University of North Texas

The College of Music brings the community more than 1,000 concerts a year, including recitals, ensembles and appearances by guest artists, often alumni, who are internationally and nationally known. But the music doesn't stop at campus boundaries.

Music students and faculty members teach others through a variety of programs for everyone from newborns to senior citizens. Some programs may be preparing a future generation of musical leaders.  Others allow faculty and retirees to show off their chops - as musicians say - by performing at local venues.

• Find a calendar of performances on campus.

Programs include:

The New Horizons Band, above, which gives older adults a chance to play in an ensemble. No experience is needed for the band, which has Monday rehearsals and offers periodic concerts. Rehearsals resume Aug. 22.

• Learn more, donate funds or instruments: contact Debbie Rohwer, chair of the music education division.

Babies, toddlers and preschoolers can build a strong musical foundation in early childhood music classes, led by alumna Heidi Scheibmeir and started by Warren Henry, associate dean.

• Visit the Early Childhood Music website to learn about fall classes, offered Saturdays beginning in September.

The Start Up the Band program provides donated band instruments and free music lessons to Denton fifth-graders with high financial need.

• Learn more, donate instruments: Darhyl Ramsey, professor of music.

Middle school and high school students are invited to the annual mariachi camp, scheduled July 19-23. UNT students lead workshops in singing and playing traditional mariachi music.

The camp is a first night away from home and a first visit to a college campus for some, says Donna Emmanuel, professor of music. She says students tell her the camp gives them a sense of purpose and belonging - several are now attending UNT.

• Learn more, donate to mariachi camp scholarships, contact Elida Tamez, director of development for the College of Music.

(Photo by Gary Payne)