Connecticut Choral Society, one of the state's premiere vocal ensembles, will hold auditions for new members over several days in early September. All auditions will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church, 36 Main Street, which is now serving as CCS's new base of operations.

The dates and times are, Saturday, September 9, 10 am to 4 pm; Sunday, September 10, 4 to 8 pm; Monday, September 11, 6 to 9 pm; and Monday, September 18, 5 to 7 pm.

Entering its 39th season, CCS's express mission is to encourage singing and performing choral music of the highest artistic quality, and to offer music that makes a difference in people's lives. The group has performed at Carnegie Hall many times over its history and has toured extensively throughout Europe, China, and Australia.

This summer, members of CCS performed the Verdi Requiem at Lake Como, Italy. Last spring, the group joined Leif Bjaland and Waterbury Symphony Orchestra for a highly acclaimed performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony.

CCS's artistic director is internationally renowned conductor Eric Dale Knapp, who begins his 11th season with CCS this fall.

"We very much look forward to having new people join us in our commitment to the choral art in serving the communities of western Connecticut and beyond," Maestro Knapp noted. "This is a special group of wonderful people, and I've been very proud to work with CCS over this last decade."

CCS is also noted for its outreach through its benefit concerts. Special concerts have been performed with all proceeds going to support nonprofit organizations, including Toys For Tots, Ronald McDonald House, Lions Club, Habitat for Humanity, Family and Children's Aid Center Danbury, and Covenant House in New York. CCS also performed a free healing concert for the people of Newtown in the wake of 12/14.

The choral society's a capella group, The Chamber Singers, directed by Ron Dukenski, provides many free performances in libraries, senior centers, and assisted-living residences.

Appointments for auditions can be scheduled in advance by contacting Judy Novachek at 203-748-0518.For further information about CCS, visit ctchoralsociety.com.

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