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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Breaking News — The 2022 AAA Festival has been postponed until 2023
The American Accordionists’ Association Commissioned Works Project Moving Along Well in Its Third Month
Stas Venglevski Conducts Houston Accordion Retreat January 13-16, 2022
TV Documentary: Metsamerica - A World of Accordions Museum
NAA Convention 2022: "We Are Back and Revitalizing the Convention!"
Eddie Monteiro and Warren Vache Perform at Shanghai Jazz in Madison, NJ on January 19
The Accordion Global Association 2022
Ksenija Sidorova Performs Piazzolla with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO)
Drop Your Shoulders and Breathe!
New Music Video Released by Father/Son Collaborators Jacques and Lucas Pellarin
Frank Toscano Performs for LIAA on January 5
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
The Accordion in the Media Spanning the Decades Part 2: 1960 to 2021
Alicia Joe Straka Performs “It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year - I'M ANIMATED!”
A World of Accordions: Concert with Stas Venglevski on January 23
Dr. William Schimmel Performs with The Boston Symphony Orchestra
“Tick Tock Polka” - Alex Meixner on Piano Accordion
41st Tejano Music Awards Announce Winners During December Virtual Event
80th Anniversary ATG: July 20-24 in the Chicago Area
“Let There Be Peace on Earth” by Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini
Kick off 2022 with Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestra
Children's Corner |
Future events |
2022 Seattle Accordion Social
ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition April 8 - 10
Powell River’s First Annual Accordion Fest May 6-7, 2022
The 2022 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, Curator
Highlights |
Happy New Year to Everyone!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Accordions Worldwide (AWW) would like to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We hope you have enjoyed the news over the last year, and AWW will continue to keep you informed about accordion events wherever they are happening. Even with the pandemic, we have plenty of wonderful positive news and events taking place in the accordion world. We are all wishing that 2022 will be a much better year for all of us.I like to begin each new year reminding us all that playing music at any level is a unique and special gift which we all possess. It is never too late to begin learning the accordion (or any instrument) and the joys, which include meeting new friends, are priceless. Think of all the wonderful people that you have met this past year because of the accordion. (Even if you met them virtually online, one day you will actually meet them!) Here are your 2022 New Year's Resolutions! Have some suggestions? Please send them along with your ideas/comments to me at Ritabelll@aol.com 1. I promise to practice my accordion every day. You can find at least 20 to 30 minutes a day to practice your accordion if you really want to. Now that many of us continue to be home because of Covid 19, we have extra time for learning. If you find time for watching the news on TV, or talking on your cell phone, enjoying your tablet, computer or just sitting on your couch, you can find the time to take your accordion out of its case! With a little effort, you will be pleasantly surprised with the results. Practicing your accordion is relaxing, a stress reliever and also good exercise! And you don't need a doctor's appointment or a prescription! 2. I promise to play my accordion for friends and family at least once a month even if online (more often would be even better)! Everyone who has ever seen me perform has always commented on the beauty and complexity of the instrument{ as if there were something very magical about playing the accordion. But it is magical, isn't it?) Going to a family dinner or having the family and friends over?....... take out your accordion and play for them. No matter what your level of proficiency is..........people will be amazed by your playing and admire your commitment to learning the accordion. Share your music. Maybe we cannot actually physically visit people and places to perform but we can still schedule virtual concerts on Skype, FaceTime, Facebook, etc. Try contacting friends via technology and play for them! 3. I promise to learn at least one new song every month. Expand your repertoire. It doesn't have to be a concerto! What about a new popular song or one from the past that you always wanted to learn. Don't have the music? Look it up on the Internet or e-mail your accordion friends. If you want the song........ it is out there on the internet: however, if you really cannot find it, try to play it by ear, sound it out, write out the notes. It may take time, but it is a good experience to learn it on your own. It is possible, don't be afraid to try it. 4. I promise to attend at least two or more accordion events in 2021 via technology or in person. There are many accordion festivals, concerts, accordion clubs etc. around the country. The majority of them are online at this time. It is so easy to register, attend, or participate from the comfort of your own home! Consider making an online donation to help support musicians whose livelihood has been greatly reduced due to the cancellation of so many live events. Search the USA News www.accordionusa.com each month for online events. Not only will you have a wonderful time listening to great accordionists, but you will be able to participate on any level from beginner to advanced. 5. I will purchase at least two accordion CD’s, iTunes, books, sheet music, mp3’s etc. and various online platforms. There is so many wonderful accordion music to purchase. Search the Internet and you will find lists of accordion artists. It is important to show our support for these outstanding musicians by buying their online offerings. Visit www.MusicForAccordion.com to find your favorite accordion items! 6. I promise to introduce the accordion to people who have never heard one before. This is a special opportunity for you to expand the musical horizons of someone. The accordion is so versatile, found in cultures all over the world and running the gamut from folk to classical and everything in between! There is a visual fascination with the accordion that no other instrument can claim. How do we do it? Keys, buttons, bellows, It is a coordination of fine motor skills that places an accordionist at the top of the list of the Best Multitaskers in the World! You can even play your accordion outside. ( I am sure you knew that already!) 7. I promise to send news about my accordion club, association, concert, event to Ritabelll@aol.com for an article in the USA News. We can also include photos and videos. We want to know all about your accordion activities. Please let me know far in advance, if possible, so that readers can plan their schedules accordionly (Could not resist that one!!). 8. I will think about treating myself to a new accordion! Why not? When you have a new instrument, you sound better!! Well....some old fashioned practice would also help. 9. I promise to read the USA News www.accordionusa.com every month and the Weekly News www.accordions.com regularly. All past publications are available in archives. Just click on "Past News Index" at the top of the page. 10. I promise to get in shape this year! Being in good physical health leads to a better mental and spiritual outlook on life. Watching your diet, losing weight, exercising are all positive and beneficial activities. Not only does it benefit your daily life, but also your musical abilities. Why is this true? As you may already know, playing the accordion requires upper body strength to lift the instrument to play and perhaps to stroll with. Using the bellows requires arm muscle movement, etc. You will feel better, look better, and play better! My suggestion: Take a photo of yourself/video of your playing the accordion. Get on a regular exercise program as well as a regular practice schedule. Take a photo/video of yourself three months later. You will notice a great improvement in your physical appearance and your musical performance. Let me know how it works for you. 11. I will reread Resolutions 1-10 again and again! Let’s bring more kindness and good feelings to our world in 2021. A caring word and your accordion playing will go very far to make someone enjoy the day and feel better. Playing a song on your accordion for someone brings positivity and enjoyment. Don’t be shy. You do not have to be a virtuoso. Put you and your accordion on the many online platforms and you can easily send your musical message of peace and happiness all over the world! Happy New Year to All! Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2022 from the team at Accordions Worldwide! |
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Breaking News — The 2022 AAA Festival has been postponed until 2023by Joan Grauman, AAA Historian |
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| Due to the AAA’s commitment to the health and safety of our many loyal attendees and guest artists, and to help support our nation’s efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19, our Governing Board had to make a difficult decision. The 2022 AAA Festival has been postponed and will be rescheduled, along with the AAA Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner in honor of Frank Busso, Sr., for the summer of 2023. More information will follow shortly. Please visit our website: www.ameraccord.com often for updates and to view new articles and information that gets posted regularly. Stay tuned for information on upcoming virtual workshops, on the 2022 Virtual Competitions, the Elsie Bennett Composition Competition and the Carrozza Competition. Thank you for your understanding and continued support of the AAA! Stay safe and keep practicing! |
The American Accordionists’ Association Commissioned Works Project Moving Along Well in Its Third Monthby Dr. Robert Young McMahan Chair, AAA Composers Commissioning Committee; Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey, Music Department |
