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School of Music

  • Congaree New Horizons Band
  • Congaree New Horizons Band participants
  • Congaree New Horizons Band

Congaree New Horizons Band

Do you wish you had learned to play an instrument as a youngster? Or maybe you wish you had practiced more. It’s never too late to learn! If you’re age 50 or older, you can learn to play in a concert band at the School of Music.

Members of the Congaree New Horizons Band come from all walks of life, and no prior musical experience is required to participate. Learn to play and perform a band instrument in a group setting and have a lot of fun doing it. Each practice session includes full group rehearsals and small group and individual instruction.

The Congaree New Horizons Band has grown by leaps and bounds and now includes three concert bands – beginner, intermediate and advanced, two jazz big bands – beginner and advanced, two jazz combos – junior varsity combo and varsity combo, a flute choir, a Dixieland ensemble, and a private lessons program. 

USC's Congaree New Horizons Band is affiliated with New Horizons International Music Association, an organization that encourages seniors to learn and make music with friends. New Horizons has approximately 220 bands worldwide.

Cost

$150 per semester for beginning players
$100 per semester for experienced players; with participation in the jazz band an additional $40/semester.

Fees do not include instrument rental or purchase but do include music and materials used in classes.

Download Membership Information here.

Rehearsal Schedule

Rehearsals are held each Monday evening at the USC String Project Building on the campus of USC at 851 Park Street.

Download the rehearsal schedule.

Mondays, 5:30–6:45 p.m.
Advanced Band - String Project big room - Lauren Meccia and Amanda Schlegel, director
Intermediate Band - String Project small room 1 - Will Melven, director
Beginner Band - String Project small room 2 - Ray Dunovant, director

Mondays, 7:00–8:00 p.m.
Beginner Jazz Band - String Project small room 1 - Ray Dunovant, director
Crescent Moon Jazz Band - String Project big room - Lauren Meccia, director

Many small and chamber ensembles are part of the CNHB including a clarinet ensemble, the Dixieland Codgers, jazz combo groups, and others. We have active groups that meet on almost every day of the week!

Fall 2018

Monday, August 27
First meeting / recruiting concert for new members
USC String Project (851 Park St.)
Returning members meet at 5:30 p.m.
New members join us at 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday, December 11, 7:00 p.m.
Concert Bands and Small Ensembles in Concert
Copenhaver Band Hall
324 Sumter Street

Thursday, December 13, 7:00 p.m.
Jazz Night
School of Music Recital Hall

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Amanda Schlegel directs the Congaree New Horizons Band.