Dedicated to the memory of Arthur Russell, a cellist and composer, this workshop provides 20 local musicians age 10 to 18 an environment to practice and perform classical music with their peers.

Working with professional musicians including pianist Nancy Colter, violinist Richard Hsu, violist Claire Jolivet, and cellist Noreen Silver, students immerse themselves in music.

Once a part of Summer Festival of the Arts, ARS is now an independent organization directed by Nancy Colter and coordinated by Kate Russell Henry and Abigail Curless.

The week of musical activities and rehearsals began July 7 and culminates in a concert beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 13 at the Claremont Hotel in Southwest Harbor featuring works of Beethoven, Mozart, Villa-Lobos and others performed by small ensembles.

Of the 20 student participants and four college students who serve as mentors, seven are from the Mount Desert Island area, seven are from Blue Hill, and others come from Camden, Bangor, and Presque Isle.

“I love the dynamics of this program and I’m thrilled that this opportunity is offered in this area,” said mentor Christy Spurling of Islesford, who studies music at Gordon College. “When I was growing up around here, playing in chamber ensemble with other kids who shared a love for the music and learning from such amazing instructors in an intimate setting was the most inspiring and beneficial experience I could have hoped for.”

For more information, visit arstrings.org or contact Ms. Curless at 244-0454, or Ms. Henry at 244-3702.