Highlights |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Future events |
Highlights |
World Accordion Day 2021 Promotional Videoby Harley Jones |
Visit the World Accordion Day website: WorldAccordionDay2021 |
HARTS and AWAM Hosts WAD Accordion Festivals: Online Registration Open Nowby Pamela Tom |
Harrington ARTS Center (HARTS) and A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) will be hosting a live-music accordion festival at 1401 Belknap St., Superior, WI. Music and lectures will be ongoing from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. AWAM’s large concert hall allows for 6’ seating distances, masks will be required. Many of the concerts will also be live streamed. Please register at the link below to purchase in-person ticket or to have the live stream links emailed to you. On-line registration is now open for in-person and/or video streaming World Accordion Day events at A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) in Superior, WI during May 6-8,2021. Video streaming is free, but you will need to pre-register to receive the link. Program details are on the AWAM's "Coming Events Page": http://www.worldofaccordions.org/a_strahlconcerthall.html On May 6, 2021, AWAM events align with international celebrations of World Accordion Day in recognition of Cyril Demian’s patent that generated the instrument family. AWAM introduces Stas Venglevski, our recently appointed Artistic Director, who premiers his “Full Moon Suite” composed for Joan Cochran Sommers, UMKC Professor Emerita. Joan will then perform in duet with Stas, and in trio with accordionists Betty Jo Simon and Jane Christison. Judy Campbell Contino will pay tribute to her legendary husband Dick Contino, whose estate displays are expected to open at AWAM by 2022. Accordion star, Dr. Michael Middleton, will perform a concert of Contino favorites. Because the pandemic prevents international travel, guest Japanese artists, Mihoko Goto and Chiharu Ebihara, will provide a recorded presentation. Dr. Brett Jones (Chairman of the University of Wisconsin Music Department), Stas Venglevski and Alex Sandor (UWS Piano Instructor) will perform William Susman’s original work “Three for Keyboard” on bayan, marimba, and piano. On May 7, 2021, HARTS will host the Ninth Annual Dr. Willard A. Palmer Festival featuring Willard A. Palmer III. Bill will discuss the era in which instruments evolved as “Mid-19th Century Family Music Developments,” and he’ll explain the Dick Contino connection that inspired Palmer-Hughes Accordion Method books. Concerts by Dance Attic: Susi and Jimi, Dee Langley (MN), and Paul Vargason (WI) continue the afternoon. A roundtable discussion on composing and arranging music for accordion is centered around Megumi Hada who wrote her first two music books in a matter of hours. She hopes to motivate others to enjoy similar success. The day closes with performances by the World Accordion Music Band conducted by Tracey Gibbens. On May 8, 2021,Festival programs end with a special hour of folk music in the format of a polka service. The Norsk Høstfest Polka Service Band (Minot, ND) is sponsored by Board Member Yvonne Marts. This informal and fun experience is free and open to the public. Supper banquets will be hosted at the Elks Hall within a block of the concert hall on Thursday and Friday evenings. Coffee, refreshments, and lunch are included with the in-person ticket price. Registration for in-person tickets, live stream, and supper banquets are all available at the following link: Website: www.worldofaccordions.org Email: aworldofaccordions@gmail.com |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
May is an amazing month for the accordion everywhere! Don’t forget to attend or view the many online and live celebrations of World Accordion Day (WAD). Nothing can stop accordionists, not even a pandemic! Visit the WAD site created by Harley Jones, Public Relations for Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) to celebrate the accordion’s versatility, importance and influence all over the world. All accordionists/musicians are here to create music and thereby bring positivity, peace and joy into the world. We can never get enough of that! Enjoy reading about the events that are taking place in May and on through the summer months. Send comments and ideas to Ritabelll@aol.com |
What Are You Doing For World Accordion Day?by Harley Jones |
WORLD ACCORDION DAY 2021 - BRAZIL | PORTUGAL - ASTOR PIAZZOLLA EDITION
6th May, Broadcast Times: 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm - BRT
With all the turmoil of Covid-19 internationally, many World Accordion Day (WAD) events are prevented by regulations from proceeding. The World Accordion Day site will still report those events that are able to happen. Planned is a live WAD video broadcast on May 6th hosted by Kevin Friedrich and Grayson Masefield of 2 hours with a focus on childhood accordion education. For groups and individuals around the world: What are you doing for World Accordion Day to promote the accordion in your country? World Accordion day is on May 6th, which is the day the accordion was patented in 1829. World Accordion Day was started in 2009 by the CIA and has been very successful, generating a lot of positive publicity for the accordion. A key part of this event is the World Accordion Day website to register your event and with background information for the media. Every association, group, orchestra, performer and teacher that can, is asked to actively support this event by encouraging national and local accordion activities to happen in their country on this day or the weekend either side of Accordion Day if that should be more convenient. Everyone can register their World Accordion Day activity on the website and send a report of their event after, for that website. No event is too big or too small. ALL accordion events celebrating World Accordion Day are welcome. This is a CIA promotion for the accordion in which every accordion enthusiast can participate and help bring our accordion world together as well as strongly promote the accordion.  |
Kevin Friedrich CD Release Party - New Zealandby Christine Johnstone |
Kevin Friedrich held his recent CD release reception in Dargaville, New Zealand where over 60 people attended the event. Full report at: TheJourneyCDrelease The CD titled The Journey, features music by New Zealand composer Gary Daverne who has written pieces specifically for Northland, New Zealand, such as “Song of the Far North”, “Gem of the Kaipara”, “Day of Aranga” as well as “The Anzac Trilogy”, all which have been featured at Kevin's annual Fundraising concerts at the Dargaville Museum, New Zealand, often with the composer present. For this event, the Museum loaned out the stunning ANZAC mosaic accordion (which Kevin commissioned by mosaic artist Kim Harrison), for his performance of "Song of Peace" by Gary Daverne. Kevin also presented three other tracks from the CD at the reception. Following the launch, attendees were invited to take part in a Celebration Toast of “The Journey” CD. Full event report at: TheJourneyCDrelease CDs are available online at Catalog: friedrich01 The Journey CD Picture below: Kevin Friedrich, Elena & Lionel Reekie (with the mosaic accordion) who performed "Song of Peace at the reception. |
Virtual Presentation: Linda Soley Reed AAA Lifetime Achievement Awardby Joan Grauman, AAA Historian |
Download the 24 page booklet Celebrating Linda Soley Reed - tributes by her friends in honor of her 2021 AAA Lifetime Achievement Award. Celebrating Linda Soley Reed is available here in PDF format for you to download and enjoy. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us as the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) honors our 2021 AAA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Linda Soley Reed, on May 23, 2021 at 3:PM EST. Educator, performer, conductor, former AAA President, adjudicator and active AAA Board member for decades, Linda's extraordinary achievements will be celebrated in style! Picture lower right, Linda with Myron Floren. This virtual presentation will feature a slideshow, videos, and performances by Frank Busso, Sr., Joe Cerrito, Don Gerundo, Guy Klucevsek, Dan Mastroiani, Eddie Monteiro, Alexander Poeluev, Mario Tacca, Mary Tokarski, Frank Toscano, and the world premiere of a piece composed for Linda by Dr. Robert Young McMahan. There will be a tax deductible registration fee of $25 to attend the event. Please click on the link to purchase an "Event Ticket" at AAA-Store. You will receive a confirmation email and a link for Zoom prior to the May 23 event. Hope to see you there!! Picture below, L to R: Eddie Monteiro, Joe Natoli, Bill Morse, Joan Grauman, Guy Klucevsek, Linda Reed (seated), Will Holzhauser, Dallas Vietty, Jamie Maschler, Evan McPherson, Mary Tokarski. AAA Fest, Princeton 2017. |
Highlights AAA is going Virtual for Festival 2021 Competition Categoriesby Harley Jones |
Virtual Contest Chairman, Mary Tokarski announces that the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Festival 2021 Competition Categories will be virtual this year because of Covid-19. The Rules, Regulations and Entry Forms will be included with the next AAA Newsletter and are online now at: http://www.ameraccord.com/festival2021.php Categories will include all the Open and Standard Categories you have seen in the past with the addition of the new AAA Honors Categories. View the Honors Required Music list online and the ordering information. https://ernestdeffner.com/shop-online/music-method-books/americanaccordionistsassoc-83.html The entry closing date is June 1, 2021. Looking forward to seeing you virtually. |
