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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Dr. Helmi Harrington Named Citizen of the Year in Superior, Wisconsin
World Accordion Day Reports from Around the World
ATG to Receive $10,000 Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to Support 2024 Festival
AAA 2024 Annual Competition and Festival July 12 - 14 in Pennsylvania
Kansas City to Host International Accordionists & Teachers Guild Festival, July 23 - 27, 2024
Memories of AAA Events Through the Decades
Gilbert Reyes Inducted into Conjunto Hall of Fame
3rd Anniversary of the New England Accordion Connection & Museum on July 1
Jacques Pellarin: Two Compositions in Soundtrack of Hollywood Blockbuster Film
The 2024 Accordion Seminars 30th Anniversary - Dr. William Schimmel, Curator
Open Call for Accordionists of All Levels for the Annual Make Music NY Accordion Mass Appeal!
Eugene Ettore Birthday….. Remembering a Musical Giant
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Sam Falcetti Presents New England Concert & Workshop on June 9
Dee Langley Performs in Spring/Summer Musical Events
Video: World Accordion Day “Flash Mob” in Canada
Alicia Svigals Album Release Show at Nublu in NYC
Big Squeeze Accordion Festival Features Elena Fainshtein and Students
Julia Williams Shares Her Experiences as a Busy Accordionist
Video: Accordion Showdown - GEICO Insurance Commercial
5 Life Lessons I Learned From Playing the Accordion
Google Home Page Features Animated Accordion - Internet
Qathet Accordion Fest 2024 was Outstanding Success
Future events |
Leavenworth Accordion Celebration June 20 - 24
Western Swing Jamboree Featuring Lori Beth Brooke
Tickets Now on Sale for Scythian at Appaloosa Music Festival
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The June www.accordionusa.com news is online now. June is National Accordion Awareness Month which was established in 1989 to help spread the word about the resurgence in popularity in the accordion and to educate people about the accordion. AWW certainly entertains and educates the world about the accordion all year long! Did you know that there are 7 International Weekly accordion news sites in the following languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Chinese and Russian? There are 3 National News monthly sites including China, USA, and Russia. There is 1 monthly Diatonic site. That makes 11 prominent accordion news sites on the planet!!! The readership includes millions of people!! I think that makes the accordion a very important and valued instrument worldwide!!! How to celebrate? National Accordion Awareness Month activities can include: 1. Buy an accordion. What better way to honor this instrument than to permanently bring one into your life? Research the best and most affordable accordions and treat yourself to a wonderful instrument. Worried about the space it might take? No time to learn this instrument? Do a good deed and give it to someone who appreciates music, or donate it to your local music class. Send a little music/joy out into the world. 2. Take accordion lessons in person or online. 3. Support accordion players. Honor those who have put in the work. Attend their concerts/festivals in person, or watch them perform online. Purchase their music/albums from online platforms, etc. Share your discovery with the world and help spread awareness about the accordion. Interesting fact: A renewed interest in grassroots regional musical styles, such as Zydeco, Cajun and Tejano, have resulted in the rediscovery and recent rise in popularity of the accordion in the U.S.The June news includes information about videos, albums artists, concerts and more! There are many special reports and videos about World Accordion Day (WAD) which happened on May 6, 2024. You can view concerts from around the world just by clicking on the links in the articles. It is very true that the accordion is the perfect way to meet new people, make friends, and expand your musical horizons. Enjoy and please send all comments to Ritabelll@aol.com |
Dr. Helmi Harrington Named Citizen of the Year in Superior, Wisconsinby Jane Christison, Secretary, A World of Accordions Museum |
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  Video: Presentation to Dr. Helmi Harrington, Superior , Wisconsin Citizen of the Year. It begins at 14:00 minutesOn Thursday, May 30, 2024, Helmi Harrington, PhD, founder and curator of A World of Accordions Music (AWAM) was named the Citizen of the Year by the City of Superior, Wisconsin. Helmi was given a key to the city by Mayor Jim Paine. This award has only been given out a few times, and all of us at A World of Accordions are so proud of her and all her hard work over the years building the incredible accordion-family of instruments collections housed at A World of Accordions Museum. At the upcoming ATG Festival, July 23-27, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri, there will be a viewing of the documentary, “A World of Accordions . . . a Harrington Legacy,” featuring Helmi Strahl Harrington, Ph.D., Curator, A World of Accordions Museum. The documentary was sponsored by the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International. In the State of the City Address given by Mayor Jim Paine recognized Dr. Helmi Harington, the founder and curator of the Harrington Arts Center: “She is a teacher, a musician, a historian, an artist, and a storyteller. She attracts visitors and admirers from around the world. She already has a building named for her,” said Paine. “Thanks to her, Superior, Wisconsin is nationally and globally recognized as a center of art, music, learning, and timeless beauty. She is, quite possibly, our greatest storyteller and now counts among the least of her lifetime honors the title: Citizen of the Year.” Photo: Jane Christison, Secretary of the AWAM. Right: Helmi is the museum Founder, Curator, and President of the Board of AWAM For further information: Jane Christison, ATG Secretary AWAM Board / Secretary janec@musicwithasmile.com |
World Accordion Day Reports from Around the Worldby Harley Jones |
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 Reports of successful concerts to celebrate World Accordion Day (WAD) have been coming in from around the world.See World Accordion Day videos. pictures and reports at: 2024WADreport Online is a WAD Report from the USA. A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) in Superior, Wisconsin, USA, celebrated WAD and the Dr. Willard Palmer Festival Thursday, May 2 – Sunday, May 5, 2024. The report was sent by Jane Christison, Secretary, World of Accordions Museum Board. View at: 2024WAD-US |
ATG to Receive $10,000 Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to Support 2024 Festivalby Mary Ann Covone, ATG President |
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  The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) is pleased to announce it has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for a Grants for Arts Projects award of $10,000. This grant will support the 2024 Festival and will help bring world class performers to play in concerts, open to the public, during the July 23-27 Festival in Kansas City. Spanning five days of festivities, the ATG Festival will showcase the incredible versatility and artistry of the accordion, drawing participants and performers from not only the United States and Canada but from around the world. Audiences can expect to be treated to a breathtaking array of performances that will redefine their perceptions of the accordion. “The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International is an 80 plus year old organization founded on the basic principle of promoting excellence in accordion education and performance,” says Mary Ann Covone, president of ATG. “During the last several years, ATG has had a wider reach due to a steadily growing membership and online presence. We are very grateful to the NEA for this assistance. We will continue our efforts to promote excellence in playing and teaching all genres of music striving to make our programs accessible to all accordionists and students through online workshops and presentations in addition to our live performances and workshops at our annual Festival." One of the highlights of the festival will be a monumental accordion orchestra featuring 90 players, demonstrating the power and grandeur of this beloved instrument. Additionally, attendees can immerse themselves in an enchanting evening of tango music, (more) where the accordion