The New Horizon Band is open to individuals 50 and older who want to learn an instrument or re-develop past skills. Currently, about 55 members play in either the concert band or the jazz band; some play in both.
Karen Potts of Kettering has been playing the flute since fourth grade in Park Ridge, Ill. Retired from teaching math in junior high schools, she loves playing the flute again in the New Horizon Band.
Ernie Schelling of Kettering played trumpet in high school and at Wayne State University in Detroit while studying electrical engineering
“After not playing for 40 years, it took a while to ‘get my wind’ back, but I’m enjoying it,” said Ernie, who with wife, Jean, a flutist, play in the Centerville Community Band.
Helen Heitz of Kettering played bass clarinet in high school in Cedarburg, Wis., and has been playing the instrument in the New Horizon Band since its beginning 10 years ago.
“It’s part of my life again, and I love it,” said Heitz.
A shuttle bus from the UD campus bring students from the music department to do some practical teaching with members of the band.
Kevin Sylvester from New Jersey, a junior and music education major, finds helping flute players a weekly diversion from his regular studies.
“I enjoy talking to the older people and look forward to being with them. We’ve really become friends,” Sylvester said.
Fiona McGowan of Chillicothe, Ill., a junior music education major, helps the saxophone players.
“I know in my future my students will be children, this is a great teaching experience,” she said.
“Music and Your Health” a special workshop for senior adults, with Dr. Roy Ernst, the founder of the New Horizon Band movement, as the clinician, will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April l at the UD River Campus. Register before March 18.
The University of Dayton New Horizon Band has scheduled a free musical concert for seniors at 2 p.m. April 3 at the Kettering Fairmont High School Performing Arts Auditorium, 3301 Shroyer Road.
Contact this columnist at (937) 433-1552 or adeleauk4737@ sbcglobal.net.
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