The Auburn Community Concert Band performs weekly Wednesday evening concerts at Festival Plaza in downtown Auburn. Submitted photo
The Auburn Community Concert Band will resume rehearsals on Wednesday, Jan. 11, in preparation for the group’s 2023 summer concert season and extends an open invitation to interested musicians to join the band. This is an ideal opportunity for former high school and college band members to again experience the enjoyment of making music and performing in front of large audiences.
Interested musicians have until Wednesday, Jan. 25, to join the band during this semi-annual “Open Membership” period.
The band has a particular need for people playing flute, tuba, and for an additional drum set player. Membership is open to all wind instrument players and percussionists who can read music, and requires limited conflicts with the group’s weekly schedule of Wednesday evening rehearsals and concerts. Band members must have their own instruments and music stands.
Weekly rehearsals take place every Wednesday evening, from 7-9 p.m. at the High Street Congregational Church, located between High and Pleasant Streets, in Auburn. Starting in late June, the band will resume its annual weekly Wednesday evening concerts at Festival Plaza in downtown Auburn, weather permitting. A different program of music will be performed each week through mid-August, with songs appealing to audiences both young and old.
According to Band Director Milt Simon, it is not unusual for prospective members to feel a bit reluctant about joining the group.
“We understand that, for some, it may have been 20 or more years since they last touched their instrument.” Simon stated. “Most people regain their musical skills relatively quickly. It’s like riding a bicycle. Once you have learned, you never forget. You just may have to do some extra practicing.” Simon added that the opportunity to perform in front of large audiences, numbering 200 to 300 people on a weekly basis, is typically quite appealing to amateur and experienced musicians alike.
This summer will mark the organization’s 42nd anniversary season since being formed by Simon back in 1981. Current concert band members range in age from their mid teens to early 80’s, and represent over a dozen central Maine towns.
For more information, visit auburncommunityband.com.
Interested musicians are asked to email their intentions to Director Simon at auburncommunityband@gmail.com prior to attending their first rehearsal.
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