The US-based Golden State Accordion Club (founded in l991) enthusiastically promotes the accordion family and perpetuates the enjoyment that this instrument gives to all.   The GSA Club, comprised of 400 members among three chapters, meets monthly at the following locations; Vacaville, Humboldt County (Loleta) and Sacramento.

The GSA club is proud of its scholarship and accordion loaner programs which offer financial support and instrument availability to young players.  This year the club awarded 15 scholarships to youngsters ranging in age from 8 to 17.  To date the Club has awarded more than $50,000 in scholarships.  The scholarship program has existed for 12 years. 

Annually, accordion students under 18 years old may apply for a scholarship.  This year the awards ranged from $200 to $600.  Students are also presented a medal and honored with a reception during the May accordion club meetings in Sacramento and Vacaville. 

Scholarship funds are raised year-round through raffles at monthly meetings and annual Club events.  Members donate raffle prizes and a small cash first prize is awarded at chapter meetings.  Often, winners will donate their prize back to the scholarship fund. 

In appreciation, the students perform for the Club.  This message was received from a 14 year-old who has received annual awards since 2008: “I love everything about the accordion.  My desire has been encouraged many times by members of the GSA Club. Although I dread performing, I feel so at home and at ease as soon as I walk into another Club meeting.  Every one of you has been such a blessing throughout my life.”

Picture below of club members sitting near the Scholarship fundraising raffle table.