Anthony E. Caselli, 61, of Wauconda, a professional musician who played with Bob Hope, Tony Orlando and Engelbert Humperdinck when they were in town and also taught private classes for 40 years, died of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma Monday, May 20, at St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates. Mr. Caselli followed his father–a jewelry store owner who also played the trumpet professionally–into the music business. After studying for four years at Roosevelt University, he became a professional percussionist, and his high-energy, joyous personality translated to his drumming. He also taught drum set lessons out of his home for 40 years and was an associate lecturer from 1975 to 1989 at Northwestern University. In addition to sitting in with top recording artists when they played Chicago venues, Mr. Caselli was the lead male vocalist and drummer for the Tony Caselli Orchestra, which played contemporary music at social and political events. He was also the substitute drummer for the Bozo television show. Mr. Caselli is survived by his wife, Judith; a son, Michael Land; a brother, Nick; and a sister, Julie Ann Caselli Creighton. Visitation will be held from 2:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Ahlgrim & Sons Funeral Home, 415 S. Buesching Rd., Lake Zurich. Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.
