Start your strings journey together
Maidstone Junior Strings is a welcoming group for young string players who are ready to start making music as part of an ensemble. Sessions focus on building confidence, developing good technique and learning how to play together. You’ll explore a range of music while improving listening, rhythm and ensemble skills.
Working towards regular performances, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to celebrate your talents!
This group is a great next step for young musicians moving on from groups such as Music Explorers or in early lessons. As your confidence grows, you might look to expand your skills into other local groups like Maidstone Youth String Orchestra with MYMS.
Meet your tutor
Maidstone Junior Strings is led by Úna Shea, a creative and experienced string teacher with a strong focus on child-centred learning. Úna holds a first-class degree in Violin Performance from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and a Master’s degree in Music Psychology from the University of Sheffield.
She is also a certified Suzuki violin teacher, and her approach focuses on helping every child find joy and confidence in music while learning at their own pace.
FAQs
Who is the group for?
This group is for string players aged 8–15 who are playing at beginner to around Grade 3 level in and around Maidstone. It’s ideal for young musicians who are already learning violin, viola, cello or double bass and want to experience playing as part of a group.
Maidstone Junior Strings is a great choice for developing players looking to build confidence, improve ensemble skills and take the next step in their musical progress.
Are instruments provided?
You will need to bring your own instrument to this group. If you haven’t got an instrument, then check out our easy and affordable Instrument Hire service.
How much does it cost to join?
We aim to make Music Centre membership as affordable and accessible as possible for everyone who wants to join the music community.
Once you’re a member you will have access to all groups at our Music Centres. You can join as many as you wish, no matter which centre you initially signed up at and make even more music!
Lessons are an additional charge. However, if you have lessons with us you will receive a 10% discount on your Music Centre membership.
Music Centre membership prices:Age group Price per term Under 18 £54.00 Over 18 £77.00
Is financial assistance available?
Our belief is simple: music should be accessible to all. That’s why we offer financial assistance to help you learn and grow. Financial assistance is available for lessons, Music Centre membership, instrument hire, and more.
Find out more, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, on the Financial Assistance page .
How do I join?
It’s simple! Just click the ‘join this group’ button on this page. Complete the form and add the course to your basket. Then go to your basket to finish your application by logging into your Kent Music online customer account.
If you don’t have an account, no worries – you can still apply by clicking the ‘Apply Here’ button. You’ll be guided through a few easy steps to create an account and complete your application.
Once your application is done, you’ll receive further information about your lessons or ensemble.
If you have any questions or concerns about applying, please contact our Customer Services team at customerservices@kent-music.com.
What if I don’t have my own instrument?
We offer an instrument hire service at affordable rates. You’ll get a discount on your instrument hire if you have lessons with us! This allows students to access high-quality instruments without the need for a significant upfront investment.
More information on instrument hire can be found on the Instrument Hire page.
Got another question?
Can’t find what you’re looking for, or want to speak to a member of the team? Give us a call on 01622 691212 or get in touch via our form.