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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
Coupe Moniale 2017 Official Rules and Regulations Are Available
Elsie M. Bennett 2017 Composition Competition
Steve Albini to Demonstrate Roland FR4X in Pre-Release Event
Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestra 2017 Events
JazzNights with the Julien Labro Quartet
Celebrate Guy Klucevsek's 70th Birthday
The Big Squeeze Accordion Contest is Back for 2017
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
New release: Jessi Teich & Laurent Derache Duets eTracks Album
Music Magic USA Holds 1st US Product Debut for the New FR-4x V-Accordion
Accordion Academy Winter Session 2017 is Now Open
American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Events for 2017
Change of Location for Connecticut Accordion Association’s “The First Concert”
Brooklyn Accordion Club
Future events |
Alexander Sevastian in Concert
The Red Lantern Accordionist..AAA 23rd Year
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 15-18
Highlights |
Here are Your 2017 Accordion New Year's Resolutions!by Rita Barnea |
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 I like to begin each new year reminding us all that playing music at any level is a unique and special gift which we all possess. It is never too late to begin learning the accordion (or any instrument) and the joys, which include meeting new friends, are priceless. Think of all the wonderful people that you have met this past year because of the accordion. And, there are more to meet this year! Here are your New Year's Resolutions! Have some suggestions? Please send them along with your ideas/comments to me at Ritabelll@aol.com1. I promise to practice my accordion every day. You can find at least 20 to 30 minutes a day to practice your accordion if you really want to. If you find time for watching the news on TV, or talking on your cell phone, enjoying your tablet, computer or just sitting on your couch, you can find the time to take your accordion out of its case! With a little effort, you will be pleasantly surprised with the results. Practicing your accordion is relaxing, a stress reliever and also good exercise! And you don't need a doctor's appointment or a prescription! 2. I promise to play my accordion for friends and family at least once a month (more often would be even better)! Everyone who has ever seen me perform has always commented on the beauty and complexity of the instrument{ as if there were something very magical about playing the accordion. But it is magical, isn't it?) Going to a family dinner or having the family and friends over?....... take out your accordion and play for them. No matter what your level of proficiency is..........people will be amazed by your playing and admire your commitment to learning the accordion. Share your music. Visit senior centers, nursery schools, etc. 3. I promise to learn at least one new song every month. Try to expand your repertoire. It doesn't have to be a concerto! What about a new popular song or one from the past that you always wanted to learn. Don't have the music? Look it up on the Internet or e-mail your accordion friends. If you want the song........ it is out there on the internet: however, if you really cannot find it, try to play it by ear, sound it out, write out the notes. It may take time, but it is a good experience to learn it on your own. It is possible, don't be afraid to try it. 4. I promise to attend at least two or more accordion events in 2017. There are many accordion festivals, concerts, accordion clubs etc. around the country. Search the USA News www.accordionusa.com each month and you will find an event in your area. Not only will you have a wonderful time listening to great accordionists, but you will be able to participate on any level from beginner to advanced. There will be accordion bands, ensembles, people who will enjoy meeting you and hearing about your experiences with the accordion. If you want to meet interesting people who share your love of the accordion, you will find them! You will not only hear great music but you will go away with new friends. Check out the calendar on the right side of the publication. You will see events listed by the month, location, websites, etc. 5. I will purchase at least two accordion CD's. iTunes, books, sheet music, or DVD's this year! There are so many wonderful accordion CD's. Search the Internet and you will find lists of accordion artists. It is important to show our support for these outstanding musicians by buying their CD's! Visit www.MusicForAccordion.com to find your favorite accordion items! 6. I promise to introduce the accordion to people who have never heard one before. This is a special opportunity for you to expand the musical horizons of someone. The accordion is so versatile, found in cultures all over the world and running the gamut from folk to classical and everything in between! There is a visual fascination with the accordion that no other instrument can claim. How do we do it? Keys, buttons, bellows, It is a coordination of fine motor skills that places an accordionist at the top of the list of the Best Multitaskers in the World! 7. I promise to send news about my accordion club, association, concert, event to Ritabelll@aol.com for an article in the USA News. We can also include photos and videos. We want to know all about your accordion activities. Please let me know far in advance, if possible, so that readers can plan their schedules accordionly (Could not resist that one!!). 8. I will think about treating myself to a new accordion! Why not? When you have a new instrument, you sound better!! Well, some practice would also help. 9. I promise to read the USA News www.accordionusa.com every month and the Weekly News www.accordions.com regularly. All past publications are available in archives. 10. I promise to get in shape this year! Being in good physical health leads to a better mental and spiritual outlook on life. Watching your diet, losing weight, exercising are all positive and beneficial activities. Not only does it benefit your daily life, but also your musical abilities. Why is this true? As you may already know, playing the accordion requires upper body strength to lift the instrument to play and perhaps to stroll with. Using the bellows requires arm muscle movement, etc. You will feel better, look better, and play better! My suggestion: Take a photo of yourself/video of your playing the accordion. Get on a regular exercise program as well as a regular practice schedule. Take a photo/video of yourself three months later. You will notice a great improvement in your physical appearance and your musical performance. Let me know how it works for you. 11. I will reread Resolutions 1-10 again and again! Happy New Year to All! Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2017! |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USAby Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
