Participant Profile
All ages welcome, from 8 to 88 and beyond!
Participants often join us from Cortland, DeRuyter, Dryden, Etna, East Freetown, Freeville, Genoa, Greene, Groton, Harford, Homer, Ithaca, Lansing, Marathon, McLean, Moravia, Richford, Tully, & Virgil.
Family groups welcome and encouraged.
Guiding Principles
We operate on a set of guiding principles that distinguish our organizations from most other summer music opportunities.
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We are primarily, but not exclusively, for those residing in rural areas in and near the Town of Dryden, New York.
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We are for musicians of any skill level, requiring no audition, and we are non-competitive.
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Participants can be any age, providing they are able to participate in two hour evening rehearsals. Instrumentalists are recommended to have at least two years of experience.
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Participation is free; there is no mandatory fee or required concert attire. Grants, sponsorship, and donations should cover expenses.
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We are a short-term summer opportunity, with each ensemble typically meeting once a week for six weeks, culminating in two concerts.
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This group depends on volunteers to operate and belongs to all participants.
Benefits of Music-Making
Music-making is proven to provide a range of physical, mental, and social benefits to participants.
Participation in music-making is a natural antidepressant, releasing endorphins and reducing stress.
Music-making improves discipline and posture, and can also improve mental alertness, concentration, and memory.
Additionally, music-making, particularly in an intergenerational environment, can improve communication skills, build friendships, strengthen friend and familial relationships, and boost confidence.
Join us! We're good for your health!