Free String Music Program Returns for Clark Seniors

String and flute players 55 and older now have a free opportunity to make music together every Wednesday morning in Clark.

The New Jersey Workshop for the Arts (NJWA) has secured a second year of funding through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts Creative Aging Initiative, keeping its Wednesday Morning Strings program free for participants throughout the 2026–2027 season. Rehearsals run Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Zion Lutheran Church, 559 Raritan Road, Clark.

Wednesday Morning Strings is an open community ensemble welcoming violin, viola, cello, string bass, and flute players of varying experience levels. Conductor and Director Janet Lyman leads the group, while NJWA founder and teaching artist Dr. Theodore K. Schlosberg provides instruction and support. Participants receive ensemble and sectional instruction, help with individual parts, and opportunities to develop technique and performance skills.

"The space is accessible and accommodates participants with mobility needs," the program notes. Union County Life has covered community programs and seniors initiatives throughout the county, and this program reflects growing momentum in creative programming designed for older adults.

The 2026–2027 season includes two performance series. From November through mid-December, the ensemble will present seasonal music at senior communities and other venues. In the spring, participants will prepare a more challenging repertoire for performances in May and June.

Participation is free, but registration is required. The registration form and program details are available at njworkshopforthearts.com/wednesday-morning-strings/. Questions can be directed to NJWA by phone at 908-789-9696 or by email at njwa2@aol.com.

The program is made possible by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

FAQ

What is Wednesday Morning Strings and who can join?
Wednesday Morning Strings is a free community music ensemble open to string and flute players age 55 and older of any experience level. Participants learn ensemble and sectional skills, get help with individual parts, and develop technique and performance abilities.

Where and when do rehearsals take place?
Rehearsals meet every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Zion Lutheran Church, 559 Raritan Road, Clark. The venue is fully accessible and accommodates participants with mobility needs.

How do I register and what is the cost?
Registration is required but the program is completely free, thanks to funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts Creative Aging Initiative. You can register and find program details at njworkshopforthearts.com/wednesday-morning-strings/. For questions, call 908-789-9696 or email njwa2@aol.com.

What instruments are needed?
The ensemble welcomes violin, viola, cello, string bass, and flute players. Participants may have varying levels of experience.

Will there be performances?
Yes. The ensemble will perform seasonal music at senior communities and other venues from November through mid-December. In spring (May and June), the group will perform a more challenging repertoire.

Who leads the ensemble?
Conductor and Director Janet Lyman leads the group. Dr. Theodore K. Schlosberg, NJWA founder and teaching artist, provides instruction and support.