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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
CBS Presents “Welcome to the World Capital of Accordions”
Hold the Date for AAA Festival July 12-16, 2023
The Latin Recording Academy Awards
AAA Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition
National Accordion Association (NAA) Convention: March 15-19, 2023
Stas Venglevski Releases 30th CD
Not Just Oompah! Presents Shirley Johnson
San Francisco Accordion Club Presents Accordionist Paul Aebersold
Hanzhi Wang on Tour in the USA
Joshua Camp Releases Official Video from C.A.M.P.O.S. Album
Dallas Vietty's Rising Reed Formerly Rebel Reed Offers Online Accordion Classes
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Accordion Lovers! 25 Years Plus of Love!
2023 Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat
Accordionist Beverley Fess in Concert
Active Accordion Clubs Information
“Get Back Unplugged” Performance in Canada
Future events |
SFAC Presents Matt Tolentino in Zoom Concert
Gail Campanella in Live Concert
2023 Accordion Seminars: In the Shadow - In The ……!I
2023 Accordion Seminars: In the Shadow - In The ……!I
2023 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration
Highlights |
Editor’s Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Accordions Worldwide (AWW) would like to wish all our readers a Happy and Healthy New Year. We hope you have enjoyed the news over the last year. AWW will continue to keep you informed about accordion events wherever they are happening. 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. (Even if you met them virtually online, one day you will actually meet them!) Here are your 2023 New Year's Resolutions! Have some suggestions? Please send them along with your ideas/comments to me at Ritabelll@aol.com 1. 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. Now that many of us continue to be home because of Covid 19, we have extra time for learning. 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 even if online (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. Maybe we cannot actually physically visit people and places to perform but we can still schedule virtual concerts on Skype, FaceTime, Facebook, 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 live or zoom accordion events in 2023. There are many accordion festivals, concerts, accordion clubs etc. around the country. 2022 was a year of getting back to live accordion events but if you prefer online attendance it is so easy to register, attend, or participate from the comfort of your own home! Consider making an online donation to help support musicians whose livelihood has been greatly reduced due to the cancellation of so many live events over the past few years. Search the USA News www.accordionusa.com each month for live and online events. 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. 5. I will purchase at least two accordion CD’s, iTunes, books, sheet music, mp3’s etc… There is so much wonderful accordion music to purchase. 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 online offerings. 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 old fashioned 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. Just click on "Past News Index" at the top of the page. 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! Let’s bring more kindness and good feelings to our world in 2023. A caring word and your accordion playing will go very far to make someone enjoy their day and feel better. Playing a song on your accordion for someone brings positivity and enjoyment. Don’t be shy. You do not have to be a virtuoso. Put you and your accordion on the many online platforms and you can easily send your musical message of peace and happiness all over the world! Happy New Year to All! Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2023! |
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CBS Presents “Welcome to the World Capital of Accordions”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Correspondent Seth Doane visits a most musical town: Castelfidardo, Italy, the world's leading producer of accordions, and meets with aficionados of the instrument, and with manufacturers whose accordions may sell for up to tens of thousands of dollars. Wonderful positive publicity for the accordion! "CBS Sunday Morning" features stories on the arts, music, nature, entertainment, sports, history, science and Americana, and highlights unique human accomplishments and achievements. Check local listings for CBS Sunday Morning broadcast times. |
Hold the Date for AAA Festival July 12-16, 2023by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Save the date for the 85th Anniversary Festival 2023 of the American Accordionists' Association (AAA). More information will be included in future publications which will include performers, workshops, special activities and more. The July 2023 festival will be held at the Marriott Philadelphia West in Conshohocken, PA. Be sure to save the date July 12-16, 2023. For more information on AAA: www.ameraccord.com |
The Latin Recording Academy Awardsby Diatonic News |
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  The Latin Recording Academy® is an international nonprofit dedicated to nurturing, celebrating, honoring, and elevating Latin music and its creators. Established as the global authority on Latin music, the membership-based organization composed of music professionals, produces the annual Latin GRAMMY Awards®, The Biggest Night in Latin Music®, which honors excellence in the recording arts and sciences, in addition to providing educational and outreach programs for the music community through its Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation®.BEST CUMBIA/VALLENATO ALBUM / WINNER Feliz Aniversario Jean Carlos Centeno y Ronal Urbina Label: Onerpm BEST NORTEÑO ALBUM /WINNER La Reunión (Deluxe) Los Tigres Del Norte Label: Fonovisa/RMS Music Group, Inc./UMG Recordings, Inc. |
AAA Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competitionby Dr. Robert Young McMahan Chair, AAA Composers Commissioning Committee |
