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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Dick Contino (1930 to 2017) Passes Away
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
NEW "AWW App" for Android of the Accordions Weekly News in English
Nathan Chapeton 2017 USA Coupe Mondiale Representative
New Accordion Composition Competition
Guy Klucevsek’s Bellow Brigade Presents Concert at Roulette in NY
Falcetti Music Presents Its 21st Roland Workshop & Concert
World Accordion Day, UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble Concert - USA
39th Annual International Polka Fest
AAA Accordion Festival July 12-16 in Princeton, NJ
Victoria International Accordion Festival July 13-17
77th Annual ATG Festival July 19-23
“Annie Gong & Her Magic Orchestra” Concert Tour
Alexander Sevastian in Concert in Vancouver
“Accordions Rising” Film Available at Special World Accordion Day Price
Stas Venglevski Concert in Falls Church, Virginia on May 21
Jamie Maschler to Perform for NAAC in Online Event
Accordion Pops Orchestra in Concert in NJ
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Texas Folklife Announces the 2017 Big Squeeze Accordion Winners
Connecticut Accordion Association Concert at Mattatuck Museum
Dr.William Schimmel: Brooklyn Accordion Club Concert and Additional Touring Dates
Roland V-Accordion East Coast Event Hosted by Music Magic
Mary Tokarski and Nathan Chapeton at LIAA
Accordion Round-Up YVR
Bachtopus in House Concert in Dobbs Ferry, NY
Interest Growing In Frog Festival Accordion Competition
Trio Musette to Perform at La Villini in East Northport, NY
36th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, TX
Angela Falcetti Wins in 55th New England Music Festival
Future events |
Ksenija Sidorova in Mostly Mozart Debut in NYC in August
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 15-18
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Series
Victor Prieto’s International Jazz Accordion Master Classes
40th Annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival in July
Vancouver Island Musicfest July 14-16
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 World Accordion Day is on May 6th, the day the accordion was patented in 1829. World Accordion Day was started in 2009 by the CIA and has been very successful, generating enormous positive publicity for the accordion. A key part of this event is the World Accordion Day website. Every association, group, orchestra, performer and teacher, is asked to actively support this event by encouraging national and local accordion activities to happen in their country on this day or the weekend either side of Accordion Day if that should be more convenient. Check out the May USA news for accordion events celebrating World Accordion Day. This is a CIA promotion for the accordion in which every accordion enthusiast can participate and help bring our accordion world together as well as strongly promote the accordion. Many of the concerts/accordion events are listed on the World Accordion Day (WAD) website, for those accordion events taking place during the period, Friday April 28 through to Sunday May 14, 2017. This is a CIA co-ordinated event with most WAD activities taking place on May 6th. Read the May USA news to find out about events honoring our beloved instrument. Reports and videos of many of these events will be online right after May 6th. The reports and events listing in over 20 countries are at: 2017WAD As always, please send ideas and comments to Ritabelll@aol.com. |
Dick Contino (1930 to 2017) Passes Awayby Harley Jones |
  Video: Dick Contino in 1999 performing Beer Barrel Polka & Lady of Spain wows a crowd at an Italian restaurant in Toronto. Video by Heinz Siemens.Dick Contino is a famous American accordionist and singer. Contino was born in Fresno, California January 17th, 1930. He studied accordion primarily with San Francisco-based Angelo Cognazzo, and occasionally with Los Angeles-based Guido Deiro and was later to become, one of the most famous American accordionists of all time. Read a very passionate and thought provoking "Reflections" about the one and only Dick Contino, who passed away on April 19th, written by his friend and international competition winner and virtuoso accordionist Cory Pesaturo. Also read the obituary by our Accordions WorldwideEditor Rob Howard. Both the Obituary and "Reflections" are at: Dick Contino |
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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NEW "AWW App" for Android of the Accordions Weekly News in Englishby Harley Jones |
| New Android App for the Accordion Weekly News in English. This is designed for Android phones, download free at the Google Play Store. Search for "AWW Accordions" to find. Put it on your phone now. Direct link to get English Weekly News app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.accordions.aww&hl=en App for iPhone users to follow soon. |
Nathan Chapeton 2017 USA Coupe Mondiale Representativeby Rita Barnea |
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| Accordionist Nathan Chapeton has earned the privilege of representing the United States-AAA to the 2017 70th Coupe Mondiale to be held in Osimo, Italy September 5-10, 2017. Nathan Chapeton is a young musician who became interested in playing the accordion at the age of eight when he heard his teacher, Mary Tokarski perform in concert. He has attended multiple music festivals sponsored by the American Accordionists’ Association and the Mid-Atlantic Music Teachers Guild (where he captured the Virtuoso Category prize twice so far!) Mr. Chapeton has appeared as a guest artist in many local musical organizations including the Long Island Accordion Alliance, the Brooklyn Accordion Club, and as a frequent performer at Connecticut Accordion Association events. At the Coupe Mondiale in Austria (2014) and Russia (2016) he was among the best accordionists and musicians from around the world. His plan now includes learning baroque and classical music and to compete in more rigorous categories at the competition. Nathan additionally plays with the Jazz Ensemble at Middletown High playing his accordion, piano, and other miscellaneous keyboard instruments. His interest in jazz was sparked when he was part of the Youth Involvement Program jazz ensemble at an American Accordionists’ Association festival, with other young accordionists and instrumentalists. This year Nathan auditioned for the honor to perform with the New Haven Symphony when his school, Middletown High School (Connecticut) Goes to the Symphony on May 22, 2017 and the Hamden Symphony Orchestra (Connecticut) on April 30, 2017. He was selected by BOTH to be a guest performer for their concerto concerts featuring soloists on violin, cello, piano . . . and the accordion! Nathan's ultimate goal is to reincorporate the accordion in modern jazz and classical music in a way that no one has ever seen before. Being one of the few young accordionists in our area, he is very thankful and happy to have the opportunity to perform for you! AWW wishes Nathan Chapeton continuing successes in all his musical endeavors. |
