I first learned to play the French horn in the 5th grade at Hastings, Minnesota. I played in the high school band, whose director was very strict, I remember, throwing things at us when we made a mistake. But, we survived and were all prorud of our band achievements. I continued on with the concert band at Valparaiso University. Once I retired I got my original German Kruspe horn refurbished and began playing with the New Horizon Band, in Appleton, WI, Lawrence University Music Academy. New Horizons is an organization that is available to adults who want to return to playing an instrument or who are just starting. I enjoyed my experiences playing with a large group and believe belonging to a concert band is so much fun--at any age. I was a teacher, early childhood, kindergarten, and first grade.