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 To all composers, whether accordionists or non-accordionists:The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) cordially invites your participation in the 2023 Elsie M. Bennett Accordion Composition Competition and contribute to the growth of contemporary concert works for solo accordion or for the accordion being featured with other instruments. Full information including the entry form at: 2023Bennett.pdf Elsie Bennett established the AAA Composers’ Commissioning Committee in 1954. As its permanent chair, she succeeded over the remainder of the century up to a short time before her death in 2005, in commissioning 55 works from 33 composers, many of whom were world famous. For further information, see the memorial tribute of Elsie M. Bennett by Faithe Deffner and the AAA list of commissioned works at: http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions.php Entries are welcome from all countries. Entry closing date is June 01, 2023. Winners will be notified by email after July 01, 2023. For non-accordionist contestants unfamiliar with the accordion, see http://www.ameraccord.com/commissions/ComposersGuide.pdf for assistance. |
National Accordion Association (NAA) Convention: March 15-19, 2023by Dr. Norman Seaton |
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  National Accordion Association (NAA) Conventionwill be held from March 15-19, 2023 at the Hilton Hotel, Richardson, Texas. The NAA is wishing you a Happy New Year! Registration opens today. The 2023 NAA Convention Planning Team is requesting that the conventioneers and presenters use Higher Learning techniques to flip the NAA Convention from a lecture-oriented event to a Participatory Model as described in the Harvard University article: Twenty Ways To Make Lectures More Participatory. The first step in “flipping a convention” is to survey the known accordion-playing population to ask accordionists what they want to learn when attending an accordion convention. The You Tell Us Survey was delivered, the results were analyzed. A summary of the results are as follows: The easy-to-read results are in the PDF that is located on the NAA Website as the "You Tell Us Survey" results. 2023 National Accordion Convention Musical Genres The convention will feature 2023 versions of American Music that is marketable as today’s music. The music is a combination of contemporary American music originated by USA immigrants who brought their musical values and traditions as they joined the great American melting pot. Our music is a blend of musical styles that include, but are not limited to, popular tunes, folk music, country and western (C&W), ballads that tell a story, rock and roll, polkas and waltzes, European music, Gospel, and jazz. (Results summarized by Dr. Norman Seaton) 2023 National Accordion Convention Higher Learning Opportunities: High on the survey requests include learning opportunities such as creative thinking and applying to music, ear-training, articulation and bellows control, practice techniques, sightreading, musical theory, performing techniques, and performance opportunities. For complete information, visit our website at: http://www.accordions.com/naa NAA Convention and Registration information at: 2023NAARegistration |
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Stas Venglevski Releases 30th CDby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Congratulations to Stas Venglevski who just released his 30th CD!Stas shares,”My 30th CD, “Compilation” has just been released - and it’s also 30 years since my arrival in this country! It’s hard to believe. I must tell you it has been a most pleasant journey - meeting so many friends, artists, musicians, families, with the many opportunities to my music career along the way, the exploration to a new culture and traditions. I’d like to wish a very Happy New Year to you and yours, and may 2023 bring peace and joy to all!” Stas is an accordionist, musician, arranger, entertainer and teacher. His repertoire includes his original compositions, and a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as a soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe, and the United States, including numerous performances with Doc Severinsen, Steve Allen and with Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion. Additionally, he has performed with symphony orchestras throughout the United States. He is a regular participant with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s Arts in Community Education Program (ACE), has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra, has done television commercials, and has performed in theater productions. Stas has produced numerous recordings and has published several books of original compositions. AWW acknowledges and thanks Stas for bringing positivity and joy to all of us with his amazing musical talent! Wishing him more musical successes in the future! To order the CD: PayPal $20 to stasvenglevski@wi.rr.com |
Not Just Oompah! Presents Shirley Johnsonby Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association |
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 Not Just Oompah! Workshops and Concerts continue in 2023 with Shirley Johnson presenting “The Frills and Thrills of Embellishments” (Zoom) on Tuesday and Wednesday Jan 24 & 25, 2023 form 7-9:30 PM Central time and an Interactive Concert on Thursday Jan 26 , 2023 @ 7-9:30 PM The cost is $80 includes all materials delivered in PDF by email to participants and also includes the concert! Each event is recorded for later viewing which will be posted on www.NotJustOompah.org for registration which will be updated Dec.1, 2022. Learn how to take a Lead sheet and add: Fills, Trills, Runs, Embellishments and work with adding: Introduction, Ending, Transitions from one key to another. Shirley will pre-record several songs and present them during the Interactive Concert where workshop participants will then discuss what Shirley added to make the song more interesting. Participants can also suggest alternative embellishments! Learn how to make your music more interesting and fun! Shirley Johnson has been singing, dancing, and performing music since she was 10 years old, when she started performing with Croatian groups in Pittsburgh, PA, since this is her heritage. She is comfortable performing as a soloist, often strolling while playing and singing Italian or French music, or in bands playing Celtic, Gypsy Jazz, Balkan, Polka/German, Klezmer, etc. music. Shirley’s musical career has taken her many places: playing the accordion at Czechoslovakian festivals, singing with the Duke University Chorale at Carnegie Hall in NYC and Disney World, and touring in Northern Spain. From 1992 to 1994, living in Rome, Italy, Shirley sang with the “Coro Misto” of “L’Accademia della Filarmonica, ” performing throughout Rome, including St. Peter’s Basilica, Italian radio and TV, and at the Vatican for Pope John Paul II’s “Papal Concert to Commemorate the Holocaust.” Currently Ms. Johnson lives in Austin, TX, and performs professional with “The Oom-Pahs” (Polka) and with “Julie Slim and RendezVous” (French Jazz). For multiple years, she has taught singing classes during the annual workshops produced by the Texas International Folk Dancers. She is the current president of the non-profit Innovative Accordion Music Productions. Shirley’s 3rd CD, “Dancing Angels,” features several of Austin’s finest musicians. She teaches accordion privately in person and online, and is co-producer of the “Not Just OOM-PAH!” Accordion Concert and Workshop. For More Information: Shirley Johnson 512-680-0422 or email ShirleyJ@Vjeverica.com Laura Niland 210-651-4359 or email LauraJNiland@outlook.com |
