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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Buckwheat Zydeco (1947-2016), Louisiana – USA
Santiago Jimenez Jr Receives 2015 National Medal of Arts - USA
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
Video: Roland FR4X Release, Demonstration and Rostov Concert - France / Russia
Cory Pesaturo’s Performances
Peter and Mady Soave in Concert on October 22 in Victoria, BC
"Accordions Rising’" Music Documentary
Dan "Daddy Squeeze" Newton to Present Workshop at Petosa
The Outside Track Performs at the Celtic Colours International Festival
AAA Congratulates Nathan Chapeton!
Jane Christison October Performances
Texas Folklife Seeks Participants for its 2017 Apprenticeship Program
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Nathan Chapeton Represents USA at 2016 Coupe Mondiale
Video: Emmanuel Gasser Performance at 2016 PIF Castelfidardo - Italy
Mike's Place - A New Dimension in Accordion Education
Accordion Pops Orchestra Concert on October 23 in New Jersey
Video: Gail Campanella Concert – Virginia, USA
Emilio Magnotta Performed for LIAA in September
NH Accordion Association, ACCORDIONS NOW!, Re-organization Meeting
Philip Franzese, Febuary 14, 1930 – August 26, 2016
Dominic Karcic to Perform for LIAA
Lou Jacklich 88th Birthday, Students Celebrate Accordionly
The NorthEast Squeeze-In September 2016
Vitor Conclaves Presented Brazilian Samba/Choro workshop for Brooklyn Accordion Club
Future events |
Updated Site: Milwaukee Accordion Club Future Dates - USA
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 The upcoming season brings exciting concerts, workshops, and festivals to choose from. Octoberfest celebrations, videos, reports on past events and more.Your comments and ideas are always welcome. Send to Ritabelll@aol.com |
Buckwheat Zydeco (1947-2016), Louisiana – USAby Rob Howard |
Video: One of the most popular Buckwheat videos, Hey Good Lookin'
 Buckwheat Zydeco (Stanley Dural Jr), the accordionist, organist, singer and songwriter, achieved fame as the man who introduced the Zydeco dance music of Louisiana to the world stage. Stanley Dural died on September 24th from lung cancer at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center in Lafayette. He was 68.Stanley Dural Jr was born in rural Lafayette, Louisiana, in 1947, one of 13 children. His parents were farmers. He worked on the farm as a boy, spending much time picking cotton, later commenting, “I did a lot of hard stuff coming up. I’m glad I did, 'cause this stuff – making music – is easy.” His father, Stanley Dural Sr., was an amateur accordionist who played traditional Creole songs around the house. In his youth, Buckwheat – the nickname referred to his braided hair, which was reminiscent of the ‘Buckwheat’ character in the old ‘Our Gang’/‘The Little Rascals’ comedy series – rebelled against his father’s music. He took up the accordion, piano, keyboards and the Hammond B3 organ and gravitated toward funk and rhythm & blues, joined bands before forming his own and eventually finding commercial success. His international performances include the 1996 Summer Olympics closing ceremony, which was broadcast to a huge TV audience worldwide, and both of President Bill Clinton’s inauguration celebrations. Dural broke new ground forZydeco, both stylistically and commercially. In 1987, Island Records released Buckwheat Zydeco’s Grammy-nominated ‘On a Night Like This’, the first Zydeco album on a major label. More recently, the world-travelled Dural was the first Zydeco bandleader with his own YouTube channel, ‘Buckwheat’s World’. He was a “cultural ambassador in the truest sense,” said Michael Tisserand, author of the 1998 book ‘The Kingdom of Zydeco’, which will soon be reissued with a new foreword by Dural. “He brought this traditional music to the biggest stage it ever enjoyed. It took someone with his talent, range, sense of showmanship and charisma to take it that far. He’d play songs by Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones, and stretch the music beyond its original shape”, Tisserand said, “but always with the sense of celebration, excitement and cultural pride at the heart of zydeco”. |
Santiago Jimenez Jr Receives 2015 National Medal of Arts - USAby Holda Paoletti-Kampl |
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 At the White House, a golden moment for a great American artist, conjunto musician / diatonic accordion player Santiago Jimenez Jr.Santiago Jimenez Jnr is one of 4 recipients (and only accordionist) of the 2015 National Medals of Arts. The other three recipients were author Sandra Cisneros, film director, actor and civil rights activist Luis Valdez and playwright Moisés Kaufman. The medal was presented to Santiago Jimenez Jnr for expanding the horizon of American music. The medals, awarded annually by the National Endowment for the Arts, are the highest honor given to artists and art patrons by the U.S. government. The presentation was on the 22nd September in Washington, D.C. and made by US President Barak Obama. Santiago Jimenez Jr has helped spread traditional conjunto music, blending the sounds and cultures of south Texas and Mexico. His lively melodies performed on the button diatonic accordion have captivated audiences for decades. Congratulations, Santiago Jimenez Jr. |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USAby Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
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  I am writing this on the plane flying internationally to Las Vegas for the Octoberfest Las Vegas International from 15th to 18th October at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Paul Betken & Jerry Cigler are newly added to a great line up of stars (list below) with lots of great seats still available! Want to hop a plane to come and enjoy this exciting festival? Newsletter (picture right) with full information: 2018LVACnews.pdf Picture left: Event organizer Paul Pasquali The lineup starts with visionary accordionist Cory Pesaturo and bookends with a grand finale starring Grayson Masefield and the International Accordion Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Prof. Joan Sommers. You can register online at www.AccordionStars.com or contact Paul Pasquali, event organizer, by phone at 1-800-472-1695 or (801) 485-5840, email: paul@accordioninfo.com. |
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Video: Roland FR4X Release, Demonstration and Rostov Concert - France / Russiaby Harley Jones |
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Video 2: Alexey Chernomordikov performance at the 2016 Coupe Mondiale.
