On a personal note I believe that I know many of the members of the AAA but there probably quite a few that do not know me very well. I was exposed to the accordion in kindergarten at 5 years old when I saw a girl, one of my class mates play for the class. I was instantly “Hooked”! On the accordion – not the girl. I started taking lessons with Sal Febbraio who was on the AAA board. I had to stop for personal family issues but hounded my mother to continue studying.
I finally started again and went to Tony Mecca. As a beginner he had one of his advanced students give me lessons until I was 17. Then I studied with Tony. I ended up going to Ithaca College which actually started out as a music conservatory. Mom was not too crazy about me majoring in music so I had to stay under the “Music Radar” so to speak. I spent a lot of time in the music building and was asked to join a professional music fraternity – Phi Mu Alpha. I believe I was the only non-music major in the frat at the time and certainly the only non-major accordionist.
After college I studied piano with a well-known jazz pianist – Johnny Morris and also took jazz lessons with a well-known teacher in NYC – Adolph Sandole. So I guess the lesson is “You somehow get to where you want to be regardless of the route and the obstacles in your way”!
Right now we are starting to plan on the events and activities that we want to engage in. The 2025 Festival is certainly is high on the list and must be nailed down. I recognize that our yearly festivals bring a lot of joy to many of our members as they can play in the orchestra and listen to wonderful artists perform. In addition it is a time to re-connect with many of the members.
I look forward to meeting you and hope you have a healthy and enjoyable year.
Warm regards,
Don Gerundo
AAA President
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