FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions are below. However, if you have a question that is not answered here, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page and we’ll get back to you ASAP.

When does the next session start?

Sunday, September 7, 2025
On the University of Arizona campus at the UA Fred Fox School of Music, 1017 N Olive

What instruments are included in the band?

Concert band instruments including:

• Flute
• Oboe
• Bassoon
• Clarinet
• Bass Clarinet
• Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, or Bari)
• Trumpet
• French Horn
• Trombone
• Euphonium
• Tuba
• Percussion

Starting with our Fall 2024 session, we are adding string instruments:

• Violin
• Viola
• Cello
• Bass

Do I need to audition to join the band?

Auditions are not required to join.

How well do I have to play to join?

All levels are invited to join– beginner, intermediate, and advanced. New Horizons Tucson is the ONLY community music ensemble that allows and nurtures complete beginners. Many of our beginning members have never played an instrument, cannot read music, or want to learn to play a new instrument. Some have not played an instrument since their school days, while others have been playing for many years.

Members choose whatever ensemble(s) they feel best suit their skills. Many of our members play in multiple groups, sometimes on different instruments.

Do I need to provide my own instrument?

Yes. Members must provide their own instruments. Instruments can be rented or purchased at a local music store.

What does it cost to join?

There is tuition each semester and payment is made to the University of Arizona at THIS LINK. Tuition includes: 1 hr rehearsal and 45 minute small group sectional help. Tuition pays for U of A music student coaches, rehearsal assistants, purchasing music and percussion instruments. All of our directors are volunteers. Members who play in multiple ensembles only pay once–additional ensembles are free.

Beginning Band – $65

Beginning Strings -$65 (no sectionals)

Intermediate Band – $100

Intermediate Orchestra – $100

Advanced Band – $100

Summer Band – $65 (no sectionals)

Financial assistance is available if needed. Just let your director know your situation.

What if I’ve never played an instrument before?

No worries! We welcome you as you begin this new adventure. All you will need is your instrument and a positive attitude! Music stands will be available in practice and rehearsal rooms.

Where and when do you rehearse?

Rehearsals are held in the Fred Fox School of Music building (1017 N Olive Ave. Map) at the University of Arizona:

Beginning Band – Sundays 1:00 – 3:00

Intermediate Band – Sundays 2:15 – 4:00

Advanced Band – Sundays 3:30 – 5:00

Beginning Strings – Saturday 11 – noon

Intermediate Strings – Saturday 10 – noon

Where do I park for rehearsals and concerts?

Parking at the University is $4 per hour in the Park Avenue Garage. (corner of Park Ave and Speedway). There is a walkway/tunnel under Speedway at the Southeast corner of the garage. There is also a surface parking lot (#3039) on Palm Rd – off 2nd street (behind the Center for Creative Photography and Harvill Bldg). Parking is free on Sundays in this lot, however, there are limited spaces. The Fred Fox School of Music is a short walk west of the lot.

Do I have to buy my own music?

No. All sheet music to be performed is provided. A method book is the only purchase necessary:

Beginning Band:

Habits of a Successful Beginner Band Musician by Scott Rush and Jeff Scott (for your instrument)

Intermediate and Advanced Band members must purchase:

Foundations for a Superior Performance by Richard Williams and Jeff King (for your instrument)

How long are rehearsals?

The band rehearses once a week for two hours, split between sectional instruction and ensemble rehearsal.

Are the rehearsals fun?

Yes! Although we practice seriously, our rehearsals are enjoyable and educational. Many friendships develop among New Horizon members.

Who are the members?

We come from all sorts of interesting backgrounds and experiences. Although we welcome all ages, a majority of us are over 50+ and so far our oldest member is 85.

Who is the band director? 

The director and founder of the Tucson chapter of New Horizons is Dr, Matt Williams, a UA music education faculty member. You can learn more about Matt at https://music.arizona.edu/people/directory/mlwilliams

Who teaches us how to play the instruments?

University of Arizona music students serve as sectional coaches. The sectional coaches are specialists on specific instruments.

Do you rehearse and perform all year long?

Our regular schedule starts after Labor Day and ends the first week in May. We follow the University of Arizona calendar and have the same vacation breaks throughout the year. We also frequently offer a shorter summer session that includes all interested members but does not include sectionals.

Where and how often does the band perform?

Our groups perform two concerts -Fall & Spring. If possible, a Summer concert is also added. Concerts typically take place in Crowder Hall in the Fred Fox School of Music.

How can I get more information?

There is lots of information on our website but if you would like additional information or clarification, you can click Contact Us link and send us an email message. Also, consider arranging to stop by and sit in on one of rehearsals, meet the conductors and some of the mentors.

In August, there is an interest meeting for new members. The interest/registration meeting for the fall 2025 session will take place on Sunday, August 17th at 2:00 pm in Crowder Hall of the UA music building.