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 Dr. Robert Young McMahan, Chair, AAA Composers Commissioning Committee; Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey, Music Department reports:Progress has continued at a healthy rate since last month’s report. The first of the AAA Festival Journal articles (1997) is still in the process of expansion with the plan to do the same with at least one of the nineteen remaining articles (though not necessarily in chronological order) by this time next month. Several videos or sound tracks have been added to the composition list since the last report, bringing the number of video/mp3 works to 31 of the present total of 62, and thus to the halfway point. Additional recorded performances of at least another five compositions are presently being processed, which will shortly bring the total recorded representations to 36 at: http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions.php A large and growing international list of prominent accordionists represented thus far in this list consists of Rita Barnea, Joricio Cagel, Carmen Carrozza, Nathan Chapeton, Beverly Roberts Curnow, Joanna Darrow, Ion Dorin, Leonard Feldman, Will Holshouser, Guy Klusevsek, Robert McMahan, Mario Muccitto, Joseph Natoli, Matti Pulkki, William Schimmel, Paul Shigrove, Joan Sommers, and Mary Tokarski. http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions.php Please let me know at mcmahan@tcnj.edu if you have recordings of any of the remaining unmarked compositions that you would like for us to consider for inclusion. In addition to these recordings, 1. a video will soon appear of a discussion panel at the City University of New York (CUNY) featuring prominent American composer Samuel Adler discussing his AAA commission Canto XVIII with Beverly Curnow and panel moderator Robert McMahan (who both premiered the solo work respectively in its stradella and free bass formats). 2. Already added at the top of the list is a momentous and historic radio interview from 1961 with Carmen Carrozza (“Live radio broadcast interview with Carmen Carrozza”) regarding his all-important recitals in Chicago and New York in the early 1960s in which he premiered many of the early CCC commissioned works. An absolute “must-hear.” Finally, PDFs of articles listed in section 2 of the CCC Articles listing (at http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions2.php) have also been added since the last report. As always, we welcome your input on this project at mcmahan@tcnj.edu. |
Stas Venglevski Conducts Houston Accordion Retreat January 13-16, 2022by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 The Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat 2022 takes place from January 13-16, 2022. The January 15th Orchestra Concert will be live-streaming. Thirty five musicians from all over the USA including seven youth Ensemble members will perform. The concert begins at 6:30 PM CST at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Rd., Houston, TX. The concert will feature the music of Russia, France, Moldova, Finland, Azerbaijan, and the World Premiere of a new orchestra overture by Stas Venglevski. The orchestra will also perform “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Freddie Mercury performed by the orchestra. Youth Scholarship Awarded Artists include: Ashley Frye, Charlotte Peck, Ellina Musatov, Gabrielle Peck, Lorelei Peck, and Sonora Sherman. Stas shares, “This will be my 4th year as a music director and conductor for the Houston Accordion Retreat in Houston, TX. It’s always good to see wonderful accordionists from across the USA and to conduct the orchestra. This time the featured artists will include Ali Haghshenas, (Azerbaijan), accordion; Gail Campanella, (USA), accordion; Shirley Johnson, (USA), vocals. It’s rewarding to have scholarship students joining the orchestra and performing as a youth ensemble music by W.Mozart and A.Piazzolla! January 15th, “A Spectacular Collage of European Music” performed by Houston Accordion Retreat Orchestra. (Livestream). January 16th will be my solo performance. Stop to see me/us if you are in the Houston area!" Concert tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. For further information contact Organizer Meg Hada: meghada33@gmail.com |
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TV Documentary: Metsamerica - A World of Accordions Museumby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Video: A World of Accordions MuseumA Metsamerica 2021 program directed and produced by Andy Watson. All rights reserved. 58 min HD. WOA contact info included in the film. Gear provided by PACT-TV Duluth. Here is an opportunity to learn about A World of Accordions Museum. See the above video which teaches us all the importance and significance of the accordion. The largest and best Accordion Museum in the world can be found right in Superior, WI! Dr. Helmi Harrington, with the help of Tracey Gibbons, keeps the tunes flowing with more than 1400 Accordions on display and all of the delicious tidbits of history that go along with them. Paul Metsa conducted this conversation in a gorgeous church lovingly converted and preserved as "A World of Accordions". Dr. Helmi Harrington shares, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to A World of Accordions Museum. Located in magnificent upper midwest of the USA, you will find the Museum nestled in the beautiful location of Superior, WI, just minutes away from Duluth, MN. Whether you are in the nearby Minneapolis area, maybe enjoying a shopping expedition at the Mall of America, or heading north of Minneapolis towards the great vistas of upper Minnesota and Wisconsin or neighboring Canada, be sure to include a visit to the Museum as a side trip or a stopover as part of your journey. You wont be disappointed! A World of Accordions Museum is nationally and internationally recognized as holding the world's finest and most comprehensive collection of accordion-family instruments shown in 130 plus displays organized to show chronological evolution, countries of origin, specific usage and quality classifications. As a result of intense studies, I have pursued original research in various technological, acoustic, musicological, taxonomic, biographical, and social studies. Of the 1,300 displayed instruments, about 60 instruments are identified for the AWAM Traveling Museum that offers demonstration workshops at national conventions and festivals. Decorative art and artifacts shown throughout the building emphasize the pervasive presence of the instruments' image in society. Related cultural and historic documents, recordings and books are preserved in the Accordion Resource Center Libraries. Its two rooms include periodicals, music-studies texts, accordion patents, accordion histories, world history, manufacturing sources, general references, arts and technology texts. Published and manuscript music is estimated at a million pieces, teaching and method-book series, and composer's opuses. Also housed at the Museum is the Accordion-concertina Repair and Technicians’ School (ARTS) which trains new and experienced instrument repairers for occupational viability as certified professionals. With resources of the museum and over 400 instruments available for hands-on training, this is the only school of its type. It focuses on total proficiency in understanding manufacturing techniques, tuning, materials, estimating, appraising, restoration, and myriad specific technical skills. Reference books, articles, and repair procedures are compiled in ARCL files. Specialized tools are available in the Museum Gift Shop and online. Each year graduate technicians and specialists provide expert service for hundreds of customer instruments in our complete workshop facilities. The Hanni Strahl Concert Hall is acoustically ideal and seats 1,000 people on floor and balcony levels. Our Helen and Theodore Miller Concert Series has presented dozens of the world’s greatest accordion artists and has elevated cultural prestige of the Midwest region. Focal highlight of the stage is a unique and beautiful ten-foot, two-manual harpsichord encased in gold and vermillion with eleven pedals controlling six plectra. At the hall’s west side is The Duane Sellman Special Exhibits Area that features displays honoring individuals who have significantly influenced American performance art, and whose estates are contained in the museum. The hall also serves community special events and weddings. Harrington ARTS Center Publications include in-house printing of scholarly books and articles, repertory and method music books, newsletters for our membership, documents for the worldwide web, and publicity materials. The American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) Archival Collection, housed adjacent to the library, is the public face for one of America’s most prestigious and largest accordion associations. Here the organization’s impact on society is compiled, evaluated, and available for researchers. Accordion Concertina Music Studios provide instruction for students of any age in piano, button chromatic, and diatonic accordions, English, Anglo and Chemnitz concertinas, Chromatic and Diatonic Bandoneons. Recitals, band/ensemble and competitive events are offered. Entertainment by professional or student performers is available. Harrington ARTS Center continues to grow through memberships and contributions from public and private sources. Many of these are in the form of instruments and music. We look forward to completing displays for The Faithe and Ernest Deffner Legacy room to preserve their status as American manufacturers (Titano, Pancordion, Crucianelli, Video), publishers, and as worldwide spokespersons for the instrument. We sincerely hope you have the opportunity to visit us soon, and in the meantime, this website will give you an overview of our one of a kind collection of accordions, our diverse musical activities and our affiliated schools and associations that all work together to enable us to bring this remarkable exhibition together for the world to enjoy.” Helmi Strahl Harrington, Ph. D., Curator Plan to visit AWAM during May 6-8, 2022 when AWAM celebrates World Accordion Day, the annual Willard Palmer Festival, and a polka service. For further information: aworldofaccordions@gmail.com |
