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?
BANDS: Sunday, September 13th
STRINGS: Saturday, September 12th
What instruments can I play in the band or orchestra?
Band instruments include:
- Flute
- Oboe
- Bassoon
- Clarinet
- Bass Clarinet
- Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, or Bari)
- Trumpet
- French Horn
- Trombone
- Euphonium
- Tuba
- Percussion
The sting instruments one can play are:
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Bass
For more information on playing and/or learning a string instrument, rehearsal dates, and participation fee, see the UA String Project page for more information.
Do I need to audition to join the band or string ensembles?
Auditions are not required to join, however the different bands and string ensembles have some basic guidelines on experience level desired for best fit.
How well do I have to play to join?
Participants of all skill/experience levels are invited to join! 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 the 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. Some local options include Instrument Music, Metro Gnome Music, Chicago Music Store, Music Arts, and Southwest Strings for string instruments.
What does it cost to join?
Bands: There is participation fee is $50 per band level joined. The fee covers rehearsal assistants, purchasing music and percussion instruments, and venue rental. Our director and board members are volunteers. Participants who play in multiple ensembles pay $50 for each ensemble. (Financial assistance is available if needed. Just let your ensemble director know your situation.)
For Strings, please visit the UA String Project page for updated participation fee information.
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?
Band rehearsals are held on Sundays at Catalina High School (3645 E Pima St, Tucson, AZ 85716 | Map)
- Beginning: 1:00 pm
- Intermediate: 2:15 pm
- Concert: 2:15 pm
- Symphonic Band: 3:00 pm
String ensemble rehearsals will be held on Saturdays at the UA School of Music (1017 N Olive Rd, Tucson, 85721 | Map)
The 1st rehearsal on 9/12 will be as follows:
- 9:00 AM – 9:40 AM | New Horizons Beginning Strings in Room 232
- 9:45 AM – 10:10 AM | Welcome Address in Crowder Hall (All String Project Programs)
- 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM | All New Horizons members gather in Crowder Hall to warm up, chat, and meet one another
- 11:15 AM – 12:30 PM | Combined rehearsal for all Intermediate and Advanced members in Crowder Hall (Beginners are very welcome to stay and watch)
Where do I park for rehearsals and concerts?
Band rehearsals and concerts are held in at Catalina High School and there is plenty of free parking.
Strings rehearsals are on the UA campus and there is free parking in the surface parking lot (#3 039) 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. There is also parking in the Park Ave Garage (corner of Park Ave and Speedway) and parking rates are about $4 per hour. There is a walkway/tunnel under Speedway at the Southeast corner of the garage that leads to the School of Music building.
Do I have to buy my own music?
No. All sheet music to be performed is provided. A method book may be the only purchase necessary.
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?
Dr. Barbara McLain is the director of bands. Click here to read her bio.
Who is the strings director?
Dr. Kelsey Nussbaum is the director of the UA Striing Project that directs our strings ensembles. Click here to read her bio.
Do you rehearse and perform all year long?
Our regular schedule starts after Labor Day and ends about the first week in May. We also frequently offer a shorter summer session that includes all interested members.
Where and how often does the band perform?
Our groups perform two concerts, fall and spring. If possible, a Summer concert is also added. Concerts will take place at Catalina High School.
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.
REGISTRATION FOR FALL IS OPEN!
Register for BAND online at: https://bit.ly/tnhb-fall2026
Register for STRINGS online at: https://stringproject.music.arizona.edu/new-horizons-strings/
If you submitted your fall registration but have not yet paid the participation fee(s), you can do so now online at http://tucsonnewhorizons.square.site
