Tribute to Frank

About Francis

Francis Orsini, founder and lead singer of the Don’t Call Me Francis Band for over 25 years. Frank was a man who wore many hats. That of a dedicated father, brother, family man, and friend. An entertainer, a band leader, a musician, a businessman, an irreplaceable presence, an inspiration to many, a relentless fighter, and a truly unforgettable person.

Over the years, Frank entertained many. He had at least 100 hardcore fans that would come to see him perform on a regular basis.  Frank poured his heart and soul into his band and his music. His musical journey started in the basement of his Pennsauken home where his father taught him at the age of four to play the trumpet.  Then he moved into playing with the Pennsauken High School Marching Band. Frank started his first band in the 80s called Rockestra.   Beginning in 1991, Frank formed the The Don’t Call Me Francis Band. Since then, it has been one of the most successful dance and party bands in the tri-state area. This was only because of Frank’s hard work and dedication. Frank was known as Mr. Excitement. He took the audience places they have never been with his energy. Frank mesmerized his audience with every show, wearing his signature piece-  a fedora. Frank would play his trumpet, twirl it around and sing many songs that would get the crowd going. He would hang from rafters and jump off the stage. He captivated the crowd. Many fellow musicians stated, “It was an honor to work with Frank.” His family always said he was full of life, always whistling and drumming at the table. Even at family gatherings he would break out his trumpet.  Frank treasured his beloved daughter Adriana, who is now taking an active role in the band as a soprano vocalist.  Last March 2015, cancer took his life, after a long hard fight.  No doubt that he is deeply missed, but his legacy will live on!

The Francis Orsini Scholarship Fund

The Francis Orsini Scholarship Fund has raised thousands of dollars this past year. All proceeds from Fedoras for Frank Tshirts and a Fundraiser/Celebration this past March in honor of Frank have gone to the Pennsauken High School Francis Orsini Marching Band Scholarship Fund.

Every year a scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior who is a member of either the concert band, jazz band, marching band or drum corp. Applicants must submit an essay on how music has affected their life and what musical goals they have for their future.

Donations can be made to: “The Francis Orsini Marching Band Scholarship Fund”. Checks payable to “Pennsauken Board of Education, 1695 Hylton Rd, Pennsauken NJ 08110”.

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