Allegheny Mountain String Project
A comprehensive string education program serving students across Alleghany, Bath, and Highland counties through classical and Appalachian music traditions.
ENROLL NOW!
Register for the 2026-27 school year!
OUR Program Philosophy & Learning Approach
The core values of AMSP align with National Association for Music Education standards of excellence. AMSP students learn a wide variety of musical styles, based on the American Music System which includes American & Appalachian folk songs and fiddle tunes for early instruction. Students learn to improvise and learn by ear as well as read music. They play Bach and Bluegrass both. Many students work through the Mark O’Connor Method books which provides historical information for each piece that gives the music context.
OUR TEACHING Locations
Garth Newel Music Center Hot Springs, VA
Highland Center Montery, VA
Clifton Forge School of the Arts Clifton Forge, VA
Scholarships & Support
Scholarships and program support for AMSP are made possible through generous community funding and private donations, including support from the Alleghany Foundation, Bath County Arts Association, the Community Foundation of Central Blue Ridge, the Highland County Arts Council, the Bolar Ruritan Club, and individual donors.
DONATE
To make a donation or learn more, please contact:
Garth Newel Music Center
Call: 540.839.5018
Mailing Address:
Garth Newel Music Center
PO Box 240
Warm Springs, VA 24484
Get Involved
Program Contacts:
Jordan Marshall, AMSP Coordinator:
Kelley Mikkelsen, Lead Instructor:
MORE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
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Emerging Artist Fellowship Program
A fully funded summer chamber music fellowship for outstanding young string players and pianists ages 18–28.
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Residencies and Music in the Schools
Educational residencies and performances that bring chamber music into regional schools and classrooms.
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Amateur Chamber Music Retreat
A relaxed weekend retreat for adult musicians to rehearse, learn, and perform chamber music together.