Residents of Corewell Health Senior Living joyfully celebrate Oktoberfest, enjoying lively music and warm camaraderie.

Playing for an Oktoberfest 2025

“This performance was a special tribute to Shavon Baker, who dedicated over 20 years as an activity director.”

Corewell Seniors of Dearborn May 2025

For the past 18 years, I have performed on Saint Patrick’s Day, bringing music to residents across all levels of care at Corewell Seniors.

Corewell Seniors Saint Patricks Day 2025

After retiring from teaching in 2006, I began performing as a strolling accordionist—it continues to keep me active and brings me joy.

Playing at Canton Seniors 2019

Using my full MIDI setup, I create the rich, dynamic sound of a complete five-piece band—delivering a full musical experience.

Playing at a 99th birthday party in Wyandotte with all of my MIDI gear 2012

Members of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 528 came together to volunteer their time and help raise funds for the Salvation Army.

Vietnam Vets of Chapter 528 Plymouth-Canton Ringing for the Salvation Army 2010

Partnering with Stacey, Miss Michigan 1993, we make a positive and lasting difference for a truly great cause.

Stacey Mason and I at a Ypsilanti restaurant in 2009.

Each year, my Vietnam Veterans of America chapter visits fellow veterans, sharing the joy and spirit of the Christmas season.

In 2007, I performed at the Ann Arbor VA Hospital alongside Miss Washtenaw, Miss Michigan, and Stacey.

Tim on guitar (leader), Dale on drums, Glen on saxophone, Chad on Trombone and Bass, and me on the accordion.

The Knight Kats 1965 - our first photo!

The band wore tuxedos for weddings and parties. Tom D. was a Vietnam War combat Marine.

The Knight Kats (1968): Me, Tom D., and Tim

After a couple of months, the band welcomed a fourth member.

The Knight Kats, 1968: Me, Tom D. (drums), Tim (guitar), and Gary (saxophone)

It was a joy to have my fiancée join the band as a female vocalist. Cheryl and I have now been married for 54 wonderful years.

Cheryl joins the band as our female vocalist 1970

This was our saxophone player’s final performance before he proudly volunteered for service in the U.S. Navy.

The Knight Kats: Me, Jim, Tom D., and Gary — 1970

Fresh from earning my B.S. at Eastern Michigan University, I was immediately drafted into the U.S. Army in the midst of the Vietnam War.

The Knight Kats: Me, Tom D., and Jim — our farewell performance before I left for the Army in 1970.

I gained a wealth of musical knowledge from the five other members, several of whom were more than 30 years older than I.

The Highlanders: 1972 to 1980 — Wayne (sax), Bud (trumpet), Ziggy (guitar & vibes), Ernie (drums), Roy (clarinet), and me.

Providing music for Tom D.’s son’s retirement from the United States Navy

The Knight Kats: Me., Jim, Tim and Tom D. 2011

It’s hard to believe the band has been together for 50 years, especially with our original drummer, Dale, still playing alongside us.

The Knight Kats 50th Reunion: Tim, Jim, Tom D., Dale and me 2015

Celebrating Tom D.'s 80th birthday.

The Knight Kats: Me. (accordion), Tom D. (drums)Tim (guitar and vocals) July 2025

At my first concert, I was only 7 years old. My accordion teachers were Louis Faggio (1956-1963) and George Cailotto (1963-1965).

Weaver's Music Accordion Dance Band 1957 Concert.

More than 30 people from several areas of Southeast Michigan came to celebrate a Polish custom on February 13.

Fat Thursday Celebration at the Polish Village Cafe in Hamtramck 2026

This exceptional jazz accordion, crafted under the direction of Tony Dannon, is widely regarded as one of the finest accordions ever made.

Modern Jazz (extended keyboard) Borsini Accordion

Me with Art Van Damme, the world’s greatest jazz accordionist, at his 81st birthday celebration.

Art Van Damme, one of my heroes of the accordion.

Tony Dannon, the world’s greatest accordion teacher, and me (2001).

Tony Dannon - Co-owner of Modern Accordion Studio

I am with Peter Soave, the world’s greatest classical accordionist, and John Castiglione, renowned accordion maker and distributor.

Accordionists Peter Soave & John Castiglione