Bobby started playing the accordion when he was seven years old, and never stopped. He began playing professionally at the age of fifteen, to help put himself through college.
His accordion style is rather unique. Because his favorite music is ethnic music from around the world, many of the songs he plays the audience is already familiar with.
He likes to emphasize “passion” and his own “style” when performing, rather than just “technique.” Being classically trained, he uses most of the switches on “both” the right and left hands, and prefers to use the left hand as another instrument, to compliment the right hand, as was taught by Galla-Rini.
Throughout the years, he’s played jobs as a soloist and with groups, including The Reunion Ensemble and the Alpine Quartet. He has also performed at many different venues, including three times in Las Vegas, church events, Oktoberfests, accordion clubs, restaurants,
and private parties.
He learned to repair and restore accordions, and purchased his own accordion business from Sam Costabile. Bobby feels there is nothing quite like bringing vintage accordions back to their
glory days.
After all these years, it’s hard to describe the joy it gives him to still be able to play, and see the people’s reaction to his music.
This free public event is part of the Smiley LIVE! concert series. It's family-friendly, with a Q&A segment where young and old alike can ask the performers questions about their music, their performance, and anything else they may be curious about.
You may also like the following events from A.K. Smiley Public Library:
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Entertainment events in Redlands,
Performances in Redlands,
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