Frost School of Music Introduces “New Horizons” for Senior Adults

The Frost School of Music at the University of Miami has introduced a new program to the senior adult community of the greater Miami area, The New Horizons Music Program.

By UM News 10-13-2010

The Frost School of Music at the University of Miami has introduced a new program to the senior adult community of the greater Miami area. The New Horizons Music Program offers senior adults an opportunity to learn or relearn to play a musical instrument. There are a handful of musical ensembles that cater to musicians with previous experience, but this ensemble is unique in that no experience is necessary to join this band. In October 2009, after months of preparation, the University of Miami’s New Horizons Music chapter came to fruition.

News of the program was spread through word of mouth, and those that participated in the first semester’s band were ready and excited to learn. Miami’s New Horizons band director Susana M. Lalama, graduate student, brought enthusiasm and expertise to each rehearsal. “The adults were so excited to learn to play their instrument, they really brought the spirit and joy of making music to a new level,” stated Lalama. Although some were hesitant to begin learning an instrument later on in life, the Frost School of Music provided them with an opportunity they could not pass up.

For more information on New Horizons Band at the University of Miami, contact the music education office at 305-284-6252 or email us at szdzinski@miami.edu.