Trustees Honor Roll

Trolli, Joe

Composer, Arranger and Teacher (1907-1989)
Inducted on November 28, 1989

Playing an important role behind the scenes, Joe Trolli realized his greatest accomplishments through others. Drawn to music as a child, Joe learned to play the accordion as a teen in Eveleth, Minnesota. He continued his studies in Cleveland under Joe Sedlon, and began teaching and playing professionally in the 1930s. In 1948, Joe established the Collinwood Music Center where he personally tutored some of Cleveland's finest accordionists and produced students that perforrned throughout the nation. After World War II, Joe collaborated with Frank Yankovic and Johnny Pecon to create some of the most famous Cleveland-style music ever recorded, including 'The Milwaukee Polka," "Three Yanks Polka," "Linda's Lullaby" and 'The Whirlaway Waltz"— melodies that continue to entertain listeners and dancers the world over.