— First Parish Church announces the first rehearsals of its five vocal choirs (Cherub, Junior, Westminster, Senior and Chamber) and two handbell choirs (Chapel Ringers and Parish Ringers).

Under the direction of Ray Cornils, the music program of First Parish offers education, enjoyment, challenge and enrichment for all ages and abilities. Each group sings or rings on a regular basis and presents special seasonal programs throughout the year. Any interested person, church member or not, is invited to join.

The Senior Choir, a 70-voice group, rehearses Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 9 p.m. and sings a wide variety of literature (from Bach to Britten, from plainsong to spirituals). Highlights of its next season include singing a Christmas cantata in December, a concert with orchestra in March and participation in the Brunswick Ecumenical Festival of Lessons and Carols on Dec. 15.

The Chamber Choir, an auditioned group of 16 singers, is also open for new members. Members of the Chamber Choir are also active participants in the Senior Choir. This choir will focus on challenging literature appropriate to a small group. The Chamber Choir rehearses weekly on Thursday evenings from 8-9 p.m., beginning Sept. 19.

There are ample opportunities for children and youth to participate also.

The Cherub Choir (ages 4 through first grade) rehearses each Thursday from 5:30 to 6 p.m. and has more than 20 members.

The Junior Choir (grades 2 through 6) rehearses every Thursday beginning at 6:15 p.m. and also has 20 members.

The Westminster Choir (for grades 7 through 12) rehearses Thursday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

These choirs sing in the services every three to four weeks and present special music at Thanksgiving, are the core of the Christmas Pageant on Dec. 22 and present a musical in May.

First Parish Church has a very active handbell program. The Parish Ringers perform several special programs throughout the area in addition to regular worship services at First Parish. This group rehearses each Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Membership is by audition. The Chapel Ringers (a nonauditioned handbell choir for adults and serious youth) rehearses on Monday evenings and perform on a regular basis.

The music program of First Parish Church in Brunswick is open to any interested person. There are no auditions for most of the vocal choirs, nor do you have to be a member of First Parish to participate. New members to the music program are most welcome.

For further information, call the church office at 729- 7331 or visit www.firstparish.net. First Parish Church, U.C.C., is located at Bath Road next to Bowdoin College.