| As part of a massive "The Future Redefined" 24 hour online promotion streaming live from eight different cities across the world (Paris, Tokyo, Auckland, Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, Berlin and Brussels), Roland launched 30 new products, a new generation of Roland electronic instruments. The Paris product launch at the iconic Eiffel Tower included the new Roland FR4X accordion. Video 1: above is an extensive demonstration of the new Roland by Sam Garcia. In September, the new Roland FR4X was also featured at the 2016 Coupe Mondiale in Rostov-on-Don by Alexey Chernomordikov (Russia). Video 2: above. The Roland FR4X is a completely new model which uses the highest quality FR8X sounds. The FR8X remains the V-Accordion flagship, with the new FR4X just below that, followed by the smaller lighter FR3 and the entry level FR1, to complete a range of Roland accordion piano and button models with different price points. Roland FR4X technical information at: 2016FR4X.pdf The FR4X will be available in North America upon arrival of shipments. |
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Cory Pesaturo’s Performancesby Rita Barnea |
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| Video 1: Sergio Franchi Memorial Concert with Full Orchestra and Violinist Leah Zeger Video 2: The Concert at the AAA Festival at The Tralf Music Hall in Buffalo, NY. Just when you think that Cory Pesaturo has contributed so much to the accordion/musical world, he does it again, achieving even more! Cory has been invited to be a part of the prestigious #ForbesUnder30 thanks to John Werner and the City of Boston. During the summer, Cory performed for the Cotati Festival, Pebble Beach Week and completed 2 recordings on his Duo’s Album. In September 2016. Cory played three pieces with Violinist Leah Zeger with Orchestra at Sergio Franchi Memorial Concert where he performs every year. Over 4000 people were in attendance. Cory’s future performances include: OCTOBER 2016: Mari Black Concert Special Appearance at Club Passim on October 2nd, 2016/ 8PM in Boston, MA. Cory will sit in with Violinist Extraordinaire Mari Black at Club Passim in Boston to preview their upcoming Album. Arizona Accordion Club on October 9th, 2016/ 2:PM in Phoenix , AZ. For the first time, Cory will be the featured act at the Arizona Accordion Club. Jazz Concert at the Sahara Club on October 11th, 2016/ 7:30 PM in Methuen, MA. Cory will have his Main Jazz Jazz Quartet of Drummer Bob Gullotti, Bassist Marty Bolou, and Saxophinist Tucker Antell. NIAF Italian Convention on October 14th, 2016 to October 16th, 2016 in Washington DC. For the first time, Cory has been invited to perform at the Grand Gala of the National Italian-American Foundation, a yearly weekend celebrating Italian-American Success and Stars. This the 41st Gala. Formula 1 US GP on October 19th, 2016 to October 23rd, 2016 in Austin,TX. Cory will perform at various events through the week in association with his relationship with the RedBull F1 team. NOVEMBER 2016: TED Beacon Street on November 18th, 2016/ 7:PM in Brookline , MA. Cory will once again perform for the TED Beacon Street Event. MARCH 2017: Netherlands Concert on March 9th, 2017 to March 12th, 2017 Cory will perform his first concert in the Netherlands. Finland Accordion Cruise on March 24th, 2017 to March 27th, 2017 in Turku , FI. Cory will perform on the famous Finland Accordion Cruise. For further information: CoryPesaturo.com |
Peter and Mady Soave in Concert on October 22 in Victoria, BCby Rita Barnea |
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 Peter and Madeleine Soave from France and Marin Nasturica from Montreal will perform with the DieMahler Ensemble in Victoria, BC, on October 22, 2016 at 2:30 PM. The ensemble will have an expanded string section, providing a beautiful backdrop against the accordions. Rainer Roth, clarinetist, will join them. Pablo Diemecke is the music director. Tickets are on sale now and will available at the door on the day of the concert which will take place at St. Mary's Church, 1701 Elgin Road, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC. Tickets are $25 for adults/ $22.50 for seniors. For further information: pdiemecke@gmail.com |
"Accordions Rising’" Music Documentaryby Roberta Cantow |
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| Emmy award-winning filmmaker Roberta Cantow announces the formal release on DVD of her new toe-tapping music documentary "Accordions Rising". The film has been shown at two film festivals in the USA: ‘Cinema on the Bayou’ in Lafayette Louisiana and ‘The Bare Bones International Music and Film Festival’ in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where it was nominated for ‘Best Music Documentary’. This vibrant film delves into the musical resurgence of an instrument not just limited to one man bands and traditional folk but equally at home in diverse genres from classical and jazz to rock and rap. Released in October, 2015, the film has also debuted at several accordion festivals in the USA, including the ‘Las Vegas Accordion Convention’, the ‘Leavenworth Accordion Festival’ in Leavenworth, Washington, and the ‘Cotati International Accordion Festival’ in California. It will soon be headed for the ‘Accordion Noir Festival’ in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. In the course of its various runs, the filmmaker herself has discovered that the so called ‘accordion world’ is anything but monolithic, and that her film, in particular, gives voice to a very unique group of artists who defy definition with performance styles that are outside the box of both classical and traditional. ‘Accordions Rising’ has won Awards of Merit at the ‘Global Accolades Competition’, October, 2015 and the ‘Indie Film Fest’, August, 2016. The film immerses itself among the talented and often eccentric group of musicians that defiantly call the under-appreciated instrument their own - giving voice to challenge its much maligned reputation and setting the record straight with humor and aplomb. You too can explore the world of one of the most beautiful and misunderstood instruments. One can view the ‘Accordions Rising’ Trailer at: www.accordionsrising.com and consider purchasing a DVD or Bly Ray disk from the Purchase page. T shirts and posters are also for sale. See www.accordionsrising.com Producer/director Roberta Cantow received her first grant from The American Film Institute while still a graduate film student at NYU Film School. Her film and video work have been recognized nationally and internationally. She received a NY Emmy Award for her 1982 documentary, ‘Clotheslines’, about the symbolic and artistic role of laundry in for her 1982 documentary, Clotheslines’, about the symbolic and artistic role of laundry in women's lives. ‘Accordions Rising’ continues the over-arching theme in all her work: an attraction to and deeper look at often maligned subject matter. For further information email: rcantow@originaldigital.net |
Dan "Daddy Squeeze" Newton to Present Workshop at Petosaby Rita Barnea |
