Membership and Class Registration for 2022-2023
2022-2023 Regular Season membership and class registration have started
Please reference the Weekly Agenda for class offerings
We will be resuming our full selection of concert and jazz classes at various levels from complete beginner to advanced in the Fall
See Band and Jazz Level Descriptions (below) for details
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
We offer both in-person and virtual class options
COVID-19 Policy Updates
NHBT policies and safety protocols have been updated as of May 15th, 2022
The following safety protocols will be in place effective September 1, 2021:
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.
Bell covers on woodwind and brass instruments are mandatory. Participants must provide their own bell covers. We are currently investigating viable options for flutes.
Masks must be worn unless you are playing a woodwind and/or brass instrument. Masks can be removed only temporarily to drink during break and outside of rehearsal space.
Participants must provide their own cloths and ensure no “spit” is left behind on the floors or chairs.
Mandatory screening (questionnaire) prior to entering the NHBT premises will be required. Anyone failing the screening questionnaire will not be allowed access to the NHBT premises that day.
In the event someone does contract COVID, all classes will be cancelled for the week and a thorough cleaning of the building will take place. The impacted class will be presented in a virtual setting only for 2 weeks and all participants will be restricted entry to the NHBT premises during that time. Everyone in the impacted class must follow local public health guidelines regarding self-isolation and self-monitoring. Participants may return to class after 2 weeks assuming they are feeling well and do not exhibit any symptoms of COVID.
Participants who feel unwell for any reason must not attend any in-person classes or enter the NHBT premises: the classes can be attended virtually until the participants are well.
Air filtration units will be in operation during class and breaks to ensure adequate air exchange.
Chairs will be placed (and must be maintained) at defined distances.
No beverages or snacks will be provided during breaks. Please do not bring or consume any food on the premises.
Teaching staff remaining on the premises for multiple classes in one day may eat and drink on the premises but must do so in the NHBT office by themselves. All other participants must leave the rehearsal space and move to the foyer by the double doors or exit the building.
Social distancing must be observed at all times. During break, access to the main door foyer has been granted to minimize congestion in the hall area by the rehearsal room.
Please be mindful of social distancing in the washrooms and in the NHBT office space.
As the office is no longer available to store instrument cases, small instrument cases (flute oboe, clarinet, trumpet) should be placed directly underneath the member’s chair, together with any bags or purses. There will be designated areas outside the band room for larger instrument cases.
Approved by the Board – May 15th, 2022
Anyone planning to attend in-person classes (members, guests, band directors) must be fully vaccinated: proof of vaccination is required. This requirement also extends to any person on the NHBT premises conducting business for NHBT or using the NHBT office space.
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.
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.
Proof of Vaccination – the Ministry of Health proof of vaccine with QR code is the only valid proof of vaccination for Ontarians. People from out of province or out of country must show proof of full vaccination along with photo ID.
This updated version of the Vaccination Policy is effective March 21, 2022.
Registration for Regular Program
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
Band and Jazz Class Registration
In-person band and jazz class registrations are limited to 30 people. If registered for in-person but unable to attend on a specific date, you will be able to join remotely.
Virtual band and jazz registrations are unlimited. You join these classes as a remote participant using the Zoom link provided and access your music from our online library.
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
Annual or Term Memberships: Memberships are offered on an Annual or per Term basis
Term 1 runs September to December – Term 2 runs January to May
Annual Memberships include preferential pricing for Summer classes held during June, 2023
If you don’t yet have an account with us, it will be created within the Checkout page and used immediately to compete your registration.
Unsure? – Your email address will be checked against our records and if you have an account, you will be asked to login at Checkout.
NHBT is proud to offer a rich selection of classes
See the Weekly Agenda under Registration Information for class schedules
Concert Band or Jazz Classes are offered Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays – see Weekly Agenda for details
In-person band and jazz classes are capped at 30 members and some classes have limited instrumentation or number of a given instrument type per class.
Virtual participation in our band and Jazz 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.
