AMS in the DMV: AccordiAlly

Thanks for visiting my new and improved blog!

My AccordiAlly page tells a little bit about the beginnings of my accordion project, which started almost immediately after moving to northern Virginia – aka, “The DMV” (where DC/MD/VA converge). I’m looking forward to building on this project as I learn more about the fascinating instrument. In the meantime, I wanted to start by giving a couple important shout-outs.

First, Peter DiGiovanni – President of WMAS – has easily been my biggest advocate and supporter in learning the instrument. When I attended my first WMAS meeting, he sent me home with an instrument so I could begin learning right away.

While I appreciate being loaned his lovely accordion, I ultimately wanted to obtain my own. That’s when Peter put me in touch with Barbara Juszczyk, whose late husband was a longtime member of WMAS. Bob passed away in the latter part of 2026, but his instruments needed a new home. I’m now a grateful owner of two of his nice accordions. Pictured below is Bob – with an instrument now in my possession.

While I did not know Bob personally, Barb wanted me to pass along some information about him: He enjoyed playing at his church’s senior group, and sometimes would sing and ask them sing along.  There was a time when an elderly gentleman with dementia was motivated by the music, to get up and dance with his wife – which was so moving.

Bob, this is for you.