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  • 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.

Spring 2018

Monday, January 22
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, May 8, 7:00 p.m.
Concert Bands in Concert
Copenhaver Band Hall

Thursday, May 10, 7:00 p.m.
Jazz Night
School of Music Recital Hall

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, director
Intermediate Band - String Project small room 1 - Adriene Fox, 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

Amanda Schlegel directs the Congaree New Horizons Band.