Thank you!

A String Fort Smith – a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in the summer of 2020 by Lori Fay – is aimed at fostering excellence and unprecedented performing opportunities for junior- and high-school aged students interested in continuing their musical studies and pursuing careers in the performing arts.  Currently assisted by five devoted colleagues – Anthony Verge, Assistant Director and violin; Nathan Boyd, double bass; Mike Burkepile, violin; Dr. Pecos Singer, violoncello; and Cory Winters, viola – A String Fort Smith participants are selected based on an audition.  The ensemble consists of the most advanced and dedicated students – approximately twenty to twenty-five (20 to 25) participants per semester – who make a commitment to rehearse for one hour once per week, on Monday evenings at the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith.  Participants must be engaged in private music study or plan to undertake private lessons and are expected to diligently practice for public concerts which take place twice per year in addition to performances in a variety of local settings.  The repertoire selected for A String Fort Smith rehearsals and performances comprises primarily unabridged work that students might not otherwise be exposed to in a typical school setting.

Recent performances in greater Fort Smith include: ArcBest Headquarters; ArcBest Performing Arts Center prior to the April 18, 2026 Fort Smith Symphony concert; St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church; The Maple Room and Bookish at the Bakery District; St. John’s Episcopal Church; Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine; First Presbyterian Church; First United Methodist Church; and JKC Cellars.

In June of 2025, A String Fort Smith made its début at the prestigious Boston Early Music Festival, (Boston, Massachusetts); 5 faculty members, 18 students, and 3 guest artists presented two public performances – one in New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall and one at First Church in Boston.  A String Fort Smith has been invited to return in June of 2027.