 Petosa Accordions have begun a workshop series at their shop in Seattle. Their first presenter was Gary Blair followed by Grayson Masefield. Dan Newton will present a workshop on October 8, 2016 at 1:PM. Tickets are $25. The location is Petosa Accordions,313 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105. Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton will share his ideas on style, technique and variation for Blues, Jugband, Country, Cajun and other traditional American music. The purposes for the workshop: 1 To help the accordionist develop techniques for sounding more “authentic” 2 To explore methods of extending tunes when you’re not a hot, improvising soloist. This includes harmony, ornamentation, variations and arranging. Printed music will not be used at this workshop. A recording device is highly recommended. Bring your accordion to play, or feel free to just listen. Excerpts from the website: Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton has been dazzling audiences with his creative accordion style for over 30 years. His fresh approach to the much maligned squeeze box and his mind-boggling repertoire of both original and traditional material will change the mind of the most hardened accordion skeptic. Dan draws influences for songs and tunes from such sources as French Musette, Gypsy Swing, Cajun, Jug band, Tex-Mex and Cumbia. He calls this global gumbo “ethnoclectic” music. Daddy Squeeze entertains and also enlightens his audiences with stories and colorful anecdotes about the accordion and his experiences while making a living playing the instrument he loves. Dan has produced more than 25 albums for himself, his band, and other performers. He has appeared on recordings by other artists such as Garrison Keillor, Son Volt, The Proclaimers, Peter Ostroushko, Prudence Johnson and Pat Donohue. His music was featured for one season on MTV’s series The Real World: Paris. Dan has performed at the Lincoln Center, NY, Kennedy Center, Washington DC, Accordion Festivals in Vienna, Austria, San Antonio, TX and Cotati, CA, Bastille Days in Milwaukee,WI, Kaustinen Folk Festival in Finland, and The Winnipeg Folk Festival. He was also a frequent guest on the Garrison Keillor’s radio show A Prairie Home Companion. Dan spends much of his time playing accordion with his group Café Accordion Orchestra, performing Vintage Swing, Latin, American, and French Café music. He leads a number of other bands including; Jumbo Ya Ya, The Rockin’ Pinecones, The Hula Peppers, and The Daddy Squeeze Band. For further information: petosaaccordions@gmail.com |
The Outside Track Performs at the Celtic Colours International Festivalby Rita Barnea |
 Video: The Outside Track performing “Neckbelly"Come celebrate the 20th Celtic Colours International Festival this year from Friday, October 7 to Saturday, October 15, 2016. Excerpts from The Outside Track website: Winner of Best Group in both the Live Ireland awards and the TIR awards, The Outside Track are one of the top Celtic acts in the world. A synthesis of virtuosity and energy, their marriage of Celtic music, song, dance has been rapturously received around the world. Hailing from Scotland, Ireland, and Cape Breton, its five members are united by a love of traditional music and a commitment to creating new music on this as a foundation. They effortlessly fuse traditional and contemporary with crowd winning joie de vivre. Recently joined by acclaimed singer Aoife Scott, the next generation of the legendary Black Family from Ireland, they blend fiddle, accordion, harp, guitar, whistle, step-dance and vocals with breathtaking vitality. The band is composed of Allie Robertson, one of Scotland’s most respected harpists; Teresa Horgan, from Co. Cork, who is one of Ireland’s up and coming singers; highlander Fiona Black on accordion; and Simon Marion, a guitarist of note from Canada. Fiona Black is from the Highland village of Evanton, Fiona Black developed a love of music and dance from a young age. The feisean movement provided her the opportunity to nurture her passion through learning to play the piano accordion. Fiona went on to attend the National Centre of Excellence in Traditional Music where she honed her skills as an accordionist and gained valuable experience arranging, performing, composing and recording. Fiona set off for Limerick in 2005 where she completed a BA with Honours in Irish Music and Dance. During this degree, Fiona further developed her skills as a performer, arranger, teacher and composer while also traveling to Cape Breton during her third year of studies. Fiona’s accordion style incorporates many different influences, intertwining her native Scottish style with Irish, Swedish and Cape Breton repertoire, always adding her distinctive rhythm and vibrancy The Celtic Colours International Festival is a unique celebration of Cape Breton Island’s living traditional culture. For nine days in October you’ll discover hundreds of events and activities taking place in communities around the Island. From concerts to dances and workshops to community suppers, a full range of events against a gorgeous backdrop of autumn colors is offered Since its introduction in 1997, Celtic Colours has grown to become one of Canada’s premiere musical events, and a cultural highlight of Nova Scotia’s tourism season. The festival has also been successful in extending Cape Breton Island’s tourism season well into the Autumn, and introducing the musical culture of Cape Breton to tens of thousands of visitors from more than two dozen countries. At the many concerts, you’ll find some of the world’s finest musicians sharing the stage with Cape Breton’s best singers, dancers, players, story-tellers and culture bearers in venues that range from community halls and churches to modern schools and theatres. The festival is held during Cape Breton’s most spectacular season, Autumn, when the leaves are turning color and the vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges bring the breathtaking scenery to life as you travel from event to event. These travels may take you around the pristine Bras d’Or Lakes, Canada’s largest saltwater lake, or around the Cabot Trail, often called North America’s most scenic drive. Wherever you go in Cape Breton at this time of year, you are bound to find beautiful scenery around every turn. |
AAA Congratulates Nathan Chapeton!by Mary Tokarski |
 Rostov-On-Don, Russia was the accordion capital of the world for this year’s Coupe Mondiale. Competitors from all around the world met, made new friends, listened to new music, and celebrated the accordion!Nathan Chapeton from Middletown, Connecticut (student of Mary Tokarski, AAA President) represented the USA-AAA in the Junior Virtuoso Entertainment Division performing “Divertimento” by Andre Astier, “Take Ten” by Frank Marocco, “Waltz” by Vladimir Mollov and “Sapphire” by Karen Fremar. Several of the competition attendees were asked who their favorite performer in the division was – the answer – “the American”! Hooray for Nathan! You can hear Nathan’s performance on the Coupe Mondiale website. The judges awarded 1st place in the Junior Virtuoso Entertainment to the competitor from Brazil - Gustavo Aliandre De Almeida, 2nd place to Alexander Bodell from the United Kingdom, and 3rd place to Radu Ratoi from Moldova. In an interview for one of the Russian television stations, Nathan commented that he would love to live in Russia for a year and be privileged to study the accordion there as well. From the Delegate and Jury standpoint, the Coupe Mondiale in Rostov-on-Don was outstanding. The hosting organization supplied each of us with a personal volunteer who translated for us, and made sure we got where we were supposed to be without any situations! Great thinking on their part. The language was not an issue within the event, but for “life in general” in Rostov, we were a bit at a disadvantage. My volunteer, Dasha, was a young university language student, and was a joy to spend time with. She was intrigued with our “American” sayings . . . I happened to blurt out “fat chance” when some of our congress members were suggesting I cook dinner . . . Dasha immediately wanted to know what that meant? Try explaining that one! The Russian experience was fantastic beyond compare. Concerts featuring the Russian Accordion Stars were nightly – each more spectacular than the last. Alexander Pouleuv, Yuri Shishkin and Viatscheslav Semionov were the celebrated artists throughout the week, with so many other students of Professor Semionov and formidable artists taking the stage with them. The music was amazing, the staging and dramatic presentations were outstanding. We saw accordionists featured with a bicyclist and tango dancers; a ballerina, and even a circus performer who put nails through a board with his hands! Ouch! Now, back to the United States. Next up for AAA events is the Valtaro Celebration on November 26, 2016 at the Magnanini Winery, 172 Strawridge Road, Wallkill, New York 12589. The event will feature traditional Valtaro and French Musette Music with a special Guest Artist from Italy - Giangiacomo Bucella, along with a “star-studded” lineup including Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini, Dominic Karcic and Ray Oreggia, Beverly Roberts Curnow, Mary Tokarski, Gia, Joe and Reagan Ciccone, Emilio Magnotta, Fred Schwinger, Bruce Nielsen and Frank Toscano. Be there. Reservations are $73 per person (flyer is on the AAA website at www.ameraccord.com). We hope to see YOU there! |