Celebrate World Accordion Day at A World of Accordions Museumby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Well known accordionists Joan Cochran Sommers, Betty Jo Simon, and Jane Christison will be performing as an accordion trio on Thursday, May 6, 2021, at A World of Accordions Museum in Superior, Wisconsin. They are part of the three-day World Accordion Day Celebration 2021. Jane says, “Even though it has taken quite a bit of individual practice to prepare a program in such a short time, we are having so much fun rehearsing together and are looking forward to playing in front of a live audience.” The trio is scheduled to perform at 4:PM CDT. Their performance will also be live-streamed. Here is the program they will be performing. “Toccata” by G. Frescobaldi “Ständchen” by Franz Schubert “Triplicity” by Stas Venglevski “Dark Eyes” by Hermann or Garay “Por Una Cabeza” by Carlos Gardel “Musical Shenanigans” by Stas Venglevski “Ritual Fire Dance” by Manuel de Falla Online viewing is free, but registration is required in order to receive the viewing links. Here’s the registration link: https://worldofaccordions.z2systems.com/np/clients/worldofaccordions/event.jsp?event=2& For further information: janec@musicwithasmile.com |
Upcoming Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Eventsby Mary Ann Covone, ATG President |
The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) offers the following workshops, concerts, and events for you all to enjoy. Wednesday Workshops: Every Wednesday at 7:PM (30 minutes) – free to members: May 5, 2021 – Murl Allen Sanders presents: Murl will specifically address how to accompany oneself while singing and playing the accordion. This will include: some minimal right hand chord theory, how to play left hand rhythms for different styles of music, how to integrate RH and LH in your accompaniment, how to achieve balance between your voice and your accordion, playing tips in general, register choices and microphone technique, things to avoid and other general philosophy and ideas about playing. May 12, 2021 – Stas Venglevski presents: "Tips on Practicing Efficiently" Stas will share some experiences he has achieved over the years on how to approach and improve your study and practice habits of new compositions you are learning. One of his students will perform one of Stas’ original compositions and will share her experience of studying with Stas. May 19, 2021 – Madalynn Neu and Liz Finch Co-Host: "Plays Well With Others" A discussion and overview of accordion performances with other instrumental ensembles, featuring video clips of great examples from around the world. May 26, 2021 – Larry Goldings (www.larrygoldings.com), a Grammy-nominated pianist and composer, recording artist and songwriter presents: Making your right hand melodies more interesting/emotional with: counter melodies, clusters, right hand chording ideas and the importance of ear training. July 18, 2021 - Save the date for a virtual concert featuring Bridge and Wolak. Also featured on the program will be Stas Venglevski. Watch the ATG website and social media for additional information. May 16, 2021 at 3:PM - ATG presents “Toby’s House” in concert. This was Jeff Lisenby’s trio that is being continued by Jeff Taylor, Jeff Lisenby’s dear friend. Watch the ATG website and social media for the announcement of when tickets will available on Event-Brite. This is part of our free monthly programs available to all. On April 15, 2021 the ATG presented a 2- hour virtual class, as part of the UIC (University of Illinois -Chicago) STEM program. The STEM program is part of the University’s outreach to inner-city Chicago high school students. The program was entitled “The Science of Sound” and included a scientific explanation of sound waves presented by Peter Godart (a friend of ATG and PhD candidate at MIT) along with a demonstration of various instruments (piano, flute, cello and accordion). ATG member, Frank Busso, (Director, Ernest Deffner, Inc.) provided 9 instruments for the students to produce their own sound as Joan Cochran Sommers (University of Missouri – Kansas City Professor Emeritus) provided a first lesson on the accordion. Those students who expressed a desire to continue to learn to play the accordion will soon begin virtual group lessons with ATG Board Members, Mary Ann Covone and Gail Campanella, as a continuing part of ATG’s outreach efforts. The instruments the students will play have been generously provided to the young students by Frank Busso. ATG membership is currently being offered at $60 for regular membership and $25 for student memberships (high school age and younger). Visit https://www.atgaccordions.com/new-member All previous Wednesday Workshops are available to all members in the “members only” section of the ATG website. |
Texas Folklife Presents 15th Annual Big Squeeze Youth Accordion Contest Finalsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Video: Texas Folklife Organization Overview Coming up on Saturday, May 8, 2021, on Facebook live, the finals of Texas Folklife’s Big Squeeze youth accordion contes. The contest will feature young musicians from around Texas and Louisiana. Prizes will be announced in multiple categories, including Conjunto, Polka, Cajun, and Zydeco. The program also will include live performances from last year’s champions. The Big Squeeze Finals from Home will be held on Saturday, May 8 at 3:PM CDT at: http://www.facebook.com/texasfolklife Rebecca Johnson contributes: For 15 years, Texas Folklife has put on the Big Squeeze competition to promote the traditional music of Texas and encourage young people to carry on accordion music traditions celebrated by communities across the state. “I want to send a big congratulations to all of our contestants who’ve put in so much passion, hard work, and dedication and let you know that we are so proud of you, for being the next generation of tradition bearers,” said Charlie Lockwood, Executive Director of Texas Folklife. “You are keeping these traditions alive, and Texas Folklife supports you in that effort.” This year’s Big Squeeze competition is a bit different from previous years in that Cajun and Zydeco have been split into separate categories. Also for the first time, those two categories have been opened to contestants from Louisiana. With the largest number of contestants, the Conjunto group went through a semi-final round of judging on April 17. The following semi-finalists were chosen to move on to the finals May 8: Conjunto Finalists: 16 and Under Christopher Ramirez, 14 (San Antonio) Roberto Flores, 16 (Peñitas) Ashly Nicole Molina, 16 (Roma) Galilea Paz, 16 (Rio Grande City) Conjunto Finalists: 17-21 Johnny Joe Gutierrez, 17 (Mission) Jose Vasquez, 17 (Farmersville) The following contestants have been chosen to advance in the other categories: Zydeco: Kaleb Leday, 21 (Lake Charles, LA) Cajun: Burke Riley, 11 (Scott, LA) Cameron Dupuy (New Orleans, LA) Polka: Alexander French, 14 (The Colony) Elayne Doggett, 9 (Plano) Nick Heatly, 17 (Dallas) The May 8, 2021 program will feature brief performances from last year’s champions: Bridget Roberts (Cajun), Jorge Ramirez (Conjunto), Jose Angel Torres (Conjunto), and Isaak Wolfshohl (Polka). The program’s finale will be the announcement of this year’s five champions in the categories Polka, Cajun, Zydeco, and two Conjunto categories: ages 16 and under and ages 17-21. The elder Conjunto contestants compete for the Anthony Ortiz, Jr. Grand Prize. Each of the champions will receive a prize package valued at over $1,500, including a new accordion, cash prize, future performance opportunities with Texas Folklife, publicity, professional development, and other professional opportunities. The 2021 Big Squeeze is supported by funding and donations from the board and members of Texas Folklife, Texas Commission on the Arts, the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department, H-E-B, and the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board and Hohner Accordions. Additional support is provided by regional partners. About Texas Folklife Texas Folklife (TXF) is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and preserving the diverse cultures and living heritage of the Lone Star State. TXF is designated by the National Endowment for the Arts as the official folk and traditional arts organization for the state. Since 1984, TXF has honored traditions passed down within communities, explored the importance of traditional arts in contemporary society, and celebrated the state’s vibrant heritage by providing arts experiences enjoyable for all generations. For further information: Rebecca Johnson: rebecca@artsarticulated.com |
Celebrate WAD: Joseph Natoli’s New Composition “Continuum” & “Permutations on a Theme by Paganini”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Celebrate World Accordion Day with Joseph Natoli and his new compositions. Joseph shares that “Continuum” is a new piece I wrote and recorded over two nights. It represents my more serious side of composing contemporary art music. This piece can be performed on a digital accordion or piano. Thanks for listening!" Joe said, “Permutations on a Theme by Paganini” is a Jazz/Classical fusion of the famous theme by Paganini where I take it into directions not generally considered by previous composers who have utilized this theme." Joseph Natoli, is not only a professional accordionist and composer, but also past President of ATG and co-organizer along with Michael Soloway of the International Digital Electronic Accordion Society (IDEAS) which holds an annual Symposium each year in November for digital accordionists from all over the world. Joseph Natoli has been a performer and advocate of the accordion since the age of seven. Joe’s education includes Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in music theory and composition from the University of Toronto Faculty Of Music in Toronto, Canada, where he was the first student accepted there to use the free bass accordion as an applied major instrument, studying with renowned Canadian accordionist, Joseph Macerollo. Joseph Natoli started his musical career mostly as a performer, but had always been interested in composition, and has focused on his compositional craft even more in recent years. Joe has written many original pieces in all musical styles and genres for standard and free bass accordion, all of which are available by inquiries to janpressmusic@yahoo.com , including his ensemble piece “Child's Play” (for 2 accordions, cello, & percussion), and “Smooth” (a Latin jazz piece for solo or accordion quintet), as well as solo accordion pieces “Nine Children’s Pieces” for free bass accordion, “Variations On a Well-Known Melody,” “Sonata in F Major (in the Classical Style),” “Children’s Suite”, “Kinetic Tango”, among many others. Joseph Natoli is realizing a lifelong dream, having recently retired from his Information Technology (IT) career, in order to dedicate himself to music (both performance and composition). Joe always maintained a fairly active schedule for both disciplines even during and in spite of his years as an IT manager. However, since retiring recently from that very demanding and stressful profession, Joe has stepped up his game in the music arena and is enjoying composing more than ever before. A more completely list of available compositions and arrangements can be seen at his website www.janpressmusic.com. Joe is a very accomplished composer and musician. At the same time, he maintains a demeanor of humility, modesty, and friendliness. He is a great listener and always available to discuss musical topics with enthusiasm appropriate to a person’s level of skill. For further information: josephnatoli66@gmail.com |
