Experience a day in the life of a string student at the University of Oklahoma.
We invite high school violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists to spend a day on the OU campus exploring opportunities in string and orchestral studies in the School of Music. Meet and learn from our faculty, connect with current students, attend classes and rehearsals, and discover what it’s like to study music at OU.
Throughout the day, participants will get an inside look at the life of an OU string student while learning more about degree programs, auditions, scholarships, and the college application process.
* The OU String Faculty is pleased to offer short, 15–20-minute private lessons at the conclusion of our String Day schedule. Please indicate your interest on our registration form. All students who select this option will receive an assigned lesson time after their registration is submitted.
The schedule above is subject to slight changes. A final schedule will be sent to all registered students shortly before the day of the event.
There is no fee to attend String Day, but advance registration is required.
Complete the registration form below to reserve your place.
The deadline to register is Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
String Day is designed for high school violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists who are considering college and would like music to be part of their collegiate experience. Whether you are interested in pursuing music as a major or minor, or simply hope to continue performing in an ensemble or taking lessons while studying another field, this event is an opportunity to explore the possibilities available at OU.
No. You do not need to have applied or been admitted to OU to participate. This event is an opportunity to explore string playing and music making while learning more about the university, the School of Music, and our string area.
Registered participants will receive information about check-in, parking, and campus directions before the event.
The OU School of Music will provide lunch for all registered String Day participants. Please indicate any dietary restrictions or concerns on your registration form.
We would be happy to connect with you. Prospective students are welcome to contact our faculty, learn more about our degree programs and ensembles, or arrange a campus visit at another time.
For questions about specific areas of study or opportunities at OU, please contact the appropriate faculty member below:
Prof. Elissa Cassini, Violin (elissacassini@ou.edu)
Dr. Mark Neumann, Viola (mneumann@ou.edu)
Dr. Jonathan Ruck, Cello (jruck@ou.edu)
Dr. Anthony Stoops, Double Bass (a.stoops@ou.edu)
Dr. Jonathan Shames, OU Symphony (jshames@ou.edu)
Dr. Charlene Dell, Music Education (Strings) (cdell@ou.edu)
You can also explore the links below for more information about vocal and choral studies, auditions, and admissions at the University of Oklahoma.
For additional questions about String Day, contact:
Dr. Jonathan Ruck
String Area Chair
jruck@ou.edu
(405) 410-5650
