This week's 'Throwback Thursday' story from the Advertiser's archives takes us back 10 years to Lomond and Clyde Community Orchestra's preparations for its 2008-09 season.

Here's how we reported on the orchestra's activity in the Advertiser on September 11, 2008. How many faces in the picture above do you recognise?

* * * * * * * * * *

The Lomond and Clyde Community Orchestra began rehearsals for the new season on Saturday in St Michael’s Church hall, Helensburgh.

The orchestra is now in its 31st year but is putting out a plea for new members.

Ruth Sinclair, orchestra secretary, said: “At the end of last season we lost a number of our most experienced players as they moved on to university or other commitments. This means we have a shortage of some instruments, especially upper string players — violins and violas.”

LoCCO is asking for anyone who is interested in music to come along and join. The aim of the orchestra is to encourage the playing of music in the community, and it plays a selection of music to suit all tastes, from classical to popular.

The orchestra takes anyone and everyone — from primary school age through to pensioners — and has no restrictions to membership apart from that potential members need to have at least one year’s playing experience and their own instrument (except percussionists).

There are no geographical limits to joining — if you can get to rehearsals, the orchestra would be happy to have you as a member.

LoCCO is conducted by John Grant, ex principal flute of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and currently music services co-ordinator for Argyll and Bute Council, and employs professional music tutors.

Ruth said: “Please don’t be shy about coming to play. Even if you only play one note all rehearsal, you’ve contributed to the orchestra — but you have to play that one note with passion!”

So, if you are just starting out on your musical career, you have been playing for years or you are considering taking up your instrument again, go along and join.