Oriental Band

FORMED
LuLu Shriner Oriental Band was organized in 1958, at a meeting of the Montgomery County Shrine Club, held in the Valley Forge Hotel in Norristown PA.

MEETING PLACE
Oriental Band Room of the LuLu Shriners Building – 5140 Butler Pike, Plumouth Meeting PA 19462

HISTORY
The Band has a long history, going back to its inception. They have received many trophies and awards while performing in parades and compititions. The band raises money in the support of our Shriners Hospitals, of which they are very proud.

MEMBERSHIP
To join the band you must be a member in good standing in the following:
Masonic Lodge
Shrine of North America

REQUIREMENTS
The new candidate must have an interest in music, fun, and fellowship.
He must enjoy helping children, this is our main goal.
Knowledge of music is a plus, but is not necessary, as we will teach you to play one of our many instruments.

MEETING DATES
The Band conducts two meetings a month:

2nd Thursday practice at 7:30 PM
4th Thursday practice and business meeting staring at 8:00 PM
Refreshments are provided before or after each of these meetings.

During the course of the year, the band will hold social functions and our ladies group known as the “Pearls of the Oda” will attend. They also have an active part and meet on the same night as the band business meeting.

OBJECTIVES
Raise money for the operation of our orthopedic and burn unit, Shriners Hospitals for Children
Having fun, fellowship and a good time, while generating these funds
Making the public aware of charity work performed by the Masons and Shriners

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
The Band provides a different sound with the following:

Chinese Musette, sometimes called a Snake Charmers Horn.
Tambourines
Gongs
Cymbals
Congo drums
Single Tom Tom Drum
Double Tom Tom Drums
Triple Tom Tom Drums
Base Drums
Potatoemasher
Wooden Sticks

UNIFORMS & MAKE-UP
Uniforms take on middle east or men of the dessert look, Usually very colorful.
Turned up shoes or boots
Head dress, capes or robes.
Pantaloons or skirts.

Make up consists of:
Beards and mustaches
Skin darkened with pancake and eye shadow, to take on a weather beaten look

COMPETITION
The band competes in parades and stage competition with other oriental bands. They are judged for uniforms, make up, musical presentation and overall performance.

It takes many men to help in this great philanthropy. We have a variety of backgrounds in our band, bus drivers, bank officers, police officers, plumbers, retired members and etc. These men have great pride and spirit in what they do as members of this organization, known as Lu Lu Shrine Oriental Band. We would like to include you in this group. When you see us coming down the street, give us a wave and a smile.