In today's blog post, Alexandra Ostroff and Katie Thompson, two senior apprentices at SHAR, promote the SHAR Apprentice Program by sharing a little about their time here. Interested in applying? Scroll down to the bottom of this post for more details.
Hi Alexandra! So, you're now a senior apprentice at SHAR, but what were you doing before? What has your time as an apprentice like here? Do you perfrom in town? 
I applied for the Apprentice Program upon earning my Master in Music from The University of Louisville in May 2008. I’d gone straight into my graduate work after I earned my Bachelor in Music from Baldwin Wallace College in 2006 and, needless to say, I was burnt out on school. As an apprentice I’ve had a few projects that I’ve worked on. I looked into carrying more orchestral excerpts, did a brief write up on the most popular method books here, blogged about a quartet with co-workers, helped co-ordinate the Sassmannshaus Workshop in the Showroom, and organized the Apprentice Ensemble’s outreach to local Michigan schools. I’ve really enjoyed writing reviews for products and the monthly “Notes From An Apprentice” blog.
During my time working at SHAR, I have worked in several departments and helped out where I can. I enjoy working in the showroom. I have learned a lot about the many products available for violin and viola (my primary and secondary instruments) and even cello (which I couldn’t play to save my life).
I’ve also carved a niche for myself here in Ann Arbor as a working musician. I took several auditions and sent my resume to the many Southeastern Michigan orchestras upon my arrival. I’ve actively searched for playing and teaching opportunities in the area and have learned to balance them with my full-time position at SHAR.
Hi Katie! You're also a senior apprentice. When did you first join the apprentice program? And how have you spent your time in it? 
I came into the program in Fall of 2010, after I finished my master’s degree. When I moved to Ann Arbor, I wasn’t sure of much. I didn’t know where I wanted to end up, just that I wanted to play the violin! While I’ve been here, I’ve clarified goals and learned important skills that will help me in my future endeavors. I’ve gained a lot of tools for understanding and helping people. I’ve worked on a number of projects, both on my own and with my colleagues here. I’ve met many wonderful musicians and teachers, both at the ASTA trade show I attended and here in Ann Arbor. Through my contacts, I’ve had the privilege of playing gigs in this area. Being in this program has helped me define what I want to do and has given me many tools to actually accomplish those dreams!
Are YOU graduating in May (or did you graduate in December 2011)? Are you not sure what path to take next?
Apply for the SHAR Apprentice Program!
The Apprentice Program is a great stepping stone into music business, being a working musician or time off between school and your next step! You’ll gain work experience spending most of your work days taking incoming sales and customer service calls in our Ann Arbor Contact Center. As an Apprentice you’ll also spend time working in our Ann Arbor Showroom, working on a personal project and the occasional outreach to local schools. SHAR Apprentices also travel to work at the SHAR booth at a local or national trade show like ASTA. You’d have a half hour of paid practice time and a $100 monthly allowance to spend on SHAR products to review!
Working at SHAR you’ll have musician co-workers. Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas have an active music community that most Apprentices have found a way to fit themselves into. We look forward to hearing from you!
Want to learn more about the program? Read about our current and former apprentices here.
Ready to apply? Click here for further application details.