Term 1 Band and Jazz classes are $80 each (this is for 14 weeks of 2-hour classes)
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 plus Summer 2023)
Term 1 ~ September – December (14 weeks) Membership is $150
Term 2 ~ January – May (19 weeks) – {not offered as a separate item at this time}
Classes are grouped by category: (links highlighted in red)
- Class Code B ~ Multi-session Concert Band classes. There are daytime and evening options for most levels
- Class Code J ~ Multi-session Jazz classes
- Class Code M ~ Multi-session Musicianship classes.
- Class Code W ~ Workshops are single session only
- Music for Life ~ opportunities to hear stories, learn from experience and enjoy aspects of the life of professional musicians and teachers
Registration Information
Registration is a 2-Step Process
You need to complete your membership order before being able to see, select or pay for classes
Click to toggle open or close the information sections below
- Please place one order per person. Do not combine orders.
- Click on program names to read about them in more detail. If you want to select a program, add it to your shopping cart from either the class summary or the detail.
- Review your shopping cart contents and total fees and adjust as needed by clicking on the Shopping Cart Total value.
- When you’re ready, follow the prompts to checkout.
- 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, and place your order.
- You will receive an email acknowledging your requests.
- Your requests are reviewed and, if needed, someone will be in touch with you to discuss potential changes. If necessary, changes will be made by our NHBT volunteers and you will receive a new confirmation email – that is your invoice.
- Wait until you receive confirmation of your band program selections before you pay. 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.
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.
Your NHBT membership and class enrolments are done once your corresponding NHBT store orders are complete.
Check the status of your orders
Check the status of your membership registration and class enrolment
You need to be logged into your personal NHBT account to see your information.
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 that member’smembership 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.
B02 T1 21 Beginner I Tues Aft 4:00pm–5:30pm – Donna |
B03 T1 21 Beginner II Thur Aft 1:00pm–3:00pm – Marianne |
B04 T1 21 Beginner II Thur Eve 7:00pm–9:00pm – Donna |
B05 T1 21 Concert Band Thur Morn 10:00am–12:00pm – Marianne |
B07 T1 21 Concert Band Wed Eve 7:00pm–9:00pm – Garry |
B09 T1 21 Symphonic Band Tues. Morn 10:00am-12:00pm – Donna |
B11 T1 21 Symphonic Band Tues. Eve 7:00-9:00 pm – Donna |
B13 T1 21 Wind Ensemble Tues Aft 1:00-3:00 pm – Donna |
J01 T1 21 Beginner Big Band Wed 10:00am-12:00 pm – Pat |
J03 T1 21 Intermediate Big Band Wed 1:00-3:00 pm – Pat |
M09 Q1 21 Beginner Theory Mon 2:00-3:00 pm – Dan |
M11 Q2 21 Intermediate Theory Mon 4:00-5:00 pm – Marianne |
M47 Q1 21 Renaissance History Mon 12:00-1:00 pm – Dan |
M48 Q1 21 Baroque History Mon 4:00-5:00 pm – Garry |
M49 Q2 21 Classical History Mon 2:00-3:00 pm – Dan |
M50 Q2 21 Romantic History Mon 12:00-1:00 pm – Dan |
M51 Q1 21 20th Century Music Mon 10-11:00 am – Donna |
M52 Q2 21 Popular Music History Mon 10:00am-11:00am – Donna |
M54 Q1 21 Duets Thurs 4:00-5:30 pm – Maggie and Craig |
M54 Q2 21 Duets Thurs 4:00-5:30 pm – Maggie and Craig |
| M09 Q1 21 Beginner Theory – Mon 2:00-3:00 pm Sept 13, 20, 27 Oct 4, 18, 25 – Dan | Beginner Theory ~ Who this class is best for: Any members who have an interest in learning more about how music is created. Open to anyone from any band level. Ideal for those who are just learning how to read music (Beginner I and Beginner II). What this class does: This class will teach members about the staff, note values and rhythms, time signatures, and the construction of Major scales. This is a non-performance course. Prerequisites: Have writing materials, including staff paper. No experience necessary. Any Software Requirements? Breezin’ Thru Theory – access provided |
