Creating a CM Group/New Horizons Bands

Last week we had Dr. Levy and Mr. Levy come in to discuss their work with Community Music groups and about the New Horzions Band movement.

We began by watching a brief video discussing the origins of the New Horizons Band, which began at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY.

Following this video we discussed one of the community music initiatives that SUNY Fredonia began called Musical Journeys. This included both private lessons for students, but also had the New Horizons Band as part of the plan.

The private lessons were considered to not be as successful because of the fact that money was an issue, but also working with college students was difficult, and this was a difficult market to find people interested in taking private lessons.

We discussed what we would need in order to starts a community music group and here is some of what we discussed:

For a CM band you need:
Members
Supplies
Place to rehearse
Advertising
Organization
Startup $
Mission statement
Conductor(s)
Schedule

The importance of having a mission statement was mentioned. What is the aim of the group? Who will be allowed to be involved in the group? Are there any limitations?

Sponsors are also important – lessens costs for everyone.

Committee is needed for a CM group also:
Professional musicians/teachers
Business people
Advertisers
Public Relations
Music vendors

CM groups need to see what other groups are doing and be comparable.

Following this discussion we then had a presentation on the New Horizons Band Movement and how it has been doing in different locations.

We did not have time this class to get a podcast done, however we are looking into scheduling another time with the Levy's for a podcast.

Until Next time,
Don Dohr
Mary Olenen