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  I am writing this on the plane flying internationally to Las Vegas for the Octoberfest Las Vegas International from 15th to 18th October at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Paul Betken & Jerry Cigler are newly added to a great line up of stars (list below) with lots of great seats still available! Want to hop a plane to come and enjoy this exciting festival? Newsletter (picture right) with full information: 2018LVACnews.pdf Picture left: Event organizer Paul Pasquali The lineup starts with visionary accordionist Cory Pesaturo and bookends with a grand finale starring Grayson Masefield and the International Accordion Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Prof. Joan Sommers. You can register online at www.AccordionStars.com or contact Paul Pasquali, event organizer, by phone at 1-800-472-1695 or (801) 485-5840, email: paul@accordioninfo.com. |
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Coupe Moniale 2017 Official Rules and Regulations Are Availableby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
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 The Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA), a member of the International Music Council (IMC), an NGO offical partner of UNESCO, has published the official Rules and Regulations for the 70th CIA Coupe Mondiale in Osimo City, Italy from 5th to 10th September, 2017. The 2017 Coupe Mondiale will feature seven international categories of competition – Coupe Mondiale – Masters Coupe Mondiale – Junior Coupe Mondiale – Virtuoso Entertainment – Junior Virtuoso Entertainment – Chamber - Classical – Chamber - World Music The on-line entry system will open in April-May, entry closing date: 31st July 2017 Host Italian Accordion Culture (IAC), Artistic Director Mirco Patarini, has announced a superb lineup of concerts from Baroque to Jazz, Digital to Opera, world premieres, the 9th World Accordion Orchestra plus the Coupe Mondiale Winners Concert to make a wonderful event in the beautiful city of Osimo. Full information online at: Coupe Mondiale |
Elsie M. Bennett 2017 Composition Competitionby Rita Barnea |
 Video above: 2016 winning composition "Spring Blizzard" performed by the composer, Emmanuel Gasser.The AAA announces the 2017 Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition with a $250 cash award for the winning composers in both the Junior and Open categories in the competition. Below is an overview of the basic rules of the competition. Rules and entry forms are available at: 2017Bennett.pdf The general purpose of this competition is to add to the solo concert repertoire of the acoustic accordion. There is no directive for the style of the composition. There will be two divisions – Junior Division for composers up to the age of 18, and an Open Division for composers of any age. There will be first, second and third place awards presented when entries merit them. A cash award in the amount of $250 will be presented to the first place winner in each category. |
Steve Albini to Demonstrate Roland FR4X in Pre-Release Eventby Rita Barnea |
 Prior to the Roland Exhibit at the NAMM show on January 19, 2017 in California, Roland artist Steve Albini, from San Francisco, will be presenting the new Roland FR4X at Falcetti Music. Roland FR4X technical information at: 2016FR4X.pdfWhen: Sunday January 8th, 2017 Where: Falcetti Music Concert Hall (Lower Level) 1755 Boston Road, Springfield Ma. 01129 (Directions located on www.falcettimusic.com) Time: 1:00PM – 3:00PM Please RSVP to peggyf1944@gmail.com or call Sam Falcetti at 413-204-5522 Steve Albini began with the trumpet, playing in fourth grade while his sister and cousin dazzled on the accordion. That was the problem. Steve soon decided that he wanted the accordion.When his sister quit the accordion, he took it up. The Italian phrase "passione e fuoco" truly describes the music of singer and multi-instrumentalist Steve Albini. For over two decades, Steve has enchanted audiences across the US and throughout Italy, performing traditional and modern Italian music as well as American jazz and popular standards. An acclaimed singer and musician, Steve steeps his Italian music with world and jazz rhythms; his original fusion rhythms have brought him international acclaim. His live concerts showcase his musical mastery and artistic passion, merging Ital- ian, world, jazz and Latin threads into the tapestry that is uniquely Steve’s. Steve began winning awards early in his career for both his singing and accordion. He played onstage with popular Italian singer Frankie Fanelli and has performed for Al Martino, Jose Feliciano, Senator Di- anne Feinstein and former Secretary of State Alexander Haig. Musician and singer Steve Albini's live performances span Italian, world, jazz and Latin American genres. Over the years Steve has performed at music festivals, Italian festivals, corporate events, restaurants, wineries, concert halls and night clubs throughout the U.S. and Italy. He has performed at events for many famous celebrities and politicians. His southern Italian roots are strongly reflected through his music. As a studio musician Steve is often called by producers and artists to add his touch to their projects. Steve is also V-Accordion Clinician for Roland Corporation and currently working together with Las Vegas based accordionist Tatiana Semichastnaya. Their current project is the World music group Il Sole. Roland Events in January 2017: Jan 8. Springfield Mass, Falcetti Event Jan. 10 Batavia, NY, Roxy's Music Event Jan. 12 Philadelphia, PA, Liberty Bellows Event Jan. 14 Pittsburgh, PA, Carnegie Accordions Event Jan. 16 Detroit, Michigan, Castigliani Accordions Event Jan. 17 Michigan Accordion Society Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville, CA January 3, 24 and 31; Feb. 7, 14, 21 and 28 and most Tuesdays in 2017. San Rafael Joe's in San Rafael, CA January 22 and 29; February 5, 12, 19 For further information on the Roland event: peggyf1944@gmail.com Roland FR4X technical information at: 2016FR4X.pdf For further information on Steve: steven.albini@gmail.com |
Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestra 2017 Eventsby Rita Barnea |
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| The Cedar presents Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra on Saturday Jan 14, 2017. Doors open : 7:00 PM. Show: 8:00 PM All Ages. $18 Advance / $20 Day of Show The Cedar Cultural Center is located at 416 Cedar Ave S Minneapolis, MN.This is a seated show.Tickets are available online, by phone, and at Depth of Field, Electric Fetus, and The Cedar during shows. The genre of the show includes World, French, Gypsy Swing music. The members of the Cafe Accordion Orchestra include: Dan Newton-accordion, vocals, Eric Mohring-mandolin, fiddle, vocals, Erik Lillestol-electric & acoustic bass, vocals, Joe Steinger-drums, percussion, Robert Bell-guitar, banjo, oud, vocals Excerpts from the website:“Berets and Bongos” describes the Café Accordion experience. A loungy, eclectic mix, full of French flare, Latin heat and Bohemian attitude. The heart of the Café Accordion repertoire is the romantic, gypsy-influenced valse-musette. The group complements the musettes with swing, ballads, tangos, cha chas, rumbas, and cumbias to create a wonderfully varied show. They inject their music with good humor and expressive abandon. Their high level of musicianship and passion for performance makes them an entertaining concert act as well as a great dance band. CAO has been delighting audiences and dancers alike since 1995. They have appeared in New York at the Lincoln Center's Midsummer Night Swing series, the International Akkordeon Festival in Vienna, Austria, The Minnesota State Fair, A Prairie Home Companion, as well as festivals, theaters and dance halls across the United States. They recently released their tenth album. Upcoming Performances: Loring Pasta Bar - Mpls, MN • Every Tuesday! 2017 Tue Jan 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; February 7, 6:00 - 9:00PM Join Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra on Tuesday nights at the Loring Pasta Bar. Cedar Cultural Center - Mpls, MN 2017 Sat Jan 14, 8:00 - 10:30PM. CAO is pleased to return to The Cedar for their 12th annual winter concert!! Bistro La Roux - Circle Pines, MN 2017 Sat Jan 28th 7:00 - 10:00 PM Join the band for an evening of French Musette and Gypsy Swing at Bistro La Roux. For info and reservations: 763-717-8288 For further information: daddysqueeze@yahoo.com |
JazzNights with the Julien Labro Quartetby Rita Barnea |
 On Sunday, January 15, 2017, JazzNights is pleased to present the Julien Labro quartet which includes Julien Labro (accordionist), Vadim Neselovskyi(p), Richie Barsha (percussion), Jorge Roeder (bass). The event will be held at 4:PM at the Curtis/Brodsky home at 53 Clarke Court in Princeton. Directions are posted on our website. We are asking for a contribution of $55 per person. Please email your reservation to mary@wisnovsky.net or simply reply to this email at your earliest convenience.In an effort to save paper and mailing expense, as well to give us an idea of attendance numbers sooner rather than later, we ask those of you who email responses to write out a check payable to Mary Wisnovsky for the appropriate amount ($55 per person) and mail it to her at her address, 33 Otter Creek Road, Skillman, NJ 08558. Payment would also be appreciated as soon as possible. Note: If you reserve now but later find that you can't make it, please let us know right away. We often have a waiting list and can use the space, sometimes even at the last moment. We try to keep the costs as low as possible and "no-shows" inevitably raise the price to others in the future. This concert is a “first” for JazzNights—over the past 15 years a wide variety of musicians and instruments have performed for us, but we have never before presented a jazz accordionist! I heard Julien Labro and his quartet perfom for the Princeton University concert series last spring and I and many others in the audience were bowled over. It promises to be an exciting afternoon of music and we hope many of you will come. Heralded as “the next accordion star,” Julien Labro has established himself as one of the foremost accordion, accordina and bandoneón players in the classical and jazz genres. Deemed “a triple threat: brilliant technician, poetic melodist and cunning arranger,” his virtuosity has earned him international acclaim. French-born Julien Labro moved to the United States in 1998 where he earned two Graduate Degrees in Composition and Jazz Studies and was exposed to and embraced music ranging from jazz, pop and hip-hop to electronic/techno, avant-garde and rap, as well as Latin, Indian, Asian, Middle Eastern, and other types of world music. He has shared the stage and/or recorded with a myriad of eclectic artists including João Donato, Cassandra Wilson, Marcel Khalife, Miguel Zenón, Jon Irabagon, James Carter, Chris Cheek, Tommy Emmanuel, Bucky Pizzarelli, Frank Vignola, and Fernando Otero to name a few. Boundary breaking and eclectic, the Julien Labro Quartet escapes easy classification with its unique musical language and blend of improvisation and artistry that draws from each individual musician’s diverse background and musical roots. Inspired by music from around the world and across a myriad of genres, spanning jazz, classical, world and even folk music, the JLQ have crafted a refreshingly genre-bending, multilayered contemporary voice, rich with harmony, rhythm, and spontaneity that sets them indescribably apart. Ukranian born pianist Vadim Neselovski debut solo CD Music for September has been described as an elegant and lyrical collection that is equl parts classical recital and jazz session. He has been praised by the Los Angeles Times for his "extraordinary playing" and by the New York Times for his "feathery touch". Originally from Lima, Peru, Jorge Roeder is one of the most versatile bass players in the New York jazz scene. Touring, recording and performing actively in New York, Jorge is currently part of several projects including The Julian Lage Group whose debut album was nominated for a Grammy for "best contemporary jazz album catagory" in 2009. He has performed with luminaries such as Gary Burton, Steve Lacy, Kenny Werner and Matt Wilson. Percussionist Richie Barshay noted for his work with the Herbie Hancock Quartet , has established himself as a prominent musical voie of his generation. On tour and recordings, his diverse resume includes Chick Corea, Esperanza Spalding, Fred Hersch, Kenny Werner and Bobby McFerrin, among others. JazzNights is a series of house concerts begun in 2002 by Mary Wisnovsky and Maitland Jones. Over the years, we have hosted some of the best jazz musicians in the world. We would be pleased to have you join us. Contact us if you are interested. Reservations by email to: mary@wisnovsky.net or mjjr@princeton.edu. |