National Accordion Association: Weekly Challenge 10: World Accordion Dayby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Professor Sharon R. Seaton, Ed.D., Coordinator, NAA Training Center Coordinator is organizing the links for the NAA's COVID-19 Survival Kit (See March USA news for more details): Here is the NAA Weekly Challenge 10: Experience current accordion music from around the world by viewing the 2021 WAD videos as they are live-streamed. Harley Jones started the World Accordion Day (WAD) in 2009. Feel free to view the past videos and/or to participate in the 2021 production. The Plan: 52 Challenge! 1. The NAA is offering to our members and guests what we have named the “52 Challenge.” Once a week for the next 52 weeks, we will create a project for you to initiate or complete that involves the accordion or some aspect of music. You will receive an email each Friday that reveals and explains the activity. Some activities will be quite easy to perform while others will consist of a more extended commitment of time and effort. 2. Our mission is to encourage our members to continue pursuing their love of the accordion! This is not a time for a break in accordion activity. It is true that most public accordion engagements have been on hold for the last year because of the need for players to remain distanced from each other and from audiences. We have missed playing and have missed each other! Pandemic Survival Kit: The National Accordion Association, Inc. (NAA) under the direction of Dr. Sharon Seaton launched a special service for the NAA membership and special friends. The Pandemic Survival Kit began on Friday, February 19, 2021, and will continue every Friday morning for fifty-two (52) weeks. Weekly Procedure: 1. The challenge of the week will be delivered to accordionists starting on Friday of each week. In the event that the current challenge will result in information that is applicable to most accordionists, we want respondents to report to us so we can share. The challenge will then be due before the next weekend. Each challenge will have a link available so accordionists can automatically give the report to Norman and Sharon. Report Results: The summary of results will be displayed as useful information for all participants. As appropriate, changes will be made to the NAA website and/or NAA Facebook as appropriate. NAA President Norman Seaton shares, “Each week’s challenge will be meaningful, relevant, and easy to implement to help you stay involved with the accordion and people who love the accordion. The NAA convention team will start planning the 2022 convention in November 2021.” |
Dr. William Schimmel's “Tributaries” Now on YouTubeby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Dr. William Schimmel's “Tributaries” can be seen and heard on YouTube where he performed his 7 hour composition in 7 one hour segments. In addition to this Magnum Opus, he composed a tributary to Linda Reed in honor of her contributions to the accordion and 60 years of friendship. The work is entitled “Bridgeport”. “Tributaries” - a 7 Hour Work for Solo Accordion by William Schimmel is a set of pieces that explore the accordion in all facets, moods and styles presented and performed by Dr. William Schimmel - The works were presented in February and March 2021. "Tributaries" can mean many things - a small river flowing into a large river, a tribute to a composer or a reference or a spray of references from all of accordion history fusing with the history of western - and in a few cases, Eastern music. Otto Luening, recipient of one of the AAA commissions said to Dr. Schimmel on one occasion: “You’re doing what Liszt and Busoni were doing in the 19th Century but in a contemporary way." ”Tributaries" 1. Flow 2. Tributaries #1 3. Collide 4. Calm 5. Estuary 6. Current 7. Tributaries #2 For further information email: accordionbill@gmail.com |
Brenda Martinez: Guest Musician on Mollie B Variety Show on May 4by Rita Barnea |
Video: Los Texas Wranglers feature "La Reina de Polkas," Brenda Martinez at the "Sunday Tardeada Series" presented by Austin Vida and Rancho Alegre Radio at One-2-One Bar in Austin, Texas on Sunday December 3, 2017. Tejano Music Awards nominee, Conjunto accordionist Brenda Martinez, will perform on the popular RFD TV polka party variety show on May 4, 2021. The Mollie B Variety Show is a weekly show hosted by international polka stars Mollie B and Ted Lange, and is broadcast live on their YouTube and Facebook channels from their studio in northwestern Ohio. Mollie and Ted are best known for their Mollie B’s Polka Party program that airs on RFD TV, which, according to their Facebook page, “airs 2 times per week and broadcasts into over 60 million households via DISH Network, DIRECTV and over 600 independent cable systems.” They also host Sunday radio shows on SiriusXM, Channel 147 at 11AM ET and KNEIRadio.com at 8:PM ET.  Vocalist, song writer, and accordionist, Brenda Martinez, whose debut album Favoritas de Mis Padres, earned her a 2020 Tejano Music Awards nomination in the Best New Artist – Female category, will bring her catalog of Conjunto polkas up to the studio to perform live on-air with Mollie and Ted. Released in December 2019 on CD, digital outlets and vinyl LP, Favoritas de Mis Padres is a 100% instrumental album and features polkas, a huapango, a reimagined bolero, and “La Galleta (Cookie Polka),” an original polka composed by Martinez. Produced and released on the Rancho Alegre Records label, it was a unique endeavor for a new artist, focusing exclusively on her considerable squeezebox skills. She is a voting member of the Recording Academy and will begin recording her follow-up album later this year. Brenda began learning to play the accordion as a teen with help from her dad, who was also a musician. She continued for several years, playing with some of the best in San Antonio, but then took a long break. In 2017, wondering if she could still play, she picked the instrument up after over a decade of not playing, and to her delight, it all came flooding back to her.Ever since, she has been determined to get better and better and has shared the stage with legends like Gilberto Perez and the one and only Flaco Jimenez. Brenda is voting member of the Recording Academy (Grammys), a songwriter registered with BMI and recorded her very first record, Favoritas de Mis Padres, in summer 2019, and it is available on Rancho Alegre Records. This episode of Mollie B’s Variety show will be broadcast live at 8:PM Eastern/7:PM Central, Tuesday, May 4,2021 on their Facebook and YouTube channels. To learn more about Mollie and Ted, visit their website at mollieb.com or follow them on all social media outlets. To learn more about Brenda Martinez, visit her website at brendamartinezmusic.com and follow her on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. "Favoritas de Mis Padres" is available for sale on CD and Vinyl LP at shop.ranchoalegre.org and on all digital music platforms. |
Celebrate World Accordion Day with Film, “Accordions Rising”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
“Accordions Rising,”the music documentary, is about "all things accordion music." The diversity, variety, the wonder and the magic, the return to the land of joy. Here's how you can hop on board to watch it streaming and on DVD and Blu Ray: Amazon, (Amazon Prime members can watch for free), You Tube, Google Play, itunes, Vudu, Rotten Tomatoes, Inide Rights and www.primevideo.com (Search title). Also On Roku (Free Dowload) at Indie Rights (Free). For DVD and BluRay - Write to: rccantow@gmail.com Roberta Cantow shares, “World Accordion Day is coming May 6, 2021, but the film, "Accordions Rising", has been available since 2015 and you can honor the occassion by watching now. Streaming and on DVD.” Now that things are getting back to normal, we can all return to our "accordion love" and one very good way to do that is to watch the film. It celebrates the instrument, its music, its players and its afficionados. If you have not seen it, it is still new and accordions are still rising, as is their reputation! Streaming now - so you can watch whenever your heart desires. “Accordions Rising” offers entertaining interviews, anecdotal commentary and both formal and informal music performances from celebrated accordionists, composers, and bands working in America today. The film provides a tapestry of fascinating individuals, their attitudes, deep passions, and above all else, profound dedication to the instrument. You will learn that these musicians have an audience, from some of the hippest hideaways to the most sought after mainstream venues. The film makes clear that the accordion world includes everything from wacky and kitsch to sophisticated, serious, meditative and post-modern. Roberta Cantow was recognized with her first grant from The American Film Institute while still a graduate film student at NYU. Through the years, The New York State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York Foundation for the Arts and others provided grants for the completion of 4 film works. She received a NY Area Emmy for her film, Clotheslines, about the symbolic and artistic role of laundry in women’s lives, as well as many other awards and presentations. Her films and videos have garnered several Best of Category Citations in film festivals around the country as well as an Award of Excellence for Dreamtime, in 2008 and Awards of Merit for Not a Still Life, and Accordions Rising, all in the documentary category, from the Accolade Competition. Roberta's work has been exhibited in many of the venues for independents, including a presentation in the Cineprobe Series of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Her four 16mm films were selected for archival preservation by the Donnell Media Center, New York City, in 2001. All of her film and video work will be archived in the newly named Special Collections of Smith College. The film has received the following awards: Global Accolade Competition – Award of Merit, November, 2015 Bare Bones International Music and Film Festival – Best Movie Poster, April, 2016 Indie Film Fest, August, 2016 – Award of Merit Available on: bit.ly/2lrM3NzAccordions_on_Amazon bit.ly/2kHTpgWAccordions_on_YouTube bit.ly/2kVhWuhpmAccordions_on_GooglePlay bit.ly/2pHQofs_Accordions_on_itunes bit.ly/2n9uAeT_Accordion_on_Vudu http://bit.ly/2umyKk1_on_RottenTomatoes http://bit.ly/2mAaUh3_on_IndieRights www.primevideo.com - all other English speaking countries Also: On Roku (Free Dowload) at Indie Rights (Free) BluRays - Barnes and Noble, Best Buy, Amazon and https://www.moviezyng.com/810162030032.aspx For DVDs and further information: rccantow@gmail.com |
