The Strumming Hoosiers initiative, launched by the Indiana University Guitar Department, brings the joy of guitar playing to middle and high school students across Indiana. This innovative program, inspired by IU’s successful Guitar Elective curriculum, offers flexible, high-quality guitar instruction through group classes, individual lessons, and ensemble playing, all delivered in a supportive Guitar Club format tailored to each school’s unique needs. Designed to foster musical education and appreciation, the program provides both in-person and online learning opportunities, ensuring accessibility for students of all backgrounds. With support from IU’s Jacobs School of Music, community organizations, and donors, Strumming Hoosiers aims to cultivate a vibrant community of young guitarists, enrich extracurricular offerings, and inspire a lifelong engagement with music.

Instructors and Schools

The Strumming Hoosiers program is proudly taught by skilled IU guitar instructors Grace Elmer and Mihailo Dasic, who bring their expertise and passion for guitar education to the classroom. Currently, the program is being offered at Bloomington High School North in Bloomington, as well as Arsenal Tech and Harshman Middle School in Indianapolis, with plans for future expansion to additional schools across Indiana.