Celebrate Guy Klucevsek's 70th Birthdayby Rita Barnea |
 Snug Harbor Cultural Center on Staten Island has invited accordionist Guy Klucevsek to present a concert of his music in celebration of his 70th birthday. The concert is on Saturday, Feb.25, 2017 at 5:PM reception, 6:PM concert. Joining Guy will be his friends, Todd Reynolds on violin, and Kamala Sankaram, voice and accordion. Guy Klucevsek is one of the world’s most versatile and highly-respected accordionists. He has performed and/or recorded with Laurie Anderson, Bang On a Can, Brave Combo, Anthony Braxton, Anthony Coleman, Dave Douglas, Bill Frisell, Rahim al Haj, Robin Holcomb, Kepa Junkera, the Kronos Quartet, Natalie Merchant, Present Music, Relâche, Zeitgeist, and John Zorn. He is the recipient of a 2010 United States Artists Collins Fellowship, an unrestricted $50,000 award given annually to "America's finest artists." He has premiered over 50 solo accordion pieces, including his own, as well as those he has commissioned from Mary Ellen Childs, William Duckworth, Fred Frith, Aaron Jay Kernis, Jerome Kitzke, Stephen Montague, Somei Satoh, Lois V Vierk, and John Zorn. Stay tuned for more details as they become available. For more information: gklucevsek@mac.com |
The Big Squeeze Accordion Contest is Back for 2017by Sheree Scarborough |
 Texas Folklife Will Search for Top Young Accordion Talent Throughout TexasLocal Event Producer Alysha Hernández Appointed Program Director Austin, Texas – December 7, 2016 – Texas Folklife is thrilled to announce that the Big Squeeze Accordion Contest will be back in 2017. This will be the 11th year for the Big Squeeze program that supports up-and-coming Texas musicians who are 21 years of age or younger. The contest is one of the ways in which Texas Folklife carries out its mission to preserve and present Texas’s diverse cultural heritage. The contest recruits players in all genres of the Lone Star State’s accordion-based music, including German, Czech, and Polish polka; Creole, Cajun, and zydeco; conjunto, norteño, and Tejano; and Country & Western. Last year, for the Big Squeeze’s 10th anniversary, Texas Folklife held a celebratory concert at the Bullock Texas State History Museum that featured past winners of the contest who are now leading accordion stars and teachers in their communities across the state. Through the Big Squeeze program, Texas Folklife has built a reputation as a champion of Texas accordion music genres, and has supported over 200 young, talented players in their efforts to carry on these community-based accordion music traditions. In 2017, Texas Folklife will hit the road again and hold Big Squeeze showcases in communities throughout the state to search for young accordion talent. The showcases will be free and open to the public, and will feature music by established accordion artists as well as showcase the young musicians. Finalists will be selected by a panel of judges and will perform at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in April where three Grand Prize Winners will be selected and receive prize packages. The Grand Prize Winners will perform onstage with legendary Texas musicians at the Accordion Kings & Queens Concert in Houston in June. Arrangements are being made now for showcases across the state and an announcement will be made with dates, venues, and application instructions in January. This is a special time in Texas Folklife’s history. The thirty-two year old non-profit has a lot of fresh, young faces leading it. Charlie Lockwood is Texas Folklife’s new Executive Director, appointed in October 2016. Lockwood has worked with the organization since 2012, and previously served as Programs, Operations, Development Director and Acting Director. And a new Big Squeeze Program Director is taking the helm this year. Local event producer and writer Alysha Hernández will be leading the Big Squeeze Program in 2017. Hernández brings a decade of experience in communications, film, and live event production. She is a native Texan, born in San Antonio and has spent much of her life in the Rio Grande Valley. A new initiative for Big Squeeze 2017 is the opportunity for individuals and organizations to become sponsors of the program. There is information on the website on how to become a Big Squeeze Sponsor at: www.texasfolklife.org, or please contact us by phone at 512-441-9255. “I can’t wait to get started on the Big Squeeze Accordion Contest for 2017,” said Executive Director Charlie Lockwood. “We at Texas Folklife have a lot of new energy for this year’s program. I’m particularly pleased that Alysha Hernández will be joining us. She brings a deep knowledge of historically important areas in the state for the contest, stellar experience in event production and management, and a lot of passion for our work. The Big Squeeze is one of our most popular and most important programs—I’m glad it is back!” The Big Squeeze is supported by Hohner, Inc., The Texas Music Office, Hacienda Records, and by grants from Texas Commission on the Arts, the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division, the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, and the Houston Endowment. About Texas Folklife Texas Folklife is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and preserving the diverse cultures and living heritage of the Lone Star State, and is designated by the National Endowment for the Arts as the Folk & Traditional Arts organization for the state. For over 30 years, Texas Folklife has honored cultural traditions passed down within communities, explored their importance in contemporary society, and celebrated them by providing accessible and joyful arts experiences. 1708 Houston St. Austin, Texas 78756 T 512-441-9255 F 844-386-2091 www.texasfolklife.org Media inquiries: Sheree Scarborough 512-922-5483/ sheree.scarborough@gmail.com Program inquiries: Alysha Hernández 210-286-1999 / bigsqueeze@texasfolklife.org |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Big Changes at the New England Accordion Museum!by Rita Barnea |
