Frequently Asked Questions
A Gift for Music is dedicated to empowering Orlando’s under-resourced youth to envision a positive future and discover their creativity through string music education. Whether you are a parent looking to enroll your child, a prospective student, or a community supporter, here are answers to the most common questions about our programs, registration, and mission.
Yes! All of our string music programs—including instrument loans, music books, weekly instruction, summer camps, and performance opportunities—are 100% tuition-free. We provide instruction to students in Central Florida who otherwise could not afford private lessons.
Our programs serve students in Orange County, Florida, starting from 3rd grade through 12th grade graduation. We focus primarily on under-resourced youth, with approximately 90% of our students qualifying for free or reduced-price school lunches.
No. We provide every enrolled student with a quality string instrument free of charge for the duration of their participation in our programs.
We specialize in string orchestra instruments:
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Double Bass
Not at all! Our After-School Elementary Violin Program is designed specifically for total beginners starting in 3rd grade. No prior knowledge of music theory or instrument handling is required. For older or returning students, we place players into ensembles based on their current skill level.
We offer several program options at Title-1 schools across Orange County, FL:
- After-School Violin Classes: Held at our partner Orange County elementary school locations during the school week.
- Saturday String Orchestras: Five tiered ensemble rehearsals held every Saturday morning during the academic year for elementary through high school students.
- Summer Camp & Small Ensembles: Special seasonal sessions and chamber groups that rehearse and perform throughout Central Florida year-round.
Our current program locations include:
- Engelwood Elementary School
- Forsyth Woods Elementary School
- Lake Silver Elementary School
- Riverdale Elementary School
- Ventura Elementary School
Consistent practice and attendance are the keys to musical growth!
We ask that students:
- Attend all weekly scheduled rehearsals/classes on time.
- Commit to 15–20 minutes of home practice several days a week.
- Participate in our community concerts and semester performances.
For After-School Violin Classes, you can call our office at 407.318.3128, email us at music@agiftforteaching.org, or request an enrollment form directly through our website by submitting an inquiry on our contact page.
Click here to register for Saturday String Orchestras.
Spaces are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis prior to the start of each semester.
As a non-profit program (and flagship program of A Gift for Teaching), we rely on community generosity to keep our instruction 100% tuition-free.
You can support us by:
- Attending Our Performances: Cheer on our talented young musicians at public events across Central Florida!
- Making a Tax-Deductible Donation: Every donated dollar directly funds instruments, sheet music, and teaching staff.
- Sponsoring a Student: Help fund a full year of music education for an Orlando youth.
