In February 1996, Geoffrey Ovington presented the children of North Bennington Elementary School with two violins, one viola, and one cello.  The unusual instruments may be the only half-size quartet in the world.  We use the term half-size for a small instrument suitable for children. A half size violin is about 12 1/2 inches (31 cm) in body length whereas a full size violin is 14 inches (35.5 cm).  Children’s use of the instruments at North Bennington is determined by the teacher. Usually, a child gets to play the instrument for a full semester.

Ovington came to admire the Musicorda Children’s String Workshop for its ability to bring classical music to children.  The half-size violin donated to the Children's Workshop was made using the same standards as in his full-size instruments.   The children’s workshop was inspired by the East Harlem Violin Program made famous in the film “Music of the Heart".

Ovington believes, “When kids learn music they have a new perspective on how it works and not just take it for granted…  We’re really losing the excitement over classical music.  If we don’t educate the kids, they’re going to drift away from it.” Thanks to his donations, he has given children an opportunity to play these instruments and to learn to love classical music.