Dust off the instruments; College and Greencroft team up to start New Horizons String Orchestra

GOSHEN, Ind. – The Goshen College Music Center and Greencroft are teaming up to start a New Horizons String Orchestra.

“It's a chance for people who played a long time ago to dust off their violins, violas, cellos or basses, or for people who want to learn these instruments for the first time, to come together for the joy of making music,” said Deb Kauffman, director of the Music Center’s Community School of the Arts (CSA).

The musical experience is open to any adult interested in learning to play a string instrument, even those without any previous experience. "This is a wonderful opportunity to enrich your life and keep healthy both mentally and physically. I’ve seen many people in their 60s, 70s and even 80s benefit from this experience in other cities,” said Brook Bennett, conductor of the new orchestra.

New Horizons is a growing international movement focused on encouraging adults and seniors to have fun making music together. Their motto is “your best is good enough.”

Speaking to the benefits of participating in such an orchestra, Bennett said, "Music uplifts the spirit and many great memories come from making music together. In addition, it has been proven to promote good health, and keep the mind sharp and active. Music making is a fantastic alternative to television, and it offers an opportunity to pursue a dream that may not have been possible earlier in life but is possible now."

Bennett added, "New Horizons ensembles, teachers are encouraging and nurturing. Our goal is to provide a low pressure environment for those who want to play a string instrument."

Rehearsals will occur two days per week for two hours. The first hour will include a group lesson on your instrument, and the second hour will be an orchestra rehearsal. A social time will follow. Practices will take place at Greencroft Senior Center, Goshen, and concerts will be held in Sauder Concert Hall at the Goshen College Music Center.

An informational meeting is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Greencroft Senior Center, Goshen. Rehearsals will begin the third week of January and will be Wednesday and Thursday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m. Small tuition fees will be charged. The orchestra will meet throughout the year, and members are invited to all rehearsals when they are in town.

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CONTACT: John Bender

Public Relations Director,

Greencroft Retirement Communities

Phone: 574.537.4017

Fax: 574.533.8063

E-mail: johnb@greencroft.org