Youth Music Monterey's South County Strings program brings free instruction and string instruments to students in southern Monterey County. Through partnerships with the Soledad Unified School District and Bradley Union School District, YMMC provides students in grades 3-8 the ability to study cello, viola, and violin in areas where music education and performance opportunities are sparse.
A team of music instructors provide violin, viola, and cello instruction in group lessons during the school day. Students are not charged for the lessons and YMMC provides students with instruments. Music classes begin in September and run throughout the school year through June. The program is designed to both introduce new students to music and string instruments, and to help intermediate students develop their skills.
Students receive a minimum of two hours of instruction per week, give in-school and after school performances for their peers, and perform at community venues. Students also receive free or subsidized tickets to concerts throughout Monterey County, and attend workshops with visiting musicians—such as the YMMC Chamber Players, who visit the schools to perform for and work with young string students.