All Instruments | Sarah Larsen | By audition | Periods 1 & 3 | Week 2 (July 13-18, 2025)
Ready to take your fledgling bluegrass skills to the next level? This dynamic program for ages 9-14 is designed for young musicians with at least two years of experience on their instrument (audition required, see info below). Any string band instrument is welcome! Dive deep into the heart of bluegrass as we explore how a band works, build tight rhythms, learn about harmony singing, and tackle the basics of Bluegrass music theory and the numbers system! Come join us for an unforgettable week of music, collaboration, and fun.
To apply for the Bluegrass Kids Academy, you will need to submit the following:
1) A video of you playing one or two tunes (no restrictions on tune selection– anything you’ve got is great!).
2) The answers to these questions (can be submitted in writing or video on the application page): What has been your favorite musical experience in your life so far? Who is your favorite bluegrass musician of all time? Why do you want to work on your bluegrass musicianship?
The students in this program will take both sessions of this class (Period 1 and Period 3). For Periods 2 & 4, they may choose to take either an adult music class (in Bluegrass or Vocal Week) OR they may take Folk Arts for Kids at that time to work on visual art. Please send any questions about the schedule or program to emily@augustaartsandculture.org
Apply to the Bluegrass Kids Academy Now!
Sarah Larsen is a multi-faceted teacher & musician. Originally from Wisconsin, she grew up playing classical music with her pianist mother and sister. Her formative years were spent at Lawrence University, the Walnut Hill School, New England Conservatory’s Preparatory Division, and the University of Hartford’s Hartt School on full scholarship. College introduced her to alternative styles including a run with string quartet Vox4 that led to Carnegie Hall; Americana rock string trio, Little Ugly; and premiering Gary Tomasetti’s Violin Concerto written specifically for her. Refusing to be defined by labels or genres, Sarah is equally at home in a jazz jam, a bluegrass pick, or an orchestral setting. She has spent over 30 years learning to communicate with musicians of all levels and styles, and has dedicated her life to helping others achieve satisfaction and joy through music.