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The New Horizons String Orchestra is a beginner's group for people who either want to 'dust off that instrument' and play again, or to progress as a beginner to a group situation that is easy and fun. The music is generally at a junior high school level.
The New Horizons program is part of an international organization that was founded in order to help older people play again. It offers inexpensive rates and individual instruction to supplement the group activities.
Judith Eisner founded the Minneapolis chapter at MacPhail Center for Music in 2005. She offers a daytime class and an evening class in order to meet players schedules. Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. and Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. held at MacPhail in downtown Minneapolis.
Individual instruction supporting the orchestral assignments is co-coordinated through MacPhail. Players can choose any instructor although some take lessons from Judith.
The New Horizons String Orchestra is often a 'stepping stone' to other activities like community orchestras or chamber groups.
Judith offers beginner's violin and intermediate violin group instruction as an inexpensive alternative to private lessons.
Viola, cello and double bass instruction is also offered at MacPhail and these instruments are in high demand at the orchestra. So if you play one of these string instruments, you will be very welcome.
Judith has a remarkable ability to make the orchestra experience supportive and informal. She believes that music should be an avocation, or hobby for older people. Younger people who may want to play in a major orchestra or become the rising star in the field, are too often the focus of music schools. She makes sure that this organization recognizes the need for informal support and non-competitive environments.
Eisner also is very good at choosing music that is at the appropriate skill level for the group. This is very important to the enjoyment and success of our musical experience. Often members comment on how quickly they understand and progress in their musical development even though the focus is on playing together and having fun .
MacPhail does offer a New Horizons Band session and details on that group as well as this one, can be found by calling the school.
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