| M11 Q2 21 Intermediate Theory – Mon 2:00-3:00 pm Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Dec 6 – Marianne | Intermediate Theory ~ Who this class is best for: Any members who have an interest in learning more about how music is created. Open to anyone from any band level. Ideal for those who can read music and want to learn more about the notes on the page (Concert Band and up). What this class does: This class will teach members about the intervals, chords, the minor scales, modes. Ear training is also a part of this course This is a non-performance course. Prerequisites: Have writing materials, including staff paper. Have taken Beginner Theory or have a good understanding of music rudiments\nMust be able to read in treble and bass clef Any Software Requirements? Breezin’ Thru Theory – access provided |
| M47 Q1 21 Renaissance History Mon 12-1:00 pm Sept 13, 20, 27 Oct 4, 18, 25 – Dan | Renaissance History – Learning more about the music of any time period also includes learning about the social, cultural, and historical aspects of that time as well. In this course, you will learn about the characteristic music styles, important composers, and musical trends of the Renaissance period. The course includes listening to recordings, and learning in a non-performance setting with your instructor. Open to all. No prerequisites. |
| M48 Q1 21 Baroque History Mon 4:00-5:00 pm Sept 13, 20, 27 Oct 4, 18, 25 – Garry | Baroque History – Learning more about the music of any time period also includes learning about the social, cultural, and historical aspects of that time as well. In this course, you will learn about the characteristic music styles, important composers, and musical trends of the Baroque period. The course includes listening to recordings, and learning in a non-performance setting with your instructor. Open to all. No prerequisites. |
| M49 Q2 21 Classical History Mon 4:00-5:00 pm Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Dec 6 – Garry | Classical History – Learning more about the music of any time period also includes learning about the social, cultural, and historical aspects of that time as well. In this course, you will learn about the characteristic music styles, important composers, and musical trends of the Classical period. The course includes listening to recordings, and learning in a non-performance setting with your instructor. Open to all. No prerequisites. |
| M50 Q2 21 Romantic Music Mon 12-1:00 pm Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Dec 6 – Dan | Romantic History – Learning more about the music of any time period also includes learning about the social, cultural, and historical aspects of that time as well. In this course, you will learn about the characteristic music styles, important composers, and musical trends of the Romantic period. The course includes listening to recordings, and learning in a non-performance setting with your instructor. Open to all. No prerequisites. |
| M51 Q1 21 20th Century History Mon 10:00-11:00 am Sept 13, 20, 27 Oct 4, 18, 25 – Donna | 20th Century History – Learning more about the music of any time period also includes learning about the social, cultural, and historical aspects of that time as well. In this course, you will learn about the characteristic music styles, important composers, and musical trends of the 20th Century. This includes an exploration of the development of band music during this time and an introduction to the different non-traditional harmonic systems that were developed in this time. The course includes listening to recordings, and learning in a non-performance setting with your instructor. Open to all. No prerequisites. |
| M52 Q2 21 Popular Music History Mon 10:00-11:00 am Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Dec 6 – Donna | Popular Music History – POPULAR! You will be in the know about what is fab and hip and rad and cool in the music world from 1900-NOW! Take a trip through time as we explore the music that was made for the people, by the people. Each week will focus on a different 20 year period with lots of recordings, links and fun facts about this history of popular music. Open to all. No prerequisites. |
| M54 Q1 21 Duets – Thur 4:00-5:30 pm – Maggie and Craig | Duets – If you have missed performing live with other musicians, this is your chance! In this course, you will have the opportunity to play duets with Maggie Thompson (alto saxophone). Each week, you will explore new pieces from various genres. Maggie will take you through a comprehensive warm-up routine, share interesting facts about the music and offer suggestions for further practice and listening throughout the week. The music will be sent to you in advance should you wish to practise ahead of time. Best suited to Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble members |
