Programs in stringed instruments prepare people to master the performance of the violin, viola, cello, and other similar instruments. Students learn how to perform in orchestras, combos, and individually. They also study music theory and history.

You might be tempted to think of stringed instruments as more "traditional." They are, after all, the major component of orchestras. In a way, you are right. The oldest string instrument is the lute, which is very similar to a guitar. The lute dates back to about 4,000 years ago. However, the lute can have up to 24 strings, whereas most modern stringed instruments have just four.

Even though stringed instruments are used to play music dating back centuries, as a student in a stringed instrument program, you can focus on several types of music. The priority is to learn how to perform your particular instrument well. In general, stringed instrument programs focus on violins, violas, cellos, basses, and harps. However, some programs offer instruction in guitar and yes, even the lute. Even though the piano is indeed a stringed instrument (the keys strike strings to make a particular sound), the piano is usually an area of focus on its own.

In general, studying stringed instruments means you are a student in a larger music performance program. This means that your course work is going to focus on how you play your particular instrument of choice. However, you don't just spend all your time practicing in isolation (although you will spend a lot of time practicing). You study music theory and history. You also study music of different periods, or focus on a particular composer. In addition, you work on playing as part of a group. This may mean you are a member of a string quartet, an orchestra, or even a jazz band.

You can pursue many different graduate level opportunities in related programs of study, including music teacher education, music composition and theory, and music history.

Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in music performance. These programs typically take about four years of full-time study after high school. Community colleges and independent schools of music also offer training programs that lead to two-year associate degrees. You may be able to transfer those credits to a bachelor's degree program.