At our recent Oktoberfest celebration, the Little Sisters’ auditorium filled with smiles, clapping, and the unmistakable sound of accordion as Nancy Leonard – fittingly called “The Accordion Queen of Washington, D.C.” – took the stage.
Nancy shared that she began performing at age 10 and trained under Carmelo Pino. at Catholic University of America. She delighted residents with a bright, varied solo program featuring lively polkas, elegant waltzes, beloved show tunes, and contemporary favorites. Attendees recognized tunes like “Tea for Two,” “Beer Barrel Polka (Roll Out the Barrel),” and a lively boogie-woogie number, singing along, tapping their toes, and enjoying the afternoon.
“I just love the accordion!” exclaimed Emma. “I wish we could have more accordion music! Nancy was amazing – she remembers all those songs; there wasn’t one song they asked for that she didn’t know.” Jane, another Resident, came early and spoke with Nancy before the music began, sharing that she, too, had grown up surrounded by accordions and concertinas – a warm, personal moment that set the tone for the afternoon.
After the performance, several Residents crowded around Nancy, to ask questions, offer thanks, and request specific pieces, which she happily played. The afternoon offered more than music: there were soft pretzels, eclairs, and other seasonal treats, and punch.
Earlier in the day, Residents enjoyed an Oktoberfest dinner planned by Mother Patricia Mary and Charron, the director of dining services – complete with German potato salad, bratwurst, and sauerkraut. The celebrations were lovely reminders of how music, food, and shared traditions brighten our days.
Thank you to Nancy Leonard and staff for creating a joyful afternoon.
