Accordion Orchestras

There’s nothing quite like the full, powerful sound of accordion orchestras! From my childhood days performing with the Jacobs-Shean-Morris Titano Orchestra in Edmonton to playing in the prestigious Accordion Teachers Guild International (ATG) Orchestra under Joan C. Sommers, these large ensemble experiences remain some of my most treasured memories in music.

Jacob Sheen and Morris Music School Titano Orchestra 1964

Jacobs-Shean-Morris Titano Accordion Orchestra 1964 – Debra Peters early orchestra days — Jacob Sheen and Morris Music School – Titano Band 1964 – Edmonton, Alberta. Can you find me? I am there! Left side, 3 quarters of the way up to the top. I had a headband on. I was 8 years old and I am playing a Pigini Accordion, as I did not own a Titano. lol

Jacobs-Shean-Morris School of Music 1968 Kiwanis Festival Winners

1968 group photo of young accordion students from Jacobs-Shean-Morris School of Music, festival winners — 1968 Accordion Festival Winners

Accordion Teachers Guild International – Chicago Orchestra 2015

Accordion Teachers Guild International (ATG) Orchestra 2015 with Debra Peters — ATG Orchestra 2015

Orchestra of Accordion Teachers Guild International (ATG) performing was a highlight of my musical journey. There’s nothing quite like the powerful sound of many accordions playing together. To me, reminiscent of the sound of an old freight train passing by. Have you ever heard the quiet side of a Japanese speed train? or the roar of an old locomotive running at full speed? The rumble of the orchestra is something to behold. Orchestra gathering in cities of Chicago, Las Vegas, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. This image is of our orchestra performances and special events under the baton of orchestra conductor, ATG’s Joan C. Sommers, and other orchestra leaders Stas Venglevski and Jeff Lisenby who left us in 2020. The tall man standing is Kevin Frederich of New Zealand.