From 1912 to 1947, the City of Santa Monica funds a highly regarded Municipal Band. In the early years, the professional military-style concert band is heavily comprised of Italian immigrants.
In 1920, the 30-piece Tommasino Band, considered to be one of the finest bands in the nation, performs twice daily (2:30 p.m.1 and 8 p.m.2), under a long-term contract. Louis Gasdia (1876 – 1939) is the manager, and Alfredo Salvatore Tommasino (1880 - 1973) is the conductor of the Santa Monica Municipal Band from 1921 to 1923.
In late 1925, there is internal dissension3 in the band, leading to the City terminating the Tommasino Band in 1926. Guiseppe Gallo (1877 – 1945), a former band player, wins the City contract to provide a band in 1927. Francesco Ferullo (1879 - 1934) is appointed band director in 1928.
In 1933, the City reduces the salary of the band director from $350 to $250 per month, and opens applications for band director. Lancaster O’Grady (1900 - 1944) is appointed in 1933.4 The Municipal Band, subsidized by City to $43,000 / year, has 25 musicians, and plays two concerts each day year-round. O’Grady dies in 1944. In 1947, the City withdraws funding ($40,000 / year), and the Santa Monica Municipal Band is gone.
The 2:30 p.m. afternoon concert is in Ocean Park at the Band Plaza with seating for 6,000 is located in front of the Municipal Auditorium.
The 8 p.m. evening concert is in north Santa Monica at the bandstand on the Looff Pier.
The Tommasino Band musicians petitioned for the dismissal of their manager.
There are 13 applicants - including the incumbent, Francesco Ferullo.