| M54 Q2 21 Duets – Thur 4:00-5:30 pm – Maggie and Craig | Duets – If you have missed performing live with other musicians, this is your chance! In this course, you will have the opportunity to play duets with Maggie Thompson (alto saxophone). Each week, you will explore new pieces from various genres. Maggie will take you through a comprehensive warm-up routine, share interesting facts about the music and offer suggestions for further practice and listening throughout the week. The music will be sent to you in advance should you wish to practise ahead of time. Best suited to Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble members |
Quadmester 1 | Quadmester 2 | ||
Sep 13, 20, 27 Oct 4, 18, 25 | Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Dec 6 | ||
10-11am | M51 Q1 21 20th Century Music Mon 10-11:00 am – Donna | M52 Q2 21 Popular Music History Mon 10:00am-11:00am – Donna | |
12-1 pm | M47 Q1 21 Renaissance History Mon 12:00-1:00 pm – Dan | M50 Q2 21 Romantic History Mon 12:00-1:00 pm – Dan | |
2-3 pm | M09 Q1 21 Beginner Theory Mon 2:00-3:00 pm – Dan | M49 Q2 21 Classical History Mon 2:00-3:00 pm – Dan | |
4-5 pm | M48 Q1 21 Baroque History Mon 4:00-5:00 pm – Garry | M11 Q2 21 Intermediate Theory Mon 4:00-5:00 pm – Marianne | |
4-5:30 pm NOTE Dates and Day | M54 Q1 21 Duets Thurs 4:00-5:30 pm – Maggie and Craig Sep 23, 30 Oct 7, 14, 21, 28 | M54 Q2 21 Duets Thurs 4:00-5:30 pm – Maggie and Craig Nov 4, 12, 18, 25 Dec 2, 9 | |
7-9 pm | Music for Life | Music for Life | |
Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | |
T1 | Sep 21, 28 Oct 5, 12, 19, 26 Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Dec 7 | Sep 22, 29 Oct 6, 13, 20, 27 Nov 3,10, 17, 24 Dec 1, 8 | Sep 23, 30 Oct 7, 14, 21, 28 Nov 4, 11, 18, 25 Dec 2, 9 |
10am-12pm | B09 T1 21 Symphonic Band Tues. Morn 10:00am-12:00pm – Donna | J01 T1 21 Beginner Big Band Wed 10:00am-12:00 pm – Pat | B05 T1 21 Concert Band Thur Morn – 10:00am–12:00pm – Marianne |
1-3pm | B13 T1 21 Wind Ensemble Tues Aft 1:00-3:00 pm – Donna | J03 T1 21 Intermediate Big Band Wed 1:00-3:00 pm – Pat | B03 T1 21 Beginner II Thur Aft – 1:00pm–3:00pm – Marianne |
4-5:30 pm | B02 T1 21 Beginner I Tues Aft – 4:00pm–5:30pm – Donna | ||
7-9 pm | B11 T1 21 Symphonic Band Tues. Eve 7:00-9:00 pm – Donna | B07 T1 21 Concert Band Wed Eve – 7:00pm–9:00pm – Garry | B04 T1 21 Beginner II Thur Eve – 7:00pm–9:00pm – Donna |
Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | |
T2 | Jan 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, 15, 22 Mar 1, 8, 22, 29 Apr 5, 12, 19, 26 May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 | Jan 19, 26 Feb 2, 9, 16, 23 Mar 2, 9, 23, 30, Apr 6, 13, 20, 27 May 4, 11, 18, 25 Jun 1 | Jan 20, 27 Feb 3, 10, 17, 24 Mar 3, 10, 24, 31 Apr 7, 14, 21, 28 May 5, 12, 19, 26 Jun 2 |
10am-12pm | B09 T2 21 Symphonic Band Tues. Morn 10:00am-12:00pm ~ Donna | J01 T2 21 Beginner Big Band Wed 10:00am-12:00 pm ~ Pat | B05 T2 21 Concert Band Thur Morn 10:00am-12:00pm ~ Marianne |
1-3 pm | B13 T2 21 Wind Ensemble Tues Aft 1:00-3:00 pm ~ Donna | J03 T2 21 Intermediate Big Band Wed 1:00-3:00 pm ~ Pat | B03 T2 21 Beginner II Thur Aft 1:00pm-3:00pm ~ Marianne |
4-5:30 pm | B02 T2 21 Beginner I Tues Aft 4:00pm-5:30pm | ||
7-9 pm | B11 T2 21 Symphonic Band Tues. Eve 7:00-9:00 pm ~ Donna | B07 T2 21 Concert Band Wed Eve 7:00pm-9:00pm ~ Garry | B04 T2 21 Beginner II Thur Eve 7:00pm-9:00pm ~ Donna |
About Our Classes
New Horizons Band of Toronto is a music education and performance program for mature adults who wish to play a concert band instrument in a friendly group setting. Concert band instruments are: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, euphonium, trombone, tuba, bells, xylophone, drums & many other percussion instruments. We offer band classes ranging from absolute beginner to advanced levels, conducted by experienced, professional music directors. Classes are held once per week in the daytime or evening. We also offer enrichment classes in jazz performance for members of our regular band classes. All classes are committed to supporting the work of ALL composers, including composers of color, female composers, and Canadian composers. We do not offer keyboard, strings or vocal instruction at this time.