Jane Christison October Performancesby Rita Barnea |
 Jane Christison maintains a busy entertainment schedule this fall. She will appear on October 1, 2016 at Coleman Hawkins Park in downtown St. Joseph, Missouri from 11:AM to 1:PM. It’s Oktjoeberfest in St. Joseph, Missouri, and Janie Next Door will be part of the celebration playing German music as well as some of her own songs for kids. Come and join the fun!Accordionist and singer Jane Christison is known for her trademarked “Music With A Smile®.” Her performances are filled with personality and an enthusiasm for playing the accordion that shines through. Jane enjoys sharing her music with seniors in upbeat and engaging 45-minute “Music With A Smile®”programs at retirement communities and nursing homes. She has fun wearing costumes and playing music for theme parties, open house events, conventions and other celebrations. Jane is introducing a whole new generation to the joy of music by writing songs for children and performing as “Janie Next Door®.” Jane studied serious accordion literature with Joan Cochran Sommers at the University of Missouri- Kansas City Conservatory of Music and graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in accordion performance.She has been featured as a guest artist and workshop presenter at: The National Accordion Association, Inc. The Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) The American Accordionists’ Association The Las Vegas International Accordion Convention Video versions of two of her workshops, “Playing the Accordion for Fun and Fame!” and “Squeezing Money Out of Your Accordion,” are available through her company, Music With A Smile Productions, L.L.C., as is her children’s CD “Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door™.” For further information: jane@musicwithasmile.com |
Texas Folklife Seeks Participants for its 2017 Apprenticeship Programby Sheree Scarborough |
 Awards of up to $1,500 for Apprentices to train with Master Artists in the Folk and Traditional Arts of Texas
:Texas Folklife has made its 2017 application for the Apprenticeships in the Folk & Traditional Arts program available to the public. It is available at: http://texasfolklife.org/article/apprenticeship-in-the-folk-traditional-arts-program Program guidelines and additional information are also available through this link on the Texas Folklife website. The call for applicants for the 2017 program has been issued, with a postmark deadline of October 28, 2016. The Apprenticeship Program encourages the continuation of traditional arts in Texas by providing awards to master artists to train apprentices. The awards will compensate the master artist for his or her time and training; a specified amount may also be used to help offset the costs of travel and supplies. The amount of each apprenticeship award will vary, but will range between $1,000 and $1,500. Master artists and apprentices should apply together and submit one application. Apprentices should have a significant amount of experience with their chosen tradition and be strongly committed to improving their skills and working with the community in order to carry on the tradition. Master artists should be among the finest practitioners of their craft in their community. Applications from all traditions are welcome. The organization does, however, specialize in the accordion-based musical traditions found in the state of Texas. For that reason, special consideration will be given to Polka and Zydeco applicants. The traditional arts, commonly referred to as folklife, folklore, traditional culture, or simply tradition, are art forms practiced by groups who share similar cultural values, and/or a common heritage. The traditional arts are often learned informally, passed from generation to generation orally. These skills and trades are taught to apprentices under the direct supervision of a master artist, who is recognized as an expert in their field. The apprentice not only learns the art or craft directly through an experienced individual, but also how to teach it to his/her own apprentices. This system assures the perpetuation of these skills through successive generations and facilitates the longevity of cultural practices. In the past, Texas Folklife has awarded apprenticeships to a diverse selection of practices, including everything from lute-making and horse saddlery to South Indian vocal music and African dance. To see a list of previous Apprenticeship awardees and their traditions, visit www.texasfolklife.org/apprenticeships.html. Apprenticeships awarded in 2016 included the following pairs: •Master Derrick T. Hulin (Humble) and apprentice Tyrone Gray (Marvel) in the art of Mardi Gras Indian suit sewing; •Master Lee Miller (Austin) and apprentice Dana Perrotti (Katy) in the art of fitting custom cowboy boots; •Master John Dujka (Brenham) and apprentice Mason Nesvadba (Guy) in the art of Czech polka and waltz on piano accordion; •Master Daniel Malik (Shiner) and apprentice Sydney Jon Hermann (Shiner) in the art of Czech polka and alto saxophone; •Master Brian Marshall and apprentice Michal Marshall (Tomball) in the art of Texas Polka fiddling; •Master Ed Poullard (Beaumont) and apprentice Dan Chevalier (Houston) in the art of the Creole fiddle; •Master Eva Ybarra (San Antonio) and apprentice Iliana Vasquez (Austin) in the art of conjunto accordion; •Master Valerie Ryals (Burleson) and apprentice Jessica Sell (Willow Park) in the art of Texas fiddling; •Master Bob Suttie and apprentices Charlie Bubenik and Robbie Bubenik (Meadows Place) in the art of Czech polka accordion; •and Master Gus Escobar (Schertz) and apprentice Bradley Williams (Austin) in the art of accordion tuning and repair. As can be seen from this list, not only are diverse folk arts represented, but also hometowns all across the Lone Star State are represented. The deadline for the applications for this year’s Apprentice Program is October 28. A review panel will meet in November to evaluate the applications, and applicants will be notified of their awards in January 2017. At that time a press release will go out to announce the 2017 Apprentice Program awardees. 