New Horizons band timeline

mainstay73 · New Member Joined: 06 Sep 2023 Posts: 4

I am a retired individual wishing to study trumpet with the end goal of joining the local New Horizons community band. Approx. how long of diligent practice with a teacher would it take to have the necessary skills?

kehaulani · Posted: Tue Nov 14, 2023 3:57 pm Post subject:

I think it depends on the quality of the band and how comfortable you would be in it. I've heard a fairly proficient New Horizon band and a very basic band. I would suggest you give the prospective band a listen and then evaluate how you would fit in with it.
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RandyTX · Posted: Wed Nov 15, 2023 10:51 am Post subject:

Wouldn't hurt to go to a local rehearsal, get there early, talk to the conductor, maybe some of the trumpet/cornet section players, and then see how you might fit in now, or maybe need to work up a bit more first.

A key part of the New Horizons program, as I understand it, is to be welcoming to people just like you. They might, just as an example, let you rehearse on perhaps the 3rd part to start off with them, even if you aren't quite up to 'performance ready' yet.

Good luck to you in your endeavor, and welcome to the insane train known as playing Trumpet.

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Dayton · Posted: Wed Nov 15, 2023 12:53 pm Post subject:

It depends on the New Horizons program in your area. Some programs have bands for different levels of players: Those new to an instrument or returning after a long layoff, those with basic proficiency, those at the intermediate level or higher, etc.

If the program near you has a band specifically for beginners, then you could be ready after a couple of months of lessons and practice.

If the program near you does not, then it will likely take longer. I'd say at least six months if you already know how to read music, and perhaps 9-12 months if you do not. Again, it depends on the program. Check with the music director to get a feel for the level of the group.

God luck, and welcome to trumpet playing!