Newhorizons

NEW HORIZONS STRING ORCHESTRA

NAME__________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS______________________________________________________________
Street Town Zip

TELEPHONE____________________________________________________________

E MAIL_________________________________________________________________

Have you ever played a musical instrument before? _____Yes _____No

If yes, which one(s)______________________________________

Can you read music? ___Yes ___No If yes, which clef? ___G ___F ___C

What instrument do you wish to play?

_____Violin _____Viola _____Cello _____Bass

Do you already have this instrument? _____Yes _____No

In a few words, can you describe why you have joined this program? What are your goals?

NEW HORIZONS STRING ORCHESTRA

Fill your life with music new friends fun, and accomplishment Learning to Play Music

Learn to –play music in an orchestra as a senior adult --even if you have no musical experience!

Playing music is a special joy with the added benefit of enhancing mental and physical well-being. It provides a unique way of experiencing life: the familiar music from the past keeps us in touch with those feelings; daily practice keeps us active in the present, and striving for new goals attaches us to the future. An orchestra member describes it as “serious fun”

As a member of the New Horizons Strings, you will meet new friends and work with them as a team to learn to play an instrument and learn music in a group effort.

It’s Easy and Fun!

As an adult, you have advantages that will help you learn music. If you played an instrument in school, years ago, you will be amazed at how much you remember and how quickly you will be able to play again. Even if you’ve never played music, you are already familiar with the sound of a lot of the music that will be included in your early instruction.

“I joined New Horizons Strings because I enjoyed playing in high school and welcome the opportunity to play again.”

“I was never afforded the opportunity to play an instrument when I was in school. I am now fulfilling a dream to play music in an ensemble.”

Most adults are more motivated, self-disciplined, and have more time to practice than their younger counterparts. If you attend lessons and practice, you’ll be playing music before you know it! From then on, it’s even more fun to play with others in classes, chamber music groups, and orchestras.

In one study , nearly everyone who participated in a New Horizons program felt that their accomplishment met or exceeded their expectations.

“I joined New Horizons Strings because I enjoyed playing in high school and welcome the opportunity to play again.”

“I was never afforded the opportunity to play an instrument when I was in school. I am now fulfilling a dream to play music in an ensemble.”

In one study , nearly everyone who participated in a New Horizons program felt that their accomplishment met or exceeded their expectations.

Getting Started

The first step in getting started is attending an informational meeting at which all of your questions will be answered by a music teacher. You will also have a chance to meet some of the other people who will be participating. If you are not able to attend that meeting, contact the teacher, ask whatever questions you have and plan to be at the first class.

“I love making music a part of each day with new friendships.

Choosing an Instrument

• Re-learn to play the instrument that you played earlier in life

• Choose an instrument that has a sound or look that you like.

• Check with the teacher to see which instrument is needed in the ensemble.

When selecting an instrument, keep in mind that in a very small number of cases, physical characteristics may indicate that a particular instrument will be relatively easy or difficult. Options can be discussed with the music teacher.

Obtaining an Instrument

Use Your Own.
If you already have an instrument or if you’ll be using an instrument that your children left behind, be sure to take it into a repair shop to make sure that it is in excellent working condition. Some music students become frustrated because they try to learn on an instrument that no one can play. Discuss with the teacher that the instrument is the correct size.

Rent an Instrument
Music dealers in your area rent instruments for a very reasonable monthly fee. It is usually possible to exchange for another instrument if you change your mind or need a different size. Talk to your New Horizons teacher and check the yellow pages. In many cases, a music dealer will understand your special needs.

Buy an Instrument
Once you’re certain of the instrument you’d like to play, purchase one at your local music store. It is recommended that you learn the basics on a particular instrument before making a purchase.

Ensemble Instruments
Violin—Viola
Cello—Bass

New Horizons Strings Program

For the Beginner
A system of teaching the beginning player has been developed by the teacher, who has had years of experience teaching all levels of students, from a standard group string method. Supplementary materials are interspersed to foster beginning ensemble skills.

For the Intermediate Player
A program of developmental basics is offered. Warm-up scales to develop intonation and bowing skills coupled with graded studies to improve technical mastery of the instrument. Ensemble compositions round out each session offering each participant experience in playing in a group as an individual.

For the person re-learning an instrument.
This program is a means to relearning an instrument without the problems associated with private instruction. There is less stress in group instruction and the comradery of others experiencing similar problems. Preparation for each session is less intense with an more informal atmosphere.

For Information
Contact Franklin Verbsky instructor
516-785-2532