My life
with Excelsior

Excelsior came into being in New York in 1924 with the name Excelsior Manufacturing Company as a result of the enterprising spirit of the brothers, Egisto and Roberto Pancotti. It was not long before the accordions made by Excelsior became the most appreciated by professional American musicians. Excelsior issued a number of photo books of “Excelsior Stars”, featuring, amongst the many others, artists of the calibre of Pietro Deiro, Pietro Frosini, Charles Magnante, Dick Contino, Elma Santa, Art Van Damme and Frank Gaviani. In the early years of activity, those also known as “The Golden Age of the Accordion”, Excelsior designed models, registered patents, carry out experiments in acoustics and design, to such a degree that even today, after half a century, its instruments preserve the fascination of exclusivity and excellence. After the Second World War, production was moved to Italy, to Castelfidardo. Excelsior spa was founded, later becoming CEMEX srl, finally becoming Excelsior srl. Today, Excelsior belongs to Pigini srl, a company specialising in the production of high quality instruments, mainly those equipped with the free bass mechanism. The journey continues. Excelsior, today more than ever, stands for excellence in the manufacture of accordions for professionals and passionate enthusiasts.