“Scythian” Live Outdoor Concert in Virginiaby Harley Jones |
Popular band “Scythian” are excited to announce that they have two live outdoor concerts scheduled for May 7th and 8th, 2021 at the B-Chord Brewery in Round Hill, Virginia, USA. The concerts are entitled “Big Hooley II: Throwdown at the Hoedown! The band, which includes accordionist Dan Fedoryka, will have special guests performing each evening with them including Stevie Rees on May 7th for a “Ragin' Cajun night”, and Ben-David Warner on May 8th “to bring in the Moonshiner's Ball”. The outdoor venue is on a lawn with limited seating so bookings are essential. Groups will be seated 10 feet apart. For details email: scythianmail@gmail.com |
Alex Meixner Band “On the Road Again” at National Polka Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
In celebration of finally being able to hop back into the van for some tour dates, Alex Meixner (accordion), Tom Haller (spoons), and Paddy King (fiddle) cranked out the Willie Nelson classic tune, On The Road Again! Enjoy! The Alex Meixner Band will celebrate World Accordion Day and entertain live at the 2021 Annual National Polka Festival in Ennis, Texas, USA on May 30th, 2021. The event is held every year on Memorial Day Weekend and was established in 1967. Alex Meixner is one of the most dynamic accordionists on the scene today. Meixner has performed around the world, notably at American festivals like The National Folk Festival and Central Park SummerStage, as well as at uncountable community celebrations and accordion-centric events. His virtuosic yet delightfully quirky style has made him a sought-after collaborator (he worked alongside Jack Black in the 2017 Sundance pick The Polka King), spokesperson (Hormel and Ford have used his music and performance to promote their products) and educator. As a recording artist, he has worked with renowned avant garde accordionist/ composer Guy Klucevsek, popular Irish entertainer Seamus Kennedy, Texas indie rockers The Krayolas. His recording “Polka FreakOut” with Brave Combo’s Bubba Hernandez won him a GRAMMY nomination. Meixner’s formative musical studies were on piano and piano accordion, but he quickly branched out on drums, diatonic button accordion, bass and trumpet, his college major. This instrumental versatility is combined with a musical background that has included intense studies and performance of jazz, classical, pop, polkas and many ethnic folk music genres with some of the leading artists in the world. His talents in music and comedy were featured on the Tonight Show on NBC. Alex’s reputation for professionalism and quality performance attracted additional commercial opportunities including performing on radio commercials for Ford Trucks and the soundtracks for numerous episodes of Moonshiners on the Discovery Network. Alex has performed on over 50 albums, including 17 as a leader or soloist. His performance with his Father on Canadian Polka King, Walter Ostanek’s, “Music and Friends” won a Grammy Award. Alex has performed on over 50 albums, including 17 as a leader or soloist. His performance with his Father on Canadian Polka King, Walter Ostanek’s, “Music and Friends” won a Grammy Award. His album “Polka Freak Out”, a collaboration with Bubba Hernandez, was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2007. He has also recorded with a vast number of diverse artists as a soloist or sideman including avant-garde accordionist/composer Guy Klucevsek, Grammy winner Brave Combo, TexMex Rock icon The Krayolas and Irish entertainer Seamus Kennedy. Photo by Chris Spiegel For more information: info@alexmeixner.com |
Swamp in the City: A Cajun & Creole Music Festival May 15-16 in NYCby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Swamp in the City is a Cajun & Creole music festival that celebrates the vibrant musical, cultural and culinary heritage unique to Southwest Louisiana. Save the date for this year's festival on New York's Governors Island: May 15-16, 2021 at 6:30 PM. Enjoy an outdoor edition of Swamp in the City: A Cajun & Creole Music Festival on Governors Island, May 15-16, 2021. Set on a 172 acre island in the heart of New York Harbor, the weekend-long open air festival will feature world class Cajun & Creole bands, jam sessions, picnic concerts, pod partner dancing and ample breathing room on New York City's picturesque island. The talented line-up includes: Jesse Lége, Cedric Watson, Joel Savoy, Joe Hall, Kelli Jones, Wilson Savoy, Jourdan Thibodeaux, Chas Justus, Jo Vidrine, Rose & the Bros, Bayou Brew... and maybe more! While this year's festival is free and open to the public, you are kindly asked to make a donation along with your RSVP to help offset the costs of hosting this event (suggested $45-100 per person). Your donations support in bringing back live music of the highest quality and being able to do so in the future. A complete festival schedule and event map will be emailed to everyone who RSVP's on/around the first week of May. Swamp in the City shares: Yes! Bring your instruments! We are planning to host a jam each day and, if enough of you let us know you're interested, we'll offer a few group lessons in playing Cajun & Creole music. We'll be setting up a Swamp in the City HQ tent on the island where registrants can also stash their instruments safely when not in use. While we feel that communal experiences are needed now more than ever, we are sensitive to ongoing safety concerns and the health and well-being of our community. Here are some steps that Swamp in the City is taking to ensure our festival happens safely: - Hosting the festival in the most spacious outdoor venue NYC has to offer - Adhering to all current NYC Health & Safety guidelines - Programming two stages that are a short walk from each other to avoid a confluence of people in any specific area. - Requiring all performers and attendees to wear masks when unable to keep a minimum of 6 feet of distance from others - Designating areas for pod dancing and no-dance zones for people interested in listening away from dancers. - Providing hand sanitizing stations near both stages. - Encouraging attendees to identify their preferences re: dancing/distancing visibly so that we can support each other in enjoying the festival in the way that works best for each of us right now - Survey results indicate that most attendees and artists will be fully vaccinated by May. Here are some things that Governors Island is doing to help keep visitors safe: - Ticket reservations are required to manage capacity and ensure social distancing on ferries. Visitors must reserve timed tickets in advance and depart on their selected return ferry. - Visitors are required to wear face coverings while queuing, boarding, riding, and disembarking Governors Island ferries, and on the Island whenever social distancing is not possible. - Visitors must maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet between groups. - Increased cleaning procedures and schedules are in place for all restrooms, aboard ferries, and in high-touch, high-traffic areas across the Island. - Enhanced health and safety protocols are in place for all food and drink vending locations. - Hand sanitizer and hand washing stations are located throughout the Island. Swamp in the City is open to other suggestions around how to best ensure the safety of our community. We respect that for some members of our community the best choice will be to wait until next year to join us. If you're staying home this year, please donate to support us in bringing back live music and being able to continue to do so in the future. To arrange for tickets: www.eventbrite.com/e/swamp-in-the-city-a-cajun-creole-music-festival-tickets-148913336799 |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Joe Natoli Offers Free Workshop In Honor of World Accordion Dayby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
In honor of World Accordion Day (WAD), Joseph Natoli will be presenting a free workshop for IDEAS that helps people understand how to get useful alternative chord combinations on the Stradella system. Many of these alternatives are useful in jazz and standards from the American Song book. But since Joe will be discussing this in the context of digital accordion, the next step then is to discuss some useful orchestrations to use for these alternative combinations on the FR-4X, FR-8X, and/or Bugari Evo. Look for the date and Zoom link to be announced on the "GR8 IDEAS" Facebook page very soon. Joe shares, "If you play digital accordion, you should try to become a member of this Facebook page asap, as it is the place to be for digital accordionists." |
Friendship of Tony Dannon and Vince Borsiniby Joseph Recchia, Michigan Accordion Society President |
