The Strings Program is an in-school and after-school music education program for students and alumni of Bruce-Guadalupe Community School and includes over 150 participants between the ages of five and seventeen. Students learn classical music skills while learning and incorporating Latino music and traditions. Participants of the Strings Program have demonstrated an increase in self confidence, di
scipline, and focus that transcends the musical instruction and benefits their academic prowess. Students' performance in the 2011 Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examination - Criterion-Referenced Test showed that 96% of LASP students are proficient or advanced in reading and 89% of LASP students are proficient or advanced in math studies. The LASP Mariachi Juvenil and other ensembles have given over 300 concerts since the program's inception in 2002. The students have played a large number of notable venues and events including Summerfest, Fiesta Mexicana, United Way's Annual Meetings, and the State of the City Address in Milwaukee. These performances raise awareness of Latino music, building self-confidence, skills and a sense of new possibilities for the young musicians. Participants are expected to practice daily, and adult family members are required to sign a log that confirms they have done so. The program also establishes a strong foundation for students who wish to pursue careers in music.
