[SWPABP] In Concert: Winter 2006

West Hills Symphonic Band
Taken from the web on August 3, 2005 with permission by Tony Banks, President WHSB

The West Hills Symphony Band presented its debut concert on January 29, 1967. Under the direction of Joseph C Picchi; fifty-eight musicians, ranging from high school students to senior citizens, laid the foundation for the musical organization which continues to flourish. The goal was to develop an assemblage of professional and amateur musicians who could share their love of music with each other and the community. This goal has been met and musical enrichment has been provided for many.

No history of the band would be complete without a brief account of Joe Picchi’s musical background. A lifelong musician, a teacher, and conductor Joe began his studies at the age of 12. He attended Duquesne University, Carnegie Tech, and Biarritz University of France. An accomplished violinist, Mr. Picchi was a member of the Pittsburgh Opera Company, Wheeling Symphonic Orchestra, Butler Symphonic Orchestra, Clarion Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Light Opera Company, and the Pittsburgh Chamber Orchestra. During his almost 20 years as a Montour School District music teacher, he developed an excellent program for the community’s students. Under his direction, the marching and concert bands received numerous awards and recognition.

Other notable contributors consist of past presidents Robert Depp, Dr. T.T. Magel, Michael Lucente, Robert Stobbe, and Jeff Sammel. Tony Banks, the current president is assisted by Vice-President Keith Cosentino. Mary Lucenti has been a loyal supporter of West Hill for decades. She served as Secretary for many years and continues to assist in her role as hostess.

The popularity and longevity of the West Hills Symphony Band is attributed to the dedication of every musician, contributor, and fan. Some in the audience may fondly remember the Gargaro brothers, Vince and Tony. Each brought their children into the fold. Walter Vrusk, owner of Broadway Music in West Park and well-known brass instructor, was an outstanding principal trumpet player for many years. The sons of Allan Pontiere, Rusty and Ernest, both music teachers were recognizable mainstays at one time.

Only four musicians still perform with the band since its inception. Doc and Emmi Magel have been with West Hills for nearly 40 years. Their son, Robert, is also currently a member. In fact, all five of the Magel children have performed on stage with their parents in the past. Aldo DiIanni and Edgar Sims are also active founding members.
Current conductor, Anthony L. DiIanni has been leading the ensemble since the fall of 1998. Mr. DiIanni, U.S.N., Ret, has been a musician since childhood and a director of U.S. Navy bands during his long career with the military. Members of his family, brothers Aldo and Nunzio, along with the recruitment of their children and grandchildren have played key roles in keeping this band balanced with fine musicians.

Over the years, the West Hills Symphonic Band has performed at many venues, our favorite being our home of 38 years, the Montour Senior High School. Without the gracious assistance of the Montour School District, this band could not exist. Our group has entertained audiences at the Carnegie Library of Homestead, Crafton Park, Penn State Beaver Campus, Moon Township Park, Sewickley Library, and the David E. Williams School to name a few. Many of the concerts were and are in support of programs to benefit public interests.

Today our performing members range in age from 14 to 86. It is our hope that this fine tradition of providing an outlet for musicians and music-loving audiences will grow. It is our hope that music and youth, as well as the young at heart, will serve for many decades to come. Finally, it is our hope that many of you will help us spread the love of music to others.

Sat, 4	8pm	Allegheny Brass Band	North Allegheny Intermediate High School
Sat, 4	7pm	North Pittsburgh Philharmonic	North Hills Jr. High School Auditorium
Sun, 5	7:30pm	North Suburban Symphonic Band	Ross Elementary School, North Hills
Sat, 11	7:30pm	Edgewood Symphony Orchestra	First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood
Mon, 13	7:30pm	East Winds Symphonic Band	Friendship Village, South Hills
Mon, 13	7:30pm	South Hills Community Concert Band	Whitehall Presbyterian Church
Sat, 25	7:30pm	Edgewood Symphony Orchestra	Rodef Shalom Levy Hall

Aeolian Winds	http://www.aeolianwinds.com/
Allegheny Brass Band	http://www.alleghenybrassband.com/
Armstrong Concert Band	http://www.geocities.com/armconband
Blairsville Community Concert Band	http://www.trimtree.com/family_f/BCCB.html
Butler County Symphony	http://www.butlerarts.org/symphony/
Community Band South	http://cbs.pghfree.net/
East Winds Symphonic Band	http://www.ewsb.org/
Edgewood Symphony	http://www.edgewoodsymphony.org
Harrisville Community Band	http://www.harrisvilleband.com/
Jeannette Community Band	http://www.jcbweb.com/
Kiski Valley Community Band	http://welcome.to/kvcb
Kittanning Firemen's Band	http://www.kfband.com/
Musicians Concert Band	http://www.tmcband.com/default.htm
North Pittsburgh Philharmonic	http://www.northpghphilharmonic.org/
North Suburban Symphonic Band	http://www.nssband.org/
Ohio Valley Community Band	http://www.geocities.com/ovcband
Pine Creek Community Band	http://www.pinecreekband.com/
Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra	http://www.artsnet.org/pco/
Resurrection Band	http://www.boro.zelienople.pa.us/band.htm
Scottdale Concert Band	http://www.scottdaleband.com/
Somerset County Community Band	http://www.somersetcounty.com/band
Washington Symphonic Orchestra	http://www.washsym.org/
West Hills Symphonic Band	http://www.whsb.org/
Westmoreland Symphonic Winds	http://www.wswinds.org/

January 2006:

February 2006:

March 2006: