Bay State Band -- History

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The Bay State Band was organized October 3, 1920 by Manuel Viera Sr, John Viera Sr, John Viera Jr, Jesse Santos, Manuel Morris, and Joseph Borges (all have passed away).

Here is a list of some of the fine musicians who have played with Bay State Band ( many have passed away )

Frank Arruda, Jack Nelson, Gilbert Ferro, Manuel Borges, Norman Gomes, Antone Viera, David Varao, John Damasio, Jim Hanrahan, George Correia, John Varao, Manuel Marshal, Gene Lima, Peter Monteiro, Manuel Viera Jr, Joseph Rebeiro, and many more

In 1952 the Bay State Band entered into a four-band competition. I played first clarinet with the band under the direction of Manuel Viera Jr. The band won first prize. The American Legion Post #1 in New Bedford also sponsored competion among the bands and the Bay State Band always came out on top.

In addition to the regular summer program, The Bay State Band played at The New York World's Fair in 1954. Manuel Jr came from Long Beach, CA to conduct the band at The World's Fair. Guest conductor at the occasion was Cardinal Cushing, who conducted a march.

I recall Frank Arruda, now deceased, one of the best trumpet players in Southern New England playing the American Cadet Polka without music. That same day, Louis Sylvia, another trumpet player, did carnival of Venice with his own rendition of the variations also without music. Louis Borges took over the band in 1981, however 2 other members of the band had helped Mr. Viera Sr. in running the band. Their dedicated service was what kept the the band running in such great shape. Much credit goes to Joseh Oliveira and William Nelson for their hard work The march book has 36 marches in it and we seldom repeat a march. The band has always been partial to R.B. Hall marches for sheet parades, especially New Colonial, Independetia and the 10th Regiment among his many fine sheet marches.

Joseph Rebeiro who joined the Bay State Band in 1935 has been the most sought-after trumpeter in the area for many years. He has also played in the Azores, Portugal and with most of the big dance bands at Lincoln Park. He continues to play with all the area bands in summer concerts. Another musician I can't forget is Manuel Marshal who played baritone with the Bay State Band until his death. Manuel also played with John Pandolfi and the Regional Symphonic Band and was outstanding. Philip Danforth, our 1st trombonist was a former member of the U.S. Army Field Band, The Bay State Band, The Regional Symphonic Band, the Marion Band, the Mattapoisett Band and the Dartmouth Community Band. Phil, without doubt, is one of the best bandsman in the area.

Music & Graphics Version What's New Music LINKS More LINKS

Bay State Band Jazzlinks Dixieland Band Community Band
Frank Noonan Home Page