The Deiro Archive

The Deiro Archive consists of a wealth of documents—printed and recorded—pertaining to the lives and careers of the brothers Guido (1886-1950) and Pietro (1888-1954) Deiro, who together introduced the piano accordion to the United States in the early twentieth century and then played a half-century-long role in popularizing the instrument.  Thus the material is of paramount importance to anyone interested in the history of the accordion in our country.  Moreover, since the brothers forged major careers on the vaudeville stage, the Archive is an important source of information for that phase of American popular entertainment.  Finally, the Archive’s documents shed light on one particular aspect of the Italian American immigrant experience on our shores. 

The Archive is divided into two sections:  the Guido Deiro Section and the Pietro Deiro Section, the latter also containing material about the life and career of Pietro (“Lee”) Deiro, Jr. (1913-1999).  The catalogue of materials in each section is then organized in a manner that best suits its contents. 

The Deiro Archive is housed in the Mina Rees Library, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York.  Its materials can be consulted by appointment.  Enquiries should be made either to Prof. Allan Atlas (aatlas@gc.cuny.edu) or to Ms. Caroline Fuchs (cfuchs@gc.cuny.edu).

Guido Deiro

Pietro Deiro