Membership and Class Registration for 2024-2025
Membership and Class Registration Now Closed for Term 2 and Summer 2024-25
Please reference the Weekly Agenda for class offerings
If you are new to NHBT you can register (for free) as a Friend of NHBT so that we can be in touch when registration or events happen
Information boxes with more information appear below > click to open or close
Returning member? ~ Login first, then select summer classes, then checkout to pre-register for summer classes
New to NHBT? ~ Select summer classes then checkout to create account and pre-register for summer classes
Account Login
If you created a personal account with the NHBT online store during a previous registration, please login to enable registration
If you don’t yet have an account with us, skip this login, order your membership below and an account will be created for you at the Checkout page
Wondering about the status of your current or previous orders with NHBT?
Leave this Registration Page to view:
If not yet an account holder, you will be creating a personal account with the information you enter in the checkout form.
Unsure? – Your email address will be checked against our records and if you have an account, you will be asked to login at Checkout.
As an account holder, you will then have two personalized web pages showing:
- Your order completion details
- Your membership and class registration status
On account creation, an email will provide a user id and invite you to set your password. You will want to record that password information safely. If you forget it, you can use your user id or email address to reset.
Use your user name (assigned by us) or your email address plus your unique password when logging in to register for classes, extending your membership or registering for our general interest or Music for Life workshops.
Your login enables access to the NHBT Members page.
You can keep your account logged in or log out via the Registration or Members pages.
Concert Band and Big Band Class Registration
Class registrations require that you have an account with NHBT and an active Membership
A membership enables you to then register for corresponding classes, each at their own cost
Registration for classes requires purchase of an NHBT membership that is active for that period of time
We offer a range of membership durations to match your interests
Memberships only become active after your order for your chosen membership option has been completed i.e. paid
Only classes that correspond to your active Membership appear for selection during class registration
Classes run for a defined period of time and are individually priced
Class registrations only become active after your order for a chosen class has been completed i.e. paid
Membership Duration: Memberships are offered on an Annual or per Term basis
If registered for in-person but unable to attend on a specific date, you will be able to join remotely.
Virtual concert band and big band registrations are unlimited. You join these classes as a remote participant using the Zoom link provided and access your music from our online library.
Virtual participation in our band classes offers attendance via the internet using free Zoom software with technical support provided by NHBT. You clearly hear and see the band teacher conducting and play along with the in-person band. Internet delay does prevent your remote performance from being heard by others. However, you participate in a live rehearsal and benefit from hearing your part in context while playing with a band at your level or even one slightly more advanced than you are ready to join in person.
Concert, Symphonic Wind Symphony in-person capacity is limited to 50 people due to room size.
Big Band in-person capacity is limited to 35 people due to instrument balance. While instrumentation is open to all concert band instruments, there are limits on how many saxophones, by type e.g. alto, tenor.
Concert Band or Big Band Classes are offered Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays – All in-person classes are held at 662 Victoria Park Ave (North-West corner of Victoria Park and Danforth Ave) immediately south of the Victoria Park subway and bus TTC station.
Term 1 Concert Band and Big Band classes are $95 each (14 weeks of 2-hour classes)
Term 2 Concert Band and Big Band classes are $110 each (16 weeks of 2-hour classes)
Term 2 Ensemble classes are $140 each (8 weeks of 90min classes) and Workshop classes are $60 each (variable length)
Registration for In-person or Virtual (remote) classes require an Annual or corresponding Term membership
As a registered charity, NHBT is able to provide you with an income tax receipt for the organizational membership portion of your fees (class fees are not tax-deductible)
Annual Membership is $300 (includes Term 1 and Term 2)
Term 1 ~ September – December (14 weeks) Membership is $150
Term 2 ~ January – May (16 weeks) Membership is $150
Classes are offered as daytime or evening options for many (but not all) Concert Band or Big Band classes
Green Band 1 is not currently being offered. If you are interested in this band, please use the Contact Us link to let us know your interest.
Policy Updates
NHBT policies and safety protocols have been updated as of Feb 23, 2025
NHBT Diversity Statement
NHBT provides a safe and welcoming space where adults can learn how to play an instrument and make music together – regardless of their nationality, race, creed, or sexual orientation. We recognize and value the contribution of all who walk through our doors and condemn discrimination of any kind. There is power and beauty in the diversity of music just as there is in human diversity.