takes center stage in bringing this passionate dance form to life in unexpected ways. Orchestra director, Joan Sommers notes, “"The ATG deserves this award. The organization has been working diligently to help accordionists of all levels improve their skills as educators or performers and to share important musical experiences with others. This NEA award will assist the ATG in continuing these efforts." “Projects like ATG’s exemplify the creativity and care with which communities are telling their stories, creating connection, and responding to challenges and opportunities in their communities—all through the arts,” said NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD. “So many aspects of our communities such as cultural vitality, health and wellbeing, infrastructure, and the economy are advanced and improved through investments in art and design, and the National Endowment for the Arts is committed to ensuring people across the country benefit.” In total, the NEA will award 1,135 Grants for Arts Projects awards totaling more than $37 million as part of its second round of fiscal year 2024 grants. To learn more about the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International and the 2024 Festival, visit the ATG website. For more information on other projects included in the NEA’s grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news. Media Contact: Mary Ann Covone, ATG President maryanncovone@gmail.com |
AAA 2024 Annual Competition and Festival July 12 - 14 in Pennsylvaniaby Frank Busso Jnr, AAA President |
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  Welcome to the American Accordionists’ Association! Exciting news about the upcoming 2024 AAA Festival in Conshohocken, PAThe AAA Board has been busy making many exciting changes and additions to this year’s festival, which will take place from July 12-14, 2024. This consolidated schedule will be packed with events, performers, workshops and food functions beginning with a gala luncheon on Friday, July 12. This will cut down the amount of hotel nights needed, but not the amount of wonderful activities! We are delighted to announce our incredible guest artists: Hanzhi Wang, Joseph Natoli, Dallas Vietty, Nikolay Bine and this year’s festival orchestra conductor Frank Busso Sr. More performers will be announced as plans firm up. Meanwhile, please save the date and join us for this special event! Along with performances and workshops, there will be competitions for students of all ages and proficiency levels. There will be performance opportunities for all attendees, three festival orchestras, vendors, exhibits and several food functions with live music. Competition rules and entry forms are now online at AAAFestival The hotel discount code will be released soon along with festival announcements. We look forward to seeing you there! Musically yours, Frank Busso Jr. AAA President |
Kansas City to Host International Accordionists & Teachers Guild Festival, July 23 - 27, 2024by Marty McIntyre and Mary Ann Covone |
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| Kansas City's vibrant music scene is set to take center stage in a whole new way as it welcomes the Accordionists & Teachers Guild (ATG) for its annual Festival from July 23 to 27, 2024. While the city is renowned for its rich and diverse musical heritage, this event promises to transform it into a global mecca for accordion enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Spanning five days of festivities, the ATG Festival will showcase the incredible versatility and artistry of the accordion, drawing participants and performers from not only the United States and Canada but from around the world. Audiences can expect to be treated to a breathtaking array of performances that will redefine their perceptions of the accordion. The evening concerts will begin Wednesday, July 24th, with Stas Venglevski premiering a new composition he wrote for Joan Cochran Sommers followed by Das Kollektive Duo (flute and accordion) from Austria. Thursday evening will feature the UMKC Accordion Ensemble directed by Joan Sommers, Mirco Patarini from Italy (President of the Confédération Internationale Des Accordéonistes), and Nikolay Bine, jazz accordionist from Canada. Friday evening will be an evening of Tango and Fusion. Bridge and Wolak (Dr. Michael Bridge on accordion and Kornel Wolak on clarinet) will lead off with a concert of classical, jazz and world music fusing various genres of music to create a life-affirming concert full of beauty, virtuosity and humor. Next, Grayson Masefield (New Zealand) will be joined by a group of prominent Kansas City musicians, “Ensemble Iberica,” to present an all-tango program. The Festival will culminate on Saturday evening with the incredible ATG Festival Orchestra, conducted by Joan Cochran Sommers. Among other works, the orchestra will premier two new works commissioned by the ATG. The first is composed by Gorka Hermosa entitled OPAROA, which means in the Basque language “Truly full” (referencing the “truly full life’ that Professor Joan C. Sommers has had, giving so much to the accordion world in America). The second commissioned piece is ETERNAL composed by Ian Watson (United Kingdom) in honor of Joan C. Sommers’ 90th birthday. "The ATG Festival is more than just a celebration of the accordion; it's a testament to the instrument's enduring appeal and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries," says Mary Ann Covone, president of the ATG. "We're thrilled to bring together accordionists and enthusiasts from across the globe to share in the joy and excitement of this special Festival honoring our Joan Sommers.” Beyond the captivating performances, the festival will also feature workshops, networking opportunities for accordionists of all levels, an accordion petting zoo for youngsters looking to learn about accordions, sessions geared toward music educators and will feature the World Accordion Cup competition. Each evening will include concerts at the UMKC - White Recital Hall. Whether you're a seasoned accordion aficionado or simply curious to explore the instrument's vast potential, the ATG Festival in Kansas City promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend. This is one NOT TO BE MISSED. For more information, please visit www.atgaccordions.com. |
Memories of AAA Events Through the Decadesby Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
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 — an ongoing photo article by Joan Grauman Morse, AAA HistorianOld photos, as well as more recent photos, can evoke amazing memories of accordion events of yesteryear. I am so very grateful for the opportunity to be present at so many of the AAA events and festivals through the decades. I was blessed to get to know one of the founders of the AAA as well as many of the early renowned accordionists in the US. I heard fabulous performances, and made many friends along the way. I am certain that many of you have your own special memories of AAA events through the years! Please send me your favorite photos as I will be adding to this article on a regular basis. It will NOT be in chronological order. Some additions will be of a particular person, some of particular events — whatever comes to mind! As the AAA Historian, I have amassed an enormous collection of beautiful and historical photos that I want to share with all of you. Let’s step back to 20 years before I was born. The young (and not so young) accordion greats of the 1930s were busily creating a new national accordion organization. The time had come to bring together accordion enthusiasts, teachers, publishers and performers for the purpose of standardizing switches on the instruments, standardizing accordion notation in sheet music, creating educational materials, accordion promotion, and the list went on. The first meeting of this new organization, the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA), took place in March, 1938. The planning of this organization, however, began a few years earlier. One thing that the founders encouraged was professional promotional 8 x 10 photos of the prominent accordionists of the day. These beautiful, glossy black and white photos were treasures to those who received them. They were often autographed and dedicated to the recipient. This practice lasted through the early 2000s! The first group of photos in my article will be of many of these early 8 x 10s. I hope you enjoy seeing them and reading the dedications! I will continue to post later promotional photos - so please send me yours! Next group of photos are collages of colorful and delightful record album covers. The ones featured are from part of my collection and, of course, they all feature accordion soloists, duos and ensembles. It is truly hard to comprehend the enormous number of accordionists who created LPs in the 1950s through the 1980s! Featured in my photo collages are LPs from greats such as Carmen Carrozza, Charles Magnante, Leon Sash, Steven Dominko, brothers Harley and Maurice Jones (New Zealand), Myron Floren, Dick Contino, and the list goes on. What a pleasure it is to listen to these greats on my old turntable! If you have old accordion records, or come across any at yard sales, etc., take them home, dust off your turntable, pour a glass of wine, and ENJOY! And remember: this is an ongoing article. I look forward to seeing your photos and including them in the article. Please send them to me at: graumanjoan98r@gmail.com View this article with additional pictures and montages at: https://www.ameraccord.com/articles-memories.php |
