A year after regrouping, the Maine Music Society is growing with enthusiasm, fresh ideas and new approaches, according to local supporters and performers.

The society has continued to hold is fundraising events and to offer its usual season of four concerts, said Helen Davidson, member of the society’s board of directors. The third concert of the 2006-2007 season, and probably its most ambitious, is Brahms’ German Requiem and other Brahms’ pieces planned for March 31 in collaboration with Bates College and Lewiston and Auburn high schools.

“There was never any doubt that we would go on,” said Davidson. “We just had to, but we had to regroup to do that.”

The society went through a tense period last year when the board and founding artistic director Peter Frewen parted ways. Shortly afterward, longtime Bates Choir Director John Corrie took the helm.

“The chorale is delighted with his directing,” said Davidson. “He makes the society lots of fun, and we are enjoying his approach.”

Susan Trask, charter member of the society and alto singer in the chorale, said that the Brahms project seems to be generating excitement and new interest for area singers. “We had a nice influx of new singers in September, but we’ve probably added another six with the auditions for Brahms.”

Trask said that Corrie keeps the chorale in good humor while simultaneously expecting quality music. “He emphasizes being relaxed, but he does not allow us to make an ugly sound.”

Corrie said that his approach is to be as collegial as possible and to lead by making sure people are on board with him. He said that he also wants to choose pieces that audiences will want to hear.

“I never want to produce anything so bizarre that audiences will say that was great but I didn’t get it,” said Corrie.

Trask said that while new members of the chorale need to audition for a spot, even the previous members guaranteed a spot are constantly learning voice techniques and music from Corrie.

Davidson noted that the society hopes to return to more of its previous education outreach programs in the future, as well as continue to offer quality classical music to the area. Local businesses and individual donors have been generous in their financial support, said Davidson.

The Androscoggin Chorale began in 1972 and hired its first music director in 1982, according to Davidson. The Maine Music Society became a nonprofit organization in 1991.