental Program please visit: bit.ly/44Uu5Z5

We accept the NSW Creative Kids Voucher.

WHAT TO BRING TO REHEARSAL

Instrument and accessories (shoulder rest, rosin, cleaning cloth etc)
Music Folder (will be provided)
Sharp pencil