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Gilbert Reyes Inducted into Conjunto Hall of Fameby Christine Johnstone |
 Hall of Fame poster Gilbert Reyes Jr. has been selected for induction into the Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame as part of the 2024 class.This prestigious honor recognizes Gilbert’s long dedication to the regional conjunto music genre, and the substantial impact he has made within this vibrant musical tradition. Gilbert Reyes is the Hohner Accordion U.S. Brand Manager. The induction ceremony will take place on July 27th, 2024, at the ABC Event Center in San Benito, Texas, USA. Attendees will enjoy a live performance by conjunto pioneer Ruben Garza y Su Conjunto, presented by Betancourt Ventures LLC Productions-Wrecking Crew Jams Dance Hall Series. |
3rd Anniversary of the New England Accordion Connection & Museum on July 1by Rita Barnea |
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 Paul Ramunni, founder and curator of the New England Accordion Connection and Museum shares, “On July 1, 2024 it will mark 3 years since we opened our New England Accordion Connection & Museum Co. here in the railroad station in downtown North Canaan, Ct. We are also approaching a milestone of having been visited by almost 6,000 people. And yes, we are selling accordions as well. We plan to celebrate this success in the coming weeks. In the movie “Field of Dreams,” we were introduced to the idea of “…if you build it, they will come.” Well, we built it, and visitors have indeed been coming.In addition to the over 600 accordions in our museum and sales rooms, we’ve added Thomas Edison’s early phonograph players, a Gem roller organ, an Edison Diamond Disc player and several Victrolas. And they all work! People are amazed to hear the quality of the sounds, and the fact that they were made at a time when there were no computers, hardware stores, supply lines, or instruction manuals. Many comment on the ornate decorative beauty of each instrument. But there is something else happening that is no longer new, and it continues to surprise me, no matter how many times I witness it. The stories reported in the news these days all seem to revolve around our differences. As we well know, much sadness comes from all of the hate and divisiveness. But picture this…the door to our museum opens and two small groups of people enter. They do not know each other. Everyone is shocked by what they see before them, a room with 400+ antique accordions. They all smile, some laugh, others are speechless, but everyone wants to know how this collection became a reality. As I explain and conduct a tour, within 10-15 minutes, we are all laughing and enjoying each other’s company and the music. We are happy. I find out that some of the people are Democrats and some Republicans. How can this be? Aren’t we supposed to be divided and angry with one another? Then I see what is happening. It’s the music and the memories we each have of times in the Past when we gathered with family and friends, focused on one another, and built relationships, and precious memories. The music of that time acts as the “glue” that helped us come together in these happy experiences. The accordion was a major contributor to these happenings because its sound is so memorable, and with millions of units being made, it was perfect for such times. With almost 6000 visitors and 3 years of experience, each of these visits have become like miracles when they happen. There is something very special happening here at our museum and shop. Come and experience it for yourself. You will be amazed.” For Paul, he Accordion Museum is a labor of love. Paul adds, “We want to do something that makes people happy and shows folks that we can enjoy one another. The accordion is an old way of doing that, but effective. I put it on and play for you and all of a sudden there’s a friendship.” Be sure to schedule a visit to the New England Accordion Connectionand Museum Co. very soon! For further information: Paul Ramunni… owner and curator….860-833-1374 New England Accordion Museum 75 Main Street, North Canaan, CT Email: ramunni@comcast.net |
Jacques Pellarin: Two Compositions in Soundtrack of Hollywood Blockbuster Filmby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video 1:"Vintage valse" by Jacques PellarinComposition /accordeon : Jacques Pellarin Guitar: Michael Nikolidakis Jacques Pellarin has announced that two of his compositions are officially in the soundtrack of the Hollywood blockbuster film “Den of Thieves 2 Pantera”, which features actor Gerard Butler. This action movie (written and directed by Christian Gudegast) is a direct sequel to the 2018 film “Den of Thieves” which follows the pursuit of a diamond heist in France. The worldwide cinema release is September 27, 2024. Jacques Pellarin CD: Accordionist, composer and producer, Jacques Pellarin performing "Vintage Valse" with Michael Nikolidakis (guitar). The compositions in the movie are “Vintage Valse” and “Coeur de Biguine” and the movie performers include Pellarin on accordion. Jacques Pellarin has also released his Opus 2024, album “En Plein Coeur” which is available on Amazon, Apple Music, Spotify, etc. Jacques shares, “"En Plain Coeur" is a very eclectic album in my inspirations while staying true to my acoustic and cinematic Accordion sound. I am back to the use of my concert accordion, called "Bayan" for solos but also to associate it with the bandoneon! I don't forget my traditional accordion in the service of a foxtrot or a waltz! I hope you enjoy my album as much as I enjoyed writing and producing it! I would like to associate names with this new production such as renowned Kevin Manthei (Composer and Producer USA) with whom I co-wrote the last composition of the album "River of Mystery", a happy musical collaboration! Also my (studio) sound accomplice for many years, the excellent musician and bass player Christian Barillot en Savoie!" Jacques Pellarin is a composer, accordionist and a music producer well known internationally for The French Chic & Eclectic Accordion collection from Jacques Pellarin music productions. He has created over 15 albums including Jazz - French cinema - Latin Jazz - Crossover traditionnal to Classic music. He has toured in the USA, Europe & Japan with bands like Baikal duo, Jacques Pellarin trio & now the duet JAC & CO. His music was played more than 100 times on Morning Edition (NPR) in recent years. Jacques has recorded two Masterings for NHK TV - Japan.The music has been added in a national documentary as "Song titles", June 16th 2018 and also available in the NHK Music catalogue. Three of Jacques's compositions were featured in this beautiful playlist Music Apple around the theme of Paris Cafe classic French Vibes including Edith Piaf, Michel Legrand, Charles Aznavour, Manu Dibango, Babik Reinhardt, Avishai Cohen, Jacques Pellarin ... Jacques Pellarin is a true exponent of the Accordion artform and his wide repertoire of music genres and styles makes him a much sought after musician and composer. For further information: jacques.pellarin@wanadoo.fr |
The 2024 Accordion Seminars 30th Anniversary - Dr. William Schimmel, Curatorby William Schimmel |