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 Paul Ramunni, Founder of the New England Accordion Museum shares his New Year’s greetings with all:Hello Everyone: I am very happy to announce that the New England Accordion Museum located in Canaan, Connecticut, is expanding its facility and operations. In addition to our accordion museum, we are now offering new and used accordions for sale, servicing and repairs. Accordion Connection of New Hampshire closed its doors last August 2016. After discussion with Arthur and Sue Welch, we have decided to continue their legacy here in Connecticut. Consequently, our museum name will change to The New England Accordion Connection and Museum Co. Between our museum and the sales company, we now have over 600 accordions on display. Of that number 100+ new and used accordions are available for sale in our newly renovated studio and showroom. The accordions are of various makes and designs; there is something for everyone to sample and try. We also offer: -Lessons for beginners -Saturday gatherings for group and individual play -Our traveling museum which visits senior centers, nursing homes and other locations to play, display and present older accordions and their stories. -Our repair loft with repair supplies, accessories and repair services -Sponsoring speaker seminars and workshops (on and off the premises) -Multimedia presentations of performing artists found online at various websites -Accordions accepted as donations for the museum or purchased outright -Customer owned accordions accepted for sale on a consignment basis -Accordion appraisal services -Over 10,000 pieces of sheet music, instruction books and song books offered for sale at reasonable prices. -The reminiscent sounds of a newly renovated Wurlitzer Jukebox in our showroom We are booking visits by appointment only. Give us a call....it's worth the trip from anywhere! Have a very Happy and blessed New Year................ Paul Ramunni The New England Accordion Connection and Museum Co. For further information: ramunni@comcast.net |
New release: Jessi Teich & Laurent Derache Duets eTracks Albumby Harley Jones |
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 mp3 eTracks album by Jessi Teich & Laurent Derache was released on December 8, 2016.Singer Jessi Teich, International Award Winning Indie Singer, Songwriter, Musician, and Performer based in Los Angeles writes: "I have added a video above that my amazing team put together so you can see some of the footage from the recording session. Enjoy! It is with great pleasure that I share one of my most treasured projects with you today - "the duets". Rarely do I perform covers, but these particular ones are all very special to me.' Each one of these songs has moved my musical heart in one way or another throughout my life. I hope they bring you joy and peace in this upcoming holiday season!" The single mp3 tracks and album are available online at: TheDuets00eT |
Music Magic USA Holds 1st US Product Debut for the New FR-4x V-Accordionby Rita Barnea |
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 The first and only public product presentation event of 2016 for the new Roland FR-4x V-accordion digital accordion was held at the new UACCNJ Community Center in Whippany, NJ on December 28, 2016. Roland FR4X technical information at: 2016FR4X.pdfMusic Magic USA, LLC, among the first accordion specialty musical retailers to have been selected by Roland Corporation more than a decade ago to offer the V-Accordion line of digital accordions nationwide, has seen the steady progress, technological improvements and, most gratifyingly, growing international acceptance of the digital accordion at all levels as a complement, alternative or addition within the accordion family of musical instruments. The inclusion of the digital accordion as its own category in prestigious Coupe Mondiale and AAA competitions has helped to validate its use in the musical mainstream - adding the possibility of new dimensions, textures and sensory experiences to an accordionist’s artistic performance. The FR-4x was demonstrated to the attendees by Alex Chudolij, accordionist and proprietor of Music Magic USA of Clifton, NJ. Mr. Chudolij presented a 60 minute performance and demonstration showing how such a technologically sophisticated instrument has been provided with an easy to use interface capable of providing sound by sound tailoring of instrument response, tonal shaping and easy utilization and organization of the instrument’s internal palette of nearly 1000 accordion registers representing sampling and sound modeling of dozens of accordion types and tunings from around the world, as well as 150 on board Orchestral sounds, 32 different Organs and hundreds of percussive elements that can make the fingers of the left hand emulate everything from drumsticks to engaging the sounds of myriad percussive instruments and effects - all with the multi-controllability of velocity sensitivity on both hands together with true bellows dynamics as well as numerous algorithms or "digital models" that, together with the on-board processor, evaluate what and how the instrument is being played every moment and generate a tonal response based on how the actual instrument would respond under the same playing conditions. After the demonstration all participants had an opportunity to try out the new instrument for themselves and based on the response, this may be the most popular V-Accordion of them all! Due to the anticipated high demand for accordionists in the vicinity of the Tri-State area (NY/NJ/PA) to want to audition and hear this amazing instrument and the fact that a number of would-be attendees were not able to attend the first product demonstration because it occurred in the midst of a very hectic holiday vacation period, Music Magic USA will be hosting another Roland FR-4x product introduction event on Sunday January 8th at 1:00PM - 3:00PM at the UACCNJ center located at 60C North Jefferson Road in Whippany, NJ 07981. Roland FR4X technical information at: 2016FR4X.pdf Additional details of the free event will be posted on the www.MusicMagicUSA.com website. All are welcome to attend. Please RSVP if you plan on attending by calling Music Magic USA at (888) 887-0975 or by e-mailing info@MusicMagicUSA.com. |
