NK's Lafayette Band Seeks Musicians

The Lafayette Band is seeking new musicians and invites performers of all experience levels to join the group at its upcoming weekly rehearsals, beginning September 10.

Led by conductor Beth Clarke, the Lafayette Band rehearses on Wednesday evenings, 7:00-8:30 p.m., at the North Kingstown High School Band Room, 150 Fairway Drive, North Kingstown, R.I.

The nonprofit community concert band was founded 130 years ago and is one of the oldest ensembles in Rhode Island. Although based in North Kingstown, its members reside in many communities in southeast New England.

The Lafayette Band offers musicians an opportunity to continue using and building musical skills, or to return to playing. The 45 members include high school and college students, working adults and retirees, representing a wide variety of professions. Their common bond is a love of music.

There are no fees or auditions required to join. Members must only commit to regular attendance at rehearsals and concerts.

The Lafayette Band plays show tunes and marches, big band and swing, solo and ensemble pieces, and classical overtures. The group’s yearly schedule includes the Wickford Festival of Lights concert in December, the Armed Forces Salute and Memorial Day performances in May, weekly outdoor concerts in the summer, and performances at area nursing homes.

For more information about being a Lafayette Band musician, call Joan Lawton, chair, Volunteers Committee, at (401) 828-8625, or John Smith, president, at (401) 580-8179, or go to www.lafayette-band.com.