 Our 30th Anniversary Year: “More is Better” This has been our Philosophy for 30 years - and we’re proud of it: Staggering Variety, Overflowing Ideas, Developed Ideas, Ideas in process, Success, Failure, Encouragement, Styles, Brands - and we’re still working to improve our art in every way. We cover everything, including all of the ISMS around - yes, even (would you believe) outdated Minimalism (ironic statement of course).We’ve build a culture. We’ve built a community. Some call it a non culture - some call it a non community. Some call us Weird - Some say it’s all been said and done. We do still do weird - and we do new takes on old stuff ( most of them new to the Music Community - Non Accordionists at large - therefore new to them ), which still raises the question: “What is this thing called “New Music ?” There are a few points to ponder: The great director Peter Brook talked greatly about “The Empty Space”. Accordionists start with a “Full Space” and add more and more s - - t. Great artists start practicing slowly until they are ready to play at tempo. Great Accordionists start faster and eventually slow down due to tangled fingers. We think they all lead to the same place. We’re not a Fringe Group - We never were. We put on our lab coats and get to work. and so can you - virtually. Topics will include: The Art ofAudience Participation/The Sing - a - Long; Embracing the Maximallst Dimension (The Art of Clutter); Faking/Improvising - are they the same?; Working In the Video Dimension; The Varieties of The Mexican Hat Dance and The Hokey Pokey; Classical or Classic; Cassettes are back - giving “Ye Olde Accordion Sound” a return; The Artificial Intelligence of the Accordion before Artificial Intelligence; the Pot of Gold at the end of The Rainbow; Practicing by Real Time Continuity; The Five Minute Ear Training Course; Klezmer from a Non - Jewish perspective and more to follow and much more to follow - with participants, in future articles to follow, Our team will include Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Will Holshouser, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Dr. Robert Young McMahan, Corn Mo, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Bachtopus, Carl Riehl, Mary Spencer Knapp, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Melissa Elledge, Doug Makofka, Rita Davidson Barnea, Erica Marie Mancini, Benjamin Ickes, Dan Cooper, Dr. Thomas Massucci, Gene Pritsker, Peter Flint, Mayumi Miyaoka, Robert Duncan, Jeanne Velonis, Bob Goldberg, David Stoler, David First, William Komaiko, Sari Kalin, Jack Di Bennidetto, John Foti, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig,Brian Dewan, Lee Mc Clure, Peter Jarvis, Elliott Sharp, Hanzhi Wang, Milica Paranosic and others to follow. July 26, 27, 28, 2024 - virtually $165. Entire weekend: Master classes are from 3 to 4:PM. Concerts from 4 to 5:PM Please make checks payable to: Dr William Schimmel 345 E 85th St - Apt 4RE New York, NY 10028 PayPal - Accordionbill@gmail.com Leave e- mail address for confirmation A link will be sent to you prior to each event. For registration info: Accordionbill@gmail.com This event is sponsored by the Accordion Global Association. “The Seminars, They never Bore - Our Favorite Words are: More! More! More!” Dr. William Schimmel’s upcoming performances: June 15, 2024 - Church of St Luke in the Field - New York at 7:PM St. George Choral society Rossini - “Petite Messe Solennelle” - originally for Vocal Quartet, Piano and Harmonium. This version will be for full chorus, Piano and Dr. William Schimmel will play the Harmonium part on the Accordion. The piece lasts two hours in duration. June 27, 2024: Greenwich House - New York - 7:PM Composers’ Concordance Imitations. Dr. Schimmel will perform his own work, "Putting the FU back in Fugue” |
Open Call for Accordionists of All Levels for the Annual Make Music NY Accordion Mass Appeal!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 As part of the Make Music New York Festival on June 21st, 2024, accordionists of all shapes, sizes, and abilities are encouraged to join this Mass Accordion gathering, where you can participate in a performance of "In C" by Terry Riley, a partially-improvised piece. Led by pro accordionist Melissa Elledge, and presented in partnership with the Brooklyn Accordion Club. Make Music New York accordion mass appeal takes place on Friday, June 21, 2024 from 6-8:PM in Prospect Park, Concert Grove (Brooklyn) Rehearsal (optional but encouraged) Saturday June 1st at 3-5:PM at A4Collective rehearsal space in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn Please fill out this survey to indicate your interest. https://forms.gle/fH1CaaSGaA26Q3jV8 Melissa Elledge is an accordionist based in NYC, and known primarily as a long-time performer in the subways. She began organizing performances for Make Music New York in 2012, and will be putting together an all-accordion production of In C by Terry Riley this year for MMNY, on June 21st. This piece was composed in 1964, and is considered one of the most seminal examples of Minimalism in contemporary American music history. “In C” is always a great choice for the open-call aspect of MMNY performances, as it’s “open-composed”, meaning it can be played by any number of players, on any instrument, and can be played for half an hour as easily as it can be played for 2 hours! This year, we’ll be shooting for an approximately 1 hour and 15 minute performance of the piece. It is pretty easy to sight-read, however counting is of the utmost importance to create the undulating layers of sound Riley envisioned, which interlace between players and create magical moments of canonic harmony. Players need only to be able to play a steady C 1/8th note beat on the bass side, otherwise the piece is played entirely on the piano side. Please see attached sheet music and read carefully through the instructions. Players can opt to bring a small stool or play standing. Melissa will be standing to play the whole time so as to loosely conduct and cue the beginning and end. Players may share music stands. She has plenty of physical copies of the music for anyone who needs them. And don’t worry about having to play continuously for an hour and 15 minutes! Part of the beauty of the piece is that it sounds different every time it’s played and this is partly due to players occasionally dropping out for a minute or two here and there to rest and listen to the others before rejoining. We look forward to putting this performance together and bringing it to Prospect Park which will hopefully be more convenient for players compared to years past that were mostly in Manhattan. Thank you so much for being part of this truly unique performing experience! Feel free to reach out with any questions! For further information : brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com Brooklyn Accordion Club is sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development Fund of Cultural Affairs, administered by Brooklyn Arts Council (BAC). |
Eugene Ettore Birthday….. Remembering a Musical Giantby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Eugene Ettore Birthday….. Remembering a Musical Giant June 2, 2024 would have been Eugene Ettore’s 103rd Birthday. In honor of his birthday, I am posting the link to the website I created to educate all about a unique, versatile and talented individual who made great contributions to the accordion world and musical world in general. I encourage you to visit this page: http://www.accordions.com/memorials/mem/ettore_eugene/ I was extremely fortunate to be his student. He prepared me for my long career as a music teacher in the public schools. Eugene Ettore inspired all of his students with an approach which included discipline, encouragement, and kindness. Those of you who had a music teacher as a guiding light in their lives will understand the importance of having a teacher/mentor. The lifelong benefits and influence branch out into so many other areas of life. Eugene Ettore was well known as a fabulous composer for the accordion. He performed as both soloist and in the duet team, “Concert Duo” with Carmen Carrozza, his great friend. As a Renaissance man, Eugene Ettore also played the French Horn, and wrote method books for the accordion and French Horn. He was an artist, inventor and Braille transcriber etc. He was President of the AAA (American Accordionists’ Association) three times! In honor of Eugene Ettore’s birthday, I am offering a free download of my recording of his original compositions: http://www.musicforaccordion.com/…/inform/davidson/index.htm If you would like to see recent performances of some of his works, please visit: 1. Rita Barnea Workshop "PRELUDE & SCHERZO”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etP04Tf6rQc 2. Eugene Ettore: Spanish Holiday, for Accordion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFhxhXcb7pQ 3. Rita Barnea Workshop "Accordion Miniatures”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPyCpSxiT8E 4. Rita Barnea Workshop "Five O'Clock Rush”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-7JMjGdU1c If you wish to learn his music, please email me and I will send it to you as a free download. If you have photos or information about him, I would appreciate your sending it to me and I will add it to his memorial site. Thank you. I am available for ZOOM and live concert/workshope on the Life and Musical Legacy of Eugene Ettore. I hope that you enjoyed learning about Eugene Ettore. He deserves to be remembered and recognized for his important contributions to the musical world. I welcome any comments to be sent to me, Rita Barnea, at Ritabelll@aol.com. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Remembering Lou Jacklich: Master Accordionist and Teacher, 1928 – 2024by Pamela Tom |