Joe Recchia, nephew of Tony Dannon, shares a fascinating story: So saddened to hear about the passing of my dear friend Vincenzo Borsini owner of Borsini Accordions in Castelfidardo Italy! A wonderful Memory sent to me by Vince Borsini back in the fall of 2012 and how this great story allowed his Business to sore and how we became friends through my Uncle Tony Dannon. You will be missed....RIP my dear friend Vince Borsini! It was Autumn and the year was 1964 and the phone rings, Vincenzo Borsini answers and hears Tony Dannon’s Voice say.. “Vince, what the hell are you doing in Chicago? Come to Detroit, I have a job for you!” This call came from Tony during a time when there was a great demand for Accordions in the US. Vince, recently in the USA from Castelfidardo Italy, alone in Downtown Chicago was forced to leave home and immigrated to the USA to find work as a musical instrument repairman at Montgomery Wards department store. Vince Borsini was very excited and could not wait for the weekend to take the Greyhound Bus to Detroit to meet Tony to learn about the job he has for him. Upon arriving to Tony’s home, he immediately said, "OK Vince now let’s hurry up and wash our feet!" Vince looked at him amused and surprised! Tony with determination, continues, "Now we must go into the cellar and press the grapes to make new wine. Vince said, “Is this a joke?....Is this the job you have for me?” Tony promptly responded “stay calm Vince, tomorrow I will take you to Uncle Peppe”…..Vince says “Who is Uncle Peppe?” Tony says “Ollie Petrini, my business partner and treasurer of the Modern Accordion School in Dearborn, MI”. The following day, Tony, Ollie and Vince have a meeting. Tony goes straight to the point. "Vince, you must go home immediately to your wife and your daughter, they are waiting for you, and by the way, here is an order for 214 accordions! Uncle Peppe will give you a big advance for the accordions, however, if you do not go straight home to the Borsini factory in Castelfidardo you will not get the order or the money." Vince home sick and knowing this is a great opportunity to once again revive his family’s accordion manufacturing business immediately accepts Tony’s offer. This was the beginning of a long and wonderful business relationship between Modern Accordion & Borsini Accordions and more importantly the start of wonderful friendship between Tony, Ollie and the Borsini family. Almost every year after, Tony would go to Italy and before going to his hometown where he was born in VILLA LATINA, he would go to Castelfidardo, were he would not only give Borsisni another large accordion order but would first order the usual, tagliatelle and tortellini carefully made by hand at the famous Dionesso Resturaunta in Downtown Castelfidardo. Tony was always a welcomed guest and would often perform at the restaurant as well as the piazza and theater. Everywhere he went he was recognized as a big celebrity by all the residents in and around Castelfidardo. Yes, there were some problems, as in all things in life, but the friendship between Tony and Vince transformed every little tragedy into a large Italian-American comedy and each year Tony would always depart the Borsini Factory leaving good humor and optimism for more business! “I watched him like a younger brother” says Giancarlo Borsini, Vincenzo’s younger Brother, “Learning the value of True Friendship while enjoying the fundamental principles of life. Tony Dannon….he was a great master of the accordion and A Great Master of Life!” By: Giancarlo & Vincenzo Borsini….October 2012 Owners of the great Borsini Accordion Factory, Castelfidardo, Italy Photos: Vince Borsini and Joe Recchia at the Borsini Accordion Factory Modern Accordion made by Borsini Accordion Company |
Bernadette (Conlon) Zabawa: Accomplished Accordionist from Australia to Americaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Video: Bernadette - Iron Maiden "Fear of the Dark" for accordion. Bernadette said, “I love the drama of this classic Iron Maiden song. I think it works very well on the accordion and I hope you like my interpretation.” Bernadette (Conlon) Zabawa is a versatile accordionist living in Illinois for many years. She is a fascinating, talented and accomplished musician. Bernadette shares with us, “Allow me to introduce myself: My name is Bernadette (née Conlon) Zabawa. I am now living in Rockford, Il, in the USA but I grew up near Melbourne, Australia. I was born two and a half months premature and, as a result, I have ROP and have less than 1% sight. I was drawn to classical music from a young age and wanted to play it on the accordion. I also desperately wanted to see the accordion accepted as a serious classical instrument. I was fortunate to be invited to play at many festivals and concerts, as I grew up. I took music exams with the Australian Music Examination Board and I have two Licentiate of Music Diplomas in both Standard Bass Stradella and Free Bass. I took lessons from various teachers in Australia, including Tatjana Lukic-Marx, who had recently moved to Sydney. I also furthered my studies overseas. In particular, I studied in Ukraine with Professor Ivan Jaskevich, at the Kiev Conservatory of Music; in St. Petersburg, Russia, with Professor Oleg Sharov at the Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory of Music. I also took master classes in Germany and England. Like most accordionists, I entered whatever competitions I could. I found they gave me a real incentive to practice and improve my playing. I won the Australian championship seven times and traveled to Auckland, New Zealand, where I won the South Pacific championship four times. I made many friends through the accordion and I especially enjoyed the friendship and encouragement I received when travelling to New Zealand. The New Zealand Accordion Association was very well run and organized and was well established, so it was like traveling to accordion heaven. I also performed with several orchestras in Australia and played the accordion soundtrack for the Australian TV series Sea Change. I commissioned and premiered Australia’s first concerto for accordion, from composer Michael Easton. It is a beautiful, French Impressionist inspired work, which I later recorded with the State Orchestra of Victoria on the NAXOS label. I’ve also recorded for EMI and Sony. I made several tours of Europe, China and the US. In the meantime, I taught accordion in Melbourne for several years and I founded and conducted the Accordion Orchestra of Melbourne. This was a dream come true, as I was able to gather together a group of accordion enthusiasts. Together, we played and learned as well as hosted visiting accordionists and groups from all around the world. I toured Austria and Germany with an accordion orchestra from Australia and I toured China with an accordion orchestra from New Zealand. I travelled to the 2001 ATG festival in San Antonio and I also made two solo tours of the US and Canada in 2005 and 2006. In 2006 I retired from active touring and performing and started the next phase of my life. I married a wonderful American, Ed Zabawa and I moved to the US. I couldn’t have chosen a better place to settle than Rockford, as it is home to one of the greatest jazz players alive today, Mike Alongi. So, of course, I took lessons from him and found the discipline of playing jazz a great challenge but extremely rewarding. At present, Youtube is my outlet for performance and if you are interested, you can type in: Bernadette for accordion, and see my many videos. My channel has many different genre of music, traditional accordion arrangements, pop, some jazz inspired pieces, musette, a little country, rock ‘n’ roll, classical, tangos and some overdubbed duets where I play accordion and bandoneon (my project during the lockdown), and even heavy metal. Although I studied classically, I love to play different styles of music with the accordion. Each style presents a unique challenge and I am always keen to take the accordion “out of the box” as just a folk instrument. No-one thinks twice that the piano or violin are found in many different genres of music, so why do people expect the accordion only to play folk music? I love living in the USA, but, if I could change one thing, it would be the perception of the accordion by the general public. Sometimes, I will play a concert, which includes all kinds of different music or music that I have been asked to play, be it anything from classical to country, folk or jazz, and I am always approached and asked to play a polka, as if the person has not heard any of the music I have just played and won’t be satisfied until I play a polka. I knew nothing of the huge, American polka scene, when I first came here and it took me by surprise. I had played traditional German and Austrian polkas before, but I was not aware that America had its own polkas. Actually, as luck would have it, my husband played in polka bands for many years so, I learned from him how to play a good Polish or honky-tonk polka. And, like other forms of music, there is an art to it. It is a joyous, jolly romp, with the upbeats accented, to give it an extra jolt of energy. It takes a while to get used to playing a good polka, just as it takes time to be able to feel the syncopation of jazz correctly. For me, the real joy is learning the secrets of each particular style of music. To that end, I have also adapted many heavy metal songs for the accordion. Many years ago, when I was still in Melbourne, I was asked to play ACDC’s “Thunderstruck.” In the past I had always said that the only heavy metal I played was my 35-pound accordion but I loved the challenge and made an arrangement which is almost impossible to play. When I started putting videos on Youtube, I included the song and I have been amazed by its popularity. This moved me to try more heavy metal and these songs are also popular. It has made me look at the accordion through different eyes once again. In order to replicate the sound of the bass guitar, I use accordions with Helikon basses. It turns out that they are not only useful for polkas, but they have a very deep and resonant sound, which