Viols in Our Schools Online Store

Viols in Our Schools exists as a pilot program of the Viola da Gamba Society of America. Based in the Chicago area, Dr. Phillip W. Serna works to bring the early western string instrument family known as the viola da gamba into many area schools demonstrating solo literature from the Renaissance, Baroque and early Classical periods for treble viol, tenor viol, bass viol & violone. Including day-long residencies in schools (focusing on string, music & history departments) as well as possible coaching of early string repertoire performed on modern strings and possible collaborative concerts, Viols in our Schools seeks to entertain, while educating audiences about rhe rich literature for this family of bowed string instruments. Renaissance music for viols, as well as performance of early-western string instruments, is never heard within the school setting, even with a rudimentary music history program that is offered. Viols in Our Schools seeks to remedy this by offering performances/ lecture-demonstrations enhancing the music program experience. Additionally, Viols in Our Schools attempts to offer resources to to make viols available to students. Please help us make viols accessible to both young and old.

Any donation you make will directly affect future in-school endeavors. You can donate instruments, donate directly to Viols in Our Schools, or visit our Cafe Press Store.