The Michigan Accordion Society invites all to their annual Christmas Party featuring accordionist Michael Schaeffer. The event takes place on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 at 6:30 PM at Crispelli’s Bakery and Pizzeria in Bekley, Michigan. There will also be a raffle, open mic, great food and cash bar.

Michael Schaeffer is an accordion player based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He specializes in playing Italian, French, and tango music, along with his own original compositions.

Michael grew up in Marshall, Michigan. Throughout his youth, he practiced piano and created artwork – both creative outlets he deeply enjoyed. He studied painting at Kendall College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he still lives today. Michael has continued doing what he loves by maintaining careers in painting and music.

Michael had played piano for fifteen years before he ever picked up an accordion. He began playing the accordion in 2001, inspired by a dream in which he was playing a bellowed instrument in a dark room.

Though he specializes in Italian, French, and tango, he maintains an impressive repertoire of various styles, including polka, klezmer, Hungarian, and gypsy music including original compositions. Michael has built his reputation by sharing his music at restaurants and private events, partnering with other musicians for a variety of projects, and teaching accordion to students of all ages. He recently began pursuing a new passion in his accordion career: accordion sales and repairs.

Michael’s artwork has been exhibited at LaFontsee Galleries in Grand Rapids since 1995. LaFontsee Galleries has a long history of being voted “Best Art Gallery” in Grand Rapids by readers of On-the-Town and Grand Rapids Magazine. A selection of Michael’s work can be also viewed on his art website.

For more information: Toni Recchia 586-530-1546