Accordion music was part of every major social event that Dominic Karcic attended in his youth. So it was no surprise that he began to take lessons at the age of ten. Eventually, his love for the instrument and accordion music became the catalyst for both performing and a career as a music educator in the Long Island public school system. Dominic knew that there were many active and former players of the accordion, but there also existed a lack of local activities and events devoted to its music.
In 2010, Dominic contacted various accordionists to organize a group. On August 3, 2010, the first meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) took place. That meeting included Joe Campo, John Custie, Charlie Fontana, Phil Franzese, Dominic Karcic, Emilio Magnotta, Ray Oreggia, Phil Prete, Franco Ruggiero and Mike Zeppetella.
The Alliance, made up of both professional and amateur accordionists, meets each month. Members perform solo, in small ensembles and as an orchestra. Every month’s meetings usually have a featured guest artist and they have hosted some of the finest U.S. and international accordionists. These performers have included Beverly Roberts Curnow, Mario Tacca, Mary Tokarski, Manny Corallo, Angelo DiPippo, Don Gerundo, Emilio Magnotta, Paddy Noonan, Frank Toscano, the Scandinavian group Smorgas Bandet and internationally acclaimed vocalist Mary Mancini.
Patrons enjoy dinner and listen to the music. Some even play during the “open mic” portion of the evening. The aim of the LIAA is to promote the love for the accordion and its music, bring former musicians back to the instrument and create an environment to celebrate the accordion and its culture.
Recently, Dave Anthony Setteducati, host of the “Italian America Long Island,” a Cablevision program, videoed the group’s event. The program includes interviews with the Alliance members and guests, with member accordionists performing. This program is scheduled to air on Wednesday, March 28, 2018.
The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) meets at 6:00 pm on the first Wednesday each month at La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road in East Northport, New York. Reservations are highly recommended by calling 631-261 6344.
