AUBURN – The Auburn Community Band announces that rehearsals for the holiday concert season will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 22. All interested musicians who wish to perform with the band should join the group on that date.

The band is particularly seeking people who play bass clarinet, baritone sax and baritone horn, as well as percussionists who can read music.

The band meets from 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday at the High Street Congregational Church, located between High and Pleasant streets. 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 on Wednesday, Dec. 15, in the Olin Arts Center at Bates College, Lewiston. The group will also perform for residents of local health care facilities during December.

The 50-plus members range in age from 13 to 79 and represent 15 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 “Open Membership Month” in January.

This fall completes the 23rd season under Simon’s direction. The organization is jointly sponsored by the Dunlap Corporation/HRH and the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department. For more information, interested musicians should call the APRD at 784-0191 prior to the Sept. 24 rehearsal.