Ottawa New Horizons is a group of over 150 adults who come together to play music in a supportive and fun environment.  

Some of us are playing an instrument for the first time, some are playing an instrument they have never played before and some are re-connecting with an instrument they have not played in years.  

Bands are led by experienced professionals who are music teachers in area schools.  We are affiliated with the New Horizons International Music Association.

The first Ottawa New Horizons Band was formed in January 2008 as an outreach program of Dominion-Chalmers United Church.  As of 2011, we have grown to include five bands:  Beginner, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Advanced and Jazz.  Each band rehearses one night a week, generally from 6 – 8:30 pm.

MUSIC

We play various types of music, including marches, classical, folk, jazz, rock and musical theatre.  As concert bands, we offer the opportunity to play a brass, woodwind or percussion instrument.  With some exceptions (large brass and percussion by special arrangement) band members need to bring an instrument.  For those undecided about which instrument to play, there is an opportunity every year in June to try some out.

Whether you have some experience or none at all, there is an Ottawa New Horizons Band that is right for you.  You can find all the details on our registration page.

LEARNING AND PERFORMING

For the first few weeks of each semester (starting September and January), the weekly practice is divided into instrument clinics led by experienced musicians for one hour and full band for one hour (with a break in between for refreshments and socializing).  This allows band members to spend some time focusing on their chosen instruments as well as improving their group-playing skills. The latter weeks of the session are spent in full band, learning and polishing pieces for performances.

At the end of each semester, we perform a concert for family, friends and the general public.  We also perform at schools, nursing homes, church services and other locations when the opportunity arises.  Some of our bands take part in the Capital Region MusicFest.  In all cases, the band leaders make sure the bands are well prepared and enjoy performing. 

While improving musicianship is an important aim, we also emphasize having fun.  We share a passion for music, and we are courageous enough to try something new and share the joy of the music we make with our community.  

At the Ottawa New Horizons Bands, your best is always good enough!