The Albert Lea Civic Music Association is kicking off its 66th season. Since 1946 Civic Music has brought diverse and high quality music to audiences in Albert Lea and the surrounding area. This year it will again bring five dynamic and varied concerts. The price is at $40 for adults, $85 for a family and $10 for students.

Leading off the 2012-13 season are the Clarinet Swing Kings at 3 p.m. Sept. 30. This septet will delight with their big band sound. The second concert is Cahal Dunne at 3 p.m. Oct. 28. A true Irish tenor with Irish wit and humor. Thuringer Salonquintett brings the program into 2013 in February. The romantic sounds of European coffee houses will be a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Peter Simon will entertain with his amazing piano virtuosity at 7:30 p.m. March 8, and the Abbey Road Band closes the season with their tribute to the Beatles. Close your eyes and like magic the Fab Four are here in person.

Remember that when attending concerts at the Albert Lea High School Auditorium you can enter at the main door, the Tiger door or the Route 59 door on the East Side of the building next to the cafeteria.

Other exciting news for 2012-13 is that Civic Music and Albert Lea Community Theatre are collaborating to bring live opera to Albert Lea. Live HD opera from the Metropolitan Opera in New York will be at the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center. The regular price for a ticket to each of the 12 operas will be $20. Civic Music Season Ticket holders, ACT season ticket holders and seniors 65 plus will receive a $2 discount for each ticket. See 12 operas right here in Albert Lea, then tour back stage at the Met and enjoy live interviews with the stars during intermission. All HD broadcasts are mid-day and on Saturdays.

The MET season will kick off on Oct. 13 with a black tie optional gala at the theater. Watch for more details from Civic Music and ACT.