Fall River band searching for $25k in stolen musical equipment

Twitter: @BComakABC6

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) – Members of the Saint Cecilia Philharmonic Band are asking the public if they have any information about their stolen instruments. 

 Someone broke onto their property Saturday night and stole $25,000 worth of musical equipment.

“This is more than just a smack in the face,” said Conductor Peter Camara. “This is very hurtful.”

Some of the items stolen include cymbals, music stands, a tuba, speakers, a drum set, and thousands of sheets of music.

Some of the players were trying to reprint the songs during the day Tuesday. 

“What can mean so little to those people who stole all of our music, means the world to us,” said Trombonist Maria Ceselia Lauer.

The band usually stores its equipment inside the building where there’s alarms and surveillance cameras. However on the day before a performance, like Saturday night, they store their equipment outdoors in a locked trailer so that it’s more easily accessible for transport the next day.

“We’ve never had anything like this,” said Camara.

For the group, which is made up of almost 50 people ranging in age from 14–75, it feels personal.

“Just return our stuff,” pleaded Camara. “You’re affecting children, you’re affecting me, you’re affecting older, elderly folks who perform in the group.”

The band has already gotten some donations from the community including about 50 music stands.

They’re hoping to start fundraising as soon as possible to help with the rest.

“Those that did this I think should be ashamed of themselves,” said Band Director Michelle Camara. “There was no need to do this.”

If you think you’ve seen any of the equipment or have any information, you’re encouraged to contact Fall River Police.