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 From Pamela Tom (accordionist) and Kenneth E. Schwartz, President of The San Francisco Accordion Club:Northern California’s cherished accordion maestro, Lou Jacklich, passed away peacefully on World Accordion Day, May 6, 2024, after a brief illness. He would have been 96 years old in August. Lou Jacklich, affectionately known as “Mr. Jacklich, Maestro Jacklich,” or just plain “Lou,” was an extraordinarily talented accordionist whose musical career spanned a remarkable 79 years. He remained a vibrant performer and teacher to the end! A virtuoso and innovator from a young age, he had his union card at 17 years old as a vaudeville performer. He starred with and led numerous bands, recorded as an artist for Capitol Records, founded his own accordion school (Lou Jacklich School of Music), co-owned a music publishing company (“Lou-Rich”), and was one of the first accordionists to master the new electronic accordions in 1960. A distinguished teacher, performer and contributor to the accordion community, Lou was recognized nationwide with multiple meritorious lifetime achievement awards: • Lifetime Achievement Award, San Francisco Accordion Club. 2014 • Honorary Director, Cotati Accordion Festival. 2016 • Art Van Damme Education Award, Las Vegas International Accordion Convention. 2016 • Certificate of recognition honoring Lou Jacklich’s accordion achievements and leadership, California State Senator Bob Wieckowski (District 10). 2017 • Accordion American Hall of Fame, Federation of American Musicians, Singers and Performing Artists, Inc. (FAMSPA). 2019 • Accordion World Hall of Fame, Federation of American Musicians, Singers and Performing Artists, Inc. (FAMSPA). 2019 • $500 Student Scholarship in honor of Lou Jacklich, sponsored by San Francisco Accordion Club. 2023 • Mobile Accordion Classroom Honoree, Innovative Accordion Music Productions. 2023 Jacklich was a valued mentor, teacher, and member of the San Francisco Accordion Club. He led the Club’s jam sessions, always instructing, of course. His many wonderful performances before the club were testimony to his mastership of the instrument, and his duets with his students were riveting! The Maestro performed at accordion clubs throughout California. One of his last recorded performances was January 2023 at the Silicon Valley Accordion Society where he was a frequent invited guest artist. His performances were based on his own arrangements often with a jazz interpretation. Ernie Felice inspired Jacklich’s jazz style. His YouTube site includes a wider range of his artistic arrangements. Mr. Jacklich’s extended family included over 1400 former students. Teaching was the joy of his life! In fact, his last formal teaching lesson was 3 weeks before he passed. Details of Lou Jacklich’s career and audio samples of his innovative style on the electronic accordion are on the MusicForAccordion web site at Lou Jacklich. Lou touched so many lives during his time with us. He will be deeply missed. May you rest in peace, Lou Jacklich! Photo credit: Colette Ogata |
Sam Falcetti Presents New England Concert & Workshop on June 9by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: New England Digital Accordion Orchestra 2024 Promo videoThis is a sampling from the New Year's Eve 2022 & 2023 concerts of the New England Digital Accordion Orchestra (NEDAO) under the direction of Sam Falcetti. These performances were by invitation of the Chatham, MA (Cape Cod) committee for the Chatham First Night celebration. Sam Falcetti, an international conductor, teacher, performer, and founder of the Falcetti Music chain of stores, will be giving a special workshop on the left hand of the accordion. This is his 26th workshop throughout the past years. This workshop was just presented at the Massachusetts Accordion Association in Boston last month on April, 2024. Playing more than just alternating bass and chord in your left hand is the main focus of this workshop. There will be a hand out with suggested songs to use when applying the patterns including walking the basses. Also included at this event will be performances by some of the contestants from the recent New England Music Festival. For those who haven’t played their accordion in a long time, this is a great way to jumpstart your hobby again and learn some great musical left hand accompaniments to add to your own songs and performances. Anselmo “Sam” Falcetti, started on the accordion at the age of 10, and began home teaching when he was 16. Before graduating from the University of Hartford with a degree in theory & composition, he opened up his first accordion studio in Westfield, Ma. During his career Mr. Falcetti has conducted the Springfield Accordion Orchestra on performance tours in Japan, Italy, New Zealand and the USA in the 70’s and 80’s. He also directed the Orchestra on National TV on the David Frost Show with Roberta Flack. In the 80’s, by invitation, his Westfield State University Accordion Ensemble performed twice at Carnegie Hall in New York City. As founder of Falcetti Music he provides Roland Accordion sales, service and instruction and is the distributor for New England. Being an impressive musical entrepreneur – over the course of 50 years, Sam built and led Falcetti Music – a very successful chain of 8 stores through Massachusetts and Connecticut. His reputation in the industry was large and he was often found on the cover of the most prominent trade magazines. At the 50th Anniversary of the University of Hartford, it was Sam on the cover of the Alumni magazine to be honored for his accomplishments. During the 70’s and 80’s, Sam was an adjunct Professor at Holyoke Community College at Westfield University. Forming an accordion college ensemble during this period they had the distinction of twice playing Carnegie Hall in Manhattan. A busy period for him – Sam also created and conducted the Springfield Accordion Orchestra that was chosen to perform all over the world in many diverse and exciting venues – the 1970 World’s Fair in Osaka, Japan, the David Frost Show with Roberta Flack, toured Italy, Disney World in 1975, cruise ships to Bermuda, marching in the Boston Parade honoring Rose Kennedy’s 100th birthday, and notably was invited to perform at the 1980 Coupe Mondiale in Auckland NZ. Sam has supported the digital accordion since it’s very inception, both in his business and by making it his performing instrument early on – and to this day is New England's Roland digital accordion distributor. Central to this, Sam formed the only digital orchestra in the USA playing custom arrangements in many prominent venues all over New England – opening for Deanna Martin and Bobby Rydell - and up to this year where the orchestra has played all over Massachusetts in the “Summer Concert Series” concluding with “New Year’s First Night on Cape Cod with 70 musical groups in over eight venues. Workshop Date Event: Sunday, June 9, 2024 Time: 1:30-3:30PM Place: Falcetti Music, 1755 Boston Rd., Springfield, Ma. 01129 (Concert Hall-Lower Level) Refreshments will be served! Guests are invited! Please RSVP to Sam Falcetti by email at samfalcetti@gmail.com or by phone at 413-204-5522 with number of attendees by June 3rd. Looking forward to seeing you on June 9th! For Those Interested This Is A List Of New England Digital Accordion Orchestra 2024 Performances: Friday, July 19th – Brookfield, MA 6:00-8:00PM (Town Common Gazebo) Wednesday, July 31st – Brimfield, MA 6:00-8:00PM (Town Common Gazebo) |
