About Us

About the Conductor and Band

The Castro Valley Community band is a 60-piece, all-volunteer concert band based in Castro Valley, California. It is conducted by Kathleen Maier. 

Kathleen Maier

Conductor Kathy Maier (née Morelli) received her early education in Castro Valley and graduated from Skyline High School in Oakland. She attended Holy Names College and San Francisco State University, where she majored in music and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a teaching credential. Following graduation she taught instrumental and vocal music in the Oakland Public Schools for nine years, and has taught in the San Leandro Public Schools for many years. She also conducts the Hayward Municipal Band and is an accomplished flutist, double bass player, and singer.

The Band

The Castro Valley Community Band was originally the idea of Mr. Roy Johnson, an administrator in the Castro Valley Unified School District, who in 1949 asked George DiGregori, an instrumental music teacher, to put out a survey to see if district personnel would be interested in participating in a band for adults.  The district had already established a wonderful music program for its students.  Mr. DiGregori did, and the first rehearsal had over 30 eager district employees in attendance.  Later community members were invited to join the band.  Mr. DiGregori directed the band for its first 12 seasons before moving to Tuscon, Arizona in 1960.

The Castro Valley Concert Band - predecessor to today's Castro Valley Community Band - photographed circa 1956. Photo courtesy of Gerard Hauck.

The Castro Valley Community Band is a program of the Castro Valley Adult School in Castro Valley, California.  

This page last updated March 21, 2025.