San Francisco Accordion Club Presents Accordionist Paul Aebersoldby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  The San Francisco Accordion Club brings in the new year on January 15, 2023 beginning at 2:PM with Squeeze Box Opera: Paul Aebersold, accordion and Christina Capsuto-Shulman, sopranoPaul Aebersold can be found playing solo accordion or paired with various local vocalists performing at private events, restaurants and other venues around the Bay Area. Paul realized his love for music as a child listening to his mother play the accordion. Before moving to Redwood City, Paul worked and performed in the Washington, D.C. area and was honored to perform for the French Embassy. Paul frequently collaborates with local singers to present programs of all Italian, all French or all German music from that culture. Squeeze Box Opera is one such collaboration with Chirstine Capsuto-Shulman to bring us an afternoon of Opera Arias, Classical Art Songs and a number of Broadway show tunes. Christine Capsuto-Shulman is a California native and a multi-faceted artist in the world of opera, musical theatre, dance and acting. Her following as "the ultimate package" is defined through her commanding stage presence, effortless vocal prowess, impressive musicianship skills, quirky humor and graceful poise - all creating a deep and moving theatrical experience. Mrs. Shulman is also an esteemed concert soloist, educator and proud mom and wife. Offstage, she loves directing, choreographing, laughing, cooking and spoiling her family, friends and dog.  The San Francisco Accordion Club is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization whose purpose is to enhance, promote and stimulate an appreciation for the accordion within the membership and throughout the general public. Donations are tax-deductible and gratefully accepted. The SFAC hosts musical programs on the third Sunday of every month at 2:30 pm at the: Chetcuti Community Room Civic Center Plaza 450 Poplar Avenue Millbrae, CA 94030 Meetings will also be streamed live over their YouTube channel. For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com |
Hanzhi Wang on Tour in the USAby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video “My Story” composed by Hanzhi Wang. Hanzhi shares, ”’My Story’” is a little lovely folk tune accordion solo work which is written by myself. I always played it as an encore piece at the end of the concert. I got the inspiration to write it down while I was traveling on my tour. Most of time I enjoy meeting new friends and people during my travels as part of adventure, however sometimes I also had homesickness when I am sitting alone and waiting for the next flight. I remember "My Story" was written in this emotional situation during the trip to the next destination. I hope you enjoy it!” Hanzhi Wang shares, “Each year is a gift that holds hope for new adventures. Wishing you a happy new year filled with hope, health, and happiness! I am so excited to announce my upcoming concert tour from January 2023, Looking forward to seeing you somewhere!” 2023 Upcoming Performances include: Jan 14 & 15 Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, Hawaii Theatre, Honolulu. Astor Piazzolla concerto: Aconcagua Jan 28 Erie Philharmonic, Warner Theatre, PA, Astor Piazzolla concerto: Aconcagua Feb 1-10 Recital and educational programs in Florida Feb 9, Yacht Club, Sarasota, FL, Artists Series Concerts of Sarasota, accordion recital Feb 19 & 20 Reno Chamber Orchestra, Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, NV. Astor Piazzolla concerto: Aconcagua Feb 22 Morgan Library, New York, NY. Hanzhi Wang, Accordion, and Steven Banks, Saxophone, Chamber Concert Feb 25 Horowitz Center HCC, Smith Theatre, Columbia, Maryland. Hanzhi Wang, Accordion, and Steven Banks saxophone with Xak Bjerken piano, Chamber Concert Feb 28 Ackerman Auditorium Collegedale, TN, February 28, 2023, Accordion Recital at Southern Adventist University March 4 BlueWater Chamber Orchestra, Church of the Covenant Cleveland, OH. Astor Piazzolla concerto: Aconcagua March 12 Stissing Center, Pine Plains, NY, Hanzhi Wang, Accordion, and Steven Banks, Saxophone, Chamber Concert About Hanzhi Wang: Excerpts from her new website: Praised for her captivating stage presence and performances that are technically and musically masterful, the groundbreaking young musician Hanzhi Wang is the first accordionist to win a place on the roster of Young Concert Artists in its 58-year history, and her hour-long interview and performance on the 2,145th episode of New York WQXR’s Young Artists Showcase marked the first appearance of a solo accordionist on the program. In 2018, Musical America named Hanzhi Wang “New Artist of the Month,” and Naxos released its first-ever solo accordion CD, Hanzhi's "On the Path to H.C. Andersen.” It features music by Danish composers including "The Little Match Girl," written for her by Martin Lohse, and was nominated for the prestigious DR (Danish Radio) P2 Prize 2019. In addition to Mr. Lohse, Hanzhi’s artistry has also been recognized by other contemporary composers, with works dedicated to her by James Black and Sophia Gubaidulina, with whom she has worked extensively. First Prize Winner of the 2017 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, her debut opened the Young Concert Artists Series in New York in The Peter Marino Concert at Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall, and her Washington, DC debut opened the 40th Anniversary Young Concert Artists Series at the Kennedy Center, co-presented with Washington