Accordion Academy Winter Session 2017 is Now Openby Rita Barnea |
 The Accordion Academy Winter Session is a 12 week program for accordion training, support, correction and encouragement.Save 10% Use Coupon Code: Winter2017 Dallas Vietty invites all to join, "My name is Dallas Vietty I’m a professional accordionist and a pioneering accordion educator. Through RebelReed I’ve taught over 700 accordion lessons. Whether you are a beginner or professional, I can help you take your playing to the next level.” Accordion Academy is limited to 20 students. Accordion Academy is a package of lessons, weekly coaching, online activities and a performance project.Each session includes students of all levels, from beginner to professional. Each session is designed to help students develop their skills and explore their artistic identity. There are 4 sessions per year. Fall: October to December, Winter: January to March, Spring: April to June, Summer: July to September Dallas Vietty teachers through Skype, FaceTime, and in person in Philadelphia. He also teaches at Lafayette College, summer music camps, music schools, accordion clubs and accordion festivals.He has created RebelReed, his site that provides information and learning opportunities for accordionists at all levels. Excerpts from Dallas’ website: "Award-winning accordionist and educator Dallas Vietty is one of the most in-demand young accordionists performing jazz and swing in the United States today. Dallas’ unique style comes from his background in the American jazz tradition, as well as deep study and immersion in the European swing tradition of Django Reinhardt (Gypsy Jazz) and the French musette and jazz accordionists. As band leader of three groups (Hot Bijouxx, Musette Project, Tempus Fugit) Dallas remains very active on the East Coast concert and festival scene. His groups have performed at some of the top U.S. festivals: Djangology NYC, TEDx Philly, Djangoary Festival, to name a few. As a sideman his performances have taken him to legendary venues such as The Iridium Jazz Club NYC, BB King’s Time Square, The Highline Ballroom NYC, and the Philadelphia Kimmel Center Verizon Hall. Along with his passion as a performer, Dallas is equally dedicated to providing innovative accordion education. Since 2011, he has been conducting workshops and publishing teaching materials for the American Accordion Musicological Society, American Accordionists’ Association, Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society, and many more groups. He is also a recently elected Board member of the AAA. Dallas has been invited 4 consecutive years as teaching artist at the internationally-renowned Django in June summer Gypsy Jazz intensive. In early 2013, Dallas founded the popular online teaching platform RebelReed, which has educated and provided private accordion instruction to scores of students across the US, Canada, Germany and Australia. He holds a position as Visiting Instructor at Lafayette College, and is co-leading a series of master classes in Philadelphia. With his breadth of professional teaching practice, Dallas Vietty has arisen as a foremost expert in the realm of Gypsy Jazz for piano accordion. Growing up in Southern California’s Mojave Desert, Dallas showed a proclivity for music at a young age. He began as a jazz pianist, starting private instruction at 12, and spent several summers at the famous Idyllwild Summer School for the Arts. At California State University Northridge, Dallas pursued Jazz Studies, and performed throughout the LA metro area, Hawaii, and Japan. But piano was soon superseded by a passion for accordion. Dallas moved to the East Coast and fortified his independent education at New Jersey’s Acme Accordion School, studying fundamental technique and Free Bass education. Dallas continued his accordion education with Frederic Deschamps and Roberto Cassan in technique and expression, classical accordion and extended technique. He has also studied with world-renowned saxophonist Ben Schechter. Dallas Vietty's future performances: 1/8/17 Sunday 12-2:PM.. Jazz Trio for Brunch at Maxwell's on Main Street, Doylestown, PA 1/14/17 Saturday 7-9:PM..Performance with Gypsy Roots for the Djangoary Celebration at The Cultural Arts Center of Glen Allen, Glen Allen, VA 1/20/17 Friday 6:30-9:30 PM.. Musette Project Duo at Deanna's Restaurant, Lambertville, NJ 2/14/17..Valentine's Day Duo at The Vault Brewing Company in Yardley, PA. Hot Bijouxx will be back to Paris Bistro on March 10 and 11, 2017 For further information: dallasvietty@gmail.com |
American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Events for 2017by Mary Tokarski |
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 I hope you are all having a great Holiday season. Preparations for the holidays are always stressful, but thank goodness, we have our music to keep us anchored! Thoughts of “winter” are chilling, and music activities always slow down, thanks to Mother Nature . . . we never know what she has in mind for us!The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) is gearing up for an exciting 2017. It gives me great pleasure to announce to you that the music of the winning young composers in the Elsie M. Bennett Competition Competition will soon be available right here on the AAA website for you to download and perform! We are very proud of the music that has been composed right here at AAA, and want everyone to be able to join us in celebrating these great young people. Keep checking back – they should be available soon! The 2017 Bennett Competition Rules and entry forms are available at: 2017Bennett.pdf - Get YOUR composition ready. There will be an Open Meeting for all members at 3:00 p.m. on April 2, 2017 at the Hanover Marriott in Whippany, NJ following the MAMTG and AAMS Festivals. We hope you will join us, and bring along lots of great new thoughts and ideas too! April 30, 2017 will bring together some of our finest young artists for the Carrozza Memorial Scholarship Fund Raiser being held at the Villa Barone Hilltop Manor, 466 US Route 6, Mahopac NY 10541. Winners of the last Carrozza Memorial Competition – Nathan Chapeton, Tor Stumo and Cody McSherry, along with Gia Ciccone and Will Comer (winner of the 2016 Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition) will head the cast of artists. Watch for reservation details – coming soon! If that is not enough, then hold onto your socks for our SqueezeFest this year – in Princeton, New Jersey! The artists are lining up as we speak, and the workshop schedule looks outstanding . . . be sure to plan the dates into your travel schedule for July 12-16, 2017. Forms will be on the website so keep your eyes open. Have a great Holiday season, and I will be back with you soon with more updates on AAA excitement. |
