At age nine the student progressed to performing in local classical concerts as a soloist and as a member of his teacher's, Rosamond Cellini's, large accordion orchestra, a valuable early ensemble training. Rose & Elder Sam Melchionne, grandparents of Sam, inpsired the accordion.  Sam was a serious music student from the early age of seven following  his grandfather's footsteps. He was soon playing with elder Sam for family affairs (every one) and N.J. politcal events for his dad Luke, the  driving force responsible for focusing Sam from the  start. (age nine, 1940 corduroy knickets )

Rose & Sam Melchionne, grandparents Picture 1938.  4th St., Newark, N.J. Sam's birthplace.