Performing Arts. Hanzhi Wang was awarded YCA performance prizes with the Candlelight Concert Society in Columbia, MD; the Sinfonia Gulf Coast in Destin, FL; the Tri-I Noon Recitals at Rockefeller University in New York City; the Vancouver Recital Society; Tannery Pond Concerts (NY), the Usedom (Germany) Festival; the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle (NC); the University of Florida Performing Arts Prize; and at the Krannert Center at the University of Illinois in Urbana. Additional engagements include appearances for IRIS Orchestra in Tennessee, Bravo! Vail Music Festival, and YCA alumnus Alexander Fiterstein’s Clarinet Academy in Minneapolis. Hanzhi won First Prize in the 40th Castelfidardo International Accordion Competition in Italy, has served on the jury for the Accordion Competition of Rome and Portugal’s International Accordion Festival, and inspired the next generation of accordionists with lectures, performances and master classes at the Manhattan School of Music, Royal Danish Academy of Music, Tianjin Music Conservatory, Beijing’s Capital Normal University, Tilburg and Ghent Music Conservatories (Belgium), and the inaugural 2018 Nordaccordion Festival in Norway. A Young Concert Artists Fellowship for Hanzhi Wang for the 2018-19 Season has been sponsored by Alan & Judy Kosloff and Mike Lubin & Anne-Marie McDermott. In addition, she holds YCA’s Ruth Laredo Prize and the Mortimer Levitt Career Development Award for Women Artists of YCA. Hanzhi earned her Bachelor’s degree at the China Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, and her Master’s degree at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen as a student of Geir Draugsvoll. For further information: hanzhi@hanzhiwang.dk |
Joshua Camp Releases Official Video from C.A.M.P.O.S. Albumby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: Cumbia De Alpha Centauri - C.A.M.P.O.S. First Official Video Just released: “Cumbia De Alpha Centauri” - C.A.M.P.O.S. Official Video From the C.A.M.P.O.S. album 'The Eighth Door' starring accordion/kepyboardist Joshua Douglas Camp & Neil Ochoa Video by Croaker Norge 'The Eighth Door'' Deluxe and color vinyl available from Peace & Rhythm Records copyright 2022, Joshua Douglas Camp, Calle del Campos, BMI C.A.M.P.O.S. is a psychedelic cumbia/rock band based in Brooklyn, NY. Founded by Chicha Libre's Joshua Camp. Join them on Friday 13, January 13, 2022 at The Sultan Room to celebrate the new vinyl release! The Sultan Room is located on 234 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237. Composer, performer, producer, Joshua Camp received a Bachelor's of Music Composition from Virginia Commonwealth University, with a background in classical piano performance. His interest in free reed and other little-known instruments began and developed while working at the Hohner company as an accordion and harmonica technician. He moved to New York City in 2000 and from 2001 to 2003 was the music director for the Lehman College (CUNY) dance department in the Bronx. Excerpts from his website: As a founder of the groups One Ring Zero and Chicha Libre, Joshua has released twelve CDs, including the critically acclaimed album, "As Smart As We Are", a book/CD featuring songs with lyrics contributed by such authors as Jonathan Lethem, Margaret Atwood, Paul Auster, Dave Eggers, Neil Gaiman, Michael Chabon, and Denis Johnson. One Ring Zero and Chicha Libre have performed at many music festivals and cultural institutions including the Whitney Museum of Art, Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park, Central Park Summer Stage, MASSMoCa, the Calgary Folk Festival, Festival d'Accordéon Le Grand Soufflet, France, Festival Músicas do Mundo, Portugal, Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, the Stimmen festival in Germany, the Spring Scream festival in Taiwan, and the Fundacion Principe de Asturia in Spain. His groups have received grants from The Virginia Commission for the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts. They have appeared on ABC national news, CBC in Canada, the Nat Geo channel, The Simpson’s 20th Anniversary Special, and A&E’s Breakfast With The Arts. The music has been featured in dance concerts, films, animations, fashion shows, and the NPR programs Fresh Air, Morning Edition, and This American Life. As a commercial composer, Joshua has written a nine song musical for Allergan starring Michael Welch (The Twilight Series) entitled "Aczone: The Musica"l. In addition, he’s composed pieces for Mastercard, Levi’s Workshop, Victoria’s Secret, Scoop NYC, Sears, Puma, Victoria & Albert Museum, and many others. Television placements include Weeds, Homeland, Suburgatory, This American Life, The Path, and Extra Virgin. In 2008, Joshua received a grant from the Brooklyn Arts Council to compose 8 Prospects a contemporary chamber piece inspired by Charles Ives' Central Park In The Dark. As an accordionist, he has played on the most recent Broadway revival of" Fiddler on the Roof (2015/16/22) , and on the Grammy nominated cast recording of the same production. His accordion can also be heard on Season 2 of "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt". Past theatrical productions include the soundtrack to Lincoln Center's "Coast of Utopia" by Tom Stoppard, as well as Columbia University's production of "Beggar's Opera", translated by Vaclav Havel. He frequently performs with Zisl Slepovitch in the Litvakus Klezmer Band. |
Dallas Vietty's Rising Reed Formerly Rebel Reed Offers Online Accordion Classesby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Dallas Vietty is a full time educator and accordion performer who teaches over 700 zoom accordion lessons every year, and has been teaching online since 2013. He is offering an online accordion school and community. He is offering a new online teaching to include private lessons, zoom group lessons, What: 5 one-hour long accordion lessons on Zoom. When: Lessons occur every two weeks. A week students begin week of Jan 9th. B week students begin week of Jan 16th. There will be 3 online recitals on Fridays. Sign up now. Classes begin on January 9, 2023 Dallas shares,” I'm based out of Pennsylvania, USA. I teach at music camps and workshops, a few students in person here, but most of what I do is online, and this is my website.I started teaching accordion online way back in 2013. Back then I was building out a school bus to live in, playing musette gigs with my band, and figuring out how to teach