Central Oklahoma Homeschool Bands

String Programs and Locations

Orchestra with Mr. Tom Rye

The orchestra is directed by Mr. Tom Rye and is for the students who are able to read music proficiently. The orchestra plays high school level music.

Note: The orchestra fees are the same as the band fees. Please note however, that the string program with Mr. Khanágov is separate and has a different fee schedule.

Beginning Strings with Mr. Karén Khanágov

"This program is for children and adults interested in learning to play violin, viola, cello, and string bass. Classes are structured to build a fundamental quality of playing that provides well-rounded development of students. These classes, primarily are group lessons in which we combine learning main instrument, theory, solfeggio, semi-private lessons, master classes, and monthly solo recitals, where children play solo in front of the group. The whole group performs once or twice a semester. We primarily are Suzuki method for beginners and add more of traditional ideas at later times. Parents' involvement is recommended and many of our "moms" picked up violins for themselves.

Due to specifics of string playing it is recommended that you stick with the program for a year before making your decisions whether to stay or not. Do tell your child that this is what we will be doing for the next year. Only within this period of time is one able to understand all that is involved in it, and develop love, appreciation, and to have fun playing.

Beginners group is from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, and advanced from 9:30 to 11:00 AM. For half an hour the groups work together, after which beginners may leave or stay to observe advanced class, thus further developing their knowledge. Our group is a happy one. Everybody feels right at home and we go through all that learning process requires together as one body leaving no one behind."

Instructor, Karen Khanagov, is Armenian by nationality and originally from Russia. He uses a combination of Suzuki and traditional European methods. Currently a violin teacher at Performing Arts Academy of Oklahoma City University, he also plays for Oklahoma Baptist Symphony, freelances, composes and publishes. A large part of his work is devoted to Christian music.

"I teach my students the importance of spiritual contents of the music that makes every note you play alive. While one must spend years to master the techniques of violin playing, this is merely a preparation to develop the ability to bring life into the music."