Album Notes

The Leominster Colonial Band was founded in 1910 by Italian immigrants who settled in North-central Massachusetts, interested in establishing a band like the ones they had in their native land. Founder Gaspare Bisceglia utilized the skills he learned in the "old country" to whip together a fine ensemble which became well known in the area for their renditions of operatic overtures and symphonic marches.

Bisceglia led the band for 57 years before passing the baton to his son, E. Vincent Bisceglia. The younger maestro oversaw the movement of the band's summer concert series to Leominster's Carter Park, where a suitable bandstand was built in the 1970s. After leading the band for 21 years, E. Vincent Bisceglia retired and assistant conductor Steven Piermarini was installed as the band's 3rd conductor in 1988. Piermarini inaugurated the band's annual Christmas Concert in 1990, and along with band manager John DeCicco, oversaw the band's incorporation as a non-profit organization a few years ago. Utilizing his varied musical skills, the new conductor brought popular and jazz sounds to the band, as well as guest artists like singers Rene Rancourt and Steve Marvin.

The band continues its venerated summer concert series, where the bandstand has been renamed in honor of Gaspare and E. Vincent Bisceglia. Their new recording, "Number 17!", brings the sound of the area's cultural heritage alive for all to enjoy.