NAA Convention 2022: "We Are Back and Revitalizing the Convention!"by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  The NAA 2022 Convention includes 42 workshop sessions, 16 presenters, and 6 orchestra practices!"We are back!" we hope to see you again all in person. The focus for the 2022 National Accordion Convention will be on socializing activities, band practice, interactive sessions, the dance party, etc., as we have practiced social distancing for way too long! Everybody seems desperate to come back together. We are updating this homepage, Facebook, and e-mail as soon as there is news to share. See y'all in 2022! The NAA Board & Markus & Sabine Baggio Visit the National Accordion Association website for complete information. Planning for the 2022 National Accordion Convention is at full steam. We have already signed up a large list of presenters and performers, some of whom you may have seen in previous years, but some are also new to the convention. All are well seasoned accordionists and will conduct a large variety of interesting presentations and workshops. Save the dates: Wednesday March 16th to Saturday March 19th, 2022. Venue: Hilton Hotel, Richardson, Texas, USA (formerly a Hyatt facility) Bookings: Hotel registrations are now open at: http://www.accordions.com/naa/conv6Registration.html Convention registrations open in Mid December at: NAA There will be something for every accordion enthusiast: from playing in two orchestras, presentations, interactive sessions and play-along, accordion techniques, digital and acoustic accordions. Detailed workshop descriptions can be found here: http://accordions.com/naa/conv3Work.html Here is a glimpse of the evening activities: • Wednesday evening: Welcome reception. Meet and mingle with music. • Thursday evening: Music around the world. We will dedicate rooms to different cities like Paris, Rome, Munich, and others. Each will have a main presenter, but everybody is welcome to play for open mike! Stroll around with a beverage for an entertaining trip. • Friday evening: Dance Party - dance until your shoes fall off! We will have performers on stage entertaining you with Folk, Polka and Ballroom dance. • Saturday evening: Gala dinner with final concert. Covid-19 will most likely not be over, so we will follow all health guidelines of the State of Texas, the local authorities, and the Hotel to keep you safe. |
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Eddie Monteiro and Warren Vache Perform at Shanghai Jazz in Madison, NJ on January 19by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Accordionist Eddie Monteiro will perform with the Warren Vache Quartet on January 19, 2022 at 6:PM at Shanghai Restaurant and Jazz Club, 24 Main Street, Madison, NJ, 07940. They will be joined by joined by Earl Sauls on bass and Vinnie Corrao on guitar.About Warren Vache: ”In Vaché, jazz has found a creator whose prodigious, hard-earned skills enable him to craft swinging performances of beauty, emotion and surprise." Warren is a tremendous trumpet and cornet player and, with his acerbic wit between songs he keeps the entertainment rolling. * Eddie Monteiro is an internationally recognized musician and educator with 30 years of musical performance in classical, jazz, dance, theater, cabaret and choral ensembles. He is well known for his harmonic skills and talent. He won several accordion championships as a youth and was also the youngest honoree elected to the American Accordionist’s Hall of Fame. He was a member of Bobb Rosengarden, Skitch Henderson, Peter Duchin, Ray Bloch, Michael Lanin and Marty Ames orchestras. Eddie performs in the New York Metropolitan area and worldwide. Eddie performs in the New York Metropolitan area and worldwide. * Monteiro shares that the instrument itself has often been misrepresented. “The accordion has been maligned far too often in the numerous jokes and cartoons,” he said. “The Lawrence Welk image with Myron Floren showed the accordion but in a somewhat 'corny' musical idiom. In addition, I think there are many accordionists who have continued to play at less than professional level. Others are just so outlandish in their presentations that people take note and think they're great. The accordion, far too often, isn't played for the public in a very positive way.” Eddie Monteiro was a featured member of the pit orchestra on stage in Broadway revival performance of "Carnival" and "Evita" and recording of radio and television jingles for Sesame Street, General Foods, Colgate Palmolive, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Bennigan’s Restaurants, Pontiac and more. Lead artist of innumerable society bands performing throughout the world at social events, political gatherings and corporation conventions. Eddie recently retired as the Music Teacher, Choral Director, Vocal and Instrumental Music Director for the Ann Street Elementary School. Eddie Monteiro has performed at Jazz Festivals throughout the world. National performances include the JVC Jazz Festival and the Toyota Jazz Festival in New York City, Salishan Jazz Festival and the Centrum Jazz Festival both in Washington. Internationally Eddie was a guest at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland, the Jakarta Jazz Festival in Indonesia, Sea Jazz Festival in Helsinki, the Norwegian National Accordion Competition, Sweden's Annual Accordion Festival in Ransatter and in January of 2000 Eddie closed the Jazz In El Tambo Festival in Punta del Esta, Uruguay performing with Paquito D'Rivera, Leny Andrade, John Patitucci and Benny Golson. Eddie has conducted workshops and seminars at the Manhattan School of Music, Kansas City Jazz Workshop, Artists in Jazz at Pace University, Topeka Jazz Workshop and a Harmony & Improvisation Clinic in Norway. His numerous recordings include Double Standards, The Real Thing, A Perfect Match (with Nancy Marano featuring Gerry Mulligan, Roger Kellaway and Claudio Roditi), Under Paris Skies (with Karen Akers), A Walk on the Wilde Side (with Ronny Whyte), Jazz Influence and Arkadia Jazz All Stars: Thank You John! (a tribute to John Coltrane) and was featured on the album with the vocal group ‘String Of Pearls’. His work has also included numerous jingles for Colgate-Palmolive, Budweiser, General Motors, Folonari Wines, General Foods a soundtrack recording with Marvin Hamlisch and an appearance on film ‘Mortal Thoughts’ with Bruce Willis. A graduate of NYU with a B.S. in Music Education, Eddie studied accordion with Charles Nunzio, (one of the founding members of the American Accordionists’ Association), piano with Madame Olga Van Till and advanced harmony studies with Marty Holmes.Eddie is a member of the AAA Governing Board and is a Certified Teacher Member of AAA as well as a member of Music Educators' National Conference, National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Technology Institute for Music Educators, National Education Association, Jazz Educators Association the Sommelier Institute and is an Amateur Radio General Class Operator. A member of pit orchestras on stage in Broadway revival performances of both "Evita" and "Carnival". He has recorded radio and television jingles for Sesame Street, General Foods, Pontiac, Colgate, Palmolive, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Bennigan's Restaurants and more. Lead artist of innumerable society bands performing throughout the world at social events, political gatherings and corporation conventions, Eddie has done it all! Eddie Monteiro has performed at Jazz Festivals throughout the world. National performances include the JVC Jazz Festival and the Toyota Jazz Festival in New York City, Salishan Jazz Festival and the Centrum Jazz Festival both in Washington. Internationally Eddie was a guest at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland, the Jakarta Jazz Festival in Indonesia, Sea Jazz Festival in Helsinki, the Norwegian National Accordion Competition, Sweden's Annual Accordion Festival in Ransatter and in January of 2000 Eddie closed the Jazz In El Tambo Festival in Punta del Esta, Uruguay performing with Paquito D'Rivera, Leny Andrade, John Patitucci and Benny Golson. He has conducted workshops and seminars at the Manhattan School of Music, Kansas City Jazz Workshop, Artists in Jazz at Pace University, Topeka Jazz Workshop and a Harmony & Improvisation Clinic in Norway. His numerous recordings include Double Standards, The Real Thing, A Perfect Match (with Nancy Marano featuring Gerry Mulligan, Roger Kellaway and Claudio Roditi), Under Paris Skies (with Karen Akers), A Walk on the Wilde Side (with Ronny Whyte), Jazz Influence and Arkadia Jazz All Stars: Thank You John! (a tribute to John Coltrane) and was featured on the album with the vocal group ‘String Of Pearls’. The Shanghai Jazz is a jazz club/restaurant with an Oriental influence. The focus here is mainly on three things, namely, the food, music and lovely atmosphere. It serves excellent Asian varieties, the chefs also include seasonal menu with flavors and veggies as per the season; every dish is prepared with utmost care and served in huge portions. Shanghai Jazz also has a bar that features wines, beers and cool cocktails. As far as music is concerned, the restaurant hosts live music concerts sans any extra cover charge. You can also hire this establishment for private events and celebrations; off-site catering services are also offered. I have been there many times. The entertainment, food, and service is always consistently superior. No music charge, $25 food and drink minimum, performance begins at 6:PM. Reservations strongly recommended. For further information: Email: info@shanghaijazz.com Cell: 973.822.2899 For further information about Eddie Monteiro: chordean.changes@gmail.com |
The Accordion Global Association 2022by Dr. William Schimmel |