great accordion lessons on video chat. How and what I teach has continued to evolve, and this site is the latest evolution. In fact, I JUST changed the name of my site from RebelReed to the new name, RisingReed. (I was living in New Orleans in 2021, and had the sudden realization that I just could not put a music school on the map with the name Rebel in it!) This newest iteration of my teaching platform is founded on the popular idea in online education that what is essential these days is to bring the online community together to share, support and learn together.This journey has taken me about half a year, but I finally have my next iteration which is all based around a wonderful community platform, where I can put my info, documents, resources, notes, courses, sheet music, all of that, online and have it available immediately to the accordion community.” Excerpts from his website, “Award-winning accordionist and educator Dallas Vietty is one of the most in-demand 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 study and immersion in the European swing tradition of Django Reinhardt (Gypsy Jazz) and French accordionists. Dallas remains very active on the East Coast concert and festival scene. His groups have performed at some of the top U.S. festivals including: TEDx Philly, Djangoary Festival. As a sideman his performances have taken him to legendary venues like: on Broadway as the accordionist in Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish 2019/2020, For the Digital Brazilian Music Festival 2021, Djangofest Northwest with Rhythm Future Quarter 2019, The Iridium NYC, BB King’s Time Square, Dizzy's Club at Lincoln Center, and the Philadelphia Kimmel Center.” To setup a brief phone call for new and prospective students: Email: dallas@risingreed.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
17th Afternoon of Music with Kevin Friedrich and Friendsby Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
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 The Lighthouse Function Center in Dargaville, New Zealand was filled to capacity for the 17th Afternoon of Music with Kevin Friedrich and Friends, a Variety Show featuring accordionists and entertainers from different parts of New Zealand. Report at: 2022DargavilleAccordionist Kevin Friedrich hosted his popular fundraising concert called ‘Christmas Joy’, on December 4th, 2022 at 1:00 PM. Presented by The Dargaville Museum, the 17th Afternoon of Music with Kevin Friedrich and Friends featured a variety of traditional and lighter themed Holiday music. Guest artists included the North Shore Accordion Orchestra, Anna Collins, Paul Jonson, Lionel Reekie, Jone Yelcich, Take 6, Linda Emmett Litt, Thomas Koloi, Rivertown Singers, Roslyn Gilmour, Alanah Jones, Maurice Jones, The Kaipara Ensemble, Sonja Whitehouse, Ian Bartlett and Jean Reid. The popular annual Holiday Show Concerts, which have been added to the annual regular season concerts, are a wonderful event for all ages, bringing the community and guests together for an afternoon of music and friendship. All proceeds are donated to the Dargaville Museum in support of their efforts to showcase the history of the community for future generations to enjoy. The Dargaville Museum hosts the only public accordion exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere “Accordion Gems, A Master Collection of Accordions Through Time”. Established and curated by Kevin Friedrich, the 140 instruments on display showcase the fascinating evolution of the instrument over its nearly 200 years. Report at: 2022Dargaville |
Accordion Lovers! 25 Years Plus of Love!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 I have always had great admiration for people who develop life long hobbies, whatever they may be. Of course, I am interested in musicians who have played the accordion for 25 or more years! What made you love the accordion so much that you still play it today. Any kind of accordion: keyboard, button, bayan, diatonic etc.For those of you who are wondering? YES! I am a proud member of the "50 plus Accordion Club"! I am so very grateful to my parents for introducing me to the accordion which has had a lasting positive effect on me for my entire life! I cannot imagine a day without playing or listening to accordion music. I am sure that many of you also feel similarly. Tell me about it!! AWW wants your story!!! No matter what your level of skill is, I am interested. I am working on a project to learn about the thoughts of people with life long commitment to the accordion. I will include an article about my findings in a future publication of www.accordionusa.com news. Would you like to contribute your story to this worthwhile project? We are interested in hearing about your musical background specifically pertaining to your experiences with the accordion. OK. If it is not exactly 25 years, that is OK too. The point is that you devoted much of your life to playing, learning and loving the accordion! Would you like to contribute your story to this worthwhile project? Please send your info including photos of you with your accordion over the years. Maximum of 3 photos, please. You may include one or two video links of your performance either solo or in an ensemble. Please send the info to me at: Ritabelll@aol.com Please use these questions as a guideline to write your story of the accordion’s influence in your life: Q. Why do you love playing the accordion and why is it such a great thing in your life? Q. Is there any teacher or artist to whom you would like to pay particular tribute, for their inspirational effect on your musical career. Q How long have you been playing accordion? Q What got you started playing the accordion? Who were your teachers? Q. What role did your parents or family members play in your early music education? Q. What are your earliest memories of performing? Q. When were your first professional concerts (if you had them) ? Q. Or, when do you remember your first public performance? Q. How has your musical career impacted on your personal life? Q. How has your playing the accordion affected people in your life? Q. Who are your favorite musicians and musical groups? Which musicians or musical groups of today or the past do you like and why?" Q. What are your favorite types of music? Q . List some of your most interesting and important performances. Q. Describe your most "unusual" or "humorous" performance situations? Q. What other interests and hobbies besides music