A child holding a violin for the first time may seem small. But in that moment, something big is unlocked. Curiosity is sparked while confidence and creativity grow as the child discovers a new way to learn.
Child Saving Institute (CSI) is bringing this opportunity to more Omaha families through a new collaboration with String Sprouts, a program that provides free and low-cost music lessons for young children alongside their caregivers. As a newly designated String Sprouts partner site, CSI is increasing access to high-quality music education for both the children it serves and young learners across the broader community.
“It’s exciting to see community partnerships unfold in ways that truly enrich children’s lives,” CSI’s Vice President of Education Holly Marasco said. “Providing our students with additional opportunities like music education extends the high-quality learning experiences we offer every day and supports growth far beyond the classroom.”
String Sprouts is a donor and grant-funded five-year music education program created by Omaha Conservatory of Music (OCoM) for children ages three to eleven years old, with students beginning at ages three to six years old. The program removes common barriers to arts education by offering instruction, instruments and learning resources at little to no cost. Through this new partnership, violin classes will be held Tuesday evenings at CSI beginning this fall. Select spots will be reserved for CSI childcare students, while the remaining spots are open to community families.
“Early childhood music education has meaningful benefits that go beyond learning a new skill. Music education has been shown to improve classroom behavior, extend attention span, boost motor skills and enhance development in math and language,” said Lora Moriarty, associate director of Spring Sprouts and Group Learning at OCoM. “For many children, music also becomes a powerful outlet for self-expression and confidence. “
Bringing String Sprouts to CSI reflects a shared commitment to expanding access, strengthening communities and supporting the whole child.
“This is about more than music. It’s about opening doors to new opportunities and helping children build foundational skills that support lifelong learning,” Marasco said.
To learn more about the String Sprouts and CSI partnership or to complete the application and participate in the fall program at CSI, visit the String Sprouts website.