Concert Band Classes
Beginner I
This class is open to new or “newish” woodwind, brass, and percussion players. If you have had one year (or less) experience playing, then this class is for you. This class is also open to anyone who wishes to learn a new concert band instrument.
The Beginner I class teaches instrument technique and basic music reading and rudiments, with a focus on posture, embouchure and getting a good characteristic sound from your instrument. No musical experience is necessary. This class performs at one NHBT concert each term.
Instrument Loaner Program: Each new registrant in the beginners’ program will be provided with a loaner instrument for the first term. Some conditions may apply. This instrument loan program was funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.
Our instrument petting zoo will take place on Monday September 12th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at our rehearsal location. During this time, you can try out a variety of instruments and our teachers will help you pick the one that is right for you!
Classes for this level begin on Monday, September 19th, 2022.
Beginner II
This welcomes players of any concert woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with a moderate amount of band experience on their instrument – 1-2 years playing in a concert band setting.
In this class, the focus is on playing together as a group and following the conductor, while exploring a wide range of musical styles. Members of this class will play contemporary music, traditional concert band styles, and holiday-themed songs in a concert band ensemble. This class performs in public at two NHBT concerts per year.
Prerequisites: Rent/own an instrument or purchase a stick/mallet kit if playing percussion. Be able to read notes in the clef of your instrument, including above and below the staff.
Play the Concert B-flat Major scale, one octave.
Read rhythms in 3/4, 2/4, and 4/4 time including whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes.
Should not be writing in note names, fingerings, slide positions.
For percussion: Vic Firth rudiments – single stroke roll, flam, paradiddle (both hands), scales as above on mallet instruments.
Concert Band
This class welcomes players of any concert woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with some band experience on their instrument – 2+ years playing in a Concert Band setting is recommended.
In this class, the focus is on performing pieces with dynamics, articulation, and expression, while following the conductor and playing as a group. This band is for those who wish to be challenged on their instrument and explore a wide range of musical styles in traditional concert band instrumentation. This class performs in public at two NHBT concerts per year.
Prerequisites: Rent/own an instrument or purchase a stick/mallet kit if playing percussion
Be able to read notes in the clef of your instrument, including up to two ledger lines above and below the staff
Be able to follow a conductor
Play the Concert B-flat Major scale, two octaves
Play Concert C, F, and E-flat Major scales (one or two octaves)
Play Concert g minor scale – all three forms
Read rhythms in 3/4, 2/4, 4/4, and 6/8 time including whole, half, quarter, eighth, and sixteenth notes and dotted rhythms
For percussion: Vic Firth rudiments – double stroke roll, ratamacue, paradiddle (both hands), scales as above on mallet instruments
Symphonic Band
This class welcomes players of any concert woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Open to anyone who has significant band experience on their instrument – 4+ years playing in a Concert Band setting.
In this class, the focus is on developing a diverse repertoire and moving at a quicker pace while still creating enjoyable musical experiences. The class will perform pieces at tempo with good intonation, style, and expression. This band is for those who wish to be challenged on their instrument and explore a wide range of musical styles in traditional concert band instrumentation. This class performs in public at NHBT concerts and for special events in the community.
Prerequisites:
Rent/own an instrument or purchase a stick/mallet kit if playing percussion
Play with a characteristic tone.
Play the Concert B-flat Major scale and Concert g minor scale (all three forms) two octaves, from memory
Play Concert C, F, and E-flat Major scales (one or two octaves), and their relative minor scales
Read rhythms in simple, compound, and cut time. Mixed meter is used frequently.