 New York is a Global Microcosm and the accordion is part of it, an integral part. It contributes to it in a profound way. Over the years, we at The Seminars have formed a community of artists dedicated to the exploration of every aspect of the accordion that can join forces with the rest of the music world on an equal basis. The Accordion Global Association is the ultimate step into that dimension. There are those who want to prove that the accordion is “another instrument” in the fold. And there are those who believe that it’s “a special instrument” making it stand out among all of the instruments. We believe in both. It stands out and it blends In. We have more shapes, sizes, colors and instruments that are accordions in the basic sense and other instruments that are offshoots of the accordion and other Instruments that are accordion like and instruments that call themselves accordions that use another name. It seems to mutate. It goes on and on and on. Yet it survives. It was composer, Luciano Berio, who stated that: “each accordion has its own genetic makeup” We explore everything and make ourselves ready for any professional situation. And we do it as “Art”. We understand the “Gigging Economy” of today and we prepare ourselves for it. We also continue what was known as “Performance Art”, now “Performance”, exploring wevery theatrical aspect of the Accordion. We work with Dance, Video, new stuff, old stuff, new takes on old stuff, installations and other aspects of the visual arts. The Seminars just might be for you, if you bring an open mind and an open heart. Of course, they’re open to anyone interested.You will leave with a year full of new information, angles, new takes on vintage information he “Historical Sense” and some Academic presentations. It’s not a World Music weekend (we love them, by all means go to them), it’s not a Talent Show or a Competition . Every one brings important work to it. We emphasize that. It’s not an intellectual weekend, but a “smart one”. You will understand everything we say. We will use no esoteric shop talk or “inside information” lingo. It’s an immersion of directions that are best taken in as a complete weekend experience. See you at The 2022 Seminars - AGA - Accordion Global Association Dr. William Schimmel - Founder and Curator For further information: Accordionbill@gmail.com |
Ksenija Sidorova Performs Piazzolla with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO)by Kevin Friedrich |
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| During the February 3rd to 5th, 2022 concert series, renowned European based accordionist Ksenija Sidorova will perform Piazzola’s Aconcagua at the Atlanta Symphony Hall in Atlanta, Georgia, USA with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra as part of the Delta Classical series. Praised as “revelatory” (New York Times) with “breathtaking virtuosity” (The Observer), Ksenija Sidorova is a leading ambassador for the concert accordion. Ksenija Sidorova is passionate about showcasing the vast capabilities of the accordion. Her repertoire spans from Bach to Piazzolla, from Efrem Podgaits and Václav Trojan, to Erkki-Sven Tüür and George Bizet, as well as new accordion concertos composed especially for her, plus a multitude of chamber projects. Tickets are available on the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra website. |
Drop Your Shoulders and Breathe!by Michael Bridge |
 Video: “Digital Stardust - J.S. Bach / Bridge&Wolak”Michael shares, “”Digital Stardust," as we like to call it, is a completely abstract take on Bach's famous Sicilienne that we created during the summer of the pandemic. Our arrangement portrays an emotional journey with all of the images vaguely representing various emotions that one could be going through during lockdown. The Sun (or the brightest star) is always there to represent hope as the lonely soul travels through the cosmos of feelings. We hope you'll enjoy the journey. Grab a drink and sit relaxed; let's take off.” Kornel Wolak - piano Michael Bridge - digital accordion All sounds played live. Playing the accordion is a very physical activity, and it is all-too-easy to develop habits which misuse the body. Tension and imbalances can cause pain and injuries—including in the back, neck, shoulder(s), and forearm(s). Actively pursuing good usage of the body is essential for long-term accordionists. A lot of steps can be taken to play with good posture, and with an economy of energy. Firstly, here are a few general reminders: * The accordion’s weight should be completely on your legs; the straps are only for balance. Sit tall, at the front of a hard and flat chair, where your thighs can be parallel to the floor. * Avoid lifting the shoulders to hold the accordion tightly to your body; this creates neck tension. Instead, experiment with any/all of the following: * Use a back-strap. * Tighten the shoulder straps. * Simply accept having a little distance between you and your accordion—it can be ok to have space between your chest and your instrument if it’s properly balanced on your legs. * Allow natural movement of the body and right arm; if you maintain one static, ‘forced’ hand/elbow position, that can cause tension. * Remember to BREATHE while playing. Think about dropping the shoulders with each exhalation; this releases tension throughout the body. Secondly, here are some more in-depth suggestions: * Cellists hold and move their cello primarily with their legs and chest—so that their arms are free to play. It should be the same on accordion. Our legs and chest should control the accordion’s position (not the arms, and not the shoulders). Sometimes, you can use your legs to rebalance your accordion (by lifting either heal). See if you can control its balance with your legs, so that you can move around it with your upper body. * Develop a slow warm-up routine, and remember to stretch your back, shoulders, neck, and arms when you are finished practicing. * Avoid leaning to the right to counterweight your expansion of the bellows. Instead, I highly recommend reading Claudio Jacomucci’s book, Mastering Accordion Technique, for an in-depth lesson (with drawings) on how to use rotation of the thorax and expansion of the left leg to move the bellows smoothly without causing tension. It is available online from Claudio Jacomucci. Playing without tension requires developing your ‘panoramic awareness’ to stay conscious of what you do at all times. Imagine observing yourself from the outside. Most of all, avoid practicing in a way that switches off the brain. When you notice yourself going on ‘auto-pilot,’ take a short break, drink some water, stretch, and come back to your practice with a calm, clear intention. Michael Bridge performs baroque, contemporary, and folk music on acoustic and digital accordions. He is a doctoral candidate in accordion performance at the University of Toronto. |
New Music Video Released by Father/Son Collaborators Jacques and Lucas Pellarinby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video 1 “Piano Bar Man Dreaming” by Jacques PellarinComposition for Piano & Accordion (Classic crossover Jazz) Composer, Pianist , Accordionist Jacques Pellarin Upcoming album Piano leader & Accordion Jacques Pellarin - Spring 2022 - A film by Lucas Pellarin Video 2: “Jacques Pellarin - Valse des mariniers (Clip officiel)” Filmmaker Lucas Pellarin “Separation”, released on 29 Apr 2021, consists of a playlist of 5 credited songs, from various artists including The Juliana Theory, Deep Six and Deep Six. The original score is composed by Brett Detar. Jacque’s composition, “L'orgue des faubourgs” is included. Jacques Pellarin is proud to present a new film by his son called “Piano Bar Man Dreaming”. Jacques shares, “What luck for a father to be in artistic resonance with his talented filmmaker of his son! Many thanks Lucas Pellarin” Jacques Pellarin is a composer, accordionist and a music producer well known internationally for The French Chic & Eclectic Accordion collection from Jacques Pellarin music productions.Wes George, Owner JazzNet247 Project, shares: "Jacques Pellarin is a prolific French composer, accordionist and producer who is known internationally for his French Chic and Eclectic accordion music.He has recorded 16 albums to date encompassing many genres :- from Jazz to French Cinema to Latin Jazz to Crossover Traditional to Classical music. His latest release entitled 'Paris Sunlight' (12/21) is a collection of self penned songs which celebrates the Parisienne Café Culture popular in the early 1900 century in the City Of Romance when café proprieters would hire accordion players to entertain the 'al frecso' visitors. Jacques Pellarin performed in the famous Cathedral of Chartres & Palais Omnisports de Paris Bercy (France) with the Baikal duo.( Accordion festivals). Jacques has undertaken many tours during his stellar career to date including :- to the USA, throughout Europe and to Japan, sometimes with other artists, such as The Baikal Duo, The Jacques Pellarin Trio, but more recently as a solo artist and with the duet JAC & CO. His music is often featured on the Radio, particularly on the Morning Edition on NPR and his composition 'Orgue des Faubours' was featured in the US movie entitled 'Separation' in 2021 via Briarcliff Entertainment starring Rupert Friend and Madeline Brewer. His composition 'Fleur de Bossa' is featured in the new Michelle Pfeiffer US motion picture called 'French Exit' and Jacques had no fewer than 8 songs featured in a movie about fashion in 2020 called 'Scale' by the famous director Nick Knight. His music has been featured often on NHK TV in Japan and has been used in a national documentary there.Three of Jacques' compositions featured in the beautiful playlist Music Apple which depicted the theme of Paris Café Classic French Vibes. It included other notable French musicians and vocalist both past and present such as :- Edith Piaf, Michel Legrand, Charles Aznavour, Manu Dibango, Babik Reinhardt and Avishai Cohen. Jacques Pellarin is a true exponent of the Accordion artform and his wide repertoire of music genres and styles makes him a much sought after musician and composer". For further information: jacques.pellarin@wanadoo.fr For further information on filmmaker, director Lucas Pellarin: pellarinlucas@gmail.com |
