New Horizons Band of Cincinnati  

Did a job or other pressures force you to pack away your clarinet, trombone or drum set ages ago?  Or are you one of those whose music resides only in your heart, ready to spring free? Whatever your background, the New Horizons Band of Cincinnati invites you to join with other seniors in an entertaining and educational outlet for musical dreams.  The 45 member community band invites those who haven't played for years (or who have never found the time to begin) to join them at one of their friendly rehearsals at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Montgomery.  Professionals will help you brush up on your skills if you have played in the past or assist you in getting started.  No instrument?  Rentals can be arranged through Buddy Roger's Music, which sponsors the band, by clicking here (www.buddyrogers.com) or calling   (513)   729-1950  or  1-800-536-2263.

Performing music is a special joy that helps adults maintain mental and physical health, according to director Lee Suman, who led the Colerain High School Band from 1957-1984.  "Playing music from the past keeps us in touch with our history.  Daily practice keeps us active in the present, and striving for new goals attaches us to the future."

The band rehearses every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 10345 Montgomery Road.  Members hail from Indian Hill, Maderia, Blue Ash, Anderson Township, Montgomery and points as distant as Batavia, Fairfield and Forest Park.  Most are retired, from occupations as diverse as teacher, journalist, realtor, military, etc. The Cincinnati band is part of the New Horizons International Music Association (www.newhorizonsmusic.org) an organization of about 130 senior bands across the United States and Canada. Unlike some affiliated bands, the Cincinnati group has no age restrictions, although the rehearsal schedule works best for retirees.

To underwrite an experienced director and professional instructors, the band charges a tuition of $140 each semester (twice a year).  The tuition also pays for music and covers other expenses.

Newcomers planning to attend a rehearsal may contact Don or Helen Rhoad at drhoad@cinci.rr.com or Lee Suman at lpuce@fuse.net.