February 5, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Bill Findeiso. William "Bill" Findeison, co-founder and longtime bandleader
of St. Petersburg's Second Time Arounders Marching Band and Second Winds Symphonic Band, died Thursday. He was 84.
Our community is deeply saddened by this loss. Bill’s vision, leadership, and love of music created something truly special — a place where friendships
were formed, confidence was rebuilt, and joy was found at every step and every note. His impact on the lives of so many people cannot be overstated.
A proud Florida State University alumnus, Bill devoted his life to music education and excellence. From his years as a Marching Chief and student leader
at FSU to his distinguished career as a band director in St. Petersburg. Bill was the first band director for Lakewood High School, from 1966 to 1978, and
the former owner of Bringe Music. He inspired generations of musicians through school programs, community ensembles, and his work as an entrepreneur
supporting music education.
Formed in 1983, Bill co-founded The Awesome Original Second Time Arounders mMarching and concert band composed of former high school and college band members, ranging
in age from 18 to 90. The Second Time Arounders, which became a national model for adult community bands — giving thousands of musicians the
chance to make music for a lifetime. Bill directed the Second Time Arounders for 40 years, leaving a legacy that continues to thrive today.
We are profoundly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind and the countless memories he gave us. Bill will always be part of the St. Petersburg and Pinellas County music
family, and his spirit will continue to march with us.
From Pat Carpenter President of the Masonic Band - January 2024
Almost 4 years ago, COVID caused the Masonic Home of Saint Petersburg FL to close access to their building. This meant that the Masonic Band could no longer use their auditorium for rehearsals and concerts. The Masonic Home’s staff decided to not invite the band back to their facility. As a result the band was disolved.
The band donated their percussion instruments, music stands, and stand racks to the North Shore Elementary Public School next door. That left us with a music library and bank accounts. Now all that has been resolved. The Masonic Band board decided to disperse the remaining funds to two other local community bands whose members played with the Masonic Band. St. Pete Community Band is one of them.
In appreciation for the players who showed up faithfully on Friday evenings and the afternoons of the second Sunday of each month, the board makes this donation to the St. Petersburg Community Band.
Spend it well, and rock on, band!
The band is moving to a new rehearsal space. Starting in Januray 2024, we will now be rehearsing at the Riviera United Methodist Church, 175 62nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702. Rehersals are still at 7pm Mondays.
If you would like to participate, please fillout our Join request form.
We would like to thank Allendale Methodist Chirch for their support over the last 7 years.
We generally welcome instrumentalists without an audition, although there are some instruments we need more than others. Please let us know your
chosen instrument(s), comfort level with sight-reading, number of years of experience, and your general availability for rehearsals and concerts.
We require that you attend two rehearsals before performing in a concert. Please click here to fill out our new members inquiry form.
We do not charge a fee to join. The only cost to you will be the minimum requirement for our band shirt and your supplies. Click here to learn about
our uniform requirements.
We rehearse most Monday evenings September through May at 7:00 pm at:
Riviera United Methodist Church
175 62nd Ave N
St. Petersburg, FL 3370