Frank Toscano Performs for LIAA on January 5by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 The next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) will take place on Wednesday, January 5th, 2022 at 6:PM at:La Villini Restaurant 288 Larkfield Rd East Northport NY 11731 (631) 261-6344 Reservations are recommended. The featured guest artist will be noted accordionist Frank Toscano who recently was featured in the movie “The Many Saints of Newark.” Frank Toscano was asked to arrange and perform music for the soundtrack for the movie which was released worldwide on March 12 2021. Frank recorded eight songs and performed in the movie. Frank appears in the film with guitarist, Steve Lucas, in the scene of the confirmation party for Janice, Tony’s sister. The movie is a prequel to the popular series “The Sopranos”. Among the songs he played were “Ferry Boat Serenade”, “Volare”, “The Nearness of You” and “Core Grate”. For the scene Frank wore a red tuxedo jacket and slicked back hair, He played a Verde acoustic accordion. Frank said the director and cast enthusiastically applauded him at the end of the scene. The music/soundtrack was recorded at The Hit Factory in New York City. The challenge, according to Frank, was to play the song during filming exactly as it was recorded at The Hit Factory since that recording was used during the filming of the movie, Of course, Frank was able to easily accomplish the task. A professional musician since the age of eight, Frank Toscano has made music his entire life. Born and raised in New York, Frank came from an Italian family who valued the idea of music being played in the house constantly. Without a choice from his father, Frank took lessons on the accordion under the direction of Emilio Chiesa and never dreamed that it would became the passion of his life! Frank said, “Emilio provided me with a solid classical foundation, for which I am forever grateful. I was very fortunate to have such a great teacher who he himself is also a Virtuoso Accordionist.” As Frank continued through the years practicing, he mastered the instrument and it was only natural for him to become a professional musician. He wanted more though...more music... and so he learned, studied jazz and mastered the art of playing the Piano (taught himself) and at the age of twenty-one opened the Frank Toscano Music School. Now some 50 years later the school continues to flourish with young and not so young talent. Still teaching everyday, his undying passion for music and performing never seems to subside. He has performed live with and for many artists including Michail Baryshnikov and Aidan Quinn and can also be heard on many recordings of other artists... too numerous to mention. Frank performed for Steve Schirripa and the entire Soprano’s Cast to help launch an up and coming new T.V. show. He has also had the pleasure of performing with Joe Piscoppo and Vocalist Debra Toscano. Frank has performed many steady engagements at many prominent clubs in the Tri-State area such as the Playboy Club, North Hempstead Country Club, Rockland Country Club and many more. Currently you can hear Frank perform solo at the Magnanini Winery & also in concert with the newly formed “Amazing Accordion Kings”. Among his accomplishments Frank arranged, conducted, and performed on three great CD’s. “Accordion To Frank”, a solo CD which embraces the flavor of Traditional styled music laced with a hint of Modern Jazz paying homage to his Accordion heritage. The “The Amazing Accordion Kings” Volumes One and Two were arranged, performed and conducted with two other great Accordionists, Angelo DiPippo and Manny Corallo. These latest CD’s contain compilations of Opera to Jazz. Frank Toscano, a true musician, a true professional...and most certainly a true artis Frank says “The future of the accordion is bright, its a beautiful sound, and with modern technology, electronic accordions will help make it popular again.” Frank Toscano is an inspiration to all accordionists and demonstrates clearly that the accordion is a necessary and integral part of the world of music." You are welcome to play your accordion. Please bring your instrument and play a few songs in the “open mic. segment” of the evening. Begin the New Year by joining the LIAA for an enjoyable evening of fine dining and accordion music. For more information on the LIAA meeting: dkarcic10@gmail.com For further information on Frank Toscano: franktee@optonline.net or info@franktoscanoMusicSchool.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Amazing Accordion Reunion!by Paul Ramunni |
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 Hi Everyone…….Our accordion museum continues to shock and delightfully surprise many people who come to visit. However, something happened last night that was a real shock and surprise to me. I call it a Christmas miracle! A fellow came in with his family to take the tour. Rob is in his seventies and grew up in Oregon. He was overwhelmed with our collection and began to tell me about how he started to play an accordion. Back in the days of his early childhood, he was a huge fan of Hopalong Cassidy. He had the whole getup complete with two six shooter cap guns, hat, cowboy boots, chaps with fur etc. He would wear it wherever he went even in public. When his parents took him to get his first accordion, he was dressed up in his cowboy suit. They bought him an accordion but also arranged to have the instrument decorated as a Texas accordion complete with a Texas star, pistol, lariat, horseshoe, and a big longhorn cow image on the grill. It was all professionally done and, it was one of a kind. He laughingly said, “I bet you don’t have anything like that here!” As he said that, I had a strange feeling and I asked him to follow me. As we went around a corner of a display table, his expression went from a smile to one of complete disbelief and shock. There on the table was his old accordion. I watched as he identified all the markings and even the serial number. Then came the tears and joy and a flood of wonderful memories. The odds of finding his accordion like that are just astronomical! People who have been visiting our museum and shop are telling me how magical and special this place is for them. One lady called it a portal to the past. When she opened the door, she stepped back in time. She became 10 years old again and, all the people who were in her life back then were once again present. Another man came in recently, looked around, and quickly said. “Yep, if you build it, they will come.” There is something special going on here. They say you can never go back; you must keep moving forward. But I’m finding that we need to revisit the past just to find that precious something that we left behind and bring it forward with us to the future. When my grandsons are working with me here at the museum, I’ll hear them say things like, “Poppa I just love you.” Being surrounded by good memories and fun musical sounds makes expressing that love much easier to say. Maybe that’s what many of us have left in the past. Maybe if we could recapture the feelings we had back then, it would become easier for us to enjoy each other’s company once again. It’s Christmas……come visit us at the New England Accordion Connection & Museum Co. 75 Main Street North Canaan, Connecticut 06018 Like Rob, you may find something very valuable you left in the past that you’ll want to bring forward with you as we move into the new year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!! Paul Ramunni Cell: 860-833-1374 Email: ramunni@comcast.net |
The Accordion in the Media Spanning the Decades Part 2: 1960 to 2021by Joan Grauman, AAA Historian |
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 Part 1 was published last month at: http://www.accordionusa.com/#art4684Preface by Joan Grauman (picture right). I have been a collector of “ephemera (written or printed items of short-term usefulness or popularity)” for several decades. Luckily, I focused this goofy obsession of mine on my other obsession: the accordion! I hope you enjoy this trip through memory lane with printed ads, stories and cards that celebrate, or ridicule, our beloved musical instrument. The Accordion in the Media Spanning the Decades Part 2: 1960 to 2021 by Joan Grauman Mass media was, and is today, a very important mirror of who we were and who we are as a society. While this form of communicating and promoting thoughts, facts, events and ideas has changed monumentally over the past 100 years, one thing has not changed: mass media clearly reflects our past and our present. Over the decades, the accordion in the media has been "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly…. and the Good again". Part 1 of this article will focus on "the Good"; Part 2: "the Bad, the Ugly … and the Good again." Read the full article with all the historic pictures at: Media2 by Joan Grauman, AAA Historian |
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Alicia Joe Straka Performs “It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year - I'M ANIMATED!”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”Accordionist, vocalist, pianist and composer Alicia Jo Straka shares, “I’ve been animated!! Actual dream come true. Please enjoy this cheerful cover of my favorite tune, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! Major shout out and thanks to Chardon Polka Band for the fantastic animation and video editing!” Excerpts from her website: Alicia Jo Straka, previously Alicia Baker, is a professional accordionist, pianist, and vocalist from Portland, OR, currently residing in Denver, CO. She has explored her many avenues of musical ability in both performance and educational venues. Alicia received 3 bachelor of arts degrees from Oregon State University, including piano performance, vocal performance, and choral education, in addition to a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from University of Colorado Boulder in 2017 - all of which were funded by full-ride scholarships. Throughout her years as a student, Alicia had the honor of being a sponsored accordion and piano artist for the prestigious company, Roland. Alicia’s repertoire spans a wide variety of musical genres, including; jazz, pop, french musettes, opera, folk songs, polkas, contemporary, classical, romantic, and techno. She often features her own arrangements in concert. Alicia has also composed a variety of musical works for accordion, piano, and choral settings. She has both won awards and been commissioned to write new works for the choral music world. Alicia has competed and won multiple International accordion competitions, in addition to headlining major accordion festivals all around North America. These include the American Accordionists’ Association, The Vegas International Accordion Festival, the Cotati Accordion Festival, the Accordionists and Teachers Guild International Festival, KIOTAC, Leavenworth Old-Time Accordion Festival, and the NAMM show. Most recently, Alicia had the honor of premiering a work featuring accordion and soprano voice at both the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, and Carnegie Weill Hall. Alicia has created a unique show for her audiences by combining accordion with her accomplished voice. Known for accompanying herself on operatic arias, and playing modern styles like techno, pop, and jazz; she is passionate about reinventing the face of accordion in today’s world. Alicia currently spends her time teaching private students, performing, composing, and arranging. Alicia is working on her first professionally recorded album of her original music. Alicia shares, “I’ve been making music and performing my entire life, from singing in my parents’ kids choir at age 2, to piano lessons at age 4, to competing in accordion competitions from age 7. I’m a classically trained musician, but I’ve been exploring other musical genres in my adulthood. I’ve always loved French jazz, and have been diving deeper into this genre for the past couple years. I’m now thrilled to announce that I’ve been writing my first album of original music inspired by this adorable genre, and I’m beyond ready to share my new songs with all of you.” You will be informed when it is released. Photo by Katie Shay For further information: aliciajostraka@gmail.com |
