History
The Sons of Portugal Band began rehearsing at the end of 1939 and was officially formed in 1940. Fortunato Rodrigues Neves was our first conductor and led the band at the first public appearance on May 30, 1941. In 1944, the group disbanded due to the U.S. involvement in World War II. Shortly after the war, in 1947, Joaquim Rodrigues pulled together the musicians and recruited a new conductor, Victor Capellano, who conducted until 1958.
The Sons of Portugal Band began rehearsing at the end of 1939 and was officially formed in 1940. Fortunato Rodrigues Neves was our first conductor and led the band at the first public appearance on May 30, 1941. In 1944, the group disbanded due to the U.S. involvement in World War II. Shortly after the war, in 1947, Joaquim Rodrigues pulled together the musicians and recruited a new conductor, Victor Capellano, who conducted until 1958. Sebastian 'Sebbie' Francisco was next in line as conductor and as conductor he led the band through its greatest era of performance. Mr. Rodrigues remained administrative director until 1962, at which point, Mr. Joaquim 'Jack' Moreno took over as administrative director. Under the leadership of Mr. Moreno and Mr. Francisco, the band won numerous awards and still is considered one of the best bands in the area.
Modern Day
The band continues to perform to this day, celebrating 82 years of music performance this year. The band is community based, averaging 25 concert musicians and 40 for our marching band. The members include musicians from the proficient high school student through college age and above, who perform together in concert and parade events throughout the Tri-State Area. We can be found marching in holiday and Firemen's parades, and performing a Christmas concert and an Anniversary concert at the Portuguese Cultural Center. We pride ourselves in being a nonprofit organization and welcoming members to join WITH NO ANNUAL DUES!!! Please visit our contact page for more info and questions as well as links to our social media accounts where you can keep up with live updates.
REHEARSAL SCHEDULE