Code of Conduct
The following information is provided to inform members of their responsibilities at NHBT. This applies to behaviour during large band classes, sectionals or small ensemble rehearsals, concerts social events, or any other gathering of members participating in and/or representing NHBT. If a member behaves in an objectionable manner, creates disharmony with other band members or with instructors during any related NHBT activity, then that member’s membership in NHBT may be revoked. The Board of Directors will review such situations on a case-by-case basis.
Attendance
In fairness to other band members and NHBT’s desire to produce high quality performances, members should make every effort to attend all classes/rehearsals. If a member must take a leave of absence or is otherwise unable to perform, they should make best efforts to inform the instructor(s) of their absence in advance.
Concert Decorum
Members should conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times while at the concert venue. Members are encouraged to assist with set-up before, and clean- up after, a concert. Members should adhere to the concert dress code.
Music Management
Musical parts are made available to registered class members via the NHBT Dropbox online. Members need to download these to their devices or print them and bring them to class. Members may be asked to play any of the pieces that are assigned for any given term at any time during the term. All of the music that NHBT uses is copyrighted so you cannot share your music charts with anyone outside of NHBT.
Dispute resolution
If there is a serious conflict or disagreement between members of NHBT every effort should be made to resolve the matter in a friendly manner to achieve a mutually satisfactory resolution for all parties. If the dispute cannot be settled between the parties then the Board shall discuss and make a decision (by simple majority vote) on the matter having given all aggrieved parties the opportunity to put their side of the issue before the board either in writing or orally.
Infection Control
NHBT Policy for Infection Control
The global COVID pandemic has highlighted the need for a clear approach to infection control at NHBT, especially for respiratory viruses spread by aerosol contamination.
Since most of our members are seniors this puts NHBT membership in the high-risk category for negative outcomes from respiratory infection.
NHBT will follow all of the current government guidelines for infection control and may, at times, require masking, proof of vaccination and evidence of negative tests, depending on what the current guidelines require.
NHBT policy for infection control requires that any member, teacher or visitor who is feeling unwell should not attend any in-person classes or enter the NHBT premises.
NHBT has put in place some guidelines to reduce the chances of person-to-person spread of infectious virions:
- All four HEPA air filtration units in the band room should be turned on for at least 15 minutes before class; turned on during the break; and left on between morning and afternoon classes. The filtration units do not need to be turned on during class.
- All members should vacate the band room during the break to allow the air to be cleared by the filtration units.
- NHBT provides an ample supply of hand sanitizer, anti-bacterial hand soap and paper towels in the washrooms.
- Participants should provide their own cloths and ensure no “spit” is left behind on the floors or chairs.
- Participants are encouraged to wear masks during break during peak respiratory infection season and/or on the case of a local respiratory infection outbreak.
Admission to Classes
All classes are open to members who have paid their membership fees subject to the following guidelines.
Instructor permission is required for all classes. More advanced classes require a higher level of musical expertise. If an instructor feels that a member does not have the level of expertise required for the advanced class, they will advise the member to take a more basic class rather than the more advanced class.
Big Band classes are open to all instruments that repertoire charts are available for. Generally, all instruments traditionally included in Big Bands, Dance Bands, Stage Bands or Jazz Combos have repertoire available from publishers. There are some restrictions on the number of certain instruments in each Band.
The Big Band instructor examines the applications to the Big Bands and decides which members to admit based on expertise and balance within the band.
For the Big Band classes, where possible, preference will be given to members who are also members of one of the Concert Bands or Symphonic Bands.
Final decision about admission into the Big Bands remains in the hands of the instructor.
Because the two Concert Bands perform together at end-of-term and end-of- year concerts, any member who has paid their class fee for one of the Concert Bands can attend the other Concert Band without charge. It does not apply to the Big Bands.
Notwithstanding this guideline, the final decision on admission to any band rests with the instructor.
Committee Responsibilities
The NHBT Board has created a number of committees with specific responsibilities. All committees report directly to the Board. The following are the current continuing Board committees. The Board, from time to time, also creates ad-hoc short-term committees that have a specific one-time purpose.