do you have? Q. What do you regard as your greatest achievement? What musical achievements are you most proud of? Q. What musical advice do you have for aspiring accordionists/musicians/composers? Q. How does the use of the accordion enhance your compositions (if you compose) or why do you use the accordion? Q. Any accordionist you admire or recommend we listen to? ... no obligation to answer if you are uncomfortable with the question. Q. What kind of creative patterns, routines, or rituals do you have in practicing your instrument/instruments? Q. What's the best advice you received about playing music/accordion? Q. Any thoughts which you would like to share with www.accordionusa.com readers about you, your future aspirations, thoughts on the future of the accordion? Q. Please include your education credentials: College degree, honors, rewards, etc.... Q. Was your family musical and did your parents play an important part in your early music education? Q. Is there any teacher (teachers) or artist to whom you would like to pay particular tribute, for their inspirational effect on your musical career or enjoyment of playing the accordion? Thank you again!! I am looking forward to hearing from you! Submit all info to: Ritabelll@aol.com |
2023 Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreatby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: Highlights of Houston Accordion Orchestra Concert 2022The 2023 Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat will be held from January 12th to 15th, 2023 in Houston, Texas, USA, under the baton of Stas Venglevski. Activities include an enlarged orchestra and 13 music scholarship winners from across the USA who will play in the Youth Ensemble. Three of them will have their compositions premiered as an orchestral arrangement by Stas Venglevski. Those students are Daniel Hartnett, (Night Life), Gabrielle Peck, (Waltz!) and Ashley Frye, (Finale). Saturday Jan 14, 2023 concert features the Accordion Orchestra. Sunday January 15, 2023 Concert features the maestro, Stas Venglevski with Martina Li and youth ensemble. Join us for these wonderful concerts if you are in the area! Saturday Orchestra Concert will be live-streaming. For more information about our artists and live streaming concert information: meghada33@gmail.com |
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Accordionist Beverley Fess in Concertby Ken Schwartz, President of San Francisco Accordion Club |
 November’s featured performer, Beverley Fess, live-streamed from San Diego aboard her 50’ motor yacht Duet with her husband, Ron Griffin. We had people from all over the US visiting this wonderful meeting, which was emceed by Paul Cain. Beverley is well known to many of us as a virtuoso accordionist, master teacher, officer of the Accordionists & Teachers Guild (ATG), and for her many other achievements. She is known for her skillful interpretations of many of our favorite arrangers and composers, including Magnante, Frosini, Gart, and others. Bev warmed up with Andalucia (Lecuona, arranged by Charles Magnante) followed by My Anna Marie Waltz, a lovely piece composed by Len Gadica in honor of his wife, Anna Marie. Gadica was a fellow Canadian who attended and competed often at the Kimberly, BC, Canada festival, then known as The Old Time Accordion Championships. Next was Cubana, an original piece written expressly for the accordion by French composer Frank Angelis. Bev recently performed this piece for the ATG, which required original accordion music. This beautiful piece fit the bill! At age 11, Bev attended a music festival and fell in love with Pietro Frosini’s Carnival of Venice, which inspired her to master it at a young age and embark on her accordion career. Bev performed this complex and difficult composition brilliantly! Next was an effortless performance of the French musette Indifference (Tony Murena and Joseph Colombo). She followed with John Gart’s wonderful Snowtrain Shuffle, played with precision. One can hear the train in Gart’s terrific harmonics and chord changes. Bev then performed Besame Mucho (arranged by the late Joe Morelli of Vancouver, BC), followed by Charles Magnante’s bouncy arrangement of Tea for Two, and then one of Bev’s favorites, Moon River (Henry Mancini). San Francisco Accordion Club 3 December, 2022. Many of Bev’s pieces are well-known standards, but mixing things up a bit, she next performed a more contemporary piece, which was introduced to her by fellow accordionist Mary Tokarski: Memories Tango, composed by the Bulgarian composer, Tudor Gerov, who published this in 2002. Wonderful! Then Bev offered a choice – rag or polka? Paul Cain requested a rag. Bev performed Magnante’s arrangement of 12th street Rag, and, of course, it was brilliant! What came next was a special treat. The yacht from which Bev livestreamed is aptly named “Duet”. Bev’s husband, Ron Griffin, has been very involved with the San Diego Accordion Club, including having formerly served as president. Ron joined Bev for a terrific series of duets, including their rendition of Under Paris Skies (Charles Camilleri) and Astor Piazzola’s masterpiece Oblivion. Bev introduced us to Comfort Waltz (composed by Toralf Tollefsen), a piece she performed in a competition as a 14-year-old Canadian teen, there having been 28 competitors. Although she thought she had blown it, at the end, the adjudicator asked her to play it for the group, replete with the compliment that she had played it as it should be played. Next was Stas Venglevski’s bouncy Stas’ Tune, published 2020, featuring swing, syncopations, and a catchy theme. It was fabulous and new to many of us! Returning to classics, Bev played Malaguena (Lecuona, Magnante arrangement). Finally, Bev, having studied briefly with fellow Canadian Dixie Dean, played her holiday piece, Jingle Bells Fantasy, concluding Bev’s program. Thank you, thank you, Beverley and Ron! It was a special treat to host you for our November program, and to enjoy your great solos and duets, live-streamed from your aptly-named boat, “Duet”. We hope you’ll sail up to San Francisco Bay; we’ve got a few choice harbors up here as well! So, that’s it! We wish everyone a wonderful and joyous holiday season! Bev’s PANcordion has a special story associated with the motor yacht “Duet,” docked in San Diego where Beverley and Ron reside, and from where they performed. Ron purchased "Duet" in February of this year from an attorney. In a remarkable coincidence, the attorney’s late father -in-law had bequeathed to his daughter - the attorney’s wife - his many accordions! One of the accordions was a PANcordion, the same model made famous by many artists, including Myron Floren. Bev played it a bit and immediately bonded with the instrument, but the owner was reluctant to part with her father’s accordion for sentimental reasons. Newlyweds Bev and Ron married a year ago. On a scavenger hunt in May of this year, surprise, luck prevailed! Bev received this magnificent PANcordion as a birthday present from hubby Ron! For further information: Kenneth.E.Schwartz@gmail.com |