2017 Program Awardees will participate in an interview with Texas Folklife, where they will discuss their experience with the tradition, its significance, its continuation, and demonstrate what has been learned through the apprenticeship. Apprentices will also illustrate their training by doing a public performance at the conclusion of the apprenticeship period. “The Apprenticeship Program is an example of Texas Folklife doing what we do best,” said Charlie Lockwood, Acting Director. “Our mission is to preserve, present and document the traditional arts in the state. With this program we are involved in the direct transmission of cultural heritage between individual artists, and in some cases from one generation to the next. And in doing so, our goal is to help these traditional arts survive and, in the best possible scenario, thrive.” This program is made possible in part from a State Partnership award from the National Endowment from the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art, in partnership with the Texas Commission on the Arts.Additional support provided by the city of Austin Cultural Arts Division. About Texas Folklife Texas Folklife is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and preserving the diverse cultures and living heritage of the Lone Star State. For over 30 years, Texas Folklife has honored cultural traditions passed down within communities, explored their importance in contemporary society, and celebrated them by providing accessible and joyful arts experiences. Media information: Sheree Scarborough (512) 922-5483 / sheree.scarborough@gmail.com Program information: Ian Hallagan (512) 441-9255 / apprenticeships@texasfolklife.org |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Passing of Roberto Cassanby Trisha Zembruski |
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 Video 1: Grand Fatilla plays "Corrente" by Roberto Cassan, Published on 25 August 2016Lily Pad, Sunday, May 29, 2016, Roberto Cassan, accordion, Mike Rivard, bass. Video 2: Guitarist John Muratore and accordionist Roberto Cassan live in the Vermont at the Public Radio performance studio, performing "Domenie", Cassan's original composition. November 2010. Roberto Angelo Cassan was one of New England's most renowned accordionists, as well as an esteemed composer and teacher. On August 22, while riding his bike in Tramonti di Sotto in the Friuli region of Italy, Roberto suffered a cardiac arrest, and ultimately took his last breath on the sidewalk in front of the Tramonti church. Directly behind the church is the cemetery where his beloved father, Luciano, and all his ancestors lay buried. At age 53, Roberto was laid to rest alongside them, at the foot of the beautiful mountains surrounding the town. Roberto began studying accordion when he was eight years old. At sixteen, he was playing professionally for public events and festivals in Italy and throughout Europe. In 1988, he came to Boston with his brother and musical comrade since early childhood, Christian Cassan, to study at the Berklee College of Music and he received a Professional Music Diploma. He earned a Master of Musicology degree from the University of Cremona in Italy. His love for music from around the world led him to explore and master different repertoires including Argentine Tango, French musette, Balkan, South American and Brazilian genres. He was deeply influenced by Astor Piazzolla, Dino Saluzzi, Hermeto Pascoal, and Richard Galliano. Roberto established a distinctive and far reaching presence in the Boston and international music community. His primary musical projects—the world music quartet Grand Fatilla, his duo with acclaimed classical guitarist John Muratore, the Armenian jazz nonet Musaner, the Southern Italian project Newpoli, and the Guillermo Nojechowicz Tango Project—are testament to his eclectic versatility and unique command of his instrument. Anyone listening to Roberto Cassan's playing was immediately transported by its depth and by the warmth of his sound. His dear friend and musical collaborator, Fabio Pirozzolo said of Roberto, “Beyond his superb technique, his musical ideas were so original that all musical traditions he represented became a canvas for his own signature musical language, beautiful embellishments which we referred to as “Cassan-isms.” In addition to his profound impact on the local music scene and on his many students, Roberto collaborated and recorded with prominent, international artists such as Mexican folk singer Lila Downs, Spanish composer Alfonso Vilallonga, singer songwriter Martin Sexton, composer John Harbison, Berklee producer Alain Mallet, guitarist Claudio Ragazzi, classical oboist Peggy Pearson, Mike Rivard of Boston's Club D’Elf, Italian saxophonist Marco Pignataro, Annie Royer & Les Garçons Musette, Austrian soprano Ute Gfrerer, Klezperanto, performance artist Jessica Lurie, singer songwriter Jonathan Coulton, guitarist Marc Ribot, harpist Maeve Gilchrist, the Anna Myer dance company, and Spanish actor and singer Bruno Oro, amongst others. Roberto was not only an extraordinary performer, but also a sensitive composer and arranger. His music was featured on public radio, television, in movie scores and theatre. He recorded a soundtrack for the PBS/TV series Letters from Buster, for the episode ‘The Accordion Festival of San Antonio’ (Claudio Ragazzi), Three Tangos for the TV Series Love Boat, Three Waltzes for Accordion for the pilot TV Series, American Plumber, and he composed and performed The Whispering Wind for the movie Profit Motive and the Whispering Wind, by independent film maker John Gianvito. In 2011, he performed in The American Repertory Theater's pre-Broadway production of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, directed by Diane Paulus. During his last trip to Italy, Roberto was writing and crafting new work—a music that came straight from his heart and the enduring love he had for the people and color of his native land, always a source of inspiration for him. Original timeless compositions, such as “Domenie” (“Sunday” in his native dialect), “Corrente,” and “Milonga para Lucia” all provide a window into Roberto's profound connection to his roots. Over the last twenty years, Roberto and his wife Trisha Zembruski co-produced over 75 children's theatre projects in Boston's public and private schools—a true partnership of love, music, art, improvisation and theatre. Their eighteen year old daughter, Lucia, who grew up surrounded by her parents' international music, theater and artistic endeavors is a skilled aerialist and dancer. The indelible legacy of Roberto Cassan began to reveal itself more fully as the tragic news of his passing spread across social media. A virtual outpouring of love by grieving family, friends, colleagues, students, and fans all over the world prompted the creation of a Facebook tribute page called Celebrating and remembering Roberto Cassan. The site is filled with poignant stories, photos and videos depicting his virtuosity, kindness, humility, humor, infectious smile and laughter, and expressions of gratitude for his teaching and friendship. In addition to countless musicians, friends, and appreciators of his heartbreakingly beautiful work, Cassan is survived by his wife, Trisha Zembruski, daughter Lucia Cassan, his mother, Luciana Nevodini, dear brother Christian Cassan and sisters Letizia and Franca Cassan; brothers-in-law Pietro Marmai, Richard Zembruski, Alessandro Gallo, and Paul Forcier; sisters-in-law Jasmine Francescon, Kathy Zembruski-Smith, Janice Gallo, and Marcia Forcier. He is also survived by 12 beloved nieces and nephews, and his cairn terrier, Rufus. On August 27, a funeral was held in Fanna, Italy where Roberto was born and raised. A special memorial in Boston will be planned and announced in the coming months. The Roberto Cassan Memorial Campaign has been launched on Generosity.com, with 100% of the proceeds directly supporting Roberto’s wife and daughter. https://www.generosity.com/memorial-fundraising/phase-ii-lasting-impact-roberto-cassan-memorial--2 |
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Nathan Chapeton Represents USA at 2016 Coupe Mondialeby Rita Barnea |
