Austin Symphony Orchestra conductor, Steven Ramsey, announced that the orchestra is seeking players in all string sections, especially cello and for a bass trombonist. All positions have a stipend and mileage paid. Interested individuals should email Laura Larson, the orchestra’s secretary, at lalarson89@yahoo.com to arrange an audition. The orchestra is made up of musicians of high school age and older from southeast Minnesota and northern Iowa. Rehearsals and performances are held at Austin High School’s Knowlton Auditorium in Austin.

Two concerts remain in the 55th season. One is at 2 p.m. Feb. 26. The orchestra performs their Gala 55th Anniversary Celebration with a spectacular piece by the composer of “The New World Symphony.” With festive orchestral and choral colors, Dvorak paints a picture so vivid you’ll think you are marching through the streets of Prague accompanied by ringing church bells. World-renown pianist Roberto Plano returns to perform Schumann’s famous concerto along with the orchestra.

The final concert of the season will be performed at 2 p.m. April 15. The “Homecoming” concert features Richard Larson, the former music director/conductor of the orchestra, the orchestra’s alumni orchestra, and the winners of the third annual young Artists Competition. Hundreds of musicians have performed as members of the Austin Symphony Orchestra during its 55-year history. Dozens of former members will return from around the Midwest and beyond to perform during the concert. The concert will also feature the winners of the third Annual Young Artists Competition.

For more information visit the orchestra’s website at www.austinsymphonymn.org.