Honoring the Life and Music of Tony Raymann

Anton (Tony) Raymann peacefully entered Heaven on August 15, 2025, at the age of 93. He dedicated his life to sharing joy through music. Born in Switzerland as the 16th of 17 children, Tony came to the United States in 1960 and made Napa his forever home with his wife, Paulette and children, Colette and Scott.

In the late 1960s, he formed the Tony Raymann Edelweiss Dance Band, becoming well known throughout the Bay Area for his lively accordion music, yodeling, and warm stage presence. His performances blended Swiss, German, Austrian, and American favorites, always leaving audiences smiling. At every event, his last song was the same: “Auf Wiedersehen”—a musical farewell and promise to meet again.

Music was not just Tony’s passion—it was his gift to others. He believed in the accordion’s power to bring people together, and he was especially proud to encourage young people to carry on this beautiful tradition. Tony’s upbeat humor and his favorite saying, “C’est la vie d’artiste” (“such is the life of an artist”), reflected his outlook on performing and his joy in sharing music with others. He was also a longtime member of the Golden State Accordion Club (Vacaville and Sacramento chapters). Over the years, he generously donated many accordions and contributed to the children’s scholarship fund, inspiring youngsters to discover the joy of playing the accordion.

To honor his legacy, the Tony Raymann Student Accordion Scholarship Fund has been established. This fund will provide opportunities for aspiring young accordionists to learn, perform, and share the joy of music, just as Tony did for so many decades. The family will be working directly with Northern California accordion instructors to ensure that every donation goes straight to children currently taking lessons—helping them pursue their passion for music with the support Tony always dreamed of giving.

Your contribution will help keep Tony’s music alive in the hands and hearts of the next generation. Whether you knew him personally, danced to his band, or simply share a love of music, your generosity will ensure that Tony’s legacy continues to inspire.

From Tony’s family and friends—thank you for helping us say “Auf Wiedersehen” in the way he would have loved: with music, joy, and a gift for the future.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Scott Raymann