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Don Coffman
Don Coffman is the current director of The New Horizons Band of the Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Center. Established in January 1995, New Horizons provides an opportunity for "chronologically gifted" adults (50 and older) to learn to play a musical instrument or to resume/continue to play, and to become part of a band. This band was one of the first of what has grown to be a nation-wide movement of over 100 bands dedicated to providing a “second chance” for former players and novices. The Iowa City program is relatively unique in relying on undergraduate and graduate music student instructors to provide instruction in small groups.
Twice weekly on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, volunteers congregate at the Senior Center for 45 minutes of small group instruction or chamber ensemble coaching by 6-8 UI music students followed by a 60-minute band rehearsal. The concert band, which Dr. Coffman directs, has more than doubled in size from 26 players in 1995 to 60 at present. Furthermore, the program has expanded from one band to many ensembles. Some groups were formed completely by members’ own initiatives, such as the Polka Dots, Dixie Kids, Tempered Brass, Second Wind, and the Old Post Office Brass. In 1998, Dr. Coffman added the Silver Swing, which plays Big Band swing music from the 1930s and 1940s. A Beginner Band and an Intermediate Band on Monday nights are recent additions. Small group performances number about 90 a year. For more information go to see the New Horizons website.