For percussion: Vic Firth rudiments – double stroke roll, ratamacue, paradiddle (both hands), scales as above on mallet instruments, timpani skills
Wind Ensemble
This class welcomes experienced players of concert woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. This ensemble is limited to players with significant band experience on their instrument – 4+ years playing in a concert band setting. A performance assessment may be required for placement in this class.
The focus of this class is on developing a diverse repertoire for performance and moving at a quicker pace while still creating enjoyable musical experiences. The class aims to perform challenging pieces at tempo with good intonation, style, and expression. This band is for those who wish to be challenged on their instrument and explore a wide range of musical styles in traditional concert band instrumentation. This class performs in public at NHBT concerts and at numerous public events throughout the year. This class also creates reference recordings for other classes.
Prerequisites:
Rent/own an instrument or purchase a stick/mallet kit if playing percussion
Play with a characteristic tone
Play Concert Major and minor scales from five flats to three sharps – two octaves where possible, minor all three forms – from memory
Read rhythms in simple, compound, and cut time. Mixed meter is used frequently
For percussion: Vic Firth rudiments – double stroke roll, ratamacue, paradiddle (both hands), scales as above on mallet instruments, timpani skills
Jazz Classes
To join a jazz class in person, members must also be enrolled in a concert band class. Those who wish to join online only do not have a co-requisite.
Any exceptions to these requirements must be approved in advance by the class teacher and the Head of Education. No exceptions will be granted until after 1 September 2022 and only apply for the term of registration.
A playing assessment may be required for jazz class enrollment
Intermediate Big Band – Course Description
This class will incorporate playing and listening to music of the jazz and Big Band era, examining classic models such as Les Brown and his orchestra, Benny Carter, and The Dorsey Brothers. It is open to all concert band instruments, but a musically balanced ensemble in the “live” format is to the advantage of all participants.
Members will develop facility with swing rhythms and style patterns, participate in weekly studies and exercises geared toward achieving technical and creative proficiency within the idiom, and play arrangements that utilize the full sound spectrum available to the ensemble, all while encouraging independence between the woodwind, brass and rhythm sections.
Improvisation will be a component of the class, but within a nurturing, supportive, and fun environment.
Jazz and Swing are musical genres that require a certain amount of technical proficiency. This is not music that one learns how to play an instrument with. Members should be playing at the NHBT Concert Band level or above to benefit most from this class. For this ensemble, the drummer must be able to work 4 limbs independently and in time, and pitch players must be able to play, from the bottommost to topmost note on their instrument, the scales of concert Bb, Eb, Ab, C, F, G, D, A and their relative harmonic minor scales.
To join a jazz class in person, members must also be enrolled in a concert band class. Those who wish to join online only do not have a co-requisite.
Jazz Orchestra – Course Description
This ensemble is open to advanced rhythm section players – bass, drum kit, piano, guitar, vibraphone – and saxophones, trombones and trumpets, coalescing in an instrumentally balanced band that can take advantage of the wealth of good material available to the large jazz ensembles of today.
Classes will consist of skill building exercises related to the genre, and as much repertoire as possible. Improvisation is expected of those who may have a solo appear in their part in any given piece, at any given time.
Participants who have completed at least one season of Intermediate Big Band and are playing at the NHBT Symphonic Band level or above will benefit most from this class. Wind players who can play all major and minor scales and arpeggios, covering the full range of their instruments, will be most comfortable in this group.
To join a jazz class in person, members must also be enrolled in a concert band class. Those who wish to join online only do not have a co-requisite.
Donna Dupuy is thrilled to be a part of the leadership team at New Horizons Band of Toronto in the role of Head of Education. Donna has taught university, high school and New Horizons classes for over 27 years. She holds a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Music degree from the University of North Texas with a double major in music performance and theory. Donna is a bassoonist! She has performed with the San Angelo Symphony and the University of North Texas Faculty Winds.
