Formation of An American Legion Band

Note: The following Correspondence is from Massapequa Post #1066 Member, William Giannone, to All Post Commanders, Auxiliary Members and Sons of the American Legion concerning the Formation of The American Legion Band. This article was taken from the September 2014 edition of the Nassau County Legionnaire.

Legion Family,

I would like to start a band of American Legion members on Long Island. Here is my background. I joined the American Legion at the beginning of this year. I am a member of Post 1066, Massapequa.

I have a bachelor's and master's degree in Music. I was in the Army for 3 years. I was a Special bandsman. That means I was assigned to a Special Band, the West Point band. I also was a member of the 26th Army band on Staten Island. After the Army, I joined the NY National Guard. I was the Bandmaster (Warrant Officer) of the 42nd Infantry Division band.

I want to form a concert band, comprised of American Legionnaires form post on Long Island. The purpose of the band will be to promote fraternity and camaraderie among Legionnaires and to perform music at Legion functions and public venues.

Benefits to the American Legion:

1. The band can be a public relations tool to spotlight the Legion in a positive way.
2. The band can be used as a recruitment vehicle to encourage vets to join the Legion.
3. Additional revenue source for the post where the band rehearses (bar).

The music requirements are:

1. Proficiency playing a standard band instrument.
2. Ability to read music proficiently.
3. Own (or access to) a musical instrument (and a stand).

Who are we looking for:

1. American Legion members who were musicians in the service.
2. American Legion members who were music majors in college.
3. American Legion members who are/were professional musicians.
4. Other Legionnaires who meet the musical requirements.

How many people are we looking for?

1. Ideally, about 45 players.

Rehersal frequency - twice a month, for example, first and third Tuesday (or Thursday).
Reherasl location - To be determinded.
Cost to the American Legion - none.

Music will be obtained from local music libraries and other local bands. Maybe we can get a local music store to donate music folders.

I would like to get the word out to the Legion members in your posts. We request that the Commanders make an announcement at their meetings about the band.

Here are my contact information:

Bill Giannone
cell: 516-655-7437
home phone: 516-541-7078
email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
address: 154 Brewster Road, Massapequa, NY 11758

Note: Giannone, William., "Formation of An American Legion Band", Nassau County Legionnaire, September 2014, p. 3