Program Committee
The program committee is mandated to examine all aspects of the music program and provide advice to the Board as to best practice going forward. The program committee works closely with the Head of Music Program (if any) and monitors the success of our music program as well as providing input into potential program modification. The President is always a member of this committee as the President serves as the direct conduit between the Board and the instructors. The program committee is mandated to provide the Board with a draft program proposal by February of every year that outlines the proposed program for the following academic year.
Fundraising committee
The mandate of the fundraising committee is to develop fundraising strategies for NHBT and pursue those strategies after Board approval. The fundraising committee is mandated to annually provide the Board with a fundraising strategy for the following year at the September Board meeting.
Copyright
The music charts provided to members for learning and practice are copyright protected. NHBT acts within the confines of the Copyright Act of Canada (2016). This means that charts may not be shared with others or used for any other purpose than teaching and learning under the umbrella of the NHBT organization. Notwithstanding the above, in compliance with the “Fair Dealing” section of the Act, NHBT may share up to 10% of a musical score with others without breaching the copyright agreement. In practice this means that the instructors score (which includes all instruments) may not be shared but an individual chart can be shared provided it does not constitute more than 10% of the entire musical score. Note that NHBT as the copyright licensee can share under the Fair Dealing clause but individual members may not share their charts with anyone outside the NHBT organization. Further information about copyright can be obtained by examining the Copyright Act of Canada (2016) or a document prepared for educational institutions called “Copyright Matters”.
COVID-19 Policy Updates
NHBT policies and safety protocols have been updated as of June 19th, 2023
The following safety protocols are in effect:
COVID Safety Protocols
Any member, teacher or visitor to the facility on NHBT business who is feeling unwell or has tested positive for COVID should not attend any in-person classes or enter the NHBT premises.
If you have tested positive for COVID or exhibit any COVID symptoms, please adhere to the following guidance:
- Follow local public health guidelines regarding staying home, self-isolating, ending self-isolation and returning to everyday activities. The Toronto Public Health Guidelines can be found here: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-what-you-should-do/
- To return to in-person classes, you must have two negative Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) taken 24 hours apart. Some people may test positive longer than others; you are still infectious as long as you have a positive RAT result.
- Please ensure you test properly and follow the test instructions. For increased efficacy of testing, swabbing inside your cheek and/or back of your throat prior to swabbing the inside of your nose is recommended.
If you have been in close contact with a positive case of COVID, please adhere to the following guidance:
- Follow local public health guidelines regarding close contact (use link provided above)
- You should test prior to your next class and attend only if the results are negative and you are not exhibiting any COVID symptoms
- If there is a positive case of COVID in your household, you must not attend any in-person classes while the case is still active. You must then have two negative RATs taken 24 hours apart before returning to class in person.
Notification:
- If you have tested positive for COVID, share this information with your teacher via email.
- If a member, teacher or visitor in your class does contract COVID, all class members for that class will be notified by email. Everyone in the impacted class should follow the guidance noted above regarding close contact.
Members are reminded that virtual class is an option for all registered members. The Zoom link can be found on the members’ page, right above the link for your music.
NHBT has the following practices in place to protect the health and safety of our in-person members:
- Air filtration units are in operation during class breaks to ensure adequate air exchange.
- Air filtration units are left on in the rehearsal room between classes and/or turned on at least 15 minutes prior to the start of class.
- Chairs are placed at defined distances.
- NHBT provides an ample supply of hand sanitizer, anti-bacterial hand soap and paper towels in the washrooms.
In-person members follow the protocols below:
- As per the In-Person Class Vaccination policy, all participants in in-person classes or on the premises for NHBT business must be fully vaccinated.
- Participants must provide their own cloths and ensure no “spit” is left behind on the floors or chairs.
- During breaks wearing masks is recommended but not required.
- Please practice good hand hygiene at all times.
Food and Beverages should not be consumed in the band room.
NHBT will follow Health Canada guidelines, and make changes to this policy as deemed necessary to keep our members safe.
Because vaccination reduces viral load and hence your ability to spread virus, anyone planning to attend in-person classes (members, guests, band directors) must be fully vaccinated.
If an individual cannot be vaccinated due to valid medical reasons or is exempt on grounds protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code, an accommodation can be requested. To ensure the on-going health and safety of all participants, the accommodation that will be offered will be to participate in the class virtually. Virtual classes are available for all who are unable or unwilling to attend in-person classes.
