The New Horizons International Music Association sponsors local orchestras, bands, and choral groups, and most of the people involved are mid-life to older adults. Four years ago, however, the first New Horizons Bluegrass Band came into existence in Spokane, Washington, sponsored locally by Spokane’s Holy Names Music Center. The band’s instructor is veteran bluegrass musician and master banjo, guitar, and mandolin (and he’s no slouch on Dobro, fiddle and bass, either) teacher Harold Streeter (www.lewalt.com).
This year’s group of about 20 aspiring bluegrass musicians meets each Friday evening for two hours to learn and practice 15 traditional bluegrass songs and instrumentals. The last Friday evening in April of next year, the band will present a performance open to the public. This year’s set list includes “Bluegrass Stomp,” “The House of the Rising Sun,” “I’ll Fly Away,” and “Little Cabin Home On the Hill.” – Mitch Finley