allows me to play straight accordion and not necessarily use MIDI. I have used MIDI in the past and it does also give richness and breadth to the music but, more than anything, I love the sound of the reeds. I am not a fan of reedless accordions, since they can never come close to the feel of a real musical instrument. Also, the area where you would want them to surpass acoustic instruments is in the weight and they are really no lighter. So, by definition, in my opinion, an accordion must have reeds! Music has always been a focal point in my life and I am overjoyed to be able to teach my nearly eight-year-old daughter, Stasha. She has grown up with music, even when she was a baby and I didn’t have time to play, I sang to her constantly and there was always some kind of music in the house. Now, she has three videos of her own on Youtube, a solo, a duet with me and a trio that also includes my husband. The pandemic has brought us even closer together, as she is still learning from home. We practice and play accordion most days and it is the one thing I aim to teach her. Many sighted people can play ball with their children and do many things I cannot. While she is not always a willing pupil – what seven-year-old is? – we take time to practice and play together. I teach her about musical theory and try to foster a love of music. I taught for several years in Melbourne, before coming to the US, but the joy of seeing your own child learn and succeed is immense. She has a wondrous curiosity for life in general and a love of mathematics. She is also learning to figure skate and I know her irrepressible energy, grace, and movement are heightened by her musical discipline and knowledge. This is why I am always looking for opportunities for her to meet and learn from other young accordionists. I would love to see her find wonderful friends across the world in the accordion, as I have. We must always look to foster a love of the accordion among the youth, if the accordion is to thrive.” For further information: bernadette.zabawa@hotmail.com |
Group Intocable Releases New Hitby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Video: Intocable - “No Sabes Amar” (Live Sessions From 16*83 Studios) 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. INTOCABLE Group Members: Ricardo Javier “Ricky” Muñoz – (Lead Vocalist, Accordion) René Orlando Martínez – (Drums, Chorus) Sergio Serna – (Percussion) Johnny Lee Rosas – (Second Vocals, Bajo Sexto) José Juan Hernández – (Group Motivator and Rhythms) Alejandro Gulmar – (Bajo Sexto) Felix Salinas – ( Bass ) Awards include: Awards[edit] Grammy Award for Best Mexican/Mexican-American Album (2005) Latin Grammy Award for Best Norteño Album (2005, 2013) Grammy Award for Best Norteño Album (2011) Billboard Latin Music Lifetime Achievement Award (2012) Excerpts from Wikipedia: They were the first of their genre to play at Dallas Cowboys Stadium, at the halftime show of the 2011 Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins game, also at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. They garnered two of the 5 nominations to the Billboard Regional Mexican Awards and got a nod for Best Norteño Album to the 2011 Latin Grammy for their album Intocoble 2011. They were also nominated for a Grammy for the album. Intocoble 2011 was released under the group's own music label Good-i Music and the first two singles, Robarte Un Beso and Prometí, went to Number 1 on US regional radio charts. The 3rd single Arrepientete also did very well on radio and their 4th single Llueve was premiered live onstage at the 2012 Premio lo Nuestro where the group swept with all three categories they were nominated for. 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. Intocable headlined SXSW 2016 SXAmericas All Latino Showcase, making Intocable the first Latino act to headline this three-day series of charity beneficiary concert events. The group took over the largest SXSW stage, which attracted more than 50,000 attendees over the three-day period. 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. For bookings: Oscar Carrasco-Manager: Ozzuntouchable@aol.com |
Brooklyn Accordion Club Presents Judy Minotby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
The Brooklyn Accordion Club presents Judy Minot on Sunday, May 23, 2021 from 2-3:PM. Judy Minot's new book, “Best Practice: Inspiration and Ideas for Traditional Musicians” is a #1 New Release on Amazon, and has received rave reviews from many well-known musicians, including Kevin Burke, Liz Carroll, and Natalie Haas. Judy's workshop for BAC will introduce easy-to-learn skills for practicing more efficiently. She'll teach specific practice techniques, address the “mind game” of creativity and practice, and discuss how to ensure your body provides the most effective support for your playing. You'll walk away with tools you'll use every day. Judy Minot plays piano, accordion (piano and diatonic), and violin in a range of styles from jazz to Celtic and contra. Current groups include: Kestrel: English country dances. John Burkhalter (recorders), Judy Minot (piano), Paul Morrissett (violin), Mary Roth (concertina) Kitchen Bridge: eclectic folk-y tunes and well-chosen songs Wolf Hul (violin, mandolin, vox), Judy Minot (piano, accordions, violin, vox), Mark Wilber Stewart (bouzouki, guitar, violin, vox) Judy has played Celtic/Irish music with Patrick Clifford and Fiona Tyndall, and in various other groupings including contra and English dances. She annually leads the pickup contra dance band at Folk College and the Accordion Arkestra at Northeast Squeeze-In. Her new book, “Best Practice”, includes 197 self-contained chapters, each with a single concept or idea. It's designed to provide daily inspiration to help you stay motivated and practice with more ease. It's specifically oriented to adults who play traditional music styles (whether it's the music of Eastern or Northern Europe, Central or South America, or anywhere else), and who play for enjoyment, rather than to become professionals. Judy believes in the transformational power of playing traditional music. "Becoming a better musician and becoming a better person have a great deal in common," she says. "Traditional music is meant to be played together, as a social event in itself, rather than playing for paid audiences. It is an incredible force for unity and community that we really need in the world right now.” Judy Minot is the author of "Best Practice: Inspiration and Ideas for Traditional Musicians". An accomplished pianist, she also plays accordion (piano and diatonic) and violin, and leads workshops all over the Eastern U.S. She trained in classical piano until age 16, and in the "empty nest" years began playing jazz. At that time she discovered the vibrant community of traditional music. An advocate of teaching and supporting "amateur" or non-professional musicians, Judy has never made her living as a musician. She began her working life in broadcast video: editing music videos, entertainment specials and documentaries for a long list of well-known musical artists. She went on to produce, direct and write for broadcast, cable and recording industry clients, eventually transitioning to work in digital marketing. Judy holds a 4th degree black belt in the martial art of Kokikai Aikido, which she taught at Rutgers University for 12 years. She is also a certified yoga teacher. The Brooklyn Accordion Club celebrated their 8th anniversary on Feb.10, 2021. They have provided education, entertainment, and fun for all during these years. The Brooklyn Accordion Club aims to build a community of accordion players of all levels and admirers in the heart of Brooklyn. For further information: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com For further information on Judy: judy.bestpractice@gmail.com |
Immigrant Sons Dedicate All May Performances to World Accordion Dayby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Video: Immigrant Sons Music Promo MAS President Joe Recchia and his group, The Immigrant Sons, dedicate all their performances in May to World Accordion Day. (WAD). Did you know that the official instrument of the city of Detroit is the accordion! The accordion was patented in Vienna, Austria and they are performing several Austrian songs for the occasion. Check out next month’s USA news for a follow up story and video on Immigrant Sons events in the Detroit, Michigan and surrounding area. Enjoy live music, food trucks, stein hoisting at the Fruhlingsfest at EMBC on Saturday May 1 and May 8, 2021. Free admissions. Eastern market brewing company in Detroit, Michigan.They also will perform at Fruhlingsfest at Ferndale Project on Sunday May 2 and May 9,2021. All events open to the public, Music starts at 1:00 PM! Liderhosen optional! A message from the band: “Most of us are descendants of immigrants. For some of us that journey involves generations. For others it is a more recent if not a personal experience. Regardless of the distance in time, our family traditions reflect some influence from our cultures of origin.While we are encouraged to assimilate into American culture, our homes retain the traditions and customs of our ethnic heritage. Not through rigid enforced activities but through the ever-present music echoing through the rooms. There were also many boisterous and happy melodies encouraging a lust for life and laughter. Simple, yet lyrically powerful and poignant, these songs have provided a glimpse into the heart of the immigrant allowing us to experience the longing for a home left behind. These experiences instilled within each of us, the love and appreciation for the music that remains with us today. Our band "Immigrant Sons" is a tribute to those in our families, past and present, distant and near who immigrated to the United States and to thank them for their sacrifices.” "Immigrant Sons" Band Members: Horn and Vocals - Stephan Lang ( Son of German Immigrants ) Guitar & Vocals - Dave Accomondo (Son of Italian Immigrants) Drums & Vocals - Chris Gassel ( Son of German Immigrants ) Electronic Accordion, Bass & Vocals - Joe Recchia ( Son of Italian Immigrants ) Joe Recchia is an accordionist, performer, promoter, accordion