Dee Langley Performs in Spring/Summer Musical Eventsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Accordionist Dee Langley has a busy Spring and Summer performance schedule.In honor of World Accordion Day, May 6, the 13 piece “Masked Accordions” put on a free show at 6:30 PM. Saturday, May 4, 2024 near Dock & Paddle, the cafe at Como Lakeside Pavilion in St. Paul. The musicians played a variety of music “from the Beatles to the Balkans to James Bond,” said director, accordionist Dee Langley.May 4 is colloquially “Star Wars Day” — May the Fourth be with you; get it? — and so the accordionists also played some of the themes from a galaxy far, far away. Built in 1992, the pavilion is an exact replica of the one built in 1905 along the lakeshore. With a hill, waterfall and Lexington Avenue separating the pavilion from the rest of Como Park, a pedestrian bridge spanning the avenue brings people from the trails in the central portion of the park to the lake and pavilion. It was a beautiful setting for an enthusiastic audience. The World Premiere of “Johnny Skeeky; or, The Remedy for Everything” takes place from May 29 to July 7, 2024 at the Ritz Theater, Minneapolis, Minnesota. The 13 piece “Masked Accordions” put on a free show at 6:30 PM Saturday, May 4, 2024 near Dock & Paddle Cafe. First love and old friendship face off against greed and hypocrisy aboard a tricked-out yacht anchored off the coast of Miami in Bradley Greenwald and Steven Epp’s witty, contemporary libretto, a reimagining of Puccini's comic opera Gianni Schicchi. The orchestration was written by award winning composer, orchestrator, and arranger Robert Elhai. It is scored for a small ensemble - keyboard, violin, bass, woodwind and accordion. Weary of not having the accordion used to its full potential within a score, Robert took special care to provide a strong accordion voice throughout the work. Mr. Elhai is the recipient of Tony and Drama Desk nominations for his work for the Broadway production of The Lion King. Musicians include: Music Director/Keyboard – Sonja Thompson Accordion – Dee Langley Violin – Renata Steve Woodwinds – Brain Handeland Bass – Joan Griffith Dee Langley comes from what has been called "an accordion dynasty". She was born into an accordion family with brothers “Skeets” Langley (1964 World Champion, Coupe Mondiale) and Rick Langley leading the way. All three Langley children grew to be professional musicians. Since “Skeets” and Rick were 12 and 8 years her seniors (respectively) they were already proficient on the accordion when 4 year old Dee demanded an accordion of her own for Christmas. Her parents borrowed a small 8-bass accordion and a career was started. No one could have known that this toddler’s love for the instrument and her passion for music would eventually reap her numerous first place honors, take her to Europe and the Balkans, and earn her several guest appearances as accordionist with the Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. As a professional, Dee has developed her musical talent into a career of performance, teaching and study, focusing on authentic ethnic sounds. She specializes in both solo and ensemble works for the accordion and has participated in seminars and symposiums on accordion styles and techniques in Chatel, France and Klingenthal, East Germany. She has performed with the Dolina Polish Folk Dancers and Ethnic Dance Theatre and officiated as Director of The EDT Folk Orchestra. Concert tours of Poland, France and the Czech Republic. Dee has performed accordion works with the Minnesota Orchestra and St. Paul Chamber Orchestra andthe Bloomington Symphony Orchestra, Philomusica, The St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra, Duluth Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Sinfonia, Theater Latte Da, Nautilus Music Theater, Flying Foot Forum, and the Northwoods Classical Players (members of the Chicago Symphony). She has premiered compositions with the Ancia Quartet, the Minneapolis Philharmonic and Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra and worked with contemporary composers including Dominic Argento, Robert Elhai, Peter Blauvelt, Mary Ellen Childs, Becky Dale, Shelley Hanson, Mark Hellem, Carleton Macy, Carole Saline and Kim Sherman to expand the visibility of classical accordion with other instruments. Ms. Langley is winner of the 2012 Minnesota Emerging Composer Award (Orkestar Bez Ime - World Music), the 2011-2012 McKnight Fellowship for Performing Musicians. In March of 2019 Dee was honored by both the American Musicological Society and the American Accordionists’ Association for her lifelong dedication and service to the accordion as a performer, educator, director and composer. She was inducted into the American Accordion Hall of Fame in 2020. Founder and coordinator for the NE Accordion Festival, Ms. Langley is also a former president of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, and currently teaches accordion for Minneapolis College as well as privately in NE Minneapolis. Future 2024 performances include: June 20: The Belvedere at Crooners,Minneapolis, Minnesota Celebrating June as Accordion Awareness Month with Dan Newton, Dee Langley, Dan Chouiard, Bob Walser, Elisabeth Rowan July 12-14: Marriott Philadelphia West, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania; American Accordionists Association Presenter July 26: Orchestra Hall Minnesota Orchestra Summer Festival Concert “Three Penny Opera” For further information: squeezermn@yahoo.com |
Video: World Accordion Day “Flash Mob” in Canadaby Harley Jones |
 Video: The Victoria Accordion Club Band created a "Flashmob" at the Mayfair Shopping Centre in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, to celebrate World Accordion Day (WAD)."The Mall Management were so very supportive, and the audience (pretty sure we surprised them) loved it." Their program included La Cumparsita; Rock around the Clock; In the Mood; Beer Barrel Polka. |
Alicia Svigals Album Release Show at Nublu in NYCby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Alicia Svigals' “Fidl Afire” album release concert/dance party happens on June 23, 2024 at Nublu, on Ave. C in Manhattan. The fun begins at 7 PM! • Actual physical albums will be available to purchase • After-show VIP access to the artist, who will sign your CD • Non-stop dancing • Can't make the show? Buy a ticket anyway and support the arts! • Not in NYC? June 25 album release show at the Burren in Boston! Pre-order and listen to sample tracks on the Borscht Beat Bandcamp page! From the Borscht Beat website: “Fidl Afire” is the long awaited spiritual sequel to Svigals' beloved and groundbreaking 1997 album Fidl. On Fidl Afire Svigals’ violin is situated in the 20th century American party sound. A joyous, kinetic and unique album... Feast your ears and enjoy! New York band: Aaron Alexander, drums, Brian Glassman, bass, Hankus Netsky, piano, Ilya Shneyveys, accordion, Curtis Hasselbring, trombone, Jordan Hirsch, trumpet, and dance leading by Sarah Myerson. For further information: info@aliciasvigals.com |
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Big Squeeze Accordion Festival Features Elena Fainshtein and Studentsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video 1: Fans of the accordion gathered in Dallas to celebrate its impact on Texas culture - and the players taking the instrument into the future.Video 2 Elena Fainshtein and student Elijah Clements Texas Folklife organized the Big Squeeze Showcase concert in Dallas,Texas on May 18, 2024 to help keep traditions alive and to bring new performers to the instrument. That goal was shared by many of the performers including Elena Fainshtein who attended with two of her students, Elijah Clements and Elayne Doggett and hopes more players will take up the accordion. Elena shared, “ My dream? I would like to have the accordion be popular in American again because, honestly, this is the best instrument!” |
