Strings
BFA student Lauren Baba
As part of the InstrumentalArts family, Strings studies surveys Western musical repertoire, from the medieval to the modern, and continues forward, emphasizing contemporary styles, diverse musical cultures, improvisation, digital media and interdisciplinary performance.

Students of violin, viola, cello and contrabass are provided with a full range of challenging repertoire, ensemble performance opportunities and supplemental coursework in support of their métier. The curriculum features weekly seminars on performance practice and technique, often with distinguished visiting artists from around the globe. Intensive ensemble work involves performing with an eclectic variety of chamber groups and large ensembles, including the School’s principal conducted faculty-student group, The Ensemble at CalArts.

At the undergraduate level, the curriculum is designed for string players to master performance skills and musical knowledge at the highest level, while MFA students further refine their practice through experimentation and cross-disciplinary explorations. Students in all tracks also acquire the creative versatility and global cultural awareness to apply their individual musical voices to a broad spectrum of professional opportunities and settings.

Faculty

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Student Story

Stephanie Moorehouse
Stephanie Moorehouse Strings MFA 14

I was inspired to play the violin at age 6 after watching a live performance in Branson, Missouri. My mom encouraged me to pursue it and after my first lesson I knew that the violin was going to be my passion. As I studied the violin, I began to branch out from my classical training and started to teach myself how to fiddle. I wanted to explore beyond the classical violin and become a diverse violinist. As I began researching graduate schools, CalArts immediately caught my attention. I was impressed by the string faculty profiles, Lorenz Gamma’s in particular. CalArts’ emphasis on “'applying creativity to your art”' inspired me to audition here. I wanted to expand as an artist. CalArts gave me a chance to reach my full potential as a musician. I was challenged with contemporary, electronic, baroque, rock, and classical music all under one roof.

CalArts also inspired me to explore my abilities beyond classical music. This school is the perfect place to experiment with many different performance styles and techniques. After my time at CalArts, I feel confident and prepared knowing that I am able to perform a wide variety of music. The true experience of CalArts lies within yourself and how you spend your time here.

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