The Academy of Strings was established in 1991 by a generous gift of $50,000 from the late Mrs. Ruth Harris of Johnson City, in honor of her son "Chip" Harris.
Mrs. Harris desired to establish an Academy that would use music as a tool to foster well-balanced children through arts education.With this financial backing, the Board of Trustees launched a comprehensive international search for faculty. They received word from Dr. Suzuki, in Japan, who personally recommended Tim and Kim Barrett to develop and direct a violin program for the organization.
The Barretts, who had just completed three years of intensive training with Dr. Shinichi Suzuki in Japan, founded the Academy in the fall of 1991.Today, the Academy of Strings provides music education to more than 80 students. The Barretts continue to work with parents, schools, churches, and community organizations to entertain, support, and educate about the benefits of arts education.
Learn more about the Academy of Strings using the links below:
A Message of Welcome
Our History
Our Mission
