Local veterans of all generations and their families can kick up their heels or just enjoy the music of the New Horizons Dance Band, thanks to a new initiative by the Eastman Community Music School ensemble.
The first event in a new community outreach series to veterans will be held from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 9, at the First Unitarian Church of Rochester. The event is co-sponsored by the church’s Social Justice Committee and the Dance Band.
The 31-piece ensemble will perform big band classics, jazz standards, soft rock, and popular music from the 1940s to the 1990s. Those attending can relax and enjoy reminiscing to the tunes, or get up and dance if they prefer.
“Through these and other similar musical events, the New Horizons Dance Band wants to thank and honor veterans for their service, sacrifice, and devotion to country,” said Marcia Bornhurst Parkes, who is director of the dance band and also chair of the New Horizons program.
New Horizons is an adult music education program sponsored by the Eastman Community Music School, a division of the Eastman School of Music of the University of Rochester. Founded at Eastman in 1991 by Roy Ernst, now professor emeritus at the Eastman School, the program has been widely adopted by more than 100 organizations throughout the United States and Canada. Wide interest in the program led to its significant growth and the formation of the new Horizons International Association.
The Rochester program offers several ensembles that rehearse weekday mornings. The groups include three bands, two orchestras, a mixed chorus, the Dance Band, and chamber music ensembles. Beginners are welcome throughout the school year. More information on the New Horizons program is available from the Eastman Community Music School at (585) 274-1400 or online at www.esm.rochester.edu/community.
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