The New Horizons Band of Western New York is ready to begin rehearsals on Wednesday, Jan. 29.
It marks the second half of the band’s 20th anniversary season.
The band, under the direction of Dr. Katherine McKay, is actively seeking new members - people with a past attachment to music or those who are interested in learning an instrument.
The band rehearses twice weekly on the SUNY Fredonia campus. New Horizons is, Dr. McKay said, proof that when it comes to playing an instrument, it is “Never too late.” New Horizons Band members learn to play a band instrument, return to playing a band instrument after a long absence, or continue to improve playing an instrument they have long enjoyed. The band has an enrollment of more than 60 musicians.
This spring, the NHBWNY includes a beginner’s band for mature adults who would like to learn to play an instrument. If you own or can rent the instrument you want to play, you can sign up and pay online ($105) for Spring New Horizons Band by clicking the blue REGISTER NOW button on the website. For more information, email band leaders.
Ensembles/lessons are held from 3 to 3:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Band practice is held from 4 to 4:50 p.m. on Wednesdays and 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Fridays. Lessons and band practices are held in Mason Hall on the SUNY Fredonia campus. The New Horizons Band will perform its Spring Concert on Tuesday, April 8, at 6:30 p.m., in King Concert Hall on campus.
McKay, who is a Professor Emeritus of Music Education at SUNY Fredonia, conducts the band. Advanced students in the Fredonia School of Music provide group lesson instruction.
McKay was introduced to New Horizons in 1995 when she became the brass instructor for one of the first New Horizons Bands in Iowa City, IA.
She has conducted New Horizons Bands in Iowa, Ontario, and Georgia, and she founded a New Horizons Band in Hagerstown, MD.
“Music making is just too much fun to leave only to younger folks,” McKay said. “Almost anyone can enjoy learning to play a musical instrument when good instruction, a friendly environment, and lots of helping hands are available.” More information about New Horizons music efforts and the New Horizons Band of Western New York is available online.
