Author: ohsuzan
Date: 2008-04-16 19:00
Yeah, I hear you! I remember with some consternation my first couple of months at Community Band -- several years ago, now -- after having not played in any group for more years than some of the band members had been alive. I watched a lot of notes go by faster than my brain or fingers could deal with, and I felt mortally embarrassed about not being able to keep up.
But here's the thing about New Horizons: it is designed to accomodate all comers, from the rank beginner to the retired semi-pro (the retired pros are the teachers!). The bands at most, if not all, of the camps, are put into divisions 1, 2, and 3. Band 1 is for people who are in the beginner books or who have played less than a couple of years. Band 2 is for people who are into the intermediate books. Band 3 is for experienced players who are looking for a challenge.
The same system holds for other class offerings, so you can take, say, Chamber Music 1, 2, or 3, or Jazz Ensemble 1, 2, or 3, and get the appropriate level of teaching and music. And no matter where you are in your musical development, the staff and other participants will cheer you on shamelessly! You will end up feeling like you have just played THE definitively brilliant rendition of "Go Tell Aunt Rhody," if that's where you are.
Experimentation and taking risks for personal growth are very much encouraged, as well. The lady sitting next to me at the Interlochen camp last summer was an 85-year-old accomplished flute player. For her one of her elective courses, she had chosen to try scat-singing! How totally wonderful (and inspirational) is that!
Susan
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