History

In 1981, the months of January and February were rapidly passing. I was approached several times by Mr. Julio Almeida, Mr. Jose Pascoal and Mr. Jose Silveira Rodrigues about the possibility of forming a marching band. Many issues were raised and discussed during our conversations: Who would be the conductor, how many musicians were needed, where to rehearse, funds to purchase instruments, uniforms and flags, name of the band, drafting of by-laws and required registration, when to start rehearsals, composition of the first board of directors, date of inauguration, etc.

The first step was to secure a conductor. We became aware that Mr. Manuel Duarte Veiga was conducting the rehearsals for the Band Artista Amadora in San Leandro. Since his relatives lived in Gustine, he was interested in moving to the area. The invitation was made in April 1981 and Mr. Veiga without hesitation accepted. At the April monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the Livingston Pentecost Club I informed everyone present of our intentions to form a marching band and to use the Association's facilities as headquarters. By a unanimous decision of the twelve members present, the following was approved and written in the minutes: Rehearsals, meetings, annual celebration of the Marching Band and any other activity would be held in the facilities of said Association without any burden to the Band. On the other hand, the Marching Band would pledge to perform on Saturday and Sunday during the annual celebration (festa), during the celebration of financial reports (festa das contas) or during any other event for which it was invited. This arrangement thrived for many years in harmony and friendship. The Portuguese Hall in Livingston was the headquarters of the Lira Acoriana of Livingston for over 22 years.

The rehearsals began in early November and the dedication, enthusiasm and expectations of everyone were immediately noticeable. Thanks to the camaraderie and friendship with other marching bands, we were able to use loaned instruments for some of the musicians while others had their own instruments. The months that followed were packed with huge decisions and hard work.

The name for the band arose during one of those moments: SOCIEDADE FILARMONICA LIRA ACORIANA DE LIVINGSTON. It was decided that we would have two sets of uniforms.

We acquired instruments for 37 musicians.

The first Board of Directors was selected by nomination and the Articles of Incorporation and the By-Laws were approved and registered on April 1 of 1982.

Saint Cecilia was unanimously chosen as the patron saint of the Band. After all, she is the patron saint of musicians. We solicited the Society of the Uniao Rosalense from Rosais, in the island of Sao Jorge, to use their Anthem which they kindly allowed.

The big day finally arrived - May 9, 1982 - Mother's Day. It was a memorable and unforgettable day for all of those present. The inaugural acts, as well as the concerts, presented by the bands, dinner, auction, and bazaar, were held outside on the grounds of the Livingston Pentecost Club.

The list of the first Board of Directors was composed of the following individuals:

• Manuel Eduardo Vieira - President

• Antonio Rosa - Vice President

• Julio Almeida - Secretary

• Jose Pascoal - Treasurer

• Jose Rodrigues - Marshall

• Egidio Almeida - Inside Guard

• Manuel Nascimento - Outside Guard

The members of the Lira at the first appearance were:

• Director: Manuel Duarte Veiga

• Musicians: Julio Almeida, Manuel Costa, Jose Pascoal, Ilidio Almeida, Manuel Nascimento, Joao Lopes, Julio Olegario Brasil, Marcelino Goncalves, Jose Miranda, Egidio Almeida, Julio Floriano, Luis Nascimento, Manuel Ribeiro, Aurelio Avila, Policarpo Godinho, Adao Bettencourt, Ricardo Vieira, Marcia Vieira, Carlos Vieira, Aida Pascoal, Dina Almeida, Gino Almeida, Gilbert Almeida, Antonio Brasil, Hernani Pacheco, Carlso Coderniz, Antonio Amorim, Antonio Rodrigues, Joao Silveira, Eugenio Silva, Joao Borges Coelho, Antonio Pedro, Manuel Pedro, Manuel Vaz, Manuel Cordeiro, Tony Caetano, Mateus Pereira, Celeste Pereira, Bernardete Pereira, Elcy Gois and Artur Gois.

• Flag Carriers: Gina Almeida, Margarete Caetano and Vina Nascimento.