This study examines the career of the Italian-American bandmaster Salvatore Minichini (1884-1977) and considers its relevance from many perspectives. This work provides a prism through which to view music's role in ethnic assimilation and identity in the United States as well as a little-known sphere of American band history. Minichini's career shows how ethnic bands participated in mainstream culture until the Depression and retreated to the ethnic community in the 1930s.

The research is based on interviews with band members as well as examinations of Minichini's personal papers, music collection, and recordings. American band history, Italian band repertoire, and immigrant history also play a vital role in this study.

Beginning with an overview of the Italian band's heritage in Italy and America, Minichini's career is then detailed chronologically. Separate chapters are devoted to Minichini's compositions and arrangements, his recordings, and his stature within the Italian ethnic community in New York City. Rare photographs and musical examples are included along with a complete listing of extant concert programs, a discography, a list of musicians who played in Minichini's bands, and a list of his arrangements and compositions.