University of Dayton
New Horizons Music Program
Registration for the Fall 2026 term opens July 15 at 9:00 AM Eastern Time.
Before you register Choose the ensemble that best matches your experience level. If registering for two ensembles, choose one from Session I and one from Session II. **Discount for two ensembles will be shown on final payment page.**
Pricing
- One ensemble $115
- Two ensembles: Session I + Session II $175
- Small ensemble with Session I and/or II $0
- Small ensemble only $115
Session I: Band Ensembles
Choose one Session I ensemble if you are registering for this rehearsal time.
Wednesdays, 9:00 AM–10:30 AM
Rising Stars Band
Best for beginners
For those learning to play an instrument or needing a refresher.
Instruction includes beginning music-reading skills, tone and technique development, and ensemble performance skills. No experience required. Beginners may start in Fall semester only.
Concert Band
Beginner to intermediate
For participants who are between beginner and intermediate levels.
A good fit if beginner music feels too easy, but advanced concert band music feels too challenging. No ensemble experience is necessary. Music selections are easy to intermediate difficulty.
Symphonic Band
Intermediate to advanced
For those who read music comfortably and have developed solid technique.
For participants with acceptable tone quality and most of the required technique to perform. This ensemble emphasizes performance techniques and intermediate to advanced music selections.
Session II: Jazz and String Ensembles
Choose one Session II ensemble if you are registering for this rehearsal time.
Wednesdays, 11:00 AM–12:30 PM
Jazz Band
Newer to jazz
For those who may be new to playing jazz music.
Participants should have recent experience playing their instrument for at least one year and be able to read standard music notation. Rehearsals include jazz styles, improvisation, and ensemble techniques.
Jazz Ensemble
Director approval required
For intermediate- to advanced-level players comfortable with challenging jazz styles.
Membership must be approved by the director, with consideration given to membership seniority and instrumentation needs.
Rising Stars Strings
Best for beginners
For those learning to play a string instrument or needing a refresher.
Instruction includes beginning music-reading skills, tone and technique development, and ensemble performance skills. Beginners may start in Fall semester only.
Andante Strings
Beginner to intermediate
For string players between beginner and intermediate levels.
A good fit if beginner music feels too easy, but string orchestra music feels too challenging. Music selections are easy to intermediate difficulty.
String Orchestra
Intermediate to medium advanced
For string players who read music comfortably and have solid technique.
This ensemble emphasizes intonation, tone, musical expression, and ensemble performance techniques. Members may perform as a full orchestra with winds and percussion at least once a year.
Small Ensembles
Choose the small ensemble option that matches your registration.
Small ensemble options
Small Ensemble with Session I and/or Session II
$0 with two ensembles
Use this option only if you are also enrolling in a Session I and/or Session II ensemble.
Small ensembles are available at no additional cost for participants enrolled in a Session I and/or Session II ensemble.
Small Group Ensemble Only
$115 small ensemble only
Use this option if you are participating in a small ensemble and not joining the larger Session I or Session II ensembles.
This option is for participants registering only for a small ensemble.
Need Help Choosing?
If you are new or returning after a long break, Rising Stars Band or Rising Stars Strings may be the best place to begin. If you already read music and feel comfortable playing, Concert Band, Andante Strings, Symphonic Band, String Orchestra, Jazz Band, or Jazz Ensemble may be a better fit.
For large ensemble questions (Session I & II), contact Music Director Linda Hartley at LHartley@udayton.edu.
For small ensemble questions, contact Assistant Music Director Sheila Reynolds at sheilamreynolds62@gmail.com.
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