Matteo Galanti
Video
Oral History Information
Interview Date
Job Title
Founder
Company Name
GEM
Matteo Galanti and his family have been instrumental in the growth and development of the accordion and organ industry, both inside and outside the United States. Beginning in the 1950s, the accordion became one of the leading instruments in the industry; however, dealer relations were not yet well organized for imported goods. The Galanti family pioneered these efforts and worked the accordion explosion right into the organ craze of the 1950s and 60s. Matteo developed one of the first portable keyboards, which was the first of many innovations enjoyed by the company. Today he is the founder and president of GEM, covering more ground in electric keyboards and related gear.