Partially vaccinated individuals may still register for in-person classes with the assumption that they will be fully vaccinated within 4 weeks of the start of the program. They will be required to participate virtually until they are fully vaccinated.
Definitions:
In-Person Classes – a class where all participants (students, guests, band directors) are physically in the same band rehearsal space. This may be a music performance class or any other in-person class.
Fully Vaccinated – participant has received their third dose of a 3-dose vaccine series (2 shots plus booster). The participant has also observed the 2-week waiting period after vaccination during which time the body’s immune system mounts a full response to the vaccine. All vaccines must be Health Canada approved. Any participant that has had two doses of vaccine and has additionally been infected and recovered from COVID will also be considered fully vaccinated.
Partially Vaccinated – participant has not received the full course of vaccination shots including the booster and/or has not observed the 2 week waiting period after their last shot.
Unvaccinated – individual has not received any doses of a Health Canada approved vaccine.
This updated version of the Vaccination Policy is effective June 13, 2023.
Registration Information
Registration is a 2-Step Process
You create two registration orders – the first one is for membership. When that order is complete, you then return to this registration page and create another order for your classes
You need to complete payment for your membership order before being able to see or select class buttons
- Please place one order per person. Do not combine orders.
- Click on program names on each button to read about them in more detail.
- A few classes may only be available for ‘pre-order’ – these appear in a distinct class selection area.
- If you want to select a program, “Add to cart” from either the program button or the detail. You are adding to your shopping cart.
- Review your shopping cart contents and total fees and adjust as needed by clicking on the Shopping Cart Total value.
- When you are ready, follow the prompts to go to the checkout page.
- Items in your shopping cart are checked for consistency – you may find warnings that need to be acknowledged. If there is an error that needs your correction, use your browser page back function to return to the previous page where you can adjust the contents of your cart.
- Enter or update your contact and other information on the checkout page and place your order using the button at the bottom of the form.
- You will receive an email acknowledging your order with a confirmation message asking for payment.
- Or – If your order contains any pre-order items, you will receive an email acknowledging your pre-order but there is no payment request until the order has been approved.
- If ‘approved’, an email with your pre-order items contains a ‘pay now’ link used to confirm your wish to proceed with your pre-order. This button returns you to the NHBT store to complete checkout where your pre-order has been converted to a regular order.
- You are taken to the specific approved order where you can now select the “pay now” button. You get another email outlining payment available methods.
- If your pre-order is ‘not approved’ e.g. class not running or already full, you will get an ‘not-approved’ email and your pre-order is cancelled.
- You may then pay by the method you selected (eTransfer or cheque).
- Once your payment has been received and processed you will get a final “order completed” email and gain access to Member or Class materials needed for participation.
In the checkout process you are providing the contact and related information that will be used to create or update the NHBT membership records and to generate the class lists.
The checkout form includes an option to discuss individualized payment options. Answer “yes” if this is an important factor that will make your participation in NHBT possible.
Fees for classes reflect the break-even costs of operating NHBT which include a portion for class development and administration.
Our Code of Conduct helps us ensure a welcoming environment for all our band members. It is embedded below for ease of reference. All members are obliged to observe the elements of this code.
Class size registration minimums have to be met for each class to run. Until this minimum is reached, your class registration is not confirmed. Once confirmed, NHBT is relying on class membership to cover the cost of running each class.
There are no refunds for classes once confirmed – except for medical or other serious cause.
You have the option of sharing your email address for the class lists that are in the password-protected members area of the website. Addresses and phone numbers are not shared.
You also have the option of letting us retain your contact information so that we can contact you about events and updates even if you are not currently playing in a band.
With your authorization, NHBT may use photos or videos that include you during rehearsals, events, and performances on the public portion of our website, on the social networking sites we administer, or similar public outreach. Photos and recordings from band events may also be posted inside the secure members area of the website.
NEW HORIZONS BAND OF TORONTO (By-Law Number 1, Appendix “A”)Members’ Code of Conduct
The following information is provided to inform members of their responsibilities as committed members of the New Horizons Band of Toronto. This policy and practices outlined applies to behaviour during large band classes, sectionals or small ensemble rehearsals, concerts social events, or any other gathering of members participating in and/or representing New Horizons Band of Toronto.
