Mario Pedone

2016 Honorary Conductor

Mario was born in a small town near Bari, in Southern Italy. In an effort to improve the family's financial situation, the Pedones immigrated to Valencia, Venezuela in 1959. Mario's older brother, Ludovico, had begun to study the accordion and Mario was always watching him, hoping one day he also could play this wonderful instrument. He persistently begged his father to let him start accordion lessons, too, and eventually succeeded. As a young man he devoted at least 4 to 5 hours per day practicing until his father screamed GIVE US A BREAK but that didn't stop Mario from playing his beloved instrument.

While in Venezuela, Mario graduated as a Concertista, Cum Laude, and finally with a degree of Professor of Accordion. After graduation Mario founded his own accordion school where he had over 125 students. Many of his students now play professionally. Mario has won numerous championships with both the accordion and the organ.

In 1981, in search of a better future, Mario moved to Sugar Land, Texas, with his wife and children. He continues to teach and perform professionally and has his own recording studio in Sugar Land.

Mario's students feel that Mario is too modest and not fully recognized for his life’s devotion and his musical genius. His warm nature makes him convention favorite! Come help us celebrate with Mario, as he becomes our 2016 Honorary Conductor