 Video: Nathan Chapeton representing the USA as a competitor in the 2016 Coupe Mondiale Junior International Competition for Virtuoso Entertainment Music on 14 September 2016 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. Picture left.Program: V. Mollov Waltz K. Fremar Sapphire F. Marocco Take Ten A. Astier Divertimento You can view videos of all the competitors in this category at: http://www.coupemondiale.org/2016/video14jnv.htm A student of Mary Tokarski for seven years, Nathan Chapeton is a young accordionist that performs and competes locally. He was chosen to represent the United States{AAA} this September 2016 in Rostov-Don, Russia, competing with the best players around the world in the Coupe Mondiale. Nathan has won the Virtuoso Championship at the Mid-Atlantic Music Teachers Guild for the third time. Nathan Chapeton was inspired to play music at the age of eight after hearing his teacher, AAA President Mary Tokarski, play the accordion. Currently he performs with the jazz ensemble at Middleown High School in Conncecticut. In addition to the accordion he plays the electric bass, piano, and now is studying the upright bass. He has attended many music festivals such as MAMTG where he won first place in the virtuoso solo division. Not only does he perform as a soloist but he also collaborates with other young musicians and plays contemporary music, tangos and concert compositions. Recently, Nathan performed for the show "Around the World" with his longtime duet partner, Tor Stumo. He has performed at the AAA with other accordionists and musicians during which his interest in jazz was sparked. Along with his teacher, Mary Tokarski, Nathan has been a guest performer at many concerts including performances in Long Island, New York, and Connecticut. He has represented the USA in the Coupe Mondialein Salzburg Austria and regularly competes. Nathan plans to major in music in college. His plans for the future include introducing the accordion to young people around the United States through performances and workshops on the qualities of the accordion and its music. Nathan shares his thoughts: "The 69th Coupe Mondiale was a great experience for me. I got to meet amazing musicians around the world, hear them play, and had a wonderful time getting to know a different culture. The Russian committee organized this event very well and was almost flawless. The concerts that took place every night were absolutely wonderful, with different kinds of music and other weird stuff ... even metal bending. One of the perks of the trip was the food, especially the local restaurants. In one of them, they served pizza and sushi at the same time! I've never been to a place that does that. Every day, I would go to the Youth Theatre and listen to other contestants. Hearing other styles of music and different techniques of playing was amazingly educational. However, by far the best part of the trip were the local volunteers. They helped us with translating and organizing the delegates and jury to where they needed to be. This was the first time the Coupe had volunteers to help out. Whoever that came up with that idea is the best and I give them my thanks. The only way this trip could have been any better is if it was free. I hope to return to the Coupe Mondiale next year in Italy and see more of our fellow AAA members! If you've never been to the Coupe, please do yourself a favor and go. No questions asked, just do it! " Sincerely, Nathan A. Chapeton Mary Tokarski, Nathan' s teacher said, "Nathan is a pleasure to work with. A truly gifted young man who is totally consumed in everything musical. His abilities are quite "special", and his goal in life is to bring the accordion to young people, and become a driving force behind the accordion movement in the United States." AWW extends our sincerest congratulations to Nathan on his excellent performance, representing not only the USA with pride, but also serving as a wonderful ambassador for young accordionists from around the world. We hope that this will be the beginning of a long and illustrious career both in music and with the accordion, and that he is able to continue his competition work on an international level. 2016 Coupe Mondiale Daily Reports (pictures and information) and a Video Center with videos of all the Coupe Mondiale competitors is online at: http://www.coupemondiale.org/2016/ru_coupemain.htm |
Video: Emmanuel Gasser Performance at 2016 PIF Castelfidardo - Italyby Rita Barnea |
 Video: Emmanuel Gasser of Canada was competing in the 2016 PIF Castelfidardo Category I Variety Soloists - no age limit. This was an extremely competitive class with many international competition winners competing. There was less than 1 mark between 4th and 11th place to give you some idea of just how competitive this category was. You can read the full report of this category including videos of many of the competitors at: http://www.accordions.com/concorso/2016/23.htm Emmanuel's performance include the following selections: Dassoutie/Noel/Castel: "Medley de Valses" A. Piazzolla: "El Penultimo" Astier/Rossi: "Accordeon Rag" F. Marocco: "Ballad for Anne" Nouvelle/Larcange: "Monsieur Fererro" C.Thomain: "Notes Vagabondes" Nineteen year old award winning accordionist Emmanuel Gasser lives on a beautiful dairy farm in St. Charles, Ontario, Canada. He is recognized as an excellent young accordionist in North America winning numerous trophies and awards in many North American and International competitions, as well as representing Canada at the Coupe Mondiale, Klingenthal Germany, IAC Reinach Switzerland and FIF Castelfidardo. Emmanuel has been playing accordion with great enthusiasm since the age of ten and practices 3 to 8 hours a day. His musical talents have been nourished and developed by the assistance of several world renowned accordionists. He is currently studying privately with accordion virtuoso Alexander Sevastian (past Coupe Mondiale winner) based in Toronto, Canada. Emmanuel has also completed various internet and survey courses on Classical Music and Music History with Prof. Robert Greenberg (San Francisco Consevervatory of Music) and on Classical Composition with Prof. Peter Edwards (University of Singapore. Despite being young in years, Emmanuel has exceptional musical maturity, having recorded 3 CD's and composed over 40 original pieces. In the future he hopes to develop a career as composer and performer; performing solo, with bands, ensembles and orchestras. For further information: emmanuel_gasser@yahoo.com |
Mike's Place - A New Dimension in Accordion Educationby William Schimmel |
 Michael Schimmel is an accomplished painter, an artist who has had two major shows and is published in a compendium of Artists - published by Woodbine house - who have disabilities.Michael just turned 36 and has Down Syndrome. He lives with his parents, Dr. William Schimmel and Micki Goodman-Schimmel. Every Monday, their home becomes MIKE’S PLACE - a virtual club for musicians who have disabilites. Their first rule of thumb: TAKE THE DIS OUT OF ABILITY. A band was formed - and it is called MIKE’S PLACE - with Michael on drums, his buddy Keith on Bass (Keith is Autistic) Tony on Harmonica (Tony works with Keith) Naaya makes the videos (Naaya works with Michael) and Dr. Schimmel plays the Accordion and other electronic instruments. His mom Micki Goodman Schimmel joins in on various hand percussion instruments. Micki facilitated MIKE’S PLACE - organizing members of JOB PATH to join in. Each week the group focuses in on a particular type of music - which include discussions on style, repertoire, mood, vibe, and other performance factors. One week was a Blues session, another an Italian cinema session, another an American roots session, another a Duke Ellington session, another Cajun, another Free Jazz (Albert Ayler), another Electronica, another Reggae, another Broadway - and sure enough, Classical - and of course mixes of all the above. Guests join them for jam sessions - Performance Artist Brian Dewan joined them recently. Brian is an accordionist and also is an inventor, He and his cousin Leon invented the Dewanathon, an electronic 8 note instrument that was used in the recent film, The Social Network. Brian played Accordion on one of the sessions and brought his Dewanathon - played it and taught us how to play it. We had a wonderful time doing a kind to Free form session. MIKE’S PLACE has become a weekly session that has been in progress since last February. So far they have worked on hundreds of songs and compositions - the Accordion being a major part of every one of them. MIKE’S PLACE sets a precedent of how the Accordion works in group situations in any style, genre or mix of all the above. It also sets a precedent of how the accordion can be the ultimate cataylist for the education of Special People with Special Needs. |
