In times like these, when so much is uncertain, we understand how important it is to make music and to stay connected to community. That’s why Strings is here for you and why we’re working as hard as ever to to give you the information and inspiration you expect from us.
Here’s how we plan to support you during these unprecedented times:
- We’ll publish new issues of the magazine that bring the world of bowed strings to you even while you’re practicing safe social distancing. (We’re working on the next issue, May/June, now – look for it in your mailbox in late April and your inbox at 4 pm PST Friday, April 17.)
- We’ll post stories and resources that highlight how fun and easy it is to make music of your own, wherever you are. And we’ll share music and performances that will keep you inspired and entertained, no matter how long you’re on lockdown.
- We’ll make some of our most loved downloads available free for a limited time, starting with Bow-ology – a lesson in bowing terms that includes a video tutorial. And, if you feel so inclined, post a video of your own playing to YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram and tag us so we can see how you’re doing!
And, if you are able, here’s how you can support us:
- Subscribe to Strings magazine. An annual subscription costs just $30 (you’ll receive both print and digital editions) and a sustaining subscription is $124.99 for two years (plus a 2-year subscription for the friend or organization of your choice).
- Order a Strings guide – you’ll find downloads to help you become a better string player, a smarter shopper, and a more informed owner and user of stringed instruments and bows.
- While shelter-in-place guidelines here in California mean we can’t pack and ship book orders from our office, many of our titles are available as e-books (including our latest, Joshua Bell: Adventures of a Violinist on the Cutting Edge).
- Use this link if you do your online shopping with Amazon and we’ll receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) for being the ones that sent you.
We also know that so many of the freelance musicians and educators who are vital to our community are feeling the loss of gigs and other in-person events. If you’re able to give to them, here are a few ways to do it:
- The Artist Relief Tree is a relief fund for artists affected by cancellations due to COVID-19.
- The Equal Sound Corona Relief Fund was set up on short notice to provide direct financial assistance to musicians who have lost work as a result of Corona-related event cancellations.
- The Musicians Foundation provides emergency grants to performers, educators, and composers who have been left with no work and no safety net.
If you have more resources to share, suggestions, feedback, or just want to say hello, please leave a comment below or write to us at StringsService@stringletter.com. We’re looking forward to connecting now and in the months to come. Stay safe out there!