Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Brigham Young University New Horizons Orchestra (NHO)?
The BYU New Horizons Orchestra was established in 2003 to create an opportunity for adults - and especially for senior adults - to begin study of a musical instrument. It serves as an "entry point" into instrumental music education for people who have never played before, and a "re-entry" point for those who may have been away from music making for many years. It also serves as a laboratory teaching setting for BYU music education students, and a vehicle for identifying and studying the ways music can affect family life. In its first season, the orchestra enrolled over 60 participants. It is operated in cooperation with Provo's Eldred Senior Center and Summerhays Music Center, with support from the BYU School of Music.

The BYU-NHO is directed by Dr. Andrew H. Dabczynski, BYU Professor of Music Education. He is assisted by Gordon Childs, formerly Professor of Viola at the University of Wyoming (retired), and also by selected BYU graduate students in music education and conducting. A class of BYU music education students serve as additional small-group teachers.

Is the BYU New Horizons Orchestra the only one of its kind?
Yes and no! The first New Horizons musical ensemble, a band, was organized in 1991 at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, by music education professor Roy Ernst. Since then, some 120 New Horizons Bands have been established in the United States, Australia and Canada. Andrew Dabczynski, currently professor of music education at Brigham Young University, founded the first New Horizons Orchestra in 1997, also in Rochester, while he was Professor Ernst's colleague. There are now at least twenty other New Horizons orchestras, with more being planned. The Provo-based BYU orchestra is the first New Horizons Orchestra in Utah.

Who may participate?
Any adult over 40 is welcome to take part in the BYU New Horizons Orchestra. Senior citizens are particularly welcome and encouraged to participate. In its first season, the BYU New Horizons Orchestra attracted adults between 40 and 86, with an average age of 58.

What instruments may I play?
Instruction will be offered on the four orchestral string instruments: violin, viola, cello, and string bass. No previous musical experience is necessary.

How much does it cost?
The cost for the NHO is $95 for fall and winter sessions; $50 for the spring session (fees are subject to change). No scholarships or financial assistance are available at this time, and fees are not covered by BYU benefits.

Do I need to know how to read music?
No. While most participants have had some experience with music during their lifetime, not all know how to read it. Reading music is one of the many skills that will be taught.

When and where are the lessons offered?
The BYU New Horizons Orchestra lessons and rehearsals are held from 9:30-11:30 AM on Wednesdays and Thursdays (Wednesdays only in spring) at the Sharon East LDS Stake Center, 2400 North 1060 East, Provo. Formal music instruction for the NHO members takes place from September through July.

I have a part-time job, and sometimes go out of state to visit my grandchildren. Is it OK to miss rehearsals sometimes?
There is one important principle that governs the New Horizons Orchestra: that is, there are no rules! Obviously, a participant will learn more and faster the more with regular attendance. But, again, there are no rules, so no one will send you to the principal's office! If you are a snowbird and take off for St. George each winter, have a great time, and we'll welcome you back when you return!

How are lessons structured?
Students learn in a large group (orchestra) setting, and also "break out" into smaller groups and chamber ensembles. Depending upon the number and level of participants enrolled, members may receive occasional semi-private and even private instruction.

I can play a little already. Am I too "advanced" for the orchestra?
No. It is assumed that there will be participants at various levels of proficiency, and new members may join at virtually any time (upon recommendation of the directors). As the group grows, it will likely divide into at least two main ensembles: a group of beginners, and a group of students who have established some independence and experience.

Do I need to audition?
No. Anyone is welcome. If you're a day-one beginner, you may stay at the "beginner" level for as long as you wish. When you feel ready, you may move on to the more advanced group. Or, move up and back again! Again, there are no rules! We'll help you progress at your own rate.

What equipment do I need?
Each participant needs to bring to each rehearsal:

• An instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass)
• A folding music stand
• Required Texts:
  • For beginners
  • String Explorer, Book 1 (Alfred Publishing Co., $6.95)
  • Fiddler's Philharmonic for your instrument (blue cover - Alfred Publishing Co., $6.95)
  • Also suggested: Fiddler's Philharmonic -- Basic Old Time
  • For continuing players
  • the above texts
  • String Explorer, Book 2
  • Fiddler's Philharmonic Encore for your instrument

Other music is provided. Participants may need to purchase additional music at a later time.

Where should I get these materials?
There are many local music dealers and string instrument makers in the Utah and Salt Lake valleys. When purchasing an instrument, we recommend that you work with a reputable person or firm, such as Summerhays Music Center, one of the NHO sponsors. They will help you purchase the best sounding instrument within your price range. Our group method book, String Explorer is available from many print music dealers, such as Best in Music and Pepper's, both with outlets at Summerhays stores. We recommend that materials - and instruments in particular - not be purchased over the Internet. Instructors will be happy to offer additional advice

Is anything else required of me?
BYU music education majors often take part as observers, participants and teachers, and your cooperation and feedback is appreciated. In addition, the NHO serves as a unique laboratory for discovering more about how adults learn and process music, and how music affects family relationships. From time to time, the BYU School of Music and the colleges of Fine Arts and Family Life may request your voluntary cooperation in research activities.

Other than that, we just hope you have a great time learning and making music!