• Chamber Music Education & Community in Grand Rapids

GR City Strings Nonprofit

Founded in 2017, GR City Strings is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering solo cello and chamber music opportunities for young musicians in Grand Rapids. Your donation supports lessons, scholarships, and community outreach.

Cello Lessons
Chamber Music Camp
Alicia Gregorian Sawyers

Alicia Gregorian Sawyers

Founder & Director

đź“Ť Grand Rapids, MI

Student

Help a young musician grow.

Camper

Send a child to music camp.

Teacher

Support inspiring instruction.

Artist

Bring world-class musicians to Grand Rapids.

  • 🎻 Join Our Ensemble. Give today.

Why support GR City Strings

We believe music has the power to unite, inspire, and transform — and that every child deserves access to that experience, regardless of background or financial means.

Chamber Music

At the heart of chamber music lies collaboration — the art of listening, responding, and working together toward something greater than oneself. Through small ensemble playing, students learn more than just notes; they develop communication, empathy, and leadership skills and friendships that last a lifetime. Our chamber program connects students with a musical family where they belong, supported by world-renowned artists and local teachers who mentor them in both artistry and character.

Make Music Possible

Your donation helps provide: Private cello lessons and individualized instruction for students in need Chamber Music Camp scholarships that give young players a chance to learn and perform together Merit-based scholarships for outstanding students Community outreach programs bringing music to schools and neighborhoods across Grand Rapids Every contribution — big or small — helps open doors and create opportunities for children to grow through music.

  • 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

Chamber Music Giving Circle

Join us in harmony by becoming part of our Chamber Music Giving Circle.
Just as every voice matters in an ensemble, every gift plays an essential part in our shared mission.

Contact Us

Duet
$25–$100

Support a young musician’s materials and rehearsal space needs.

Trio
$100–$450

Sponsor a student’s participation in a chamber music camp.

Quartet
$450–$1,500

Sponsor a teacher’s summer camp mentorship & coaching.

Quintet
$1,500-$5,000

Sponsor a guest artist summer camp mentorship, coaching, masterclasses and performances.

Maestro
Custom Partnership

Looking to make a deeper impact? Join us as a sustaining partner, underwrite programs, or create a named scholarship.

  • Why GR City Strings Chamber Music Camp?

We believe every child deserves a place to belong

We believe every young musician deserves a space where they feel seen, supported, and inspired. At GR City Strings, our Chamber Music Camp is more than lessons and rehearsals — it’s a place to belong. Students form friendships, build confidence, and discover the lifelong gift of music within a caring community that feels like home.

  • GR City Strings Testimonials

See why families love GR City Strings!

Read heartfelt testimonials from parents and students about our cello lessons, chamber music programs, and the supportive community that helps kids thrive.

Meggy Meyerhoffer
Meggy Meyerhoffer

August 2023

This program is beyond fantastic! My daughter has participated for the last two years and has grown in her musicality, confidence, and overall teamworking skills. The staff is exceedingly knowledgeable and kind. From day one to the night of the final performance, my daughter participated in a range of different classes that were both engaging and fun! We look forward to joining again next year!

Tom J Shannon Jr.
Tom J Shannon Jr.

August 2018

This program is a treasure! My daughter learned so much. She sounded better playing in her quartet at the Friday recital than I have ever heard her. She loved learning from Rodney Page, and she made new friends. We plan to sign her up next year!

Julie Tilson
Julie Tilson

August 2018

My daughter participated in the 2018 GRCMP camp and I am beyond impressed at the quality of the program that Alicia Gregorian Sawyers put together. The quality of instruction the kids received was top notch and there were fun creative elements and activities woven throughout the week. Alicia did an excellent job of bringing together a diverse group of kids with varying levels of experience and the end result was that everyone had fun, learned, made new friends and performed a stellar concert at the end. I am so thankful that my daughter was able to be a part of it all, and we will definitely be back next year if the camp is offered again! Thank you to Alicia and all of the faculty for a wonderful experience!

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