The Auburn Community Concert Band performs its annual holiday concert in 2022. Submitted photo
The Auburn Community Concert Band is looking for new members. This is an ideal opportunity for former high school and college band musicians to again experience the enjoyment of making music and performing in front of large audiences. Currently, the Auburn band has a specific need for additional clarinet players. Members must be able to read music, and have their own instruments.
Rehearsals for the band’s Fall season will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 13. Membership requires a commitment to the group’s schedule of weekly rehearsals on Wednesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. at the High Street Congregational Church in Auburn. For the next couple of months, the band will be preparing for its annual holiday concert, which will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at the Franco Center in Lewiston.
Currently, the ACCB has 45 members, ranging in age from late-teens to early eighties. These members collectively represent a total of 15 central and western Maine towns. Before joining this organization, many of the group’s volunteer musicians had last played in a school or community band some 10 to 20 years ago, according to band director Milt Simon. “New members are often nervous when they first join, because of the lapse of time since they last practiced,” said Simon. He added that “most people regain their playing skills relatively quickly.”
New members should email their intentions to Auburn Community Concert Band director Milt Simon at auburncommunityband@gmail.com prior to attending their first rehearsal. Prospective members, who are unable to participate in any of the September rehearsals, will have another opportunity to join during the group’s next “Open Membership Month,” happening in January.
The concert band is currently celebrating its 42nd season. The organization was established by Simon back in 1981. Additional information regarding membership can be found on the band’s website at auburncommunityband.com. High Street Congregational Church is located between High and Pleasant streets in Auburn.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