Accordion Pops Orchestra Concert on October 23 in New Jerseyby Rita Barnea |
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| The Accordion Pops Orchestra presents "An Afternoon of Music" on October 23, 2016 at 2:PM at the Veterans Hospital, 151 Knollcroft Road, Lyons, NJ. APO conductor, Al Terzo is a teacher, arranger, and conductor who has been with the orchestra since its inception in 1970. He is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, New Jersey Music Teachers Association, and National Association of Music Educators. Mr.Terzo serves on the governing board of the American Accordionists Association and is a founding member of the Mid Atlantic Music Teachers Guild. He his an accomplished accordionist who has performed at the Garden State Arts Center and Newark's Symphony Hall. Currently Mr. Terzo teaches accordion and piano in New Jersey. For further information: webmaster@accordionpops.com |
Video: Gail Campanella Concert – Virginia, USAby Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
| The first video features a Stas Venglevski composition for accordion titled Octobler Rondo. Video supplied by Dan Grauman. Gail Campanella flew cross-country from California to be the Guest Artist at the September meeting of the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) in Falls Church, Virginia. Not only does Gail possess excellent musical skills, her love of the accordion, her musical selections and her dazzling smile made the concert truly delightful from start to finish. Gail performed compositions by Gart, Mancini, Piazzolla, Venglevski, Alongi, DiPippo and others. |
Emilio Magnotta Performed for LIAA in Septemberby Dominic Karcic |
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| Accordionist Emilio Magnotta was the featured guest artist for the September 7th meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) at La VIllini Restaurant (631 261 6344) in East Northport, NY. This was Emilio's sixth visit to LIAA as a featured guest artist and once again his performance was outstanding. So far this year every Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) event has been sold out prior to the event. The Alliance is so proud that it is responsible for the renaissance of interest in the accordion and accordion music on Long Island. Next month's October 5th event will feature Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) own "Papa" Joe DeClemente as featured guest artist. For further information: dkarcic10@verizon.net Top photo: (front row - left to right) Santo Endrizzi and Joe Campo (second row - left to right) Emilio Magnotta, Phil Prete and "Papa" Joe DeClemente (back row - left to right) Ray Oreggia, Dominic Karcic, Greg Zukoff and Frank Scardino |
NH Accordion Association, ACCORDIONS NOW!, Re-organization Meetingby Donna Regis |
 The New Hampshire Accordion Association [NHAA] and ACCORDIONS NOW! Music Festival [ANMF] will hold an important re-organizational meeting on Saturday, October 15, 2016 from 12:30 to 4:00 PM in Classroom 8/9 at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 274 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH 03301. Everyone is invited to attend. With the retirement of Arthur and Sue Welch and their closing of Accordion Connection LLC, NHAA is currently “homeless” and exploring its future and that of the ACCORDIONS NOW! Music Festival, previously co-sponsored by NHAA and Accordion Connection. The future of NHAA and ANMF, including the topic of potential meeting spaces, will be discussed in the business portion of the meeting. Please bring your best ideas. Saturday, October 15, 2016 NHAA Meeting Agenda: 12:30 – 1:00 PM Pre-meeting Jam Session 1:00 – 1:30 PM Greetings, Open Mic 1:30 – 2:00 PM Business Meeting – Discussion of NHAA and ANMF’s Future 2:00 – 2:30 PM Social Time/Refreshments 2:30 – 3:45 PM Group Play-along 3:45 – 4:00 PM Cleanup More information: AccordionsNow@yahoo.com |
Philip Franzese, Febuary 14, 1930 – August 26, 2016by Tina Franzese |
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 Picture above: (left to right) Santo Endrizzi, Mary Tokarski president of the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) and Phil Franzese – June 5, 2013Picture left: Phil Franzese at La Campagnola Restaurant Commack, NY in 2010. Philip Franzese passed away Friday, August 26, 2016 at the age of 86. He was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and was a long time resident of Garden City, NY where he built the house that he and his wife Annette raised their four children. He was a successful construction contractor and real estate operator for sixty years. He is predeceased by his wife Annette, his parents Frank and Fannie, and his siblings Mary and Nicholas. He is survived by his sister Josephine, his children Denise, Frank, Tina and Philip as well as his six grandchildren. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. Phil had many passions in life, but his oldest passion was the accordion, which he loved and played for over seventy years. He began studying the accordion as a young boy in the early 1940’s at the State School of Music (1397 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY) where instructions were given for twenty-five cents ($.25) a lesson. He performed with his music school at Carnegie Hall and also the Brooklyn Academy of Music. He fell in love with the instrument and was eventually, in his adult years, a member of the Accordion Pops Orchestra, which at that time was conducted by noted accordionist Danny Desiderio, appeared in an off Broadway musical the "White Widow" in 2007 and in August of 2010 he became one of the original members of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) which first met in Commack, NY and had been an active member ever since. Phil’s passion for music, gardening and people, intersected every summer when he would host his “Annual Garden Party” where he enjoyed sharing his gift of music and flowers with his family, friends and business associates. If you had the pleasure of knowing Phil, you were captivated by his love for life. He truly touched the hearts of all who knew him. He was a very special person. Picture below: (back left to right) Bob LaBua, Dominic Karcic, Greg Zukoff, Joe Campo (front left to right) Santo Endrizzi, Phil Prete, Phil Franzese – June 5, 2013 |
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Dominic Karcic to Perform for LIAAby Rita Barnea |
