The Madison Bands Today
The Madison New Horizons Band is part of the International New Horizons Organization and is the second oldest New Horizons band in the world.
Today, the New Horizons musical organization consists of two units: the New Horizons Concert Band and the New Horizons Swing Band. The first plays traditional concert band music, which includes classical selections, marches and Broadway and movie themes, while the Swing Band performs big band music from the 1930s and 1940s as well as contemporary rock and jazz pieces. Both bands are organized through the Ward-Brodt Music Mall in Madison with performances sponsored by Hooked On Bands, Inc., a non-profit corporation.
Members of the New Horizons Band are from all walks of life, and while originally intended for senior members, it does not turn away younger folks who wish to play with the band. Many members are employed full- or part-time, while many others are currently retired. Membership in the Concert Band totals over 60 members and the Swing Band has about 35 musicians. The Concert and Swing Band members are offered weekly rehearsal opportunities and periodic public performances sponsored by Hooked On Bands, Inc. Membership in each group is open to a wide range of individuals: those playing in a musical group for the first time ever; those renewing the musical skills they learned in school and are either resuming playing their old instrument or picking up a new one; and those who are accomplished musicians and perhaps even play in other musical groups.
Wednesday evening rehearsals are open to the public as space permits. The rehearsals are held at the McFarland High School, 5103 Farwell St, McFarland, WI 53558.
For more information about the New Horizons Bands and how to become a member, read on!