Music fans will have a unique opportunity this weekend to hear talented musicians perform their craft in a special, historic setting.

On Saturday, the Escambia County Community Band will hold a concert at the historic Patterson Auditorium, the old sanctuary of First Baptist Church of Atmore. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public.

“For many people, this may be the first opportunity they’ve ever had to visit this facility,” band member David Gehman said. “It is truly magnificent and beautiful.

“For others, this is a rare opportunity to attend a concert in a beautiful sanctuary where they have attended church as children.”

The ECCB is a voluntary effort and receives no funding, outside of donations. It is made up of about 30 musicians across the county, most of whom played in high-school or college bands.

Gehman said the band members have been practicing hard for this concert, and plan to play several well-known Christian hymns and gospel songs.

“It could definitely become a sing-along,” he said. “It would be really neat to have the band perform and the audience sing along to the songs they know.”

There will also be several special performances, including a piece for flute and piano and a composition with three trumpets and piano.

Gehman said the performance will likely be about an hour, and there will be refreshments available after the concert.

“I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy a good time in a wonderful setting,” he said. “It will be a great evening.”

The ECCB will also be performing Friday, July 4, at the Wind Creek Casino & Hotel amphitheater. The concert will begin at approximately 8:30 p.m. and coincide with the release of fireworks in the night sky.