DESCRIPTION

The mission of Urban Stringz II is to enhance student’s musical talents and abilities in addition to exposing them to our culturally rich and diverse society. We recognize the tremendous value exposure to music education plays in helping to form and shape the foundation of the lives of young people, and with the absence of music programs in many schools, USII fulfills that need for students.

USII provides a 2-week music summer camp for student’s ages 8 – 18 years old. The Urban Stringz II Summer Camp serves a critical need in the community to provide students of all playing levels an opportunity to experience string studies. Ms. Sharpe has developed a unique training model that not only encourages students to return to camp every summer but it has kept them involved in music throughout the year. Instructors that have taught at camp also followed this unique model which has proven successful in the retention of USII students. Camp is held at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History located in Mid-town Detroit. Classes range from beginner to advance and are open to any child that is interested in attending. Although the camp moves at an accelerated pace, participants have fun and are introduced to creative and edgy music. During the 2-weeks students have group and one on one lessons, workshops with a professional musician, and a field trip to a local cultural attraction. Students receive 2 meals per day, breakfast (to get them going) and lunch (to keep them going)

During the school year a small group of Urban Stringz II students remain dedicated to rehearse and perform for various functions throughout the year. Urban Stringz II Youth Ensemble is called upon to provide entertainment for a variety of private and community events.