AUBURN – The Auburn Community Band announces that rehearsals for the upcoming holiday concert season will begin Wednesday, Sept. 24. All musicians who wish to perform with the band should join the group on that date.

The band is particularly seeking people who play flute, trumpet, French horn, baritone sax and tuba. The group also welcomes percussionists who can read music.

The band meets from 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday at Webster School on Hampshire Street. Musicians must have their own instrument and music stand, and be able to commit to the weekly schedule of Wednesday rehearsals and concerts.

The band is scheduled to perform several times during the holiday season, including the annual public concert, which will take place at the Great Falls School Performing Arts auditorium on Wednesday, Dec. 17. Also during December, the group will perform for residents of numerous health care facilities.

The 50-member organization, whose ages span from 12 to 78, represents 14 central and southern Maine towns. Before joining, many of the group’s volunteer musicians had last played their instruments some 20 to 40 years ago, according to band director Milt Simon.

“Many people are nervous when they first join,” said Simon, “but most regain their musical skills within a short period of time.” Simon said those who wish to perform with the band but are unable to join at this time will have a second opportunity during the band’s open membership month in January.

This fall marks the beginning of the Auburn Community Band’s 23rd season under Simon’s direction. The organization is jointly sponsored by the Dunlap Corp. and the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department. Interested musicians should call the APRD at 784-0191 prior to the Sept. 24 rehearsal.