Fall 2023
Key Information Applying to All In-Person Band Rehearsals
- Dates: Eleven rehearsals beginning the week of September 18 and running to the last week of November (or the first week of December for those at Woodroffe United Church as there will be a one-week break).
- Time: See below for specific band times.
- Rehearsal length: Two one-hour sessions separated by a 15-minute break.
- Level: Music will be at a range of levels, from beginner through to advanced-intermediate. See band descriptions for the level of music offered.
- Music: Links to the printable music parts will be sent to registrants by the band leaders the week before rehearsals begin.
- NEW – Clinics/Sectionals: Each in-person band will offer a number of instructional clinics or sectionals depending on the band level.
- Location: Woodroffe United Church, 207 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa; or Brookfield High School, 824 Brookfield Rd., Ottawa, or Merivale High School, 1755 Merivale Road, Nepean (see below).
- Registration for returning band members: Open August 21 until September 6 at Registration – In-Person Bands. Preference will be given to returning members until August 28. Initial registration will be limited to one in-person band. A second phase of registration starting August 28 will allow members to register for a second in-person band, instrument balance and space permitting.
- Registration for new members: Open August 28 to September 6. Registration for some bands may be limited based on instrument balance and space.
- Fees: The fee will be $190 per in-person band. The fee for any subsequent in-person band (space permitting) will also be $190.
- Refunds: A member withdrawing from a band before the third rehearsal of a session will receive a full refund, minus a $25 administrative fee. Refunds will not be provided for later withdrawals.
- Cancellation: If it is necessary to cancel an in-person band partway through the session, a full refund of $190 minus an administrative fee of $25 will be given. If cancelled after the third rehearsal refunds will be pro-rated.
- End-of-session performance: If possible, each band will be provided with an opportunity to have their own performance or open rehearsal.
In-Person Band Procedures and Protocols
- The previous COVID-19 protocols of mandatory mask-wearing and proof of vaccination will no longer be required. However, when feasible, air quality will be enhanced through the use of HEPA filters and/or open windows.
- You are asked to self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and other viruses and to NOT attend rehearsal if you are feeling unwell. If you have tested positive for COVID-19, please do NOT attend rehearsals until you have satisfied the isolation requirements of Ottawa Public Health.
- Band size may be limited, depending upon space. Musicians will be spaced apart while playing.
- If an applicant cannot be accommodated in their band of choice, they may be offered a place in another band.
CONCERT BANDS
Beginner Concert (Band Leader – Felicia Persaud)
Music Room, Brookfield High School
Tuesday evenings
Sign-in/set-up: 6:15 – 6:45 PM
Rehearsal: 6:45 – 9:00 PM
For those who have never played an instrument or are starting on a new-to-you instrument. You will be taught the basics – putting together your instrument, getting a sound, learning to read music, learning and playing a scale and simple band pieces at a level 0.5 – 1.
The first six weeks will include an instrument/sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
Easy-Intermediate Concert (Band Leader – Colin Williamson)
Stage, Brookfield High School
Tuesday evenings
Sign-in/set-up: 6:15 – 6:45 PM
Rehearsal: 6:45 – 9:00 PM
This band is a step up from Beginner. It may appeal to those returning to playing after a lengthy absence, those who want easier music to play, or those who would like more instrument-specific instruction. Music will be mainly at a level 1 – 2.
The first six weeks will include an instrument/sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
Intermediate Concert (Band Leader – Malcolm Horava)
Banquet Hall, Woodroffe United Church
Wednesday evenings
Sign-in/set-up: 6:15 – 6:45 PM
Rehearsal: 6:45 – 9:00 PM
For those who play their instrument on a regular basis and want to enjoy full ensemble playing with occasional instrument instruction, this band will offer music at a variety of levels, mainly within the range of level 2 – 3.
Five weeks will include a sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
Intermediate Concert (Band Leader – Sheila White)
Banquet Hall, Woodroffe United Church
Thursday afternoons
Sign-in/set-up: 12:15 – 12:45 PM
Rehearsal: 12:45 – 3:00 PM
For those who play their instrument on a regular basis and want to enjoy full ensemble playing with occasional instrument instruction, this band will offer music at a variety of levels, mainly within the range of level 2 – 3.
Five weeks will include a sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
Advanced-Intermediate Concert (Band Leader – Adrian Cosstick)
Stage, Brookfield High School
Wednesday evenings
Sign-in/set-up: 6:15 – 6:45 PM
Rehearsal: 6:45 – 9:00 PM
For those who play their instrument on a regular basis, who can easily sight-read music, and who enjoy the added technical challenges present in music at a level 3 – 4.
Three weeks will include a sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
JAZZ BANDS
Intermediate Jazz (Band Leader – Nick Roy)
Banquet Hall, Woodroffe United Church
Thursday evenings
Sign-in/set-up: 6:15 – 6:45 PM
Rehearsal: 6:45 – 9:00 PM
For those who are comfortable playing their instrument and want to learn a variety of jazz styles including big band, blues, funk, rock and Motown.
Three weeks will include a sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
NOTE: This band also offers a virtual component. Participants may be able to join via Zoom, to play (muted) along with the live band. If interested in the virtual option, please contact info@ottawanewhorizons.com.
Advanced-Intermediate Jazz (Band Leader – Rocco Romeo)
Music Room, Merivale High School
Tuesday evenings
Sign-in/set-up: 6:15 – 6:45 PM
Rehearsal: 6:45 – 9:00 PM
For those with several years of experience at an intermediate or advanced level, including familiarity with jazz music, this band will provide the challenge you are looking for.
Three weeks will include a sectional instruction clinic, in addition to full band rehearsal.
