ANAHEIM – A staffing change to the prestigious Disneyland Band tied to the theme park’s 60th anniversary has the musicians’ union worried about their members’ jobs.

The American Federation of Musicians posted on its Facebook page on Wednesday that members of the Disneyland Band, whom it represents, received an “end-of-run” notice, implying that the iconic band in its current form will break up after nearly 60 years.

Bob Sanders, president of the union’s local chapter, posted a followup saying that the 16 Disneyland Band members were informed on March 31 that they must re-audition to be part of this summer’s new musical experience at Disneyland.

Those who aren’t selected will be placed in smaller groups and break-out bands, he said.

“Disney seems to believe that these veteran musicians are not qualified for the ‘new and improved’ band,” said Sanders in an email to the Register. “It is simply wrong to ask these seasoned professionals – so beloved by park visitors – to audition for the band they are already in.”

A Disneyland spokeswoman responded in an email: “All members of the Disneyland Band still will be performing musicians at the park, either as part of the band, or with the groups who perform around the park.”

The Disneyland Band has been a mainstay since the park opened in 1955. Walt Disney loved music and believed a town band would heighten his guests’ experience. Some members have been part of the band for 10 to 40 years, Sanders said.

The band plays four times a day, marching and performing along Main Street, U.S.A. Throughout the day, band members break out in different musical groups around the park.

Disney announced earlier in the week that it would expand live music at Disneyland for this summer’s anniversary celebration. Disney said it plans to hire more musicians and increase the number of daily performances.

“The iconic Disneyland Band will premiere a new sound – with new musical arrangements and themed performances – along with more musicians and high-energy choreography,” wrote Shawn Slater, communications manager at Disney Parks Creative Entertainment.

The current band’s last performance together will be in July, Sanders wrote.

Contact the writer: 714-704-3764 or jpimentel@ocregister.com