The Auburn Concert Band Submitted photo

The Auburn Community Concert Band has announced that rehearsals in preparation for the group’s 2022 Summer concert season will begin on Wednesday, March 2. Weekly rehearsals take place from 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday at the High Street Congregational Church, located between High and Pleasant Streets, in Auburn.

Membership is open to all wind instrument players and percussionists who can read music. Band members must have their own instruments and be able to commit to the group’s weekly schedule of Wednesday evening rehearsals and concerts. For the 2022 season, participants are also required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. This is an ideal opportunity for former high school and college band members to again experience the enjoyment of making music and performing in front of large audiences.

Every summer, starting by early July, the band presents weekly Wednesday evening concerts at Festival Plaza in downtown Auburn; weather permitting. A different program of music is performed each week, with songs appealing to audiences both young and old.

According to Band Director Milt Simon, it is not unusual for prospective members to feel a bit reluctant about joining the group. “We understand that, for some, it may have been 20 or more years since they last touched their instrument.” Simon said, according to a news release from the band. “It’s like riding a bicycle. Once you have learned, you never forget. You just may have to do some practicing.”

This summer will mark the organization’s 41st anniversary season since being formed by Simon back in 1981. Current concert band members range in age from their late teens to early 80s, and represent a dozen central Maine towns. Interested musicians are asked to email their intentions to Director Simon at auburncommunityband@gmail.com prior to attending their first rehearsal. Additional information is available online at auburncommunityband.com.