Island Strings celebrates 40th anniversary, decades of making connections

Whidbey’s Island Strings celebrated its 40th anniversary at a concert Sunday, Nov. 9, at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts.

November 25, 2014 12:50 pm
Island Strings students perform alongside instructors during the 40th anniversary concert.
Island Strings students perform alongside instructors during the 40th anniversary concert.

Whidbey’s Island Strings celebrated its 40th anniversary at a concert Sunday, Nov. 9, at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts.

Island Strings is a network of Suzuki Method strings teachers based in Langley who offer instruction in violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, piano, recorder, banjo, dulcimer and harp.

The group was founded in 1974 by Linda Good, Paula Pugh and Linda Morris.

Eight Suzuki violinists, ages 7 to 13, were invited from the greater Seattle area to join the celebration. A total of 11 Island Strings students, including three adult alumni and 10 teachers, performed.

“Paula Pugh who founded Island Strings with Linda Good in 1974, said, ‘It is truly amazing that this program has gone on so long and has touched so many people.’ I agree,” said Island Strings teacher and event emcee Kimmer Morris.

For additional photos of the 40th anniversary and information about Island Strings, visit Facebook.com/IslandStrings.