Change of Location for Connecticut Accordion Association’s “The First Concert”by Rita Barnea |
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| You are invited to share the memories of the earliest days of the Connecticut Accordion Association and see a special video presentation of the very first concert held at Seven Angels Theater that took place nearly 12 years ago to the day of this gathering. This special event will now take place on Sunday, January 29, 2017 at 1:PM at The Waverly Inn, 286 Maple Avenue, Chesire, CT. 06410 The film features: The CAA Orchestra, Linda Reed, Conductor Special Performances by The “K” Trio, Bob and Anita Siarkowski, Walter Lawrence and others.. And an array of honored Waterbury area Accordionists... The Connecticut Accordion Orchestra was organized in 2004 and since that time has performed at various venues throughout Connecticut as well as at AAA Festivals in Washington, DC, Buffalo, New York, Memphis, Tennessee and at the Magnanini Winery for the Carrozza Scholarship Dinners . The group consists of 25 members, many of which are outstanding accordionists and are performing regularly. The Connecticut Accordion Association is dedicated to the promotion of the accordion through all music genres and all variations of accordion instruments. Musicians at all levels who play all types of accordions are welcome to join. 2017 Performances include: Sunday, AprilL 30 - Carrozza Memorial Scholarship Fund Raiser Villa Barone Hilltop Manor 466 US Route 6 Mahopac NY 10541 Sunday, May 21 – Mattatuck Museum, Waterbury, CT For the January 29th event: $5.00 cover for CAA members. General Public: $10.00 per person Under 16 years of age: FREE!!! Please RSVP by January 27, 2017 to Marilyn at 203-272-1202 For further information: Marilyn@CTAccordion.com |
Brooklyn Accordion Clubby Rita Barnea |
 Mayumi Miyaoka, founder of the Brooklyn Accordion Club in 2013, shares her New Year’s greetings:Season’s Greetings everyone! Thank you for all your supports during the year of 2016!! Thanks to your contribution and participation, BAC had another great year! As announced during the last meeting of 2016, the Brooklyn Accordion Club is going to try an experiment during the long break before our next meeting in February 2017 (Date TBA. There is no meeting in January). The general idea is to randomly pair performers to work together on duets of their choosing. Partners will perform during the February meeting (or March if you cannot make it to the February meeting). There are no hard-and- fast rules. If you already have someone you’d like to work with, then let us know about it. If you are daring and want to pair up with someone randomly, please just sign up with us. We’ll do our best to keep it random, but we might make some adjustments based on distance (e.g., it might be difficult for someone from Westchester to get paired with someone from Long Island. You may also work together via Skype etc.). If there are any adjustments that need to be made after the pairing, please let us know, and we’ll try to make accommodations to suit everyone. Beginners are welcome to participate!! To sign up and for further information, please just indicate your interest by Jan 8th by emailing brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com Here’s to a daring 2017! A happy new year to you all! Keep squeezing! |
Future events |
NAA 30th Anniversary Celebration March 8-11 in Texasby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
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 Norman Seaton, (picture left with Sharon Seaton), President of the National Accordion Association (NAA), proudly invites everyone to the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the National Accordion Association at the Hyatt Regency in Richardson, Texas from March 8- 11, 2017.The NAA is launching the 2017 convention with the expected grandeur of a major celebration. With an emphasis for moving forward, the Association's procedures and website have been rewritten to reflect the globalization of the accordion world. The new website for the www.NationalAccordion.org was totally reconstructed to become browser friendly (including Google), so that an individual using a smart phone can ask any accordion-related question and locate any accordion teacher, dealer, and/or organization within 3 clicks, if the first click is the National Accordion Association. Call for 2017 Proposals: While NAA officials have a very exciting 2017 convention planned, the names and workshops have not been announced at this time. The "Call for Proposal" ends January 5, 2017, so more individuals have an extended opportunity to participate in the 30th celebration. If any reader is interested in participating in the convention as a presenter, visit www.NationalAccordion.org and complete the 2017 Interest Survey. The finalized version will be announced on this news page on January 10-15, 2017. As contracts are signed, daily updates will be shown on the Association's convention website. Cloud Technology: Business and Educational Links Business and Educational Links is the current trend for Cloud Technologies. To add your link to the Accordion Cloud, contact Norman at NatlAccordion@sbcglobal.net. This offer is only for the USA and Canada database activities. This service is complementary. Included on the new NAA website are smart phone links to Accordions Worldwide (AWW) news media links including weekly, monthly, and diatonic news. Check future publications of the USA news for updated information. For further information: natlaccordion@sbcglobal.net |
Alexander Sevastian in Concertby Rita Barnea |
