Having recently received a funding boost from the IMB Bank Shire Community Foundation, The Shire New Horizons Community Band (New Horizons) is celebrating its fifth anniversary – and changing local lives at the same time.
New Horizons was introduced to the Sutherland Shire in 2014. With an emphasis on using music to build a sense of community, New Horizons is just as much about having fun as it is about learning to play an instrument.
“I joined New Horizons to start playing music again, but I didn’t expect to make such wonderful friends and to feel such accomplishment from challenging myself to become a better musician,” says New Horizons saxophonist, Ashley Boorman.
New Horizons now comprises five ensembles that cater to various ability levels. From beginners, through to seasoned musicians – including a group which just plays blues music.
“We want to ensure all members of the community can get involved, regardless of whether they have played an instrument before,” says New Horizons Band Director, Jennifer Williams.
The band members aren’t the only ones to reap the social benefits of New Horizons. Most community groups that visit facilities charge a fee, limiting the entertainment options available for elderly residents in the community. With New Horizons, residents of the various aged care facilities throughout the Sutherland Shire are treated to regular concerts.
Over the past two years, New Horizons has received $6,000 in funding from IMB Bank Shire Community Foundation, as a recognition of the value it provides to the Sutherland Shire community. This year, New Horizons was one of 14 not-for-profit groups across the Sutherland Shire to share in $100,000 of donations.
This funding will enable New Horizons to continue its regular performances in aged care facilities, as well as hold larger concerts at local venues, without cost to the facilities or attendees.
The IMB Bank Shire Community Foundation operates alongside the IMB Bank’s Community Foundation (ICF), which this year celebrates 20 years of community support. Since 1999, ICF has donated over $10million to communities where IMB Bank operates in Sydney, the Illawarra, Southern Highlands, South Coast, Victoria and the ACT. In the Greater Sydney region, ICF has funded 118 projects to the value of $1.55million.
“We are so pleased to be able to support New Horizons, their dedication and determination to their community is inspiring,” says IMB Bank CEO, Robert Ryan.
The Shire New Horizons will be performing the free concerts including Saturday 7th September at Bunnings Kirrawee, 10.30AM, and Thursday 12th September -at Woolooware Shores Retirement Village’s Reef Centre, 10AM.