Julia Williams Shares Her Experiences as a Busy Accordionistby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Julia Williams is a versatile, talented and very busy accordionist. She is approachable and always willing to share her ideas and experiences. Julia has 25+ years experience performing solo and with groups in a wide gamut of styles. She has performed with the Omaha Chamber Music Society, Sioux City Symphony, Omaha Symphony, and the Kenny Janak Orchestra. She also played music and acted in several live theater productions. Williams studied music performance at the University of Missouri Kansas City (B.M.) and Music Literature/Musicology at the University of Colorado Boulder (M.M.) with additional graduate study in ethnomusicology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. As a young player she won numerous competition honors including the US national championship for the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG). She has degrees in music performance and musicology. Julia plays and teaches piano accordion and chromatic button accordion. Originally from Minnesota, she currently resides in Lincoln, Nebraska and teaches accordion at Blue Raven Music Studio. In Spring 2024 Accordionist Julia Williams performed with the Omaha Symphony, the Sioux City Symphony, the Kenny Janak Orchestra, and other musical groups. In 2018 with the Omaha Chamber Music Society, she performed the North American premiere of 'Neotango Concerto' by contemporary Basque composer Gorka Hermosa. Also in 2018 she was a soloist with the Western Kentucky University Symphony for the concert 'Orchestra Exotica' featuring music for accordion and orchestra by Alan Hovhaness, Gorka Hermosa, and Dmitri Shostakovich. I In 2021 she was a guest chamber player with the UC San Diego Graduate Contemporary Music program. Her theater experience includes actor-musician roles in productions of “A Three-Penny Opera”, “A Doctor in Spite of Himself”, “The Government Inspector”, “Cabaret”, and “Morozko”. Most recently she appeared in “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” at Bluebarn Theatre in Omaha, and “Indecen” t at American Stage Theatre in St. Petersburg, Florida. Julia said, ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ (October 2022 at the Bluebarn Theatre in Omaha) was awarded an Omaha Entertainment and Arts Award for Best Sound Design by Olga Smola. Smola is the violinist/composer with whom I performed in that show. This was the second play premiere that I’ve done with Smola and our brilliant director/playwright Jill Anderson. The first was ‘Morozko’ in 2019. Our work in ‘Sleepy Hollow’ was fascinating because the entire soundscape was performed live without pre-recorded sound effects. It was a real treat to have that work recognized by the OEA Awards. In September and October of 2023 I was in Saint Petersburg, Florida as a member of the cast of ‘Indecent’ at American Stage Theatre. It was a tremendous experience working with such a great group of professionals there. Co-composer Lisa Gutkin, who plays with The Klezmatics and was the violinist in the Tony-Award winning Broadway production, came to see a couple of our performances. I had a wonderful time doing ‘Indecent’ and meeting the composer.” Indecent reviews: “Just as important to the production are the three onstage and all-over-the-stage musicians, Samuel Perlman on clarinet, Melody Allegra Berger on violin and mandolin, and Julia Williams on the accordion. (If any of you don’t think accordions are cool, then watching Ms. Williams will surely change your mind.) Music Director Matt Deitchman has done an amazing job guiding these musicians as well as the casts’ superb vocals.” - Broadway World 2023 Omaha Symphony concerts were: “Beauty and the Beast” original animated film with live score and “Concert of Lights” with guest conductor Francesco Lotoro. 2024 Omaha Chamber Music Society concert: “Tango Romantico” at the Kaneko art museum featuring works by various composers (including a return performance of Gorka Hermosa’s ‘Anantango’ which we first brought to the OCMS audience in 2018). Kenny Janak Orchestra - Czech style polka 7-piece band: Released their first album recording ‘Bohemian Dream’ in April 2023. CDs can be ordered through Kenny Janak, Spotify and other streaming platforms. Upcoming 2024 performances include: June 5: solo at European Motorcycle Night in the Haymarket, Lincoln, Nebraska June 19: with Kenny Janak Orchestra at Gene Leahy Mall on the Riverfront, Omaha, Nebraska August 25: with Kenny Janak Orchestra at the Stuhr Museum, Grand Island, Nebraska Julia’s enthusiasm for the accordion is apparent to anyone who meets her. Catch her in a performance very soon! For further information: juliawilliams0789@gmail.com |
Video: Accordion Showdown - GEICO Insurance Commercialby Pamela Tom |
| Video: Accordion Showdown - GEICO Insurance Commercial Check out this humorous advertisement featuring the accordion. |
5 Life Lessons I Learned From Playing the Accordionby Karina Inkster |
  Yann Tiersen’s soundtrack to my favourite film, “Amélie”, inspired me to play the accordion. Here’s what I’ve learned in 11 years of accordion practice:1. It’s never too late. When people ask me how old I was when I started playing the accordion, they expect me to tell them I was in preschool. In fact, when I started in 2013, I was 27. In the world of music, that’s “late”. I was muddling my way through “Hot Cross Buns” at an age when most professional accordionists are touring the world and performing at sold-out concert halls. Don’t use age or life stage as an excuse to forgo learning something new. Half of my music students are beginning a brand new instrument in their 60’s! It’s a fantastic way to challenge your brain, improve your coordination, and step out of your comfort zone. 2. Consistency matters. “Talent” is irrelevant if you have consistency. My fitness coaching team and I give our clients advice that relates to music practice, too: Twenty minutes every day is better than 2 hours on one day. Build your practice into your daily life. Set up accountability buddies if you can. Focus on the process rather than the outcome. 3. Listen. Active listening means focusing all your attention on just listening (no multitasking!). It can give you a deeper understanding of a specific piece of music, a performance partner’s playing style, and your own musical preferences. Listening is a crucial communication skill – in musical contexts and otherwise. 4. Dismantle stereotypes. Q: “What’s the difference between an onion and an accordion?” A: “Nobody cries when you cut up an accordion.” The much-maligned squeezebox has a certain reputation in the music world. Along with my performance partner and Accordion Fest co-director Walter Martella, I aim to expand audiences’ concept of accordion music. Bach, Chopin, jazz, and tangos on accordion? Yes, please! Whatever endeavour you’re involved in, accept that it comes with stereotypes. Some might be benign, while others are harmful (like “Polka is the best genre for accordion”). In the name of education and inclusion, work to dismantle them. 5. Don’t forget to have fun! I make sure I’m working on pieces I love, and rehearsing and performing with musicians with whom I enjoy hanging out. If you’re going to invest significant time into a new skill, you might as well enjoy yourself! Karina Inkster is a fitness coach, author of five books, co-director of the qathet Accordion Fest, accordion and didgeridoo teacher at the PR Academy of Music, and host of the No-B.S. Vegan podcast. For further information: karina@karinainkster.com |
Google Home Page Features Animated Accordion - Internetby Harley Jones |
 Video of the Google English homepage on 23 May 2024.The Google English home page, May 23, 2024 featured an animated (moving) large accordion image. Hundreds of millions use Google daily so this animated accordion was put in front of an enormous number of people. Thank you Google! |
Qathet Accordion Fest 2024 was Outstanding Successby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Video: qathet Accordion Fest 2024 highlightsThe 2024 3rd Annual Qathet Accordion Fest, held at Powell River, British Columbia, Canada was an outstanding success. The event, directed by Walter Martella and Karina Inkster (pictured left) was held on May 10th and 11th, 2024 and included a variety of “performances, learning, jamming with new friends and catching up with old ones, and associated accordionic antics.” A celebration of one of the world’s most versatile instruments, the 2024 Qathet Accordion Fest featured 10 performers, a masterclass, Accordion 101, Accordion Orchestra, Courtyard Performances, and accordion sales and repairs courtesy of Tempo Trend. Karen shares, “What an outstanding weekend of performances, learning, jamming with new friends and catching up with old ones, and associated accordionic antics. Thank you to our performing artists Walter, Stephen, Kosta, Henry, Budge, Boyd, Terry, and Melanie; to Jelena for giving such an impactful presentation; and to our amazing attendees and audience members for joining us” Performing artists were Walter Martella, Stephen Nikleva (guitar), Kosta Ruslanov (accordion), Henry Slama (accordion), Budge Schachte (guitar), Boyd Norman (bass), Terry Martyniuk (percussion) and Melanie Hackett. Jelena Milojevic (picture above right) led a popular masterclass for accordionists of all levels. Karina Inkster shares, “And that’s a wrap on the third annual qathet Accordion Fest! Huge thank you to everyone involved: our guest artists, our incredible audience members and workshop attendees, our volunteer crew, the Powell River Academy of Music, the Forest bistro & lounge, and so many more. Can’t wait ‘til next year!” For further information: karina@karinainkster.com |