If a member behaves in an objectionable manner, creates disharmony with other band members or with teacher-conductors or coaches during any related New Horizons Band of Toronto activity, then their membership in the New Horizons Band of Toronto may be revoked without remuneration. The Board of Directors will review such situations, on a case-by-case basis and if necessary, ensure that appropriate action is implemented; whether that be remediation or to revoke membership.
Attendance
In fairness to other band members and New Horizons Band of Toronto’s desire to produce high quality performances, please make every effort to attend all classes/rehearsals. Individuals who miss numerous practices prior to a concert are to speak to the teacher-conductor involved to get their approval to play in any upcoming concerts.
If a member must take a leave of absence or is otherwise unable to perform, they are to make best efforts to inform the teacher-conductor(s) of their absence in advance.
Class/Rehearsal Decorum
Please observe appropriate and respectful class/rehearsal decorum, giving the teacher-conductor your full attention and avoiding conversation which is distracting to others. Save conversation for the break. If you need help, ask the teacher-conductor. If you ask your neighbour for help, do so quietly and not while the teacher-conductor is talking.
Playing your instrument when the teacher-conductor has stopped conducting is discourteous to the teacher- conductor and to those around you.
You are asked to refrain from using personal electronic devices (i.e. cell phones, iPads, etc.) for communication and/or entertainment purposes during classes and/or rehearsals. If you must absolutely use these devices, you are asked to leave the classroom/studio to do so. This activity is a distraction to you and to those around you.
Concert Decorum
Please conduct yourself in an appropriate manner at all times while at the concert venue. Remember that the performance begins when the band or ensemble walks on the stage. The audience will judge your performance from this point until you leave the stage at the conclusion of the presentation.
Distracting behaviours such as talking and excessive body and foot movements should be kept to a minimum.
Members are expected do their fair share in assisting with any needed set-up before a concert and clean-up after a concert. This could be in the form of stacking chairs, taking down stands, returning music, loading trucks, etc.
Members are to adhere to the then current concert dress code.
Music Management
As well as your prime resource during a class/rehearsal or performance, sheet music represents a significant cost to the band. Because of this, it is important that you take full responsibility for any original sheet music entrusted to you.
All original sheet music must be returned by the end of each class. Original music should only leave the classroom/rehearsal space with the permission of the teacher-conductor and must be signed out. This also applies to original scores.
When original sheet music is entrusted to you, it is to be returned to the librarian or your teacher-conductor in the same condition as it was received (i.e. no permanent markings, no holes punched, no highlighter, no tears, etc.). If the music is not returned in acceptable condition, you may be charged a fee to replace that part.
Equipment Management
New Horizons Band of Toronto’s equipment (i.e. percussion, instruments, stands, sound, amps, accessories,social, etc.) represents another significant cost to the band. Because of this, it is important that you take full responsibility for any equipment that is entrusted to you; whether borrowed or used.
If you borrow New Horizons Band of Toronto’s equipment, an Equipment Management Form must be completedand approved by your teacher-conductor and submitted to the Asset Officer.
The equipment must be returned to the Asset Officer at the agreed upon time or as requested. Should the equipment not be returned in the same condition as it was when you signed it out, other than normal wear and tear, you may be charged for the repair or replacement of that equipment.
- Click membership “buttons” to show membership description
- Add a single membership option to the cart and see the total update
- Click the cart total to view cart or checkout
- Return to this registration page once your membership is completed to select and order classes
Membership Options
Select the membership type and duration that best meets your needs and complete your order to enable the selection of classes
T1 or T2 are for term-duration in-person concert band and big band classes that can also be joined remotely via the internet
Annual memberships enable registration for all of Terms 1 and 2
Term 1 memberships enable registration for the first term of our regular band season
Term 2 memberships enable registration for the second term of our regular band season
Register for free as a Friend of NHBT if you just want to keep in touch
Showing the single result
Login to reveal the class choices that appear once you have a current membership in the relevant term
Until your membership order is paid and marked completed, you won’t see any class buttons appear below
- Click class “buttons” to show class description
- Add to the cart and see the total update
- Click the cart total to view cart or checkout
If a concert band or big band class button below does not say “Add to Cart”, this class has reached in-person capacity or is not currently open for registration
Pre-order : Some classes need to establish minimum interest before we can confirm that the class will run.
We’re able to offer most classes without pre-order based on a history of attendance.
