Urban Strings Columbus enriches the lives of musicians

COLUMBUS, Ohio — More than a decade ago, bass player Halle Craig signed up for Urban Strings Columbus, a youth orchestra geared towards students from underserved communities. 

Little did she know, in 2020 after finishing college, the organization would come calling for her once again. 

“After the pandemic hit, I really wanted to make sure that we can rebuild and recover from all the uncertainty of that time and not being able to perform,” said Craig. “So I saw that there was a need and Mrs. Willis said we really need your help, so I came back.” 

Catherine Willis founded Urban Strings Columbus in 2007. 

She came from a musical background. Her mother was a self-taught piano player, and her father was a vocalist. 

Willis said the group has the opportunity to explore the works of African American composers and arrangers that were pioneers of the time. 

“When we focus on our African American composers and arrangers as a part of the genres that we play, it gives our kids inspiration. And at this point, we have three students in our orchestra that are composing and we’re playing compositions that they have created.”

Craig, an Otterbein University jazz studies major, continues to play bass and embrace her role as assistant director. She said it’s an honor to keep the tradition going and she encourages others to follow suit. 

“This orchestra has really shaped us growing up, gave us a community that we can belong in, and we’re all working on building the skill and making music together,” said Craig. “I typically encourage them to at least pursue a music minor. Practice, be true to yourself, and don’t be afraid to express yourself and find your own sound.” 

The Half Notes and Premier Orchestras perform across central Ohio and are comprised of students aged 11 through 17 years old. The groups practice three Saturdays per month on the campus of Columbus State Community College.