“How ‘Bout” That?

Music. Fame (at least locally). No auditions. 

You in?

Regina Sillitti, current Corresponding Secretary of The Original Hobo Band, sure was.

About 10 years ago, when Sillitti’s alto saxophone teacher suggested she find herself a hobo band – a community group with no auditions – she was intrigued. 

“My teacher was horrified when I revealed that I had never played in a band,” Sillitti said. 

After a quick Google search that listed The Original Hobo Band, which turned out to be only 20 minutes away from her, Sillitti decided to show up to a rehearsal on a random Thursday. 

But that took guts.

“Someone noticed I was new and showed me where to pick up a folder and where to sit. I sat. That’s all I could do for the first three rehearsals,” Sillitti said.

“I didn’t understand how one could play when everyone else was playing. After a while, I began to hear where my instrument fit into the sound around me. It took me a few months to feel comfortable enough to come out to a gig, but I did and I’m still here!”

Daughter of one of the original Original Hobo Band members, John Pedicord, Janis Pedicord Ent now holds the title of President.

“As a young girl, my parents told me I could be anything I wanted to be when I grew up, except a Hobo – girls could not play in the band,” Ent said. 

But in February 1990, the band members voted to allow women to play, and you better believe Ent was at her first eligible rehearsal on March 1 along with Leah Menerey (also the daughter of an original member), Betty Kelly, Lori Gall and Jill Weiss. 

“Other women started playing with us soon after that first night where we were welcomed by most … and finally by even the skeptics.”

Someone who comes out to play with the Original Hobo Band can expect to be challenged musically and welcomed personally – even musicians who haven’t played in decades.

“We always say that, though they may not hit every note the first night, they will add more notes every week they persist, and very soon will be back to baseline and improving at every rehearsal, concert and parade,” Ent said. 

“The memories and current activities bring a smile to my face and warm my heart,” said Betty Forsha-Kelly, Business Manager for the last two years – and Hobo for more than 25. 

But Forsha-Kelly’s favorite part of performing with the band? The looks from people seeing a bunch of oddly dressed hobos walking down the street with instruments. 

But when they play, everyone is shocked by the sound, Forsha-Kelly said.

“We have an old bass drum head hanging in our band hall that says, ‘Everybody Loves the Hobos,” said Bryan Smick, Assistant Business Manager and proud “lifetime member” of the band.

“In my 40 years of playing in the band, I’ve never heard a derogatory word about our playing … we receive accolades from wherever we go.”

With a wide variety of music rehearsed and performed – including contemporary, sacred, patriotic marches, movie medleys, musical theater and, of course, some very challenging pieces that push all to grow – The Original Hobo Band plays events spanning parades and concerts to weddings and funerals. 

But they’re open to playing all kinds of gigs, so hire them if you’re looking for an iconic, internationally recognized local band featuring dozens of passionate players.

“Personally, I believe we are one of, if not, the best community bands on the east coast, if not the United States,” Ent said. “We are looking forward to our 100th anniversary (in 2034) and I for one intend to be there to celebrate!”

High schooler? Brand new to band? Senior citizen? Seasoned musician? There’s a place for you in The Original Hobo Band, no matter what instrument you play, your profession or your age. 

Joining is as simple as walking in the door at 690 Lambs Road before their weekly rehearsal.

Just remember to check originalhoboband.org/gigs to be sure they aren’t playing somewhere else that night. 

Or better yet, attend the show (or their annual summer program if you’re a youth) and make yourself known to a director or member so you can get information, ask questions and introduce yourself.

Don’t worry, you’ll fit right in.