Video: Joe Clemente and “Squeeze Box Nine”

What could be cuter than a band of eight and nine year old accordion players? P.S. 203 in Bayside, Queens prides itself on having one of the few Accordion Clubs in a New York City public elementary school. The school’s music teacher Linda Holcomb, recounts how accordions first came to their school. “About fifteen years ago, we had a band teacher who knew how to play the accordion. Our principal and he thought it would be fun to purchase a few accordions and start an accordion band. They had enough funds to buy nine accordions, and we have had the ‘Squeeze Box Nine’ ever since!”

This year the “Squeeze Box Nine” was fortunate to have had some tutoring sessions from professional accordionist/entertainer Joe DeClemente, or “Papa Joe” as the students like to call him. “One day I received a phone call from Joe,” recalls Holcomb. “After he introduced himself, he said he had heard we had an accordion club, and that he would like to volunteer to help. We took him up on his offer and he has been a tremendous help to us and a source of inspiration to our students. When they watch him play, they are inspired to be great accordionists.”

The accordions are a huge hit at the school, playing seasonal concerts, and even performing at events in their community. But the students most enjoy playing their accordions at Nursing Homes, Senior Centers and even at a Preschool for children with special needs. “It is so rewarding to give our students the opportunity to see how they can use their talents to bring joy to people”, says Holcomb. “Hopefully that is something they’ll remember long after they graduate from fifth grade!”

Photo of Linda Holcomb who is the music teacher at PS203Q.

For further information: lindaholcomb203@gmail.com