Garry Page holds Honours music degrees in Trumpet Performance, Academics and Teaching from the Birmingham Conservatoire of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London, England. He immigrated to Canada in 1997 at which point he became a member of the Stratford Festival Orchestra. Garry is active as a freelance performer, teacher, adjudicator, clinician, university lecturer, and examiner
Marianne Spilberg is a retired teacher from the York Region District School Board. She holds an Honours Music Degree from Western University and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto. During her 32 years as a professional educator, she had the opportunity to teach all grade levels, kindergarten to grade 12; and has taught band, vocal, guitar, recorder and piano. She enjoys teaching students of all ages.
Patricia Wheeler has performed throughout North America with artists that include Michael Burgess, Patty Page and Regis Philbin. Patricia holds a B.F.A. (Honours), M.A. and a PhD in music and teaches at Centennial College and Ryerson University. Her compositions and arrangements have been performed by big bands, concert bands, choirs and soloists.
Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | |
T1 | Sep 12, 19, 26, Oct 3,10 (online), 17, 24, 31, Nov 7, 14, 21, 28, Dec 5, 12 Note: Beginner I classes start Sept 19th | Sep 13, 20, 27, Oct 4,11, 18, 25, Nov 1, 7, 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 13 | Sep 14, 21, 28, Oct 5,12, 19, 26, Nov 2, 8, 16, 23, 30, Dec 7, 14 | Sep 15, 22, 29, Oct 6,13, 20, 27, Nov 3, 9, 17, 24, Dec 1, 8, 15 Note: Beginner I classes start Sept 22nd |
10am-12pm | B09 T1 22 Symphonic Band Tues. Morn 10:00am-12:00pm ~ Donna | J03 T1 22 Intermediate Big Band Wed. Morn 10:00am-12:00pm ~ Pat | B05 T1 22 Concert Band Thur Morn 10:00am-12:00pm ~ Marianne | |
1-3 pm | B13 T1 22 Wind Ensemble Tues Aft 1:00pm-3:00pm ~ Donna | J05 T1 22 Jazz Orchestra Wed. Aft 1:00pm-3:00pm ~ Pat | B01 T1 22 Beginner I Thur Aft 1:00pm-3:00pm ~ Marianne | |
7-9 pm | B02 T1 22 Beginner I Mon Eve 7:00pm-9:00pm ~ Diane | B11 T1 22 Symphonic Band Tues. Eve 7:00pm-9:00pm ~ Donna | B07 T1 22 Concert Band Wed Eve 7:00pm-9:00pm ~ Garry | B04 T1 22 Beginner II Thur Eve 7:00pm-9:00pm ~ Pat |
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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 jazz classes that can also be joined remotely via the internet
Q1, Q2, Q3 or Q4 are for quadmester duration online musicianship classes and workshops offered via Zoom conferencing
Annual memberships enable registration for all of Terms 1 and 2, as well as all of the Quadmesters 1, 2, 3 & 4 and Summer 2023 classes
Term 1 memberships enable registration for the first term of our regular band season (Sept – Dec) plus any online class in Q1 or Q2
Term 2 memberships enable registration for the second term of our regular band season (Jan – May) plus any online class in Q3 or Q4
Quadmester 1, 2, 3 or 4 memberships enable registration for one each of a six week portion of our regular season
Friends of NHBT ~ all paid members automatically become Friends of NHBT ~ it’s how we maintain our contact list
Register for free as a Friend of NHBT if you just want to keep in touch
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In-person registration for Jazz classes is available only to those also registered in a concert band.
If a band or jazz class does not say “Add to Cart” this class has reached in-person capacity or not currently open for registration
Concert Band Classes
Term 1 ~ Sept – Dec
In-Person Class
Virtual Class (remote)
Term 2 ~ Jan – May
In-Person Class
Virtual Class (remote)
Jazz Classes
Term 1 ~ Sept – Dec
In-Person Class
Virtual Class (remote)
Term 2 ~ Jan – May
In-Person Class
Virtual Class (remote)
Online Musicianship Classes
Q1 ~ Quadmester One – Sept – Oct
Q2 ~ Quadmester Two – Nov – Dec
Q3 ~ Quadmester Three – February – March
Q4 ~ Quadmester Four – April – May
Online Workshops
Workshops to get ready for online band ~ These classes are on a drop-in basis during dates / times to be determined by the level of interest
Workshops on the use of information technology for online learning
Workshops to enhance musical technique
Music for Life ~ Online
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.
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