History of New Horizons Band
The first New Horizons Band was started in 1991 by Roy Ernst, PhD, Professor Emeritus, The Eastman School of Music, The University of Rochester, NY. His philosophy was anyone can learn to play music at a level that will bring a sense of accomplishment and the ability to perform in a group. Over the years, thousands of musicians have proven that philosophy to be true. Many musicians started in their retirement years with no musical background. Some played in school and decided to resume playing after 30 or more years.
The New Horizons Band of Melbourne, FL was started in September 2003 by Kevin Strang. That first band had nine members. When Mr. Strang moved in 2007, Mr. Tom Cobble became the director until his death in 2011. Two co-directors were named at that time; Sue Diebel and David Ewing. Subsequent directors were Rene Hulsker, 2016-2017, and since 2018, our current conductor Kurt Schulenburg.
We currently have two bands. The concert band, and, if jazz is your thing, you’re in luck! We have a jazz band too!
When Do I Go?
About 20 Minutes Before Rehearsal
Concert Band Rehearses from 9 AM to 11 AM on Tuesdays. We take a summer break for the month of July.
What Do I Bring?
Instrument & Accessories
Bring your instrument and any accessories you need for your instrument (swab, mute, etc.). We have music stands, chairs, and smiling faces!
Requirements
There are no auditions required to join NHB.
You do need to be able to read music to participate in the band, and you need to be 18 years old or older unless otherwise approved by the director.
Join the Band
We are so glad you’re interested in joining the band!
We want you to have a good time making music, so while there are no auditions, you do need to be able to read music and have a basic understanding of your instrument to participate in rehearsal. If you can’t yet do this, we recommend taking lessons before joining the band.
If you are already at a basic level or above and want to learn more, bring your instrument and stop by a rehearsal! Come about 20 minutes early so we can get you situated.
We rehearse on Tuesdays from 9 am to 11 am, taking a summer break for the month of July. The Jazz Band rehearses directly after, from 11 AM to 1 PM.
You can just stop by before the concert band rehearsal, but if you want to let us know you're coming, email us at: new horizons band email
To participate in rehearsal, members must be at least 18 years old, unless otherwise approved by the band director.
Membership Fees
Membership in the New Horizons Band of Melbourne is $20 per month for concert and/or jazz band. Family units pay a total of $30 per month. This is to cover the costs of running the band - sheet music, band room rental, website costs, and more.
The first month in New Horizons Band is free! We want you to make sure you enjoy it first!
The Volunteers of NHB
Thank you to the volunteers of the New Horizons Band in Melbourne, FL!
Operations
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Mike H., Volunteer Team Lead
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Nancy G., Treasurer
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Carolyn S., Co-Treasurer
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Lynne M., Membership Coordinator
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Lynne M., Social Media Manager
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Susan W., Social Media Manager
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Heather L., Website
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John P., Librarian
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Blanche H., Librarian
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Nancy G., Librarian
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Carolyn S., Stage Manager
Section Leads
Coming Soon