Montani Brothers – Family Group. Originally from Lourenza, Italy (near Naples), the Montani family came to Indianapolis by way of Utica, New York, in 1881. After their father Ferdinand Montani had established himself as a successful owner of fruits stands around the city, the five brothers established an “orchestra” (really a five-piece chamber ensemble), which performed at local hotels, clubs, lodges, parks, and private homes from 1890 through the 1920s. While waiting for public transportation at Indy’s Union Station, the brothers were known to get out their instruments and busk for supplemental income. Frequently engaged to play for weddings, commencements, receptions, and banquets, the Montani Brothers consisted of leader/violinist Guy (1867-1957), harpist Domenico (1865-1907), flutist Pasquale (1874-1955), violinist Antonio (1875-1948), and cornettist Nicola (1880-1948). The group also played frequently in other cities around the state, and each of the brothers had successful careers in music. Antonio taught music at the high school level in Indy and Palo Alto, California, while Pasquale taught at Butler’s Jordan Conservatory. In addition to his activities as leader of the family group, Guy played locally with various ephemeral orchestras as well the ISO. Furthermore, Guy and Domenico played a part in establishing the Indianapolis Protective Musicians Union Local No. 3 of the American Federation of Musicians. Lastly, Nicola became a conductor, arranger, composer, and publisher of Catholic liturgical music, and he taught at Seton College in New Jersey. Not only did Nicola edit and publish the Catholic Choirmaster and the St. Gregory Hymnal in 1920, but he also founded the Society of St. Gregory, which is devoted to Catholic music. Nicola was knighted in 1926 by Pope Pius XI.