technologist and President of the Michigan Accordion Society. Joe's makes his home in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan and comes from a fantastic family legacy of fine Accordionists. Joe has performed throughout the US, Canada & Europe and aboard the Princess Cruise Ship lines performing a wide variety of venues. Joe's style is very versitile, performing Ethnic, French, German, Polish styles and specializes in Italian Music. He also enjoys playing Jazz, Blues, Folk, Country and Rock venues with his accordion as well.Joe performs in various band's and orchestra's and is one of the few Accordionists in Detroit who is hired for studio work. He also performs as a strolling accordionist at many public and private venues and also teams up with many famous Detroit area musicians Joe has also performed in various orchestras nationally such as the National Accordion Orchestra, The Gene Van Accordion Orchestra as well as the Joann Sommer’s Accordion Orchestra which premiered in Las Vegas and Chicago alongside “ANIMA” which is a world renowned youth choral. Locally Joe has been a featured artist with the Warren Concert Orchestra and was able to perform and meet Famous Conductor Johan De Meij, as well as The Simone Vitale Orchestra and several other Italian Orchestras. Joe is the only Accordionist to perform on the House of representatives floor at the Michigan State Capitol Building and he has also appeared on several Radio and TV stations with his Accordion. Joe has won many state and national music awards over his career for his accordion performances and was also lucky enough to meet and spend much time with many world famous accordionists such as Charles Magnante, Myron Floren, Frank Marocco, Dick Contino, Pete Barbudi, Art Van Damme, Carl Fortina, Joe Cerrito, Peter Soave, Cory Pesaturo as well as many other famous musicians such as Oscar Peterson, Count Basie, Ralphe Armstrong, Hubie Crawford, Johnny Trudell, Michele Ramo, The Primo Family and many others. Joe's accordion DNA comes from a long line of famous accordionists; for many years his grandfather was Henry Ford’s personal accordionist and music director at the Ford Mansion in Dearborn, MI and was labeled as “The Famous Accordionist of the Ford Motor Car Company”. His uncle Tony Dannon world famous Jazz Accordionists, teacher, composer, promoter as well as one of the owners of the “Modern Accordion School” in Dearborn Michigan which was well known for the most successful accordion school in the nation. His cousin also an accordionist is baseball legend hall of famer and former Atlanta Braves Pitcher John Smoltz. Joe currently holds the office as President of the Michigan Accordion Society. He is a dedicated ambassador and promoter for the accordion and the Michigan Accordion Society, the very same society his uncle Tony Dannon helped founded back in 1996. Joe's direction and leadership has resulted in earning the most coveted international accordion club "Frosini Award" which was awarded to the Michigan Accordion Society as the "Best Accordion Society in the World" at the International Accordion Convention in Las Vegas, NV. Just as his grandfather and uncle had done, Joe continues the family legacy and has performed for many prominent people, such as Edsel and Cynthia Ford at he Ford Mansion, Former CEO of Chrysler and Ferrari Mr. Sergio Marchinonne, The Fieger Family, Dick Contino, Italian Consulate President Dr. Marco Nobili, Famous Detroit Area Automotive Sculptor Guliano Zuccato, Buddy Valestro aka “The Cake Boss” at the Palace of Auburn Hills, various sports figures and for many executives at many prestigious automotive firms such as Delphi Corporation, Fiat & Chrysler Corporation and the Ford Motor Company both in the US and in Europe. Joe gives back to the community and has been involved with many fund raiser activities that have helped raised over $100,000.00, which have benefited organizations such as the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit Michigan, Capuchin Retreat Center in Washington Michigan and various cancer research organizations as well as Music Scholarship program for kids in his community. Joe is also a delegate for the Santino"s Knight for Father Solanus Casey. Joe has performed for many other organizations to help raise money for various causes while helping to keep the culture of the accordion alive in his community. He has performed for the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, Grosse Pointe Historical Society, University of Michigan Rackham Choir, Warren Concert Orkestra as well as the Michigan Accordion Society alone which raised nearly $30,000.00 for the “Tony Dannon Student Music Scholarship Fund” for more information on the "Tony Dannon Scholorship Fund" please visit: http://www.michiganaccordion.org/dannon.html |
Rob Reich and Daniel Fabricant Perform Live at Yoshi’s in Oaklandby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Yoshi’s, the popular East Bay nightclub and restaurant, is finally reopened after a lengthy pandemic-induced hiatus. The venue is currently offering free live performances Thursdays through Sundays for patrons with dinner reservations. The performance slate features the virtuosic duo of Rob Reich and bassist Daniel Fabricant on Friday, May 7, 2021.Reich, who in August released an album featuring clarinetist Ben Goldberg, Fabricant and others, has gained praise for his facility as an accordion player with the highly lauded Tin Hat Trio, local favorite Circus Bella and other projects, as well as for his skills as a jazz keyboard artist and composer for local ensembles, including Gaucho Jazz. The venue recently unveiled a newly designed stage inside the dining area, as COVID restrictions keep its traditional performance space off-limits. Take this opportunity to enjoy sushi and music from some of the brightest local musicians, while supporting an Oakland institution that has played host to many of the jazz greats since it opened in 1972. Come and enjoy the Rob Reich/Daniel Fabricant Jazz Duo at 6:PM Friday, May 7 and 28, 2021. Free with dinner reservations. Yoshi's, 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland. 510-238-9200. Rob is a graduate of Oberlin Conservatory with a degree in Composition. He is best known for his work with Tin Hat, Gaucho, and Circus Bella. Rob Reich has over 15 years experience providing unique, memorable music for events of all kinds: weddings, corporate parties, house concerts, backyard barbecues, etc. Rob can provide everything from solo piano or accordion, to small jazz combos, to large dance bands, and everything in between. Rob works closely with the musicians to ensure the music is of the highest quality. He is based in the San Francisco Bay Area. For further information: rob@robreich.com |
Ken and Mary Turbo Accordions Expressby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
In April 2021, the Library of Congress Washington DC granted a Copyright to Ken Nicol for his composition titled the "Blumenschein Polka" Mary Drake said, “Ken wrote "Blumenschein Polka" and sent it to the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The song was copyrighted and he received a Certificate of Registration. Hope you enjoy listening to his wonderful arrangement!!” Ken and Mary are a turbo powered musicians that perform as a duo, 3-piece, or 4-piece band. Excerptd from their website:They have been performing from Quebec to south Florida and even Central America - with over 40 years of performance experience. They provide a variety of fun, entertaining music which is perfect for dancing as well as for those who enjoy listening. Whether you need sound stage musicians or a band for your dances and other events, Ken and Mary can meet your needs having performed for numerous Oktoberfests/festivals (and perform all the popular Oktoberfest music, including lots of audience participation). Their music offers a wide variety of music styles that makes them a perfect choice for all types of events (including parties, weddings, corporate events, trade shows, concerts, and restaurants, to name a few). They wear authentic German costuming when performing for Oktoberfests and German theme events. Ken’s music background includes not only playing the button-style accordion but also the tenor banjo, guitar, mandolin, and mandola. He taught in the Creative Arts program at Ohio State University from 1979 through 1984. He was even bestowed the title “Baron of the Banjo” by Frankie Yankovic. Ken had his own rag/jazz band for many years, playing in and around Ohio as well as performing in the German Pavillon at Disney’s Epcot Center and at the Altstadt Fest in Goslar/Harz, Germany. He adds to the “Ken and Mary” duo his expertise on the 5-row diatonic harmonika, also called the button box or button accordion. Mary’s music career has spanned over 30 years, playing both the organ and the piano accordion. She has performed at numerous festivals, banquets, and for parties. She currently brings to “Ken and Mary” her magical talent on the standard piano accordion. For further information: kenandmarymusik@yahoo.com |
Future events |
