PHILADELPHIA - Acclaimed accordionist and Broomall resident Joe Soprani talked about his USO days when he spoke at the Kimmel Center, in conjunction with a performance by Peter Nero and the Philly Pops called "The Stage Door Canteen."

The "Canteen" concerts by the Philly Pops opened last night and continue Friday through Sunday in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.

Peter Nero, of Upper Providence, and his famous Pops will recall the poignant melodies and songs of the World War II era, a time Soprani is very familiar with.

Soprani performed with a USO troupe for U.S. servicemen and women in Japan and Korea in 1953, and - at 18 -- became one of the youngest American entertainers to perform for the troops.

A few years later, Soprani enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and, as the accordion soloist with the Air Force Band, he traveled the world for four years. When he returned to the United States, he went to West Chester University, the Philadelphia Musical Academy and later taught music at Philadelphia’s Lamberton High School.

Now retired from teaching, Soprani can be found performing throughout the Delaware Valley. He holds the distinction of being the only accordionist in the history of the Philadelphia Orchestra to appear as a featured soloist, under Maestro Eugene Ormandy.

He also performed with the Philadelphia Opera Company.

Soprani also writes and records arrangements for accordions. He recently recorded a CD of popular Italian folk songs.

Soprani will address the audience before each Pops concert as part of the Philly Pops popular Musicians Talk series, which takes place prior to each concert during "The Stage Door Canteen" concert series.

Joining the Philly Pops for this series is Big Band singer Lynn Roberts. She began her singing career at age 15 with Charlie Spivak and his band.

She performed with legends of the day from Frank Sinatra to Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. She also sang with Benny Goodman and his orchestra for 10 years and, for four years with Harry James.