THANK YOU MESSAGE FROM LAMANCOS BAND

A Message from the La Manco-Mersaglia Band:

Twenty-four hours after our return home, it feels only right to write a few words about what we have experienced.

Bringing the music of the *Gigli* to America was far more than just a trip: it was a dream come true. ❤️🇮🇹🇺🇸

We crossed an ocean with our hearts brimming with emotion, carrying with us our melodies, our sounds, and our tradition. When the first notes began to ring out, we felt an indescribable thrill—as if, for a moment, our homeland were right there with us.

For many of us, this was our first time setting foot on American soil. We fulfilled a dream built upon years of sacrifice—the sacrifices of our parents, our own, but above all, those of our Maestro Manco, who for over 40 years has built—with passion and dedication—the ensemble we are today. This journey is the culmination of a long path paved with commitment, personal sacrifice, and a deep love for the music of the *Gigli*.

We met extraordinary people who welcomed us as if we had known one another forever: kisses, hugs, and sincere handshakes that made us feel instantly at home, even thousands of kilometers away.

To see with our own eyes what the *Festa* has managed to create across the ocean was something truly indescribable. It is a true artisan workshop, where—with passion—they construct the *Giglio* tower itself, its decorative cladding, and all the accompanying rigging. It features a sound system that becomes the beating heart for playing our music, and a small *“giglitiello”*—a miniature *Giglio*—serving as a symbol of devotion and an unbreakable bond with our homeland.

Performing our pieces, seeing the glistening eyes of the committee members, recognizing those familiar movements, hearing the traditional commands once again, and moving in perfect time together… these were moments that made us realize just how universal the *Festa dei Gigli* truly is. It is not merely a festival; it is a sense of belonging, a passion, and an identity. The day of the *questua* (fundraising procession) was also unforgettable: a restaurant filled with over 300 people, all gathered there just for us—to listen to our style and to those melodies that accompany our lives every day, and which, for once, were played entirely for them.

A special thank you goes to Pino Parisi and his Nola Sound 2 team, who—with the skills of a true “ZAGNO” (master craftsman)—managed the sound system, ensuring that every instrument resonated in the absolute best way. His determination and his ability to always find a solution were absolutely fundamental. Thank you, Pino; you were a fantastic traveling companion… and roommate!

A sincere thank you also goes to Francesco Provvisiero, who made us feel like part of his home right from the start. He generously gave of his time, his knowledge, and his boundless availability—driving us everywhere, helping us with our equipment, and truly letting us experience America. He ensured we lacked nothing, introducing us to American cuisine and many local gems that made this experience even more authentic and special.

Thank you to Salvatore Minieri—a companion through so many festivals and glorious years—who, with a voice forged in the neighborhoods of Nola, brought the spirit of the city and its music along with him. His presence was the icing on the cake of this entire journey.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to all the members of the Massapequa Giglio Association: each and every one contributed with sacrifice, dedication, strength, and passion. We shared emotions, hard work, laughter, and the profound responsibility of representing our tradition far from home. This achievement belongs to all of us, because—before being a group—we are a family walking together in the same direction.

Thank you to the entire community of Massapequa for everything you have given us, and for everything that is yet to come. We will see you in August for the most important milestone of all: the *Festa dei Gigli* (Festival of the Lilies).

Thank you to everyone who believed in, took a chance on, and invested in this project. We are deeply honored to be able to continue this journey together. America welcomed us with warmth, but we brought a piece of home with us… and we made it felt more powerfully than ever.

Because the music of the Gigli knows no boundaries. 💙🎶