To kick off the new series, the San Jose Brass Quintet Plus One will perform on Sept. 14 at the Los Gatos High School auditorium. An offspring of the San Jose Symphony, the group is well regarded for its vast repertoire, from baroque to Dixieland jazz.

Formed in 1981 to provide inspiration to South Bay schools, the group is composed of veteran musicians, including trumpeters James Dooley and Warren Bartold, horn player Wendell Rider, trombonist John Russell, percussionist Galen Lemmon, and tuba player Tony Clements.

Association publicist Jean Nelson says the board decided on the Quintet Plus One because "they have a very good reputation for performance and for communication with the audience," she says. "They are very personable. The audience will respond, I'm sure. Everybody who has heard them has raved, and the brass instruments are so wonderful."

Known for selecting a blend of classical music with some contemporary style, the LGSCCA boasts a season as strong as ever, with three more concerts planned through May. Artists include woodwind players Calico Winds, husband and wife team Smith & Adams, and Opera San Jose.

"We lean toward classical music, not the pop concert," Nelson says. "We have a great many seniors in our audience, but we're trying to get more attendance from students. We encourage young people in the audience, and I know the performers would respond to that, too."

All shows will be held at the LGHS auditorium, with doors opening at 2 p.m. Tickets may be purchased for $20 per show or as season tickets for $50 for adults, $45 for seniors 65 years and older, and $10 for students. Tickets are available at the door or by mailing the Los Gatos­Saratoga Community Concert Association at P.O. Box 1116, Los Gatos, 95031. More information can be obtained at the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce at 348 N. Santa Cruz Ave. or by calling Ray Strong at 408.377.1106 or Lea Frey at 408.356.5698.