A World of Accordions: Concert with Stas Venglevski on January 23by Pamela Tom |
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| Accordion Blend Concert with Stas Venglevski, Derek Bromme and Brett Jones Stas Venglevski, bayan virtuoso, teams up with Derek Bromme (tuba) and Brett Jones (percussion) on January 23, 2022 to present a live concert by “Accordion Blend” at A World of Accordions Museum in Superior, WI, 3:00 – 4:00 PM Central Time. The concert will be live streamed. Pre-register to receive the link for video streaming. Proceeds from the event support the Museum’s building maintenance fund. Registration: worldofaccordions.app.neoncrm.com/eventReg.jsp?event=3& Web site: https://www.worldofaccordions.org/a_strahlconcerthall.html Stas will also have a concert at Thorpe Langley Auditorium at University of Wisconsin, Superior on January 25, 7:30 P.M. |
Dr. William Schimmel Performs with The Boston Symphony Orchestraby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 From November 18 - 20, 2021, Dr. William Schimmel performed Jorge Widmann’s “Towards Paradise for Trumpet and Orchestra” with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. This was the American Premiere which took place at Boston’s Symphony Hall. The 35 minute work called for a large accordion part and, in a number of sections, highlighted the trumpet soloist, Haka Hardenberger from SwedenJorg Widmann is a German composer and a virtuoso clarinetist. He has a love of the accordion and uses it in many ways, from texture, form highlighting, from soloing, from blending and many other factors at added to altering the sound of the orchestra. In the past, Dr. Schimmel performed Widmann’s “Babylon Suite” with The New York Philharmonic. The conductor was Andris Nelsons, the Principal Conductor of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Dr. William Schimmel’s versatility is evident by the many musical projects that he is involved in. He has devoted his life to musicianship particularly utilizing the accordion. William Schimmel holds a BM, MS and DMA degrees Doctorate from The Juilliard School. He performed with virtually every ensemble in New York from The New York Philharmonic, The Metropolitan Opera, Jazz at Lincoln Center, most contemporary ensembles, Broadway as well as numerous European tours. His Tango Project CDS have reached #1 on the Billboard charts along with Stereo Review Album of the Year and Grammy nominations. He has performed in many movie soundtracks and can be seen and heard in “Scent of a Woman” starring Al Pacino (who received an Oscar). His current CD, “The Theater of the Accordion” features trumpeter Wynton Marsalas and has reached #2 on the Amazon charts (They perform a six minute version of Mahler 9). Dr. Schimmel resides in Manhattan with his wife, Micki Goodman, a dancer/choreographer andvideo artist. Together they have produced numerous videos that can be seen and heard on YouTube. Dr. Schimmel’s works are currently being archived at the Lincoln Center Performing Arts Library. For further information: accordionbill@gmail.com |
“Tick Tock Polka” - Alex Meixner on Piano Accordionby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: “Tick Tock Polka” One of the most popular American polkas ( nearly an official million-seller for Frank Yankovic) - the “Tick Tock Polka” (or tik tok polka) is originally an Italian song entitled “Tic-tì-tic-tà”. Alex shares, “It’s National Tick Tock Day so here’s the Tick Tock Polka, an appropriately named song to help count down the minutes to the end of the year!” 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.. For details email: info@alexmeixner.com |
41st Tejano Music Awards Announce Winners During December Virtual Eventby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
| The 41st annualTejano Music Awardswas a virtual event on December 15, 2021 for the second straight year and the “Biggest Night in Tejano Music” was filled with past performances and music videos while announcing winners in the 10 music categories.The TMAs, produced byTexas Talent Musicians Association, was broadcast only in San Antonio by WOAI-TV News 4, a Sinclair Broadcast Group station, and hosted by syndicated television personalities Kimberly Crawford and Esteban Solisfrom “Daytime with Kimberly & Esteban,” a show that airs in select Texas markets by Sinclair. Many of the bands include the accordion and other instruments. The two-hour show featured past TMA performances from Solido,DJ Kane,Stefani Montiel with Savannah Votion and La Calma, Elida Reyna Y Avante, Magali Delarosa, and a classic 1990 TMA performance from Selena Y Los Dinos. The program displayed music videos from Shelly Lares, Roger Velasquez & The Latin Legendz featuring Jesse Borrego, Sunny Sauceda, AB Quintanilla & Kumbia Kings, Ramon Ayala, and a tribute to late Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez. “A decision to not hold the full-blown My Tejano Awards event at the Mission Event Center in Mission, Texas, due to the uptick in Covid infections at the time of our decision,” said Mando San Roman, My Tejano Awards Vice President. “This was decided with the health and safety of our Tejano artists, fans, production crew, staff, and volunteers. We still wanted to make sure and honor the recipients and therefore decided to hold two MTA banquets, one in Mission, Texas, on Wednesday, Oct. 20th, and the other one last night Dec 15th in San Antonio. This was done in order to make it easier for artists to receive their awards.” The My Tejano Awards, which honors Tejano artists past and present for their outstanding achievement and contribution to Tejano music, were postponed due to the pandemic in 2020 and were handed out this year with the two ceremonies hosted by Tejano music icon and Hall of FamerShelly Lares. Multiple winners included Stevie D, who won Top Album 2021 with Estamos Unidosand Top Video 2021 with “Irremediable,” and Stefani Montielwas named Top Entertainer and Top Video 2020 for “Echame La Culpa” with La Calma. The My Tejano Awards plan to return to a full event in 2022 at Mission Event Center with musical performances and much more. Full list of winners at My Tejano Awards (2020 & 2021): Top Entertainer: Stefani Montiel Top Album (2021): Estamos Unidos – Stevie D Top Album (2020): 25th Anniversary Contigo – Jay Perez Top Male Artist: Marcos Orozco Top Tejano Group: David Lee Garza Y Los Musicales Top Conjunto: Ricky Naranjo Y Los Gamblers Top New Male Artist: JR Gomez Top New Female Artist: Destiny Navaira Top Artist Collaboration (2021): “Nada De Ti” — Shelly Lares, Monica Saldivar, Demmi Garcia, Sonja De La Paz Top Artist Collaboration (2020): “Desechable” — Elida Reyna & Lucky Joe Top Video (2021): “Irremediable” — Stevie D Top Video (2020): “Echame La Culpa” — La Calma & Stefani Montiel Top Songwriter: Juan Trevino Gone But Not Forgotten: Emilio Navaira, Ruben Vela Trailblazer Award: Paulino Bernal Lifetime Achievement: Carlos Guzman Comeback of the Year: Joe Lopez Favorite Hometown Band (RGV): The Westside Band |
80th Anniversary ATG: July 20-24 in the Chicago Areaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The long awaited celebration is happening next summer! Join the ATG July 20-24, 2022 in the Chicago area as the ATG’s 80th anniversary is celebrated. Registration will be available soon on the website: www.atgaccordions.com. |
“Let There Be Peace on Earth” by Mario Tacca and Mary Manciniby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
| Video: “Let There Be Peace on Earth” Listen to the beautiful song, “Let There Be Peace on Earth”, as sung by internationally acclaimed vocal artist Mary Mancini. Accompanied by accordionist Mary Tacca and orchestra. This recording is from Mary's sacred album, “The Greatest Music of the Catholic Church”. Mary and Mario share, “We pray that the new year will bring you love, peace, happiness and the best of health. Please enjoy our musical gift to you as we welcome 2022." Mario Tacca, on the Board of Directors of the AAA, was born in Italy. During his childhood, his family moved to the Alsace Lorraine region of France where he began his musical studies. This is where his love and intense desire to play the accordion began. He loved the sound! He would pick up the accordion and imitate some of the songs his mother used to sing. The desire and love never diminished, despite having to walk three miles weekly to his teacher with his instrument strapped to his back! While in France, he was the winner of many regional and national accordion competitions. He went on to become a world champion, winning the World Cup of Italy, the Grand Prix of Paris, the US National Competition and the International Accordion competition held at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Mario Tacca dazzles audiences across the US and around the world with his outstanding virtuosity and his exciting interpretations of international music, the classics and pop. Mario has recently been seen on MTV in a commercial for a pilot Italian Food program. Also, he was seen on the Food Network in a commercial for “Throwdown with Bobby Flay.” His latest recording, “Journey Through the Classics” features great melodies from the Classic Repertoire. Internationally acclaimed vocal artist Mary Mancini has been featured in the New York Times, the Forth Worth Star-Telegram, and the Journal News and has performed in a variety of venues around the world. Able to sing in eight different languages, Mary draws from a deep repertory reservoir. She is adept at pop, show tunes, operatic arias, and sacred music and has received worldwide acclaim. Le Republicain Lorrain, in Alsace-Lorraine, France, writes that the “purity of her voice, the ease with which she interpreted the most difficult pieces showed that she is a great artist.” The Spring City Evening News in Kunming, China, writes that “audiences were greatly impressed by Mary Mancini’s singing ability…Through her music, we see her heart is smiling.” Mary has headlined numerous concert halls and festivals in North America, Europe, and China. She has performed at the Garden State Arts Center, Resorts International Casino Hotel, Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, and Mohegan Sun Resort Casino in CT. As a dynamic and popular performing duo, they have completed two concert tours of China. As guests of the China Ministry of Culture, they toured five cities in three weeks and performed with three symphony orchestras. Joining them on their tour was highly acclaimed Chinese tenor, Douglas Song. In addition to performing with the Symphony Orchestras, some of the most memorable moments included a performance held at the 1600 seat True Color Jazz Supper Club in the booming city of Shenzhen and in the 3500 seat Golden Opera House. For further information: manciniandtacca@gmail.com |
