Frequently Asked Questions

RSS 2026 runs from June 29 to July 4 with no classes on Canada Day, July 1.

Regina Summer Strings is a unique intensive learning environment for student string players (Violin/Viola/Cello/Double Bass) that runs each July in the modern setting of the Riddell Centre at the University of Regina’s Music Department, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. Combining enthusiastic students with exceptional guest faculty, RSS is a supportive environment to develop skills in solo, chamber music, and large ensemble, aspects of playing. Students will be challenged and inspired during this week, which serves as a terrific way to motivate students heading into the summer months.

Application Deadline for RSS 2026 is June 1st.  See the Registrations page for full details.    

The RSS program fee is $440. This includes all tuition and tickets to concerts. For 2026 the earlybird discounted fee is $400.00.

Regina Summer Strings welcomes students from outside of Regina! We can offer private, single room/shared bath, accommodation to our out-of-town participants at the Luther College Residence. This is a beautiful University residence building directly on campus and an easy walk from the Riddell Centre where RSS takes place.

We may also have billeting options available with our friendly Regina host families and there are of course, many hotels available in the city.

If you have questions please contact the RSS through this page and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

Students at RSS should be playing at a minimum of a Suzuki Book 2 level, with an ability to read music at an elementary level. All participants will be placed in small and large ensembles based on their playing level, so it is especially important to answer the questions on the registration form as accurately as possible to ensure an appropriate placement.

RSS Popsicles is a great way for your budding little string player to get a taste of the Regina Summer Strings experience! A fun-filled all-morning class (9:00am-12:00) will develop listening, posture, and ensemble skills through a play-based approach; open to beginners from age 3-10. Participants must provide their own instrument and the fee for this program is $250.

When registering please select ‘Popsicle Strings’ from the program options on the Registration form.

The tuition at RSS includes all classes and music materials for the week, admission to evening Faculty concerts, and concerts presented that week by the Regina Chamber Music Festival. Students need to provide their own lunch each day.

Days at RSS are extremely busy! We believe strongly in developing well-rounded string players, and you can expect a daily mix of solo, small group, and large ensemble activities. Solo aspects are developed through individual lessons and Masterclasses with visiting faculty, as well as specialized workshops in specific areas relevant to your instrument. Each participant will also be placed in a small ensemble, receiving daily coaching from Faculty on repertoire to be performed in the final concert. There is also string orchestra under the direction of Andrea Bell (Winnipeg Youth Orchestra), which will meet daily to prepare repertoire for the final concert. In addition to all of this, there are wellness classes and plenty of opportunities for recreation and socializing; you’re sure to make many wonderful memories at RSS!

Final repertoire assignments will be made approximately two weeks prior to the start of RSS; you’ll be sent a digital copy of the music for both your small and large ensembles, and all you’ll need to do is to print them out and bring them on the first day of the program.

RSS Luthier-in-Residence is always on hand to take care of instruments. From major repairs to day-to-day adjustments, Natanael makes sure our instruments are ready to give their best.

The final concert is Saturday afternoon in the Shubox Theatre at the University of Regina Riddell Centre; be sure to invite friends and family to come and enjoy this extraordinary concert, and celebrate the hard work of the week!

Email us with anything specific, and we’d be happy to assist! We look forward to making your RSS experience a very positive one.