2021 Virtual AAA Master Class & Concert Series in New York with Dr. William Schimmelby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) will present a 2021 Master Class & Concert Series with Dr. William Schimmel, moderator and curator, from July 30th to August 1st, 2021. This event will be held online the same as the very successful 2020 event. Entitled "The Twilight Time" (The magical place from light to darkness), the AAA Master Class and Concert Series will feature daily masterclasses from 3:PM to 4:PM and concerts from 4:PM to 5:PM. Welcome to our 27th Year and like last year, the master classes and concerts will be virtual. The topics will include: A new AAA commissioned work 51 ways to go - oom pah Playing the Accordion for babies The use of the Accordion for Special needs adults Sea Shanties The accordion in confined space The Accordion and Alcohol - including Happy Hour The Accordion and no Alcohol - Coffee and Culture New exciting videos The accordion and the “chi” The resonance of the accordion when absent Which/What - Which accordion for what purpose Unusual accordions and accordion replacements and how to use them Art Songs, Indie Songs and new takes on Rapture Hymns and Psychedeliia And Twilight Time: The short list of featured participants will include: Micki Goodman, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Paul Stein, Will Holshouser, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Michael Schimmel, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, John Foti, Jeanne Velonis, Bachtopus, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Mary Spencer Knapp, Charita Paramikatorn, Sarah Starpoli, Miwa Gemini, Jennie Muoio, Erica Marie Mancini, Carl Riehl, Doug Makofka, Bob Goldberg, David Stoler, Benjamin Ickies, Corn Mo, Brian Dewan, Mike’s Place (Mike, Edith, Keith, Tony, Brian, Micki), Ted Nash, The Yorkvillians, Melissa Elledge, Rachel Quirbach, Rachel Swaner, Elaine Yau, Peter Flint, Robert Duncan, Mayumi Mayaoka, Dan Cooper, Michio Suzuki, John Ferraro, Dave Soldier, David First, Peter Jarvis, Linda Reed, Raymond Storms, Natasia Thweatt, Gene Pritsker, Quentin Tice, Milica Paranosic, Elliott Sharp and others to be announced. - and Dr. Schimmel (the long list on the downloadable flyer may contain some past participants) The Zoom links will be provided shortly before the event $110 for entire weekend - $25 per individual master class or concert - $40 per day (includes Master Class and Concert) Download the AAA Masterclass flier for a full list of participants and reservation information: 2021AAAMasterClass.pdf Online reservations: http://www.ameraccord.com/annualmasterclass.php |
Updated News: 2021 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebrationby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
The LIAC, sponsored by the Northwest Accordion Society, will take place on June 17-20, 2021. It will be an outdoor event.: Because of COVID, Festhalle activities will have to be cancelled this year. However, the good news is that we intend to have plenty of entertainment at the gazebo. We also have a lovely garden space for jamming and workshops outdoors. There are also plans to have a virtual adjudication event for students. We are excited to have a great, yet safe festival for accordionists and tourists. For those wishing to perform at the gazebo during LIAC 2021, contact Doris Osgood to reserve your performance time. A sign- up schedule may be viewed now at www.nwasnews.com. The schedule is for viewing only as in years past. The 2022 LIAC will take place from June 16-19 2022 - back to normal! This includes the Festhalle program, workshops, and Grange activities. The LIAC website will be updated to show the “who, what, when” for 2022. LIAC Plan for 2021: There are 2 basic events in 2021: Student Evaluations and Live Music at the Gazebo. There are no activities in the Festhalle or Grange due to restrictions due to cover. Following is where to find information on 2021 events. (the remainder of the website shows what will be happening in 2022). 2021 LIAC Video Evaluations: Toby Hanson, chairman of the Evaluation event, will be glad to answer all questions and help students to sign-up. He can be reached at: (206) 245-8207 and toby.hanson@comcast.net To get started, here are the following links: 2021 LIAC Video Evaluation Guidelines 2021 LIAC Evaluation Submission Form 2021 Sign-up to perform at the Gazebo: We are now taking sign-ups for those who would like to perform at the gazebo. For those interested in the Gazebo Ensemble, we will be performing on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The Gazebo Ensemble Music Book can be downloaded and printed. Information for playing at the gazebo and playing in the Gazebo Ensemble: Gazebo Schedule | Accordion Celeb (accordioncelebration.org) . Contact Doris: dorisosgood@frontier.com or 503-357-0417 for information. See www.accordioncelebration.org for important updates. |
2021 Not Just Oompah! Accordion Concert & Workshop From June 21-27, 2021by Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association |
Not Just Oompah! (NJO) is announcing its online Concert & Workshop Series featuring Master accordionists Cory Pesaturo and Mario Pedone. “This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department.” Additional support is from Texas Folklife, Accordion Renaissance (a Virginia based non-profit), Accordions for Kids USA, and the San Antonio Accordion Association. Download poster and information: 2021OompahJune.pdf NJO was co-founded by Shirley Johnson and Laura Jean Niland from Texas. This year our instructors include Cory Pesaturo who will present Italian Folk & Retro styles, and Mario Pedone who will present South American Rhythms. The Facebook Concerts are free (donations appreciated to support the artists), the dates and links are posted here: Monday June 21, 2021 @ 7:00-8:00 PM Central Time with Mario Pedone Saturday June 26, 202 @ 7:00-8:30 PM Central Tim with Cory Pesaturo The accordion workshops will be presented online via ZOOM, hosted by Shirley Johnson and assisted by Laura Niland. There will be a special “Meet and Greet” session on Tuesday June 22 from 7:00-9:00 PM CST Workshop dates: Wednesday & Friday, June 23 & 25 @ 7:00-9:00 PM CST Thursday June 24 @ 7:00-9:30 PM CST and Saturday Jun 26 @ 1:00-3:30 PM CST Sunday June 27 @ 1:00-3:00 PM CST The cost for the workshop is $100 per accordionist and includes all materials which will be delivered to participants in PDF via email. All sessions will be recorded for later viewing so participants may review according to their schedule. In addition, NJO is offering one Youth Scholarship to interested accordion youth 18 years old or younger. Check the Scholarship Application to see if you qualify and if so, please apply TODAY! Scholarship Application Deadline is June 15, 2021. Not Just Oompah! continues to offer exciting concerts and workshops that promote the accordion. NJO offers “Music that Entertains, Educates, and Inspires Every Audience”. Join us in celebrating the accordion and learning together with other accordionists from across USA and beyond! Registration, Youth Scholarship Application, workshop payment options, artists bios, and more detailed information about the NJO workshops is available on the website www.NotJustOompah.org We look forward to seeing you this summer! For more detailed information contact: Shirley Johnson 512-680-0422; email: ShirleyJ@Vjeverica.com or accsaj@gmail.com Laura Jean Niland 210-651-4359; email: Ljniland@texas.net Download poster and information: 2021OompahJune.pdf |
Rose City Accordion Camp in Eagle Creekby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
The Rose City Accordion Camp will be held at the Collins Retreat Center in Eagle Creek, Oregon, USA from August 29th through to September 3rd, 2021. The Rose City Accordion Club was formed in 1996 by a group of people who love playing this fantastic musical instrument. RCAC is a non-profit organization created exclusively for educational purposes within the meaning of section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. The club currently has 95 members ranging from teenager through senior citizen, amateur players, professionals and folks who do not play the accordion but love to listen to the music it produces. The Rose City Accordion Camp will include workshops led by Courtney von Drehle and Toby Hanson, solos, small group playing and large group jamming in the evening as well as an orchestra conducted by Beverley Fess and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues. All attendees must have had the COVID vaccination unless there is a medical condition certified by a doctor. Masks are required. For details email: bevo925@comcast.net |
Cotati Accordion Festival 2021by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Here is the latest news about the 2021 Cotati Accordion Festival. Scott Goree, Executive Director of the CAF shares, “The team at the Cotati Accordion Festival would like to update our fans as to what the status is of the festival this year. First of all, we have August 21 & 22, 2021 listed as the dates of our "live" event. This declaration is made in case the possibility of a live event, in some form, is allowed to take place. We are fully cognizant of the perilous nature of that date being a reality. We would like everyone to know that the decision is not ours as to whether or not a festival takes place. It is up to Sonoma County and the City of Cotati. If the city refuses to issue a permit then we have no event. At this point in time the city has refused to even accept an application for a permit, but has not ruled anything out. They have told me that they have no idea if we will be able to apply for a permit or not. Our hands could not be tied behind our backs any more securely. Meanwhile, we have frozen other dates in La Plaza Park. We froze the 25th & 26th of September 2021 and the 16th & 17th of October 2021 as back up possibilities. We also have the possibility of a virtual show on August 21 & 22, 2021. However, even that is at risk. While we have to wait on the city to decide what they will do we have our accordion acts getting booked all over the US this summer and fall. A sought after act is not going to play a virtual show while they are getting offerings of bookings at live events during the same time in other counties and states. We are fully aware that this statement does not help anyone who wants to make plans around our annual treasured event. We apologize and pledge to keep the public updated as to any additional information that is revealed in the near future.” |
Alabama Accordion Association Presents Elijah Clements in November 2021by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
The Alabama Accordion Association will present Elijah Clements in concert and workshops on Saturday, November 13, 2021 at the Brookwood Baptist Church, 3449 Overton road, Mountain Brook, Alabama. His teacher, Elena Fainshtein shares, “My student Elijah Clements won the “Big Squeeze” contest in polka category in Austin, TX on May 11th, 2019 and he performed in Houston on Accordion Kings and Queen Festival!” Free admission courtesy of the Alabama Accordion Association. More details will be included in future USA news publications. For further information: csfunder@gmail.com |