AUBURN — The Auburn Community Concert Band has announced that rehearsals for their upcoming holiday concert season will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 10. This is an ideal opportunity for former high school band members to once again experience the enjoyment of performing for others.

Rehearsals take place weekly on Wednesday evenings, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the High Street Congregational Church, between High and Pleasant streets. Musicians must have their own instrument and music stand. The band has a particular need for people who play clarinet, alto or tenor sax, French horn, baritone or tuba. Percussionists who can read music are also invited to join.

The group’s annual free holiday concert is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 17, with several other performances planned for earlier in the month.

Currently, the ACCB has 41 members, ranging in age from 14 to 89. These members collectively represent a total of 15 Maine towns. Many of the group’s volunteer musicians last played their instruments some 20 to 40 years ago, according to band director Milt Simon. “Although people are nervous when they first join because they are out of practice,” said Simon, “most players regain their instrumental skills within a relatively short period of time.”

Simon added that anyone who wishes to perform with the band, but is unable to join at this time, will have a second opportunity during the band’s “Open Membership Month” in January.

This band is currently celebrating its 33rd season. The organization was founded by Simon in 1981. For more information, interested musicians should call band director Simon at 782-3917, or visit www.auburncommunityband.com.

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