 Luigi
Appareti began his career at an early age. He started
taking lessons when he was 6 years old and immediately displayed the talent
that would guide his success over the years. He studied with Frank Gaviani
and Pietro Frosini. In 1939, at the age of 15, his trio won First Prize
at the New York World's Fair. A long series of radio programs and concerts
throughout New York and New England was the result of the World Fair prize.
Luigi attended the New England Conservatory of Music as a special student
and received a teaching certificate. After continuing studies with Frosini,
he soon took over his students, enjoying the opportunity to teach the joy
of the accordion to countless students.
During World War II, Luigi joined Special Services and USO camp shows as Accordion Accompanist and toured South America, North Africa, Germany, and the Middle East. During this time he played for King Farouk, of Egypt. He was praised for his work in this cause and became one of the best known artists playing music in military world. Like Bob Hope entertaining the troops, it was a fulfilling experience. In the 50’s he spent 5 years working in Europe as a soloist, performing in Italy, Spain, Paris, and at casinos on the Riviera. He gave command performances for Princess Grace Kelly and accompanied Edith Piaf for some time while playing the Riviera. As busy as he was impressing audiences at night, during the day he went to the prestigious Cordon Bleu Cooking School in Paris and passed with "flying tastes"! Once back in New York after the success in Europe, he performed at the Village Barn for three years as Accordion soloist on the bill with Dick Shawn and Jackie Mason. In 1961 Luigi was asked to go on a special mission for the U.N. to the Belgian Congo as an interpreter and to perform with a small group of musicians to bring some well deserved entertainment to the U.N. forces. This was another experience that will never be forgotten for its peace-keeping goal and the danger involved. Later in the 60’s, Luigi formed his own trio that had a very successful engagement at the Washington Hilton. He continued to perform in and around Washington, D.C. for many years before moving out west to Arizona and Colorado, where he has had many enjoyable engagements. Luigi now resides in Maryland, just outside of Washington D.C.. |