The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UW-Eau Claire) String Academy – a pre-college program which offers music instruction to students kindergarten through grade 12. The collective – through the university's music and theater arts departments – offers individual lessons, group classes, master classes, chamber music workshops and more.

It's mission in the Chippewa Valley: "to inspire a rich musical experience and cultivate a community of committed musical study for string players."

This past week, the UW-Eau Claire String Academy performed a youth concert with a theme of "Animals and Dances" at the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library (400 Eau Claire St., Eau Claire).

Student performers showcased their current compositions – all while adorning a few themed costumes, from a triceratops to a friendly garden gnome.

Children in the audience had the chance to move and groove along with the different emotions and stories shared through music, the organizers shared online.

Spring applications for the UW-Eau Claire String Academy are open for 2026! Visit the program's webpage online to learn more information, how to get involved, and future events in the Chippewa Valley.