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| 2017 will be a very busy year for Alexander Sevastian. The Voice Afire pocket Opera-Cabaret presents Tango Dreams/Serenity featuring Alexander Sebastian who will perform at Symphony Space on Friday, March 10, 2017 at 3:30 PM. Tickets are $20. For Seniors, students, and children, the price is $15. Day of show tickets are $25 The concert includes World Champion accordionist Alex Sevastian and world-renowned clarinetist Julian Milkis, as well as the Voice Afire Strings. This multi-media concert moves from turbulence to serenity in music by composers Ray Luedeke and Giya Kancheli. Ray Luedeke's Tango Dreams for accordion, clarinet, and string trio will include sultry tango visuals. Miniatures for accordion and clarinet are derived from famed, Georgian composer Giya Kancheli's music for theater and cinema. From Alexander's website: Alexander Sevastian is a winner of the prestigious Coupe Mondiale International Accordion Competition in 2007 in Washington, DC. He is also a winner of three other competitions such as The Oslofjord (Norway 1998), Cup of the North (Russia 2000), Antony Galla-Rini (USA 2001). A native of Minsk, Belarus where he finished the Glinka College (class of Miron Boula) Alexander went to Moscow to study with famous Friedrich Lips. While he was a student, Mr. Sevastian joined a Russian TV folk instrument orchestra and with a great support from the conductor Nikolai Nekrasov he became a featured soloist. After graduating from the Gnessin Academy of Music and getting a Master Degree in performance, Alexander moved to Toronto, Canada. Soon after he got an Advanced Certificate in Performance from the University of Toronto (class of Joseph Macerollo) and joined famous ensemble Quartetto Gelato. With this group Alexander has toured every province in Canada and almost every state in the USA. They will perform at the 2016 AAAFestival in Buffalo, New York taking place from July 6-10, 2016. After his triumphal victory at the Coupe Mondiale in 2007 Alexander 's solo career began to thrive. He has had several solo tours of Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Prairies. He was invited to perform recitals at several prestigious festivals in Vancouver, Victoria, Mont-Treblant, Montmagny, Las-Vegas, Stresa (Italy), Kraguevac (Serbia), Castelo Branco (Portugal), Samara (Russia). Alexander was featured soloist with several leading North America symphony orchestras, including The Toronto Symphony with a very successful debut in 2008. Alexander became a Canadian citizen in 2005. He is married and lives in Thornhill, Ontario with his wife Anna and son Vova. Photos by Vladimir Kevorkov. For further information: sevastian2004@gmail.com |
The Red Lantern Accordionist..AAA 23rd Yearby William Schimmel |
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 The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) announces their 23rd year of Master Classes and Seminars moderated by Dr. William Schimmel.Accordion Culture is based on Contests. Championship Contests - much like sports. Who comes in First of course is the Champion - whether its the World Champion, The U.S. Champion or the Whatever Champion. Sometimes the term, Champeen, is used.There are those who come in Second and Third - they get trophies - but they are not Champions - or Champeens. What about last place? Ever watch a marathon? - and the final runner still running while practically every one has gone home or partying? He or She just wants to make it to the end - to run the course - personal best and proud to be a part of it - as St. Paul says - “I fought the good fight. I have kept the Faith”. That’s the Red Lantern Winner - last place - a last place winner! We have RED LANTERN ACCORDIONISTS - The backbone of the industry - in it for the long haul - signed up for the whole ride - putting other’s interests first - working for the betterment of the culture. We dedicate this weekend to the Red Lantern accordionist - may his or her light shine bright!! There is no logical reason to become a Red Lantern Accordionist. Red Lantern Accordionists are called. by who? don’t quite know but they feel the call of a different winning of hard labor of doing hard time american accordionists’ association master class and concert series dr. william schimmel - moderator and curator the red lantern accordionist our 23rd smash year july 28, 29, 30 at the tenri cultural institute 43a west 13th street - between 5 and 6 aves master classes at 3 pm - ending at 5pm concerts at 7 pm - ending at 9 pm $25. per master class $30. per concert $50. per day - includes master class and concert $135. per entire weekend reservations and information: Phone: 212 876 0827 Dr. Schimmel's recent and upcoming performances: Port Bou - and Opera by Elliot Sharp - Tuesday, December 6 at Weslyan University, CT December 7 at White Box Gallery NY Apris tout by Fabien Levy - with the Talea Ensemble December 14 at Florence Gould Auditorium - Alliance France NY Little Threepenny Music - The New York Philharmonic on January 5, 6, 7 NY Will There Still Be Singing - Music of Hans Eisler - Karyn Levitt at Metropolitan Room January 9 NY Email: accordionbill@gmail.com |
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 15-18by Rita Barnea |
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 The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration will be held from June 15-18, 2017 in Leavenworth, WA. The Northwest Accordion Society has been hosting accordion events in the Northwest for over 25 years. Included in it's accomplishments are monthly accordion socials, the annual "Day of the Accordion" at the Seattle Center, accordion scholarships, and it's elegant quarterly publication "The Northwest Accordion News".Leavenworth is Washington’s “Bavarian Village” and a perfect setting for this celebration. Nestled in a cozy narrow valley at elevation of 1100 feet surrounded by wilderness of rugged, majestic mountain ranges, over 2 million visitors per year from all over the world come to experience magical Leavenworth. With the Northwest Accordion Society as your host and Leavenworth as the setting, why not plan to join us and enjoy four wonderful days of everything accordion. Whether you are a competitor, participant or just love great accordion music, there is enjoyment and participation for everyone. Here is a partial list of what is happening: Accordion Competitions Workshops Concerts with World Class Performers Free Performances at the gazebo, grange, and restaurants Free Accordion lessons Accordion Parade on Saturday Accordion Vendors Opportunity for all accordion players to play Jam sessions and much more! This is a celebration of the accordion’s versatility and its presence in many cultures. Accordion music is what this event is all about. There will be more info available in future publications. For further information: Northwest Accordion Society Phone: 206-622-4786 Email: bonniebirch@msn.com |