Perito: The Musical Journey of a Versatile Conductor and Arranger
From his early days as a child prodigy in Denver to the grand stages of New York and Hollywood, Perito established himself as a cornerstone of mid-century American music. A master of the accordion and piano, his career spanned decades of evolution in the music industry, moving seamlessly between radio, television, film, and studio recording.
Early Life and Education
Perito's musical foundation began in Denver, where his parents gifted him an accordion at a young age. His passion was nurtured by his brother and uncle, who provided sheet music as incentives for him to master new pieces. This early dedication led to performances at local parties and eventually earned him a scholarship to the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver.
In 1943, Perito's life took a turn when he was drafted into the Army during World War II. Stationed in New York, he served as a medic while simultaneously contributing his musical talents to the Army band as a pianist and arranger. This period allowed him to immerse himself in the New York music scene, as band members were often permitted to take outside jobs during their weekends off.
Following the war, Perito pursued formal higher education at the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, graduating in 1949.
Professional Career and Rise to Prominence
After graduating, Perito briefly returned to Denver to marry his high school sweetheart, Judy Stone, and hosted his own weekday radio program on KOA in 1946. However, the pull of New York soon brought him back, where he worked as a songwriter, arranger, and session musician for both piano and accordion. During this time, he led his own band, which held a permanent residency at Jack Dempsey's Broadway Restaurant.
Perito's career reached new heights through his association with Perry Como. This partnership began in the early 1950s when arranger Ray Charles hired Perito to play the accordion for television performances of the novelty song "Hoop-De-Doo." By 1961, Perito had ascended to the role of musical director for United Artists Records.
In 1963, upon the recommendation of Ray Charles, Perito was hired as an arranger for Perry Como's television show. When conductor Mitchell Ayres departed for The Hollywood Palace, Perito stepped into the role of Como's music director and conductor. He remained a vital part of Como's professional life for decades, contributing the idea for Como's final album, Today (1987), and conducting his final performance in the 1994 Irish Christmas special.
Diverse Contributions to Film, TV, and Education
Beyond his work with Perry Como, Perito's versatility made him a sought-after talent for various high-profile projects. He served as the musical director for the American Film Institute awards, the Kennedy Center Honors, and television specials for Andy Williams, Bing Crosby, and The Don Knotts Show.
His work extended into cinema and studio recordings. In 1968, he composed the music for the film Don't Just Stand There! starring Robert Wagner and Mary Tyler Moore. That same year, he played accordion on Ray Charles' only solo vocal album, Memories of a Middle-Aged Movie Fan. Additionally, Perito was an influential arranger of background music for Muzak—a service providing functional background music for commercial spaces—during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
In his later years, Perito became the musical director for Bob Hope in 1993 and supported Dolores Hope's return to singing. In 1996, he performed accordion for a PBS musical special featuring actor Paul Sorvino.
Perito also left a mark on music education. Alongside Dick Grove and Allyn Ferguson, he co-founded the Grove School of Music in Van Nuys, California. The institution achieved accreditation in 1979, though it eventually closed in 1991 due to financial constraints.
Key Facts
- Education: Studied at the Lamont School of Music and graduated from the Juilliard School of Music in 1949.
- Military Service: Served as an Army medic and band musician in New York during World War II.
- Major Collaboration: Long-time music director and conductor for Perry Como, ending with a 1994 special.
- Film Work: Composed the score for the 1968 film Don't Just Stand There!.
- Educational Legacy: Co-founded the Grove School of Music, which was accredited in 1979.
- Industry Roles: Musical director for United Artists Records (1961) and Bob Hope (1993).
| Period/Year | Role/Achievement | Associated Entity/Person |
|---|---|---|
| 1946 | Radio Host | KOA Denver |
| 1949 | Graduate | Juilliard School of Music |
| 1961 | Musical Director | United Artists Records |
| 1963+ | Conductor/Music Director | Perry Como |
| 1968 | Composer/Accordionist | Don't Just Stand There! / Ray Charles |
| 1979 | Co-founder (Accredited) | Grove School of Music |
| 1993 | Musical Director | Bob Hope |
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Perito first start working with Perry Como?
Perito was first hired in the early 1950s by Como's arranger, Ray Charles, to play the accordion for television performances of the novelty song "Hoop-De-Doo."
What role did Perito play in the education of other musicians?
Perito was a founder and partner of the Grove School of Music in Van Nuys, California, which received accreditation in 1979 before closing in 1991.
Did Perito contribute to any film soundtracks?
Yes, he wrote the music for the 1968 film Don't Just Stand There!, which featured Robert Wagner and Mary Tyler Moore.
What was Perito's involvement with Muzak?
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Perito served as an influential arranger of background music for Muzak.
Which other famous entertainers did Perito work with besides Perry Como?
Perito worked with a variety of stars, including Bob Hope, Andy Williams, Bing Crosby, and Ray Charles, and served as musical director for the American Film Institute awards and the Kennedy Center Honors.