Kick off 2022 with Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestraby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: Cafe Accordion Live Mix 2021Excerpts from Cafe Accordion Orchestra's recent live stream from the Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis. Kick off 2022 with Cafe Accordion Orchestra at the Dakota! January 4, 2022 7-9:PM at 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis. Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestra (CAO) performs an eclectic mix full of French flare, Latin heat and Bohemian attitude. The heart of the CAO repertoire is the romantic, gypsy-influenced valse-musette. The group complements the musettes with swing, ballads, tangos, cha chas, rumbas, and cumbias to create a wonderfully varied show. They inject their music with good humor and expressive abandon. Their high level of musicianship and passion for performance makes them an entertaining concert act as well as a great dance band. Excerpts from his website: Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton has been dazzling audiences with his creative accordion style for over 30 years. His fresh approach to the accordion 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. Dan 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. COVID-19 Policy Effective immediately, all performances at the Dakota will require either proof of a full course of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken in the prior 72 hours. Patrons must have a completed COVID-19 vaccination card or a photo of their card, with their final dose at least fourteen days prior to the event, or a negative COVID-19 test result from 72 hours or less prior to the event. Thank you for helping to keep everyone safe. For further information: daddysqueeze@yahoo.com |
Children's Corner |
Elayne Doggett Sings and Plays Accordion for the First Time!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: “Silent Night in English and German” - Accordion & Voice by Elayne DoggettElayne shares, “This is my first time to sing and play accordion at the same time! Thought it would be fun to sing in both English and German. I love this Christmas carol and hope you enjoy! Merry Christmas!” 10 year old Elayne is the accordion student of Elena Fainshtein. Elana shares, “Elayne is very talented positive girl. The accordion adds a spark to her life.” She began the accordion in April 2019. Her mother, Veronika, is a piano teacher and teaches her daughter piano. For further information: elena.fainshtein@gmail.com |
Future events |
Mollie B to be Inducted to the 2022 Minnesota Music Hall of Fameby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: The Funtime Polka Party Presents Squeezebox with Mollie B & Ted Lang at the WI Dells Polkafest 2021 Mollie B (Mollie Busta Lange) is a 2021 inductee to the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place in New Ulm, Minnesota on April 22, 2022. Others that have been inducted in the past include Prince, Bob Dylan, Judy Garland, Bobby Vee, Eddie Cochran, John Denver, Johnny Holm, Lorie Line, Wally Pikal, Bruce Bradley, Wee Willie, Jerry Minar, The White Sidewalls, Steve Moran, Johnny Helget, and Babe Wagner. Mollie has dedicated much of her life to music between practice; traveling and performing in many ensembles; hosting the “Mollie B Polka Party” TV show; co-hosting the “Mollie B Polka Party” radio show with her husband Ted Lange; hosting the PBS documentary, “Polka;” teaching students of many ages; promoting events, musicians, and recordings; arranging music; composing; appearing and performing an original composition, and dancing with Clint Eastwood in the Warner Brothers movie, “the Mule;” and recently created over 75 videos and over 65 90-minute variety shows on Youtube.com/mollieb with Ted Lange, which are still being produced on a weekly basis. Mollie B is the host of the "Mollie B Polka Party" on RFD-TV (airing 2 hours every week) and a member of the International Polka Association Hall Of Fame.Ted & Mollie host the Mollie B Polka Party Radio Show on both on Rural Radio, Channel 147, (Sundays, 11:00am to 1:00pm EST) and kneiradio.com (Sundays, 8:00-10:00pm EST). Mollie B & Ted also lead the award-winning band SqueezeBox. The band has become one of the most popular and well-known bands specializing in live folk dance music and entertaining stage shows. Currently based in NW Ohio, their performances span multiple genres with a repertoire of over 800 songs, and solid vocals in English, Polish, German and Czech. Squeezebox is known for their ability to play "something for everyone", and easily adapts to any venue, ranging from town festivals, polka festivals, ethnic festivals including Polish, Czech, and German festivals and Oktoberfests, to weddings, anniversary parties, church festivals, state and county fairs and music festivals. Recently, they appeared in the Warner Brothers film "The Mule," starring Clint Eastwood. They usually perform over 120 engagements a year in over 18 states a year, including an annual Caribbean Cruise. Mollie Busta has been performing polka music all her life. Excerpts from her website: Mollie started her career performing with the Jim Busta Band, while she continues to perform with the Jim Busta Band, she also performs with SqueezeBox with Ted Lange, accordionist and many other ensembles. This International Polka Association Hall of Famer not only has performed on over 35 recordings, she has shared her many talents with fans in over 25 states and eleven countries and continues to inspire young musicians with her love for music. Between the Jim Busta Band's practices and recording sessions, music always filled the Busta household in small-town Minnesota while Mollie was growing up. She started singing in the band at age three and joined on piano when she was eight-years-old. For years to follow, Mollie played several instruments both in the school bands and choirs, as well as in her father’s band. During her high school years, Mollie arranged songs for the school’s band and choir programs, the Jim Busta Band, and even found time to create her own original compositions. Mollie also served as the student-director for her high school band rehearsals and concerts. Mollie went on to continue to develop her love of music and received a Bachelor of Arts in Music (trumpet and voice) from Luther College (Decorah, IA). Mollie’s senior paper was on polka music which gave her a chance to educate her classical music professors and colleagues about the music dear to her heart. Mollie also received a Master of Arts in Instruction from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota (Winona, MN). In 2005, Mollie joined Ted Lange's Bratwurst Boys. In 2007, Ted and Mollie changed the name to Squeezebox. SqueezeBox showcases Mollie's versatility on several instruments, as well as her talented vocals. In July of 2011, the first Mollie B Polka Party aired on Mollie B Polka Party on RFD-TV. Mollie was a creative director and co-producer of these shows. The Mollie B Polka Party currently airs in over 55 million homes on RFD-TV on Wednesday at 6:30pm and Saturday at 10:00pm ET. In 2017, Wisconsin Public Television released the documentary called "POLKA!" Mollie is the host of this 90-minute long documentary about celebrating life with polka music in the state of Wisconsin. In December of 2018, Mollie B had her debut in a Warner Brothers movie, "The Mule," directed by Clint Eastwood. She plays "Mollie B" in the movie in a VFW scene with SqueezeBox and many Mollie B fans. She can be seen playing her trumpet and piano, as well as dancing with Clint Eastwood and singing the song that she co-wrote with Ted Lange who plays the accordion. Mollie’s talents have also been showcased in front of a live audience during The Mollie B Christmas Shows both at RFD-TV the Theatre and the Jim Stafford Theatre in Branson, Missouri; as well as the CAL Center in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. The holiday special took place in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017. Mollie has performed, directed, wrote, produced, choreographed, and hosted these 2+-hour live performances. Mollie’s cast has featured up to 33 renowned musicians and artists in front of audiences up to 1300. Portions of the earlier shows are aired during the holiday season on RFD-TV and the complete shows are available for purchase on DVD and CD by clicking HERE. Mollie has won the title of the “Favorite Female Vocalist” award numerous times, both from the United States Polka Association and the International Polka Association. She has also won multiple awards from the Polka America Corporation for her polka recordings with Ted Lange. Additionally, Mollie has won the "2013 Polka Promoter of the Year" award from the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame, she was inducted into the Iowa Polka Hall of Fame in 2015, and in September of 2018 she was inducted into the International Polka Association Hall of Fame. Some of Mollie’s most note-worthy performances as a vocalist, instrumentalist, actress, and/or music arranger include: Caribbean Cruises (2001, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2013-2019), Norsk Hostfest (Minot, ND, 2013-2018), Mollie B Christmas Show at the CAL Center in Reedsburg, WI (2017-2018), Maggie Mae Show in Reedsburg (2016-2019), Wurstfest (New Braunfels, TX, 2009-2013, 2015-2017), Rhythm Cats at Silver Star Theater (Mesa 2017), Maggie Mae Christmas Shows (2016-2017: Crystal Grand, WI Rapids Performing Arts Center, Hartford Scheuer Center), Mollie B Christmas Concert at the Jim Stafford Theatre (2016), Toledo Symphony (Bryan, OH, 2010 & 2016), Jimmy Sturr Show on RFD-TV (2012-2016), Penny