Such classes where we can’t anticipate the level of interest are marked in their own area below as being “pre-order”.
You can ‘pre-order’ these classes to show your intent by selecting to place into the cart as usual and completing the regular order checkout process but note that this is a PRE-ORDER and you will not be asked to confirm or pay until sufficient interest has accumulated.
Submit a separate PRE-ORDER – otherwise the other items in your order will be also be considered part of your pre-order. See the text at the bottom of the checkout page for details. For example, if you want your membership to be contingent on that class running, you can put this into your pre-order.
PRE-ORDER CLASSES:
Registrations must meet minimum class size to be able to offer an effective learning experience and achieve cost recovery.
If your pre-order is not approved, it would be for three possible reasons:
- there are not enough registrants to run the class this term;
- the class has already reached capacity and no further spots are available;
- or, your particular instrument section is full.
If it is a Green Band 1 order that has been declined, we’ll try to offer this class again next term and hope that you will join us then. Otherwise, please consider registering this term for another NHBT class that interests you and that is accepting new members.
Summer Class Pre-Order
Summer class registration is open to all!
Summer Classes are done by registering as a Pre-Order
Please complete registration as usual but note that summer classes are pre-ordered ~ we need to meet a minimum number of pre-orders before being offered.
No payment is requested at the time of a pre-order.
If the class is able to run, you will get an email where you can initiate payment to complete registration of the order.
If a class does not meet the required number of pre-orders, you will get an email that cancels the order.
May 2025 | Monday May 5, 12, 26 Jun 2 | Tuesday May 6, 13, 20, 27 | Wednesday May 7, 14, 21, 28 | Thursday
| Friday
|
10am-12pm | Beginner Ukulele ~ Cathy | Intermediate Jazz Workshop ~ Pat | |||
1-3pm | Djembe ~ Lisa | Pop Choir ~ Cathy Clarinet Technique and Ensemble ~ Nick Arrigo | Rhythm and Blues Ensemble ~ Pat | ||
7-9pm | Introduction to Improvisation (not Jazz) ~ Lisa |
Djembe Drumming
Teacher: Lisa Jones
Monday 1-3 pm
This class is for anyone interested in learning or improving basic musicianship skills such as reading simple note values, listening, focusing, and improving co-ordination. You will explore and experience the elements of music: timbre (tone, bass, slap), tempo and dynamics of music, and learn to experiment with the techniques of call and response, ostinato, call, break, improvisation, and syncopation.
No previous music experience required, nor is there any need to practise outside of class. A Djembe drum will be provided for you, but they cannot leave the building.
Beginner Ukulele
Teacher: Cathy Whiteside
Tuesday: 10am -12pm
This class is for people with little or no prior ukulele experience. We will learn the fundamentals of playing, including tuning, proper hand position, basic chords, strumming patterns and simple song accompaniment.
Ukulele students must have their own Concert Ukulele (a Soprano Ukulele is fine if you already own one) to participate in the class. Long and McQuade sell a variety of Ukuleles starting at $55.00.
Pop Choir
Teacher: Cathy Whiteside
Tuesday: 1-3 pm
This class is for people who like to sing! Through choral singing (both accompanied and a cappella), we will focus on breathing, posture, tone and vocal exercises while learning to sing in harmony with others.
Band for All
Tuesday 7-9 pm
Teacher: Sean King
Thursday 10am-12pm
Teacher: Marianne Spilberg
This class will play the most popular charts played by our bands between 2010 to 2021. It will be sight reading for some members and an opportunity for others to measure how much they have improved since first playing them! To help ensure the band is balanced, registration will be based on a first-come-first-served basis for each instrument section. There will be a variety of musical genres and will be best suited to a skill level of our regular concert band classes and above. This will be a great opportunity to meet, play, and learn from other members!
Clarinet Technique and Ensemble
Tuesday 1-3pm
Teacher: Nick Arrigo
This class has both technical and ensemble elements and is directed at players with intermediate skills and beyond.
Technical aspect for clarinet focus on instrument technique: tuning, tone production, dynamics, articulation and musicality.
The clarinet ensemble entails learning to play music arranged for groups of clarinets (typically quartets or quintets) with parts doubled as necessary for balance and coverage of all the parts.