Active Accordion Clubs Informationby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Here are some active accordion clubs you will want to know about. Check each club’s website and/or club contacts for meeting schedules and if the meetings are live, online or both. If you would like to be included in a future listing, please send the name of your club and info to Ritabelll@aol.com Accordion Club of the Redwoods 1 (Santa Rosa) Meetings 3rd Wednesdays—Cibo Rustico Pizzeria (707) 318-0474, dcdacapo@gmail.com Accordion Lovers Society International (ALSI) 3 2nd Sundays—Mt. Miguel Covenant Village Spring Valley, CA gkohl5890@gmail.com (619) 427-4344 Accordionaires of Los Angeles Online 4th Sundays 3 - Meetings 3rd Tuesdays 1 Victorio’s Ristorante, North Hollywood, CA dnorferi@aol.com or “Accordionaires” on Facebook Northern California Accordion Society (NCAS)1 2nd Saturday of the month — Granite Bay, CA Lutheran Church of the Resurrection cvalashan@aol.com (610) 209-4496 San Antonio Accordion Society 2 2nd Tuesdays online - Meetings on last Tuesdays Chester’s Hamburgers, San Antonio, TX LauraJNiland@outlook.com Silicon Valley Accordion Society (SVAS) 1 1st Sundays, online (in person schedule TBD) Christ Episcopal Church, Los Altos, CA (pending) www.svasociety.org 1. In person meeting only 2. mixed: in-person and ZOOM meeting 3.ZOOM only meeting |
“Get Back Unplugged” Performance in Canadaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 “Get Back Unplugged” will perform a concert of The Beatles music at a Milton St House Concert in Nanaimo, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on January 7, 2023, hosted by Harbour City Concerts.The group “Get Back Unplugged” started as an idea of Vancouver-based folk-pop trio The Wahs after seeing the recent Peter Jackson-produced documentary about the famous Get Back recording sessions and the celebrated Beatles rooftop concert. The band includes Allan Dionne (accordion & vocals), Cam Wilson (violin & vocals), Andy Hillhouse (guitar & vocals), Brent Gubbels (bass & vocals), LJ Mounteney (vocals) and Dave Gibbons (guitar & vocals). |
Future events |
Branson Accordion Extravaganza and Band Camp!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 There's still time to register for the Branson Accordion Extravaganza and Band Camp May 17-20, 2023! Kim and Dan Christian share, “It is going to be such a blast!! This is your chance to perform in Branson!! Don't miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to perform on the famed strip in Branson, MO! Our intention for this event is that you will have the most fun ever and you will be very proud to be a part of this Awesome Accordion Orchestra!”Come and be a part of this fun, interactive 4 day event where you will be working together with people from all over the US and Canada to perform a versatile and entertaining set of music in front of an appreciative and energetic audience on the strip in Branson! With this performance, we want to show the audience just how versatile the accordion really is! When you get signed up, you will be sent the music to seven great band pieces. This is a very fun event where Kim and Dan promise that you will definitely notice an improvement in your technical playing skills, articulation, and performance skills and you will be very proud to be part of this impressive Accordion Orchestra!They will be sending videos throughout the upcoming months of each song to be performed so that everyone will understand how the pieces will go and what is expected with tempos and articulation. There will also be Zoom meetings with the attendees as well. Also, suggested is a private lesson to ensure you have help with anything you need. The performance will take place Sat., May 20, 2023 at the Hughes American Family Theater!! The show will be professionally lit and will have a professional sound technician as well!! An Accordion Orchestra will have never looked so amazingly good!! These are the pieces to be performed this year: · Gonna Fly Now (theme from Rocky) · Espana Cani (for select advanced players) · Corazon (groovin’ Jazz tune) · Dvorak Slavonic Dance #8 · Nickelodean Rag · Theme from Schindler’s List · Rock a Jimmy (fun swing tune) · Conflict Overture (Collection of fantastic Patriotic Songs) Kim and Dan would like you to know: Since we are holding Band Camp in Branson, MO where there is so much to do, we will have several group fun activities which will be optional but strongly suggested so that all accordionists, spouses and family members will have a blast! Some of these include excursion to the Branson Landing, Table Rock Lake, The Branson Strip and group show prices to see the fabulous Hughes Family Show and Shanghai Circus and more. We are so excited to be able to hold this event at the hotel voted #1 in Branson by Trip Advisor - The Lodge of the Ozarks!! This is meant to be a great time for all!! Great people! Great fun! Great music! Great learning experience! Registration will close March 17. 2023. This will enable everyone plenty of time to learn the music. For further information on registration and payment details: kdcstudios@gmail |
SFAC Presents Matt Tolentino in Zoom Concertby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| On March 19, 2023: Matt Tolentino will perform for the San Francisco Accordion Club meeting via ZOOM. Sharing his birthday with Fred Astaire, Matt Tolentino was born May 10, 1985. Some say he was born 80 years too late, but Tolentino will argue this is not the case, as his mission is to preserve traditional music for the modern audience for years to come. Matt has made it his life’s mission to perform and preserve pre-swing American popular music - hot jazz, ragtime, and the roots of swing, as well as traditional folk music. As a true multi-instrumentalist, he plays accordion, piano, banjo, guitar, tuba, clarinet, saxophone, and vibraphone. Matt lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, sharing his 1890 Victorian with his wife Danielle, their Chihuahua Doo-Dad, and a 1952 Kaiser DeLuxe. For more information on Matt, his bands, and his music, please his website. Statement of Purpose of the San Francisco Accordion Club: The San Francisco Accordion Club is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization whose purpose is to enhance, promote and stimulate an appreciation for the accordion within the membership and throughout the general public. Donations are tax-deductible and gratefully accepted. |