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Future events |
“Intocable” 30th Anniversary Celebration Tourby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
| Video: Intocable - Sueña - En Vivo “Intocable” will begin their 30th Anniversary Tour summer concerts with a performance at the Vogue Theatre in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada on June 12, 2024. INTOCABLE is one of the most influential groups in the Tejano/Norteño music scene today. Their road to success began twenty years ago in Zapata,Texas, when friends Ricky Muñoz and René Martínez dreamed of bringing their songs to the world as they crafted a unique and extraordinary style of music which expertly fuses Tejano conjunto music, Norteño folk rhythms, pop ballads and rock. After years of dedication and passion, the dream became an indisputable reality. With #1 hits such as “Robarte un Beso,” “Prometí,” “Te Amo (Para Siempre),” “Culpable Fui (Culpable Soy),” their latest “Tu Ausencia,” as well as fan favorites like “Dame Un Besito,” “Eres Mi Droga,” Enséñame a Olvidarte,” “Sueña,” “Contra Viento y Marea,” “Llueve,” “Arrepiéntete,” among others, INTOCABLE continues to entertain and delight audiences in both the United States and Mexico. Intocable are very generous with their time and talent. Excerpts from Wikipedia: “On October 12, 2015, Intocable made history by streaming a showcase for the whole world, in which more than 22,000 people tuned in. 100% of the proceeds were donated to St. Jude Hospital to help children affected with cancer; there the inception of #AyudaAAyudar was formed and will continue to do events to raise funds for this noble cause. On January 23, 2016, Intocable announced their partnership with St. Jude, a pledge first of its kind in the music industry. Today, their support not only creates awareness for the cause, but their pledge of support contributes to assure that families pay for nothing and can focus on letting their children live.” Further concerts will be held in the USA from June 13 to 30, 2024. The Tejano/Norteño group members are Ricardo Javier “Ricky” Muñoz (vocals & accordion – picture above right), René Orlando Martínez (drums), Sergio Serna (percussion), Johnny Lee Rosas (vocals & bajo sexto), Alejandro Gulmar (bajo sexto) and Felix Salinas (bass). For bookings: Oscar Carrasco-Manager: Ozzuntouchable@aol.com For further information email: info@grupointocable.com |
Leavenworth Accordion Celebration June 20 - 24by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Leavenworth Accordion Celebration takes place from June 20-24, 2024 featuring concerts, workshops, Frank Calapristi Accordion Parade and more. Featured artists include: Pearl Django, Gary Blair, Beverley Fess, Andy Mirkovich, Toby Hanson, Lyle Schaefer, John Giuliani, Robin Hyland, Jamie Maschler, Gabe Hall-Rodrigues…..And more! 2024 LIAC Workshop Summary: Workshops are $15 if paid by June 10 or $20 at Leavenworth #1 Beyond the Notes With Beverley Fess Fri 10:00am Grange/Upper #2 Understanding Chords for Accordionists With Toby Hanson Fri 11:30am Grange/Upper #3 How to Improve Technique and Authenticate Genres With Gary Blair Fri 1:00pm Grange/Upper #4 An Overview of Jazz and Jazz Improvisation With David Lange and Jim Char - Pearl Django musicians Fri 4:30pm Grange/Upper #5 The Difference Between Demonstrating and Communicating with your Audience - Part 2 A Master Workshop with Andy Mirkovich on Sat 10:00am Grange/Upper #6 Accordion Gym With Jamie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues Sat 1:30pm Grange/Upper #7 Ask A Teacher - all welcome especially Youth With Cooksie Kramer (Kaserzon) ABCA, LBCA, Member ABRSM Trinity College London, UK Sat 4:30pm Grange/Upper Be sure to attend our Free Sessions!: Playing in a group; performing at the gazebo with Toby Hanson and Jakob Bean Thurs 3:00 – 4:30pm Grange/Upper The Button Box Across the Centuries with Tom Tilton Fri 12:30 – 1:15pm Festhalle by Button Box display For further information: liac@nwasnews.com |
Western Swing Jamboree Featuring Lori Beth Brookeby Shirley Johnson |
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  Saddle up for a night of Music, Comedy, and Family Fun for all! This Western Swing Jamboree features Lori Beth Brooke from Austin, Texas, a winner of several awards for her work including: the International Western Music Association (IWMA) Female Yodeler of the Year, Academy of Western Artists Female Western Performer Awardee, IWMA Cowboy Western Swing Album, and Walnut Valley Festival Humorous Song Award. Lori is known also by Wurstfest crowds as the accordionist and vocalist for her band, Yodel Blitz. The event takes place: 7:30 PM on July 27, 2024 at the Brauntex Theatre 290 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 Accompanying Lori are The Derrieres, brothers Roger and Leo Eilts from Kansas City. They are sons of the Kansas soil who learned Cowboy music by listening to Gene Autry and Roy Rogers records. On rhythm guitar and bass, respectively, the Brothers Eilts are the perfect backup band and are in frequent demand as harmony vocalists and instrumentalists. They perform regularly with the widely acclaimed award-winning 3 Trails West and have traveled across the USA and beyond with their shows. Roger and Leo’s “side hustle,” The Derrieres, is a traditional Cowboy band; not to be confused with Country Western, we’re talking “Cowboy!” with a capital “C”. They also produce a weekly program on Internet Radio entitled “The Americana Road Show” where they explore the many facets of American music. Along with the music from these fabulous entertainers, a Texas Cowboy Poet will make sure the audience hoots and howls with delight. Lasso up your tickets for Saturday, July 27 at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35342/performance/11461946 or got to www.Brauntex.org Presented by Innovative Accordion Music Productions. Innovative Accordion Music (IAMP) is a Texas-based 501c(3) non-profit. EIN# 87-2181287. IAMP is dedicated to bringing quality accordion music to entertain, educate, and inspire every audience. Your tax-deductible donation helps continue support for wonderful accordion music. Please visit www.InnovativeAccordion.org If you are unable to attend this fun and wonderful event, please consider donating to Innovative Accordion Music Productions and support our acccordion events as well as IAMP’s Mobile Accordion Classroom (MACr). For further information: Shirley Johnson Innovative Accordion Music Productions (IAMP) ShirleyJ@Vjeverica.com |
Tickets Now on Sale for Scythian at Appaloosa Music Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Tickets are now on sale for the Appaloosa Music Festival, held at the Skyline Ranch Resort in Front Royal, Virginia, USA on Labor Day Weekend, August 31st to September 1st, 2024. This Roots music festival is hosted by “Scythian”. The foursome made up of Alexander Fedoryka (Vocals, Fiddle, Mandolin, Harmonica), Danylo Fedoryka (Vocals, Guitar, Accordion), Ethan Dean (Vocals, Upright and Electric Bass, Percussion, Guitar) and Johnny Rees (Vocals, Drums, Percussion) brings various influences together to create a conglomerate which is technically precise and steeped in various folk traditions. Named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythian (sith-ee-yin) plays roots music from Celtic, Eastern European and Appalachian traditions with thunderous energy, technical prowess, and storytelling songwriting, beckoning crowds into a barn-dance, rock concert experience. The classically trained Fedoryka brothers grew up on Ukrainian folk music and bluegrass, while Ethan Dean was raised on the greats of 60’s & 70’s folk-rock. Lafayette LA raised Johnny Rees brings a Cajun backbeat to the Celtic-Americana fusion giving Scythian yet another dimension which keeps audiences entertained and moving. See poster for more details. |