Intermediate Jazz Workshop
Wednesday 10am-12 pm
Teacher: Patricia Wheeler
This class is a Jazz Improvisation ensemble, for rhythm section players and woodwind and brass soloists with previous experience in the idiom.
Provided music will consist of lead sheets and all participants must be able to interpret chord symbols.
The musical style of the group will be based on the classic small ensembles of the mid-20th century Jazz movement, represented by such artists and recordings as Miles Davis Kind of Blue, Dexter Gordon, Our Man in Paris and Hank Mobley, Soul Train.
Rhythm and Blues Ensemble
Wednesday 1-3 pm
Teacher: Patricia Wheeler
This group will explore the music that has become known as “R&B”, rooted in the gospel music tradition and stretching itself into rock and roll.
Repertoire will include You Can’t Hurry Love – The Supremes, Stand By Me – Ben E. King, Midnight Hour – Wilson Picket, I Heard it Through the Grapevine – Gladys Knight
Vocalists are welcome, and instrumentation will include drums, bass, guitar, keyboard, woodwind and brass instruments.
A portion of the material will be learned by ear, as this type of music is rarely fully notated.
Introduction to Improvisation for Band Instruments (this is not Jazz)
Teacher: Lisa Jones
Wednesday 7-9 pm
It’s time to take risks, to explore, to experiment, to discover, to create your own music, to generate ideas, to understand music from the inside out, all while building musicianship skills in The Elements of Music- Melody, Harmony, Rhythm, Timbre, Form, and Accompaniment (Texture)
Certain parameters and “limits” for improvisation will be given to develop certain musicianship skills or musical concepts and fundamentals.
These “limits” serve as points of departure for students to interpret and explore while learning to adapt to anything happening in the ensemble.
This are some of things you will work on:
Call and response, Produce extreme contrasts in music, Imitation or echo (aural abilities), create/generate your own ideas, Play over a drone no pulse or pulsed, Ostinato-build, hold and change an ostinato figure, Improvise over simple harmonies, Play simple forms ABA, do something then do something different, Play simple forms ABA, do something then do something different, Beginning, middle and endings, Acquire a vocabulary of extended techniques, Work on accompaniment roles
Brass Technique and Ensemble
Friday 10am-12:00pm
Teacher: Bob Gray
Course will include, review and introduce new warm-up routines/ techniques, sight read and work on several brass ensemble pieces, close examination of specific brass techniques as it pertains to the repertoire.
May 2025 Summer Classes
Concert Band Classes
concert band class buttons appear below once you are logged in and a current member
Term 2 ~ Feb – May / Pre-Order only
In-Person Class
Following Class(es) available for Pre-Order only
Virtual Class (remote)
Following Class(es) available for Pre-Order only
Big Band Classes
big band class buttons appear below once you are logged in and a current member
If you were an in-person member of one of Big Bands in the rhythm section, then you can place your order to continue into the next term
If you are a new rhythm section player, please have the permission of the teacher before placing an order (to avoid duplicate section roles)
Coached Ensembles
ensemble class buttons appear below once you are logged in and a current member
Notice: Day and Time of class is provided in the Schedule and Class description – they are very specific to the class
These classes are limited enrollment and must reach a minimum class of 10 before being confirmed to run. No refund once class is confirmed
Workshops
workshop class buttons appear below once you are logged in and a current member
Class descriptions for these workshops contain important details: day/time, dates, duration. Please read these carefully before registering
Notice: Day and Time of class is provided in the Schedule and Class description
These classes are limited enrollment and must reach a minimum class of 10 before being confirmed to run.
No refund once class is confirmed
Online Musicianship Classes
no online musicianship classes scheduled as yet for 2023-24
Music for Life ~ Online
no music for life conversations scheduled as yet for 2023-24
If you would like to listen to any of these Zoom presentations, you must first register even if there is no cost involved. Select class item to bring up a more detailed description. Add to your cart when ready and follow steps to proceed to checkout. Registration enrols you as a Friend of NHBT (if not already included in the group) so that you can be kept informed via email of other NHBT events of potential interest.
All registrants will receive a Zoom invitation via email prior to the date the event takes place.
Shopping Cart Total
- This number updates every time you add an item to your shopping cart
- Click the number to get a pop-up showing all the items in your shopping cart
- From the pop-up you can go to a detailed view of your shopping cart or proceed to checkout
