Lincoln-Way Youth Strings

04/06/2026

Come join the L-W area tradition!!!

My name is Michelle Freeland and I have been directing the Lincoln-Way Youth Strings Program since 2012. LWYS is the largest developmental youth orchestra program in the southwest suburbs, offering multiple concerts, social events, and chamber music opportunities for over 30 years.

I would like to invite you to join us for LWYS Summer Strings 2026, and become part of the high level of musical achievement L-W and LWYS is known for. Summer Strings runs from June 15th-25th Monday-Thursday. These two weeks give a great kick start to your child's summer success with their instrument. After what they learned this school year, take your child's performance skills to the next level and keep them strong and motivated to shine in their school programs and LWYS in the fall! Summer Strings is open to all children with or without playing experience. Click on the link below to learn more and register today!

Summer Strings Registration:
https://forms.gle/ZQH9XEb72ThJ1wECA

Beginning Orchestra: 0-6 months experience. Instrument is provided
Intermediate Orchestra: 1-2 years of experience
Advanced Orchestra: 3+ years of experience

Check out the Lincoln-Way Youth Strings program and join the tradition!

www.lwyouthstrings.com
[email protected]

Musically,
Mrs. Freeland

Youth Orchestra, Strings, Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass

08/17/2025

Fall Registration is open for Lincoln-Way Youth Strings! From mid/end of September to May join the southwest suburbs largest youth orchestra program where we serve children first starting an instrument to advanced string players. There are four orchestra and a place for every child to thrive! Registration link can be found on our website:
www.lwyouthstrings.com

https://youtu.be/Bld-Ynnxb0o?si=NMkUMHnFglkkur-b

08/17/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/19Xwk1idyf/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Experts widely recognize music as one of the most powerful skills children can learn, with profound effects on brain development, focus, confidence, and long-term success. According to GreatSchools org, playing an instrument engages the same brain regions involved in language, memory, and critical thinking. Music training strengthens neural pathways, improves auditory processing, and enhances verbal memory, skills that directly support academic achievement.

Stanford researchers even found that mastering an instrument improves how the brain processes spoken language, making music especially beneficial for children struggling with reading or communication.

Music also boosts emotional and social development. As noted by Psychology Today, learning music activates the brain’s dopamine reward system, which increases motivation, mood, and perseverance. Children who experience progress in music often develop a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence, which carries over into other areas of life.

Furthermore, Lonestar Neurology highlights that music stimulates multiple brain regions simultaneously, promoting better problem-solving, pattern recognition, and hand-eye coordination. These cognitive benefits are long-lasting and contribute to overall mental agility and resilience.

07/11/2025

https://youtu.be/Bld-Ynnxb0o?si=seLnMur5k9uyfQse