Band clubs are an integral part of Malta's cultural and social life. Għaqda Mużikali Beland (Beland Band Club), is situated opposite St. Catherine's Parish Church, is one of the earliest in Malta, dating back to 1861. This muscial society is closely associated with the prominent Diacono family, in fact the founder was Orazio Diacono. Carlo Diacono (1876 - 1942) a renowned Maltese composer started his musical career with this club. To this day this band thrives on a musical tradition of the highest level. In the 1990s the Beland Band performed musical programmes in Germany, Russia and Italy.