A world-renowned Accordion Virtuoso and multi-national competition winner specializing in classical, international, and contemporary performance.
Mario is a premier figure in the global accordion community, based in Cortlandt Manor, New York. His remarkable journey began as a child, where he developed a prodigious ear for imitating complex sounds before pursuing rigorous private study. He later spent many years in France refining his craft through elite formal training, establishing a foundation that would lead him to the pinnacle of his profession.
An internationally acclaimed virtuoso, Mario is a winner of many of the world's most prestigious honors, including the World Cup of Italy, the Grand Prix of Paris, and the US National Competition. He also secured top honors at the International Accordion competition held at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Mario has been a distinguished guest of the Chinese Minister of Culture on two occasions, touring cities across China and performing as a featured soloist with numerous symphonies.
Critically recognized for his artistry, The Journal News has named Mario "one of the pre-eminent Accordion Virtuosi in the world," while the New York Times has written that he makes the instrument "sound like a gift from heaven." Teaching since the 1960s, Mario offers master-level instruction on both the Piano and Chromatic Button Accordion. His outgoing personality and unmatched expertise create an inspiring environment for students of all levels to master this versatile instrument.
Mario provides elite instruction from his professional studio in Cortlandt Manor and offers high-definition online sessions for students worldwide. He focuses on the technical mastery of the bellows and buttons while fostering a deep, expressive musicality.
We know that inviting an instructor into your life requires trust. That's why every instructor at Melody Music Studios, including Mario, goes through the strictest vetting process in the industry.