Gilley Show on RFD-TV (2012-2015), Anniversary Mass with Daniel O’Donnell (Moline, IL, 2010), Big Joe Polka Show on RFD-TV (2005-2008), Iowa Governor Culver’s Inauguration Gala (Iowa City, IA, 2007), “American Folk Arts Festival” (Bangor, ME, 2006), President’s Palace in the Dominican Republic (2004), Sound of Music (Spring Grove, MN, 2003), Library of Congress (Washington, DC, 2002), Kennedy Center of Performing Arts (Washington, DC, 2002), “Polka Passion” (National PBS special, 2001), and Handel’s “Messiah” & Mozart’s “Requiem” (Decorah, IA, 2000). In addition, she has performed with award-winning bands and artists, such as the Rhythm Cats, Heartland Country Band, Karl and the Country Dutchmen, the Jimmy Sturr Orchestra, Bruce Bradley Band, Gary and the Ridgeland Dutchmen, Music Connection, Brian and the Mississippi Valley Dutchmen, the Out-of-Town Czechs, the Polka Nuts, John Gora and Gorale, Toledo Polka Motion, Polka Family, Klancnik and Friends, the Don Wojtila Band, George Staerkel, Kenny Brandt, Steve Meisner, Kevin Solecki, Alex Meixner, Hank Guzevich, Fred Ziwich, Lenny Gomulka, Al Piatkowski, and more. In addition to performing, Mollie has taught music to all levels (age 3 through adults) at the following schools: Lanesboro Elementary & High School, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, West Salem Elementary & Middle School, and St. Patrick’s Catholic School (Bryan, OH). Furthermore, for 15 years, Mollie taught private music lessons (teaching up to 52 students a week). When Mollie finds herself away from the stage & teaching, she enjoys dancing, exercising, playing with her nieces & nephews, family time, and traveling. Some of her many awards and honors: September 2018 - International Polka Association Hall of Fame 2017 - International Polka Association - Favorite International Female Vocalist 2017 - International Polka Association - Favorite Polish CD: “Dance all Night” 2017 - Bavarian Blast Parade, New Ulm, Minnesota - Co-Parade Marshall 2016 - Polka Lovers Club in Texas (La Grange) Wall of Fame 2016 - International Polka Association - Best International Polka CD song: "North Shore" from "SqueezeBox by Request" 2016 - International Polka Association - Best International Polka CD: "SqueezeBox by Request" 2016 - International Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2015 - International Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2015 - Iowa Polka Hall of Fame - Promoter Category 2015 - Polka America Corporation - Best Variety Polka CD of the Year: "2014 Mollie B Christmas Special" 2015 - Polka America Corporation - Best Polish-Style Polka CD of the Year: "Polkas On My Mind" (Emily Bizon) 2014 - Polka America Corporation - Best Variety Polka CD of the Year: "2013 Mollie B Christmas Special" 2014 - International Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2013 - National Polka Festival Parade, Ennis, Texas - Parade Marshall 2013 - Polka America Corporation - Best Variety Polka CD of the Year: "2012 Mollie B Christmas Special" 2013 - Wisconsin State Polka Hall of Fame - Promoter Category 2013 - International Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2012 - Polka America Corporation - Best Variety Polka Cd of the Year: "2011 Mollie B Christmas Special" 2012 - International Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2011 - United States Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2011 - International Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2010 - Polka America Corporation - Best Contemporary Polka CD of the Year: "Freshly Squeezed" by SqueezeBox 2010 - United States Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist 2009 - United States Polka Association - Favorite Female Vocalist For more information: bustamollie@yahoo.com |
2022 Seattle Accordion Socialby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The first Seattle Accordion Social for 2022 will be held at the Senior Centre of West Seattle on January 10th. Lyle Schaefer, Toby Hanson, David Locke, and Paul Garavaglia will perform. Day of the Accordion 2022 tentative dates are February 25-27, 2022. |
ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition April 8 - 10by Anna Latulippe |
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| The ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition takes place April 8-10, 2022 in Newton, MA & Virtual. The New England Music Festival is an annual musical competition sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts, Inc. Typically there are more than 3000 entries and 800 contestants from all across New England. Competitive and noncompetitive categories for contestants of all ages including solo categories for all instruments and voice, duets, Battle of the Bands, entertainment categories, virtual categories and more! All accordionists are eligible to particiatpe in the virtual competition. For further information contact Chairperson Peggy Falcetti: Email: peggyf1944@gmail.com Phone: 413-204-1022 |
Powell River’s First Annual Accordion Fest May 6-7, 2022by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Powell River’s First Annual Accordion Fest directed by Walter Martella and Karina Inkster takes place from May 6-7, 2022. It is project of the Powell River Academy of Music. Featuring two days of diverse events, you do not want to miss our celebration of the accordion. Including a concert performance by an accomplished, outstanding accordionist, workshops for beginners and advanced players alike, and a wide range of musical genres for our audiences to enjoy, mark your calendars for May 6-7, 2022! The Event Schedule includes: Friday, May 6, 2022: Main Concert 7:PM: Act One: Walter and Karina perform Piazzolla and Galliano pieces; Jessica and Karina perform Yann Tiersen pieces from the Amélie film soundtrack. 8:PM:Act Two: Jelena Milojevic performs her main concert of solo accordion pieces. Venue: James Hall at the Powell River Academy of Music Saturday, May 7, 2022: Accordion 101 Led by Walter and Karina, this by-donation workshop introduces accordion-curious folks of any (or no) musical background to the instrument. Got an old accordion languishing in your storage closet? Wondering what the heck the left-hand buttons are for? We’ll demystify the world’s most misunderstood instrument. Attendees can bring their own accordions, use one of ours, or sit in without playing. Venue: Powell River Academy of Music Accordion Masterclass Led by internationally renowned classical accordionist Jelena Milojević, this session will feature performances by accordion amateurs and semi-professionals (e.g. UVic School of Music students). Jelena will offer critiques, insights, and suggestions, providing a learning opportunity for both performers and observers. Venue: Powell River Academy of Music Accordion Kitchen Party Two main sets showcasing multicultural accordion music, performed by Walter Martella's band. Walter and Karina will also perform a selection of Astor Piazzolla pieces, and Karina with bandmate Jessica Colasanto will perform music by Yann Tiersen from the Amélie soundtrack. We’ll have guest musicians rotating through the main band. A fun and inclusive event, featuring dancing, beverages, and [maybe] lederhosen. Venue: Royal Canadian Legion Featured performer, Jelena Milojevic, is one of the world's foremost accordion performers. She studied both in Croatia and Serbia and ultimately received her Master’s Degree in Accordion Performance and Education, in one of the most recognized accordion centres in the world, Music Academy (FILUM) in Kragujevac, Serbia, where she is now completing her Doctoral Degree in accordion performance. As a versatile musician with an extensive performing history, she has played numerous concerts in Europe, North America and Asia as a soloist, chamber musician and a soloist with various orchestras. She performed in some of the most prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and Berlin Philharmonie. She is the winner of many prestigious international accordion competitions, such as the CMA World Trophy, International Accordion Competition in Castelfidardo, Italy, International Accordion competition in Pula, Croatia, Roland V-Accordion Competition etc. Her performances have been acclaimed as “an explosion of cosmic sensuality” and she has been praised for her “brilliant virtuosity.” Jelena Milojevic has a successful collaboration with internationally recognized composers, such as Ana Sokolovic, Chris Jarrett, Douglas Schmidt, Farangis Nurulla-Khoja etc, and performs and records new music with the Vancouver Symphony, Berlin Symphony, Aventa Ensemble, Turning Point Ensemble, Emily Carr String Quartet, UVic Chorus and Orchestra etc. She released three CD's and is being frequently featured at the TV and radio stations in Europe and North America. She has worked with acclaimed conductors, such as Bramwell Tovey, Bill Linwood, Leslie Dala, Giorgio Magnanensi, Clyde Mitchel, Yu Xuefeng, Symeon Ioannidis, Owen Underhill, Adam Jonathan Con, and Ajtony Csaba. As an educator, Jelena has been contributing greatly to the accordion development in Canada by organizing International Accordion Festival, hosting major accordion events; Coupe Mondiale de l'Accordéon (2013) and World Accordion Trophy (2018), inviting numerous international accordion artists to Victoria and by pioneering the acceptance of the accordion at the Vancouver Community College, Camosun College and University of Victoria. With more than 20 years of teaching experience, her students have won numerous prizes at various international competitions, have played with symphony orchestras and developed successful performing careers. She is the Artistic Director of the World Accordion and Tango Festival in Victoria and a frequent adjudicator at the biggest international accordion competitions. Tickets will be on sale in early 2022. You will be able to purchase a weekend pass, or buy tickets to individual events. For further information: j.milojevic1@yahoo.com  |
The 2022 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, Curatorby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Dr William Schimmel’s Accordion Seminars are scheduled for July 29, 30 and 31, 2022. This will be the 28th year. And like the last two years, they will be virtual.The distinguished guests will be announced in the next month. This year, The Seminars will be presented by a new organization, The Accordion Global Association. See article in this publication For further information: Accordionbill@gmail.com |