Community Corner

Reading Parents Donate Son's Drum Set to Music School

When Reading resident Steve Calla passed away from cancer, his parents decided to donate his drum set to the Band Gig School of Music in honor of his memory.

The following information is from a press release.

Steve Calla's love of playing the drums started in sixth grade when he joined the school band as a percussionist and joined a few friends in a punk band.  He was hooked!  By the time Steve hit his freshman year of high school, he and his family got the news that no family ever wants to hear - he had been diagnosed with Cancer. 

Not long after starting treatment, which included surgery, chemotherapy and months at a time in the hospital, Steve and his family learned that he was eligible for "Make-A-Wish" - a non-profit that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses.  

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He knew immediately what he wanted - a tricked-out, "Cadillac" drum set.  For Steve, designing the drum set was a labor or love - he spent days and weeks in the hospital researching the best makers and models.  Comparing and contrasting different color combinations and finishes.  

The end result was a truly beautiful instrument – A DW (Drum Workshop) drum kit in cobalt blue, black and platinum, sleek and loud! 

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"When Steve passed away, we knew we had to find an appropriate use for his drum kit," stated Steve's parents, Bob and Barb Calla of Reading.  "It was important to use that it be kept intact and hopefully help other kids find the same passion and confidence in music that Steve did.  We were thrilled to learn that we could place it with Band Gig School of Music & Performance, where it will be used by young drummers.  It is satisfying to know that Steve's "Wish" will continue to provide joy for many years into the future.  He would be very proud of his legacy." 

Nick Vecchio, owner of Band Gig School Of Music stated, “Band Gig School of Music and Performance is so honored to have been chosen as the recipient of Steve’s much loved Drum Kit. Our intention is to use the drums for all of our concerts and Fundraisers throughout the year raising funds for Music Drives Us and our common mission of keeping music in our communities. I can’t thank Steve’s Mom and Dad enough for their generosity, and to Steve for his Dream.”

Band Gig School of Music has three locations including Dedham, Norwood and their newest location in Hyde Park.


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