Accordionist Pamela Tom shares, “It is with heavy heart that I share this news of the departure of a dear accordion mentor and friend of mine, Lou LeBrun who I became friends with at the 2011 Las Vegas International Accordion Convention.
She was a wonderful entertainer and accomplished accordionist who studied with Anthony Galla-Rini, founder of the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG). She loved performing at evening concerto with the LVAC where her rendition of “Accordion Boogie,” inspired me to take Accordion lessons. She loved being a part of the lunch entertainment for the National Accordion Association and ATG Annual festivals.
We became close friends and communicated several times a week about accordions and life in general. She gifted me with arrangements that she had. She was computer literate (a skill which few nonagenarians had) and she knew how to transcribe music with Finale software. She was able to use Zoom during the Covid area to stay in touch with the accordion community. She entertained all types of audiences and also gave lectures on the accordion to the general public. She sang and danced with her accordion. She was a wonderful ambassador for the accordion and was named to the American Accordionists Hall of Fame by FAMSPA.
I collaborated with Lou in writing her biography for the “Accordion Stars Illustrated” magazine. Although this magazine is no longer in production, some back issues and reference books can be ordered via the online publisher. Lou made a difference in the world entertaining with her accordion and bringing music and smiles to her audience. If you would like a copy of her biography, please let me know. Email: accordionpam@gmail.com
Louise Faye LeBrun, 93, of Wilmington, formerly of Springfield Missouri, peacefully passed away Tuesday July 16, 2024. She was born in Los Angeles, California on September 26, 1930. Lou worked as a computer programmer for many years, particularly in an era where women did not work in that profession. But her love in life was playing her accordion. At 7 years old, her uncle purchased her first accordion and lessons. At 12 years old she joined an LA based USO troop that traveled on weekends to military bases and hospitals in California and adjoining states. She eventually worked for the Ferraro Accordion studios. In the late 40s, the era of the Women’s Clubs, she began playing in beautiful homes where meetings convened. It was during this time that Lou learned to tap dance as well.
After her retirement in 2021 she continued to entertain many audiences in multiple venues with her singing, dancing and playing the accordion. She was truly a shining star to all who knew her. A highlight of her career was appearing as a guest in 2018 on “The Mystery Hour” in Springfield Missouri.
In 2020 she was honored as an inductee into the American Accordion Hall of Fame of the Federation of American Musicians, Singers and Performing Artists (FAMSPA). She was featured as a cover page guest artist on the April 2021 special edition of “Accordion Stars Illustrated” magazine.
She is survived by her daughter Penny of Wilmington (Jerome), son Jeffrey of Ocala, Florida (Patti) and son Jeffrey of Columbus, Ohio. She is also survived by her many accordion friends from all over the country. A private family ceremony was held. Contributions may be made in Lou’s name to Innovative Accordion Music Productions. Contributions are tax deductible and used to bring quality accordion music to entertain, educate and inspire.
