Tag Archives: Caliendo’s Banda Napoletana

Maestro Martin Caliendo, founder and director of Caliendo’s Banda Napoletana, was presented with the Benermerenti Medal of the Constantinian Order of St. George in recognition of his dedication in preserving and providing traditional music to Chicago-area Italian-American religious fests. Founded in 1974 but with roots dating back to the 1920s through its parent Strocchia Concert Band, Caliendo’s Banda Napoletana is one of the very few remaining musical organizations of its type in the United States.  

Caliendo’s Banda Napoletana is aiming to cap off its 45th anniversary year with new uniform hats for its musicians. One of the few authentic Italian festival bands left in America, the ensemble was launched by Raffaele Strocchia in 1926, and is now run by Strocchia’s cousin Marty Caliendo. “All of the years playing outdoors in virtually every type of weather has taken a toll on the hats,” Caliendo notes. “Many are worn out so badly they are barely holding together and some musicians simply don’t have one.” To lend a hand, click here to visit their gofundme page.