Gail Campanella in Live Concertby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Accordionist Gail Campanella will perform live for the San Francisco Accordion Club on April 16th, 2023. The SFAC hosts musical programs on the third Sunday of every month at 2:30 PM at the:CHETCUTI COMMUNITY ROOM Civic Center Plaza 450 Poplar Avenue Millbrae, CA 94030 Meetings will also be streamed live over their YouTube channel. Growing up in a large Italian family in northeastern Colorado, Gail Campanella's interest in music naturally led her to the only musical instrument in their home - her mother's old accordion. Gail started lessons at the age of 10, and by 14, was teaching in her local community. As a testament to her dedication and love for the instrument, each month Gail made the 80-mile train trip to Denver to study with Anthony Pennetti and play in his accordion orchestra. In college, Gail majored in piano, but continued studying classical accordion and has made a career as a music educator, certified in the Orff and Kodaly methods of music education. Presently Gail is a member of the Los Angeles Accordionaires Orchestra, teaches private accordion and piano lessons and maintains an active national performance schedule on both accordion and piano. Gail’s performances are always virtuosic and she exudes her love for the accordion while connecting warmly with her audiences. Do not miss it! For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com |
2023 Accordion Seminars: In the Shadow - In The ……!Iby Dr. William Schimmel |
 The 2023 Accordion Seminars curated by Dr. William SchimmelOur 29th Smash Year Sponsored by the Accordion Global Association - AGA We go in a global direction - A Global Synthesis in a single instrument anywhere or anyplace. Welcome to the Ominous side of the accordion: - Shadowed - Mysterious - Intimate - Subdued - Gorgeous - In the Background - Highlighting - Classical - Out Front and Center - And also can be: (Like New York) Too surreal to love. BUT ….. What about the Baroque aspect - or Baroqueness - Finding Oneself in the Fertile Reality of some really Bon Merde. There is so much to explore - And even more! There is so much to digest - And to Jest! There is …….. yes, the built in ironic duality as Dr. Schimmel states: “h\Hip/Square, Beautiful/Ugly, Elegant/Vulgar, Old/New, Classy/Ain’t got no class” - Never One Without the Other. And Two new ones - “Terribly Sad/ Wonderfully Hilarious” Tune into The Seminars this year - With accordion philosopher, Dr. William Schimmel- and the Seminar TeamI We will give you some Really Cool Presentations And some wonderful Hot New Pieces- All premiers And some Remakes - They will be great fun! And make for some really good discussions We”ll explore the visual arts, dance, video, music theatre and concept art In the midst of this - What is the goal? As always, content on the highest level And like the last three years - they will be virtual The seminars, they never bore Our favorite words are : “more more more” July 28 29 30 2023 - Master Class 3 to 4 - Concert 4 to 5. Links will be provided prior to each day. $165. Entire Weekend: Checks can be made to William Schimmel 345 E 85th St 4RE New York, NY 10028 PayPal - Accordionbill@gmail.com For reservations and more information: accordionbill@gmail.com 212 - 876 0827 917 - 498 6823 |
2023 Accordion Seminars: In the Shadow - In The ……!Iby Dr. William Schimmel |
| The 2023 Accordion Seminars curated by Dr. William Schimmel Our 29th Smash Year Sponsored by the Accordion Global Association - AGA We go in a global direction - A Global Synthesis in a single instrument anywhere or anyplace. Welcome to the Ominous side of the accordion: - Shadowed - Mysterious - Intimate - Subdued - Gorgeous - In the Background - Highlighting - Classical - Out Front and Center - And also can be: (Like New York) Too surreal to love. BUT ….. What about the Baroque aspect - or Baroqueness - Finding Oneself in the Fertile Reality of some really Bon Merde. There is so much to explore - And even more! There is so much to digest - And to Jest! There is …….. yes, the built in ironic duality as Dr. Schimmel states: “h\Hip/Square, Beautiful/Ugly, Elegant/Vulgar, Old/New, Classy/Ain’t got no class” - Never One Without the Other. And Two new ones - “Terribly Sad/ Wonderfully Hilarious” Tune into The Seminars this year - With accordion philosopher, Dr. William Schimmel- and the Seminar TeamI We will give you some Really Cool Presentations And some wonderful Hot New Pieces- All premiers And some Remakes - They will be great fun! And make for some really good discussions We”ll explore the visual arts, dance, video, music theatre and concept art In the midst of this - What is the goal? As always, content on the highest level And like the last three years - they will be virtual The seminars, they never bore Our favorite words are : “more more more” July 28 29 30 2023 - Master Class 3 to 4 - Concert 4 to 5. Links will be provided prior to each day. $165. Entire Weekend: Checks can be made to William Schimmel 345 E 85th St 4RE New York, NY 10028 PayPal - Accordionbill@gmail.com For reservations and more information: accordionbill@gmail.com 212 - 876 0827 917 - 498 6823 |
2023 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebrationby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The 2023 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration, sponsored by the Northwest Accordion Society will be held in Leavenworth, Washington, USA from June 22nd to 25th, 2023.The event will include a variety of performances, competitions, workshops, lessons, jam sessions and a parade. Festhalle 2023 performers include Joey Miskulin, Alicia Jo Straka, Andy Mirkovich, Andy Gonzalez & Juan Barco, Max Kyllonen and the Toby & Lyle Duo (Frank Yankovic Tribute). For further information: Bonnie Birch – Chairman - bonniebirch@msn.com See poster for details: 2023LeavenworthPoster.pdf |