Renowned Accordionist Guy Klucevsek Passes Away at 78

Guy Klucevsek, a distinguished accordionist known for expanding the instrument’s scope far beyond its traditional associations with polkas and folk music, died on May 22 at his Staten Island residence. He was 78 years old.

His wife, Jan (Gibson) Klucevsek, confirmed that he succumbed to pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer.

Widely praised for elevating the accordion’s status beyond its stereotypical presence in beer halls and vintage television programs, Klucevsek redefined the instrument’s role in contemporary music.

In a 2015 review of his East Village performances, a music critic highlighted that Klucevsek had mastered virtually every style associated with the accordion—from classical and jazz to international genres—and had pushed its capabilities into entirely new realms.

Throughout his career, he produced over 20 albums, composed numerous original works, and commissioned pieces from other artists spanning various genres. His collaborations included accompanying performance artist Laurie Anderson on her 1994 album "Bright Red" and working with dancer Maureen Fleming on "B. Madonna," a 2013 multimedia production inspired by the Persephone myth.