A couple of weeks ago, I was invited to attend a free lunch-time concert, being performed and presented by the New Horizons Program, which is part of the Eastman Community Music School, here in Rochester. The concert was being held in an old historic church across the street from where I work, and featured two groups: the New Horizons Chorus, and the Sine Nomine Flute Choir*; the latter is directed by my co-worker and great friend Jennifer Horn. Jennifer is the one who invited me, and also has pointed out the many musical opportunities that exist in Rochester, mainly related to the Eastman School of Music.
The New Horizons program, according to their homepage (which is linked below), was originally “designed in particular for senior adults.” Jennifer had been sharing with me some background of the practices leading up to the performances, which she was conducting on her lunch break at work once a week. So, without question, I attended…
…and it was a nice experience! The concert lasted maybe 45 minutes, with each group performing several short, but not necessarily easy, pieces. To me, it was nice to see these seniors performing, both the flute choir and the vocal chorus. There was an obvious level of pride at performing, and afterwards, there was definitely some camaraderie amongst the performers. In my first post on the blog, I stated that I firmly believe that one of the biggest keys to a long life is to keep your mind active, and to me, this program is a great opportunity for people to get out, fulfill a passion, and keep their minds active.
So, on this blog, I’ve been having some fun with different types of writing; this post will be the first of what I hope will be several “faux” interviews. I did pose the two questions listed, though basic, and Jennifer took her time and gave thoughtful answers:
JM: How did you get involved with the program, and how long ago?
JH: Back in Linden Oaks days [JM: when Jennifer and I first started working together, she worked in the Linden Oaks location of Xerox here in Rochester, and when I moved to NY, I worked in that same location before moving downtown], probably around 2005ish, I subbed at Eastman School of Music for my flute friend Sophia (who you met at the concert) while she was out on maternity leave. Taught private lessons and flute choir evenings and weekends for kids (early grade school through Grade 12) enrolled with her in the community music school. It was crazy busy, but well worth it for the experience. While there, I interacted with another flutist named Karla, who taught the New Horizons flute choir and band sectionals at the time. Karla was finishing up her doctorate, travelling for auditions and interviews, etc. And as it ended up, she had to be away for the New Horizons flute choir concert. So, she asked me to sub for the preceding two rehearsals and that particular concert. Karla ended up getting one of the jobs she interviewed for, and eventually moved away. The Flute Choir requested me as their new mentor! I am very lucky to have continued as their mentor for so long…there are some politics surrounding this whole position which are kind of interesting, that I will share with you separately. In short, it would make sense that the same person who teaches the flute’s band sectionals would be the likely mentor for the flute choir. But the history of the group’s founding and finances make it a little interesting. It all comes back to finance and accounting doesn’t it?! (smiles)
JM: What do you feel are the benefits of the program?
JH: For New Horizons? For the flute ensemble? Or for ME? I feel a little guilty because I think I get way more out of it than they do! But on their side, I think New Horizons provides incredible opportunities for adults to explore music - both at an introductory and advanced level with some high caliber instructors. The study and enjoyment of music keeps the mind sharp and the body in motion. Routine gatherings provide structure to some schedules that might otherwise be fairly empty, and many opportunities for fellowship and friendship. Participants benefit from a connection with the community at large through performances and events. Instructors maintain an amazing balance – pushing enough to generate improvement the group can recognize and be proud of, while keeping the concerns of older musicians close at hand. One eye (and ear!) on the music and learning. One eye on the ensemble members themselves, looking for signs of fatigue, discomfort, frustration. Always encouraging, energetic, approachable. And most importantly, always open to guidance and suggestions from the group. Unlike teaching kids, where often there are guidelines to follow, requirements to be met…the goals of New Horizons ensembles are largely defined by members. Directors/mentors give careful attention to balancing those individual and ensemble objectives. And hopefully provide the group with a meaningful experience!
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For me, the concert was not only a nice way to spend a lunch, but a reminder that there are good things in this world if you are open to seeing them – especially when surrounded by all that can bring a day to a grinding halt. :)
* Note: "Sine nomine" is a Latin expression, meaning "without a name"…
For more information on the New Horizons Program:
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