Artscape: Striking A New Chord

By: Chuck Hinman

In this multi-part series, “Striking a New Chord: A 15-Week Journey To Learning An Instrument,” RIPR’s Morning Edition host Chuck Hinman follows a beginning adult ensemble class for violin, viola, cello and bass in Bristol, RI. As the name suggests, it’s a class for adults who want to learn how to play a stringed instrument. The program is organized by the Community String Project. The twist? Hinman will embark on the musical journey himself, too. Over the course of 15 weeks, students will learn how to read music and develop their rhythm skills. “By that 15-week mark you’ll be playing three or four pieces in our end of semester concert,” explained the ensemble’s teacher, Nathan Rodriguez.

As the name suggests, it’s a class for adults who want to learn how to play a stringed instrument. The program is organized by the Community String Project. The twist? Hinman will embark on the musical journey himself, too. Over the course of 15 weeks, students will learn how to read music and develop their rhythm skills. “By that 15-week mark you’ll be playing three or four pieces in our end of semester concert,” explained the ensemble’s teacher, Nathan Rodriguez.