Business Details
35 Years
experience
Your Trusted Violin Education Partner in Johnson City, TN
Academy of Strings has dedicated over three decades to transforming young lives through music education rooted in the Suzuki Method. Founded in 1991 by Tim and Kim Barrett, our program emphasizes disciplined, holistic learning that extends beyond musical proficiency to cultivate focus, teamwork, and character development. With a family-friendly approach, we serve students aged 4 to 18, offering weekly individual and group lessons, semester concerts, and community collaborations.Our faculty, trained directly by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, combines global expertise with local engagement, hosting events like Suzukifest and holiday concerts with regional orchestras. As a non-discriminatory institution, we prioritize creating a safe, inclusive environment for all families. Our 18-week semesters align with Johnson City Schools, and our mission remains steadfast: using music to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped for lifelong success.
Services
Individual Violin Lessons
Group Lessons
Concert Performances
Suzuki Method Training
Community Music Programs
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of Suzuki Method expertise with instructors trained by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki
- Our program develops discipline, teamwork, and character through music education
- Family-friendly approach with parent involvement in weekly lessons
- Regular performance opportunities including community concerts and regional collaborations
- Non-discriminatory environment serving students ages 4-18 since 1991
What people say
Excellent program
Best teachers
Enrich children's lives
Dedicated instructors
Wonderful musical community
Services
Individual Violin Lessons
Personalized one-on-one violin instruction tailored to each student's learning pace and style. Parents participate in weekly lessons to support daily practice, ensuring technical mastery and musical growth through the Suzuki Method's structured curriculum.
Group Lessons
Interactive group sessions where students develop collaborative skills through peer performance and feedback. These lessons emphasize teamwork while reinforcing technical fundamentals in a supportive environment that mirrors professional musical settings.
Concert Performances
Semester-ending concerts showcasing student progress through solo and ensemble performances. Events include themed programs like Suzukifest and holiday collaborations with regional orchestras, providing valuable stage experience in diverse venues.
Suzuki Method Training
Core curriculum based on Dr. Shinichi Suzuki's philosophy of character development through music. The method emphasizes ear training, memorization, and technical mastery while fostering discipline and sensitivity in young learners.
Community Music Programs
Special initiatives connecting students with regional arts organizations through events like Bach in the Barn and Vols for Ukraine concerts. These programs build community engagement while providing unique performance opportunities in non-traditional settings.
People
Tim Barrett
Executive & Artistic Director
Violinist and educator with 30+ years of Suzuki Method expertise. Trained directly by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki in Japan, he co-founded the Academy in 1991 and holds degrees from Oklahoma City University. Recognized with Tennessee Governors School Outstanding Teacher Award.
Kim Barrett
Violin Program Director
Master violin educator trained by Dr. Suzuki in Japan. Holds music degrees from West Chester University and University of Tennessee. Co-founder of the Academy, specializing in early childhood music development and Suzuki pedagogy.
Questions
What is the Suzuki Method of Talent Education?
The Suzuki Method emphasizes character development through music, using ear training, parental involvement, and systematic technical training to nurture both musical ability and life skills in young learners.
What age can children start violin lessons?
Our program accepts students starting at age 4, with specialized instruction methods designed for early childhood development and musical foundation building.
Are parent lessons required?
Yes, parents attend weekly lessons to learn proper techniques and support daily practice sessions at home, ensuring consistent student progress.
What performance opportunities exist?
Students participate in semester concerts, regional Suzukifest events, holiday collaborations with Symphony of the Mountains, and community outreach performances throughout the year.
How long are the lesson semesters?
Our academic calendar follows Johnson City Schools with 18-week fall and spring semesters, including regular progress assessments and recital preparations.