Two local string educators, Wendy Larson and Janis Shier Peterson, are helping organize an upcoming workshop designed for adults who once played violin, viola, cello, or bass and want to return to music. The Adult String Refresher will take place Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Marquette. In-person registration is scheduled for October 5 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., also at St. Paul’s.
Larson and Peterson, joined by fellow instructor Inga Banitt, hope to create a welcoming atmosphere for participants who may not have touched their instruments in years or even decades. During registration, the teachers will evaluate the condition of each player’s instrument and suggest repairs when necessary. Local instrument shops have been notified and are prepared to assist anyone who needs adjustments before the workshop.
The day itself will focus first on reacquainting participants with foundational techniques, such as instrument and bow hold, posture, and basic tone production. Instructional materials and visual references will be provided in individualized folders. As confidence builds, attendees will transition into group music-making using pieces arranged with multiple playing levels in mind, including open-string parts that allow for comfortable re-entry. The teachers plan to incorporate familiar rhythm exercises and activities that help reactivate muscle memory and ease participants back into ensemble playing.
Larson and Peterson emphasized that the intention is to create a low-pressure, joyful environment where adults can reconnect with music for enjoyment, personal growth, and community. They noted that many former students and players lose their built-in ensemble opportunities after leaving school, and this workshop serves as both a reintroduction to playing and a gateway to something more ongoing. The long-term vision includes forming a regular adult ensemble that could meet monthly or bi-monthly, with programming guided by participant interest and comfort levels. Performances may eventually take shape, but the organizers are focused first on enjoyment and collaboration rather than pressure or perfection.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Larson and Peterson about the upcoming workshop:
Although the refresher is geared primarily toward adults with prior experience, the organizers are considering ways to include true beginners in future sessions. If the November workshop leads to continued gatherings, introductory-level instruction may be added as early as January. For now, participants are encouraged to bring a playable instrument, a positive mindset, and a music stand if they own one. No one will be singled out or asked to perform alone.
Larson and Peterson stressed that the space is intended to be welcoming, stress-free, and supportive, with room for all skill levels and comfort zones. They encourage former orchestra friends and past students to attend together and rediscover the camaraderie that drew them to music in the first place.
More information is available by email at mqtcountysos@gmail.com. The group, informally called the Marquette County String Orchestra Society, envisions the refresher as the first step in building a lasting space for ensemble playing, creativity, and musical connection among adults in the community.