 “From Broadway to the Met …. plus” featuring vocalist Cheryl Spielman and accordionist Dominic Karcic takes place on Wednesday, October 19, 2016 at 6:PM at the LIAA (Long Island Accordion Alliance) meeting.Come hear the music from the American Song Book, Broadway, Tin Pan Alley, Opera, Operetta plus much more with vocalist Cheryl Spielman accompanied by accordionist Dominic Karcic. Originally from Astoria, NY Dominic attended St. Francis of Assisi grammar school, William Cullen Bryant high school, New York College of Music where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree and continued his education at the City University of New York (CCNY) where he received his Masters Degree in Music. He was one of the founders and first president of the Adriatic Islands Charity Committee and served as its president for thirteen years during his tenure the committee raising thousands of dollars for senior citizen homes, hospitals and churches in the Mali Losinj (Lussin Piccolo) area of Croatia. The organizations first fund raiser at the Oyster Bay caterering house in Astoria, NY attracted nine-hundred and fifty people and Dominic and his orchestra supplied the music for the monumental event. Dominic has always played professionally (accordion and piano) in the New York metropolitan area and continues to do so today. He and his musicians “The Continental Sound” have been house musicians at the Columbus Citizens Foundation (NYC) for over twenty-five years and he has played for organizations like the Valtarese Foundation (Parma, Italy), Fubinese Society (Piemonte, Italy), Italian Charities of Queens, NY, Italian Heritage Association of Long Island, La Pace Restaurant (Glen Cove, NY) and also at Magnanini Winery in Wallkill, NY. His love for the Valtaro Musette music was instilled in him through his years of study with noted accordionist Peter Spagnoli. In recent years he has been involved in the preservation and documentation of this musical style. He collaborated in writing a biographical article on the life and career of accordionist John “Scudlein” Brugnoli (founder of the Valtaro Musette Orchestra) which was published in the Gazzetta di Parma (Parma, Italy) on September 10, 2002 and also was later published with a series of other articles on the Borgo Val di Taro website. His original article and research was the basis for the extensive November 3, 2008 ER Magazine (Bologna, Italy) article by Claudio Bacilieri titled “Tutti Mi Chiamano Bionda.” Dominic is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA). He and fellow accordionist Ray Oreggia have given workshop presentations on the Valtaro Musette style for the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA), Connecticut Accordion Association (CAA), Maryland Accordion Club and the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS). His first CD titled “Let’s Dance.” The CD features musette music – tangos, waltzes, mazurkas and merengues. The CD has been featured on the Joe Farda’s radio show (93.5 FM), Floyd Vivino’s radio show (93.5 FM) and Louise Potenza’s Ciao Italy radio show (WALK 1370 AM). Make your reservation at La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731. Phone: 631-261-6344 Reservations are recommended. |
Lou Jacklich 88th Birthday, Students Celebrate Accordionlyby Pamela Tom |
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| Students of Lou Jacklich, veteran performer, teacher, music arranger, band director, and electronic accordion pioneer artist of San Lorenzo, California (4th from the left in the photo) celebrated his 88th birthday a few days ago with an accordion birthday potluck party. Lou Jacklich’s career has been dedicated to the profession of the accordion and teaching over 1,000 students. He has toured the US and Mexico and was honored with the Art Van Damme Education Award at the 2016 Las Vegas Int’l Accordion Convention. In addition to food, wine and beer, students provided the accordion entertainment: as background music, strolling during the meal, performing solos, duets, and playing during the cake presentation. There was also a jam session with occasional singing. Some students brought music to share while others learnt to improvise when as the chords were announced - It turned out that ¼ jar of nuts makes a great makeshift rumba shaker! This was an afternoon filled with music, fun, friendship, laughter and love of our instructor. eTracks (mp3) album availble online at: Lou Jacklich |
The NorthEast Squeeze-In September 2016by Rita Barnea |
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| The NorthEast Squeeze-In (NESI), the Squeeze-In Festival of accordions, concertinas and free-reed music. was held from September 23-25, 2016 in Becket, MA. at Camp Chimney Corners, a well appointed year round camp and conference center in the Berkshire Hills of western Massachusetts, 30 minutes from the Lee exit off the Mass Pike and close to Tanglewood, the summer home of the BSO. The event was a wonderful free-reed getaway in the Berkshires. Every year the event consists of playing music with friends, old and new in a beautiful rustic setting.Camping, cabins, lodge rooms, good food, BYOB. It is a weekend of wonderful workshops, tune swaps, spontaneous sessions and jams, songs, dance and camaraderie. Instruments paraphernalia and recordings for sale, swap and hagglement. There is always a concert and contra dance. It is always a warm and friendly environment for musicians of all levels. NESI-2017 will be will be 9/22-24/2017. To help you plan long term, the tentative future NESI dates are 9/22-24/2017 and 9/21-23/2018 For further information: Registration & Attendance : register@squeeze-in.org General Information: contact@squeeze-in.org Photo by Stewart Dean |
Vitor Conclaves Presented Brazilian Samba/Choro workshop for Brooklyn Accordion Clubby Rita Barnea |
 On Sunday September 25, 2016, the Brooklyn Accordion Club presented a Brazillian Samba + Choro workshop by Vitor Goncalves.The afternoon included a photo shoot, club meeting, open mic, and a participatory accordion workshop for all levels. Vitor Gonçalves is a pianist, accordionist, composer and arranger from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. After an illustrious career as an in demand musician in Brazil, playing with such icons as Hermeto Pascoal, Maria Bethânia, Itiberê Zwarg, and many others. He currently lives in New York City. Upcoming Brooklyn Accordion Club meetings in 2016: Sunday, October 16th, 3-5:PM at 61 Local Sunday, November 13th, 3-5:PM at 61 Local, 61 Bergen St, Brooklyn, New York. For further information email: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com |
Future events |
A Valtaro Celebration on November 26 in New Yorkby Rita Barnea |
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| The American Accordionists' Association presents "A Valtaro Celebration" on Saturday, November 26, 2016 from 12 Noon until 5:PM at the Magnanini Farm Winery, 172 Strawridge Road, Wallkill, New York. The event will feature non-stop traditional Valtaro and French Musette Music for your listening and dancing pleasure. Performers include: Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini, Giangiacomo Bucella, the Ciccone's (Joe, Gia and Reagan), Mary Tokarski, Ray Oreggia and Dominic Karcic, Frank Toscano, Bruce Nielsen, Beverly Roberts Curnow, Fred Schwinger, and Emilio Magnotta. Reserve now. For a donation of $73/person, you will recieve a prime rib and chicken dinner and entertainment. Please respond on or before November 1, 2016. For information: ameraccord1938@gmail.com Phone: 203-691-8808 |
Updated Site: Milwaukee Accordion Club Future Dates - USAby Sherry Huiras, Milwaukee Accordion Club |
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| Milwaukee Accordion Club (MAC) Future Events Dates: October 24, 2016 - Featured Program: ‘ALPINE BLAST’ November 28, 2016 - Featured Program: ‘THE TOM BRUSKY BAND’ Monday - December 11, 2016 - Mac Annual Christmas Party For further information, visit the website: Milwaukee Accordion Club |