New Horizons Music

Special Programs and Continuing Education

New Horizons Music

A welcoming adult music education program for people who want to learn an instrument, return to music, strengthen their skills, rehearse with others, and experience the joy of performance.

Registration Ensembles Member Information

Music is for every stage of life.

New Horizons Music gives adults the opportunity to begin, return to, or continue making music in a supportive group setting. Professional music educators guide participants through skill-building, rehearsal, and performance experiences.

Whether you are new to an instrument, returning after years away, or ready for a more advanced ensemble, New Horizons Music offers a place to learn, practice, perform, and belong.

Program at a glance

A flexible, session-based music program designed for adult learners and adult musicians.

Adult Music Education

Designed for adults who want to learn, return to music, or continue developing their skills.

Ensemble Instruction

Professional music educators guide participants through fundamentals, technique, reading, and ensemble skills.

Band, Jazz, and Strings

Options include concert band, symphonic band, jazz, strings, and small ensembles.

Rehearsal and Performance

Members participate in rehearsals, concerts, and community performance opportunities.

About New Horizons Music

The University of Dayton New Horizons Music Program is part of an established and successful adult music education movement. Participants belong to a welcoming community of adult learners and musicians.

Rehearsals focus on improving fundamentals, developing note and rhythm reading, strengthening tone and technique, and building confidence through group performance.

Members may choose the group or ensemble that best matches their current experience level, interest, and instrument.

Good to know: Beginners are welcome in designated Rising Stars groups. Some groups require recent playing experience or director approval because of level or instrumentation needs.

Find your ensemble

New Horizons Music offers different options by session, experience level, and instrument family. The detailed ensemble page includes the full descriptions for each group.

Session I

Band Ensembles

Session I meets Wednesdays from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. and includes options for beginning, developing, and more experienced band musicians.

Rising Stars Band
Concert Band
Symphonic Band

View Session I Descriptions

Session II

Jazz and Strings

Session II meets Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and includes jazz, string, and orchestra opportunities.

Jazz Band
Jazz Ensemble
Rising Stars Strings
Andante Strings
String Orchestra

View Session II Descriptions

Additional options

Small Ensembles

Small ensembles such as quartets and trios may be available for members who want additional playing opportunities in a smaller group setting.

Available at no extra cost for members in larger ensembles
Participants only in small ensembles must pay tuition
Registration is handled through the registration page

Learn More About Ensembles

Registration

How registration works

Choose either a session 1, session 2 or one of each on the registration page. Please make sure to only register for one ensemble in each session.

Registration Sign In

Rehearsal location and times

Rehearsals are held on Wednesdays at Refuge Hill Church, 5200 Far Hills Ave., Dayton, OH 45429.

Session I: 9:00 to 10:30 a.m.
Session II: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Member reminder: Members are expected to participate in scheduled rehearsals and performances unless there are acceptable reasons not to do so.

Member resources and performances

Use these pages for current member details, upcoming performance information, and community booking requests.

Current members

Member Information

Find rehearsal details, semester dates, method book information, instrument information, performance attire reminders, and contact information.

View Member Information

Concerts and events

Upcoming Performances

View upcoming performance details and opportunities to hear New Horizons musicians in the community.

View Upcoming Performances

Community performances

Book Us for a Gig

New Horizons Music ensembles may be available for festivals, senior centers, corporate events, schools, churches, civic organizations, and community gatherings.

Book a Performance

Support New Horizons Music

Donations help support access, excellence, sustainability, and growth for adult music education in the Miami Valley.

Giving opportunities include the Hartley UD New Horizons Music Endowment for long-term sustainability and the Friends of New Horizons Fund for program enhancements, special projects, guest artists, additional performance opportunities, and new initiatives.

Donate to New Horizons

Common questions

These short answers help new and returning members find the right next step.

Which ensemble should I choose?

Choose the ensemble that best matches your instrument, comfort with reading music, and experience level. Rising Stars groups are designed for beginners and those needing a refresher. Other ensembles are designed for developing, intermediate, or more advanced players.

When do rehearsals meet?

Rehearsals are held on Wednesdays. Session I meets from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. and Session II meets from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where are rehearsals held?

Rehearsals are held at Refuge Hill Church, 5200 Far Hills Ave., Dayton, OH 45429. .

Are beginners welcome?

Yes. Beginners are welcome in designated Rising Stars groups. Beginners may start in the fall semester only.

Can New Horizons perform at a community event?

Yes. New Horizons Music offers performance options for community events, seasonal celebrations, senior centers, schools, churches, civic organizations, and similar gatherings. Visit the Book Us for a Gig page for details.

Questions about New Horizons Music?

Contact Special Programs and Continuing Education for registration help, program questions, or assistance finding the correct New Horizons Music page.

Email: nhmp@udayton.edu
Phone: 937-229-2347

Some Title

Special Programs and Continuing Education

Your Cart