Joe Recchia Michigan Accordionist

Dolomiti Duo is made up of 2 fine Detriot Area based Musicians that can provide a woderful european festive feel to your next event!

For booking information please contact Joe Recchia 248-830-6684

Band Members

Herb Gruber, clarinetist

Herb Gruber is a talented clarinetist and saxophonist whose musical journey spans the picturesque hills of Austria to the vibrant music scene of Southeastern Michigan.

Born and raised in a rural area of Steiermark, Austria, Herb grew up in a highly musical family. His parents were especially involved in music. His father’s prime instrument was the clarinet but he performed also on trombone and tuba. Both his parents were leading and singing in choirs to cherish the Austrian folk music.

Under his father’s firm guidance, Herb began playing clarinet as a pre-teen. As a teenager, he performed with several local concert bands, nurturing a deep passion for the instrument. Though he dreamed of studying music professionally, practical advice from family steered him toward a more stable path. He pursued a degree in Vehicle Engineering while simultaneously attending the Conservatory of Music in Austria for six years, studying clarinet and saxophone. 

In the early 1990s, Herb accepted an irresistible job offer that brought him to the Detroit area. Since then, he has remained an active and valued member of the regional music community, performing with various concert bands and smaller ensembles throughout Southeastern Michigan. He also maintains strong ties to his European roots, traveling regularly to Munich to perform during international events at the Oktoberfest. 

A recent and exciting collaboration goes by the name of “Dolomiti Duo”, which was formed when he joined with acclaimed accordionist Joe Recchia. Together, they delight audiences with timeless melodies, blending classical, folk, and popular traditions—often featuring cherished songs from the old homeland. Herb continues to share his warm sound on the clarinet, technical skill, and genuine love for music, bringing joy and nostalgia to listeners on both sides of the Atlantic.

Joe Recchia, Accordionist

Joe is a renowned Michigan accordionist, performer, and dedicated advocate for the accordion and its rich musical heritage. Based in the Detroit area, he has earned a reputation as one of the region's most accomplished and respected accordionists. While Joe enjoys performing jazz, popular standards, and classical music, his greatest passion is presenting traditional Mediterranean Italian American and German Austrian-style compositions.

Joe proudly continues a distinguished family tradition of exceptional accordionists. His grandfather, Augustino D'Annuncio, served as the official accordionist for Henry Ford, performing as Music Director at Mr. Ford's estate in Dearborn, Michigan. Joe's uncle, Tony Dannon, built upon that legacy, achieving international recognition as one of the world's premier jazz accordionists while establishing one of the nation's most successful and respected accordion studios in Dearborn. Today, Joe carries this remarkable musical heritage forward with pride.

In addition to his performing career, Joe serves as President of the Michigan Accordion Society, where he is committed to preserving and promoting accordion music through concerts, educational programs, community outreach, and special events that introduce new audiences to the instrument.

Joe's career has taken him throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe, including performances aboard Princess Cruise Lines. Whether entertaining as a strolling solo accordionist at private celebrations, festivals, and corporate events, or collaborating with outstanding vocalists and instrumentalists, Joe is known for his versatility, musicianship, and engaging stage presence.

Throughout his career, Joe has had the privilege of performing alongside many legendary figures in the accordion world, including Myron Floren, Art Van Damme, Dick Contino, Frank Marocco, Carl Fortina, Cory Pesaturo, and numerous other distinguished artists.

Joe was also a member of one of the Detroit area's favorite German bands, The Immigrant Sons. Today, he performs with Dolomiti Duo, featuring Austrian clarinetist Herb Gruber. Together they delight audiences of all ages with timeless European melodies and spirited performances.

Whether performing for an intimate gathering or a large audience, Joe Recchia brings warmth, virtuosity, and genuine joy to every appearance. As both an accomplished entertainer and a passionate ambassador for the accordion, he continues to preserve and celebrate the enduring charm of this remarkable instrument for future generations.