Music at CAS
New Horizons Orchestra
The New Horizons Program was started at the Eastman School of Music in 1991 and now has more than 100 programs in the United States and Canada. BW’s New Horizons offers adults the opportunity to learn to play a string, woodwind, brass or percussion instrument. It is perfect for adults who have never had the opportunity to play an instrument or for those who played during their school days but have not had the opportunity since.
New Horizons Orchestra generally meets weekly on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., depending on orchestra schedule.
There are three registration options:
- Fall Semester, which begins in September
- Spring Semester, which begins in February
- Full year
The program consists of full ensemble rehearsals and sectionals with a concert performance at the end of each semester.
Members must have their own instrument. The ensemble will provide music and all rehearsal materials.
New Horizons Orchestra offers four levels of ensembles. Members select the orchestras that they wish to play in, there are no auditions to participate in our program.
Prelude Orchestra (Beginning String Ensemble) - Learn to play a stringed instrument! The beginning orchestra for new violin, viola, cello, and bass players designed for the adult who wants to experience the joy of playing a stringed instrument. Einstein said, "I know that the most joy in my life has come to me from my violin." Each Tuesday evening, adults participate in group lesson on their specific instruments and a string orchestra rehearsal. Topics to be covered include fundamentals of playing, note reading, rhythm recognition and group performance. No experience necessary and former players are welcome to join the class as a refresher. Students must supply an instrument and a music stand. Music book: Essential Elements for Strings 2000.
Intermezzo Orchestra (Intermediate String Orchestra) - Enjoy being part of a group of fellow string players! For adults who have not yet mastered all musical concepts in a level-two method book, but have had experience with note reading, using the bow and playing C, G, D, A, F and Bb major scales. Heifetz said, "There is no top. There are always further heights to reach." Each Tuesday evening, adults participate in group lessons on their specific instruments and a string orchestra rehearsal. The small group format will allow for both peer support and individual attention. Students must supply an instrument and a music stand. Music book: Essential Elements for Strings 2000.
Symphony Orchestra (Advanced String Orchestra) - This level is open to all intermediate and advanced string players who have experience with advanced bowing techniques and position work. If you are interested in studying and performing a wide variety of musical styles from the great classical masters to Broadway hits and pop tunes, then join us on Tuesday evenings for string repertoire sectionals followed by a rehearsal. This is a more intense musical experience that assumes the student has reached a reasonable degree of independence on their instrument. Repertoire sectionals focus on music to be performed rather than etudes or study books.
Are you interested in additional information about this ensemble? Contact us at 440-826-2365 or cas@bw.edu.
