Spring 2026 OLLI Digital Catalog

STRING INSTRUCTION: BEGINNER II (CP293)

CP – Performing Arts Participation

Prerequisite: String Instruction: Beginner or equivalent.

This class is for students wishing to study the violin, viola, cello or upright bass. It continues the development of skills in both reading music and playing these instruments. Daily practice is expected. Students supply their own instrument.

Required texts: Essential Elements for Strings Books 1 & 2, Allen, Gillespie and Tellejohn, Hayes. Book should match your instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass). Instructor can provide ISBN, if needed.

This offering meets for a total of 13 session(s).

INSTRUCTORS: Carl Van Valkenburg, Eleanor Dooley, Rick Wellons

VAN VALKENBURG, CARL — After retiring in 2016 from a 44-year career as a public school orchestra director, moved to Delaware with wife, Jane, to be closer to family. Plays violin and viola in various Delaware music ensembles. Holds bachelor and master of music degrees from University of Michigan. (CP207, CP293)

DOOLEY, ELEANOR — B.S., pharmacy, University of Texas. Plays with Brandywine Pops Orchestra and the OLLI string ensemble as a founding member. Enjoys gardening and volunteer work, especially with children. (CP237, CP238, CP293)

WELLONS, RICK — B.A., biology, Westminster College. Studied violin with Mario Mantini in Boston. Plays in amateur symphonies and musical productions. Art interests include drawing, watercolor, acrylic painting and working with metal and wood. (B230, CP207, CP229, CP234, CP237, CP238, CP293)

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