From Dream to Reality
The late Gianfranco “John” Gabbanelli journeyed to the United States in pursuit of the American Dream and launched a revolution in the music industry as he single handedly shifted the standard boundaries of accordion design by pioneering the first two-tone accordion model and launching color and customization to the forefront of the accordion industry.
Gabbanelli is world-renowned for its beauty, quality and legendary status. Each instrument is handmade by professional factory-trained artisans to produce the finest accordions and bajos. Individually designed and tuned, each Gabbanelli reflects the personality and flair of the instruments owner. For over 50 years, Gabbanelli Accordions has commissioned the finest team of artisans who uphold the same standards expected at Gabbanelli Accordions to keep up with the changing times. Although this team of artisans may have changed over our 50 years, the legendary quality of GABBANELLI branded accordions remains unchanged.
As the “best for the best”, an authentic Gabbanelli Accordion features a combination of Gabbanelli Signature Elements such as the legendary Gabbanelli Emblem and unique décor accented with Swarovski crystals and one or more of Gabbanelli’s 19 exclusive colors.
Established and homegrown in Houston, Texas, Gabbanelli has revolutionized the international accordion industry and continues to be distinctive, visionary and a true music icon.
Founder - Gianfranco “John” Gabbanelli (1937-2003)
Upon arriving to Houston, Texas in 1961, John Gabbanelli, transformed the music world by challenging the traditional look, feel and sound of the accordion. John, alongside his wife Louise, began a small business where John could explore his own ideas of what an accordion should look and sound like…they named it Gabbanelli Accordions. From a small garage in their Houston home, John transformed his visionary ideas into innovative designs and models that revolutionized the accordion industry. As one of the world’s top accordion specialists of his time, John dedicated 42 years of his life to the Gabbanelli brand before passing in 2003.
CEO/President - Mike Gabbanelli
For over 23 years, Mike has dedicated himself to learning the Gabbanelli business. In 2005, Mike became CEO/ President and has continued the family legacy of revolutionizing the accordion industry with artisanship and innovation. Mike has become one of only a few true accordion specialist’s remaining in the world that still practice the dying artisan trade and is currently the youngest of only three professional trained tuners in the world that can do precision tuning by ear. Thousands of customers each year travel near and far seeking Mike’s expertise and precision to design, develop and restore their accordions.
Vice President - Elia Gabbanelli
Elia, wife of Mike Gabbanelli, has brought her strengths in business and marketing to assist in carrying the family business into the 21st century. Elia oversees day-to-day business operations, customer relations and branding.