New Accordion Composition Competitionby Michael Bridge |
 Iranian-Canadian Composers of Toronto (ICOT) announces its call for scores for the Fall 2017 opening concert in partnership with Canadian Music Centre in collaboration with internationally renowned Concert-accordionist Michael Bridge.The concert will take place on September 14th, 2017 at the Canadian Music Centre, Toronto. Three compositions will be selected and performed as part of this concert. Accordionist Michael Bridge announces the new accordion project: Dear Composers, I am very excited to announce a call for scores for solo accordion pieces! This project is sponsored jointly by the Canadian Music Centre and the Iranian-Canadian Composers of Toronto. How it works: - Please visit the link below for full competition details********** - submit scores by July 1 - there will be a workshop on August 14 - I will perform the winning works in a concert on September 14 at the Canadian Music Centre (7pm) - this will be an entire concert of new solo accordion music - composers will get an archival recording of my performance. Apparently several submissions have already been received! Although I have done a lot of new chamber music involving accordion, this will be the first time that I play new works for solo accordion. I'm so excited to hear what people come up with and very honoured to be a part of this. (Somebody please write a mid-tempo textural piece with lots of bellows shakes. 😜) Composition resources: My professor, Joseph Macerollo, wrote a book called "Accordion Resource Manual" which is in the U of T library. My accordion is a button chromatic accordion with free-bass. Right hand range E1-C#8 Left hand range E1-C#8 However: in order to exploit the full range, I have to manually change registers (like organ stops). For further information: info@icot.ca http://www.composerssite.com/opportunity/8151 |
Guy Klucevsek’s Bellow Brigade Presents Concert at Roulette in NYby Rita Barnea |
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| Guy Klucevsek will present the debut of his new accordion quartet, Bellow Brigade on May 11, 2017 8 PM at Roulette, 509 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217 Brooklyn, NY. Bellows Brigade is the most recent in a series of all-accordion groups that Klucevsek has put together over the decades. T Members of the group include: Guy Klucevsek, accordion, bass accordion Will Holshouser, accordion Nathan Koci, accordion, bass accordion, vcoie Kamala Sankaram, accordion, voice There will be premieres of compositions by all members of the band, plus guest composer, David Mahler. Included will be the premiere of Guy’s piece, “Pauline, Pauline,” in memory of his friend, Pauline Oliveros; Will Holshouser’s piece, “Dragonflies,” based on a poem by his father, Nathan Koci’s “Shan’t He, Shantey?,” Kamala Sankaram’s “60 Words,” and David Mahler’s “Shall we hear that singing…” based on a poem by William Stafford. Guy Klucevsek began playing accordion in 1952 after seeing Dick Contino on television. Since that time, he has performed and/or recorded with Laurie Anderson, Bang on a Can, Alan Bern, Brave Combo, Anthony Braxton, Jason Robert Brown, Charles Busch, Dave Douglas, Bill Frisell's Music, Phillip Johnston, Kepa Junkera, Kronos Quartet, and John Zorn, and was a guest on the children’s television show Mr Rogers Neighborhood. Klucevsek has released 23 recordings as leader/co-leader, his most recent being "Teetering on the Verge of Normalcy", on the Starkland label. $20/15 Online $25/20 Doors For more information: roulette.org BAC members will receive a $5.00 discount.The discount code is BAC17. It applies to online + door adult prices. For further information: gklucevsek@me.com |
Falcetti Music Presents Its 21st Roland Workshop & Concertby Rita Barnea |
| Celebrating their 60th Anniversary, Falcetti Music will present its 21st Roland Workshop and Concert featuring special guest artist Steve Albini from California. Steve will be giving a fantastic product demonstration and hands-on workshop on the brand new Roland FR4X. For the second half of the program he will be presenting a mini-concert on the correct Roland Models 1X, 4X, and 8X. Customers who own a 4X, please bring your instrument for more in-depth training.Accordionists or other Roland model owners who would like to hear and try this dynamic, medium priced, medium weight accordion with a multitude of incredible sounds, patches and features, you’re in for an incredible workshop. For those guests and non-accordionists who are attending our event it will be a fun filled afternoon with great music and entertainment. When: Sunday May 7th, 2017 Where: Falcetti Music Concert Hall (Lower Level) Handicap Entrance (Directions on falcettimusic.com) Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Refreshments will be served Please RSVP (with # of people attending) to peggyf1944@gmail.com or call Sam Falcetti at 413-204-5522. Limited seating, reserve early!! |
World Accordion Day, UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble Concert - USAby Kevin Friedrich |
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| World Accordion Day Concert, full information on the poster. The concert is a special presentation at the Benedictine Monastery: Conception Abbey Basilica in Conception, MO. The performers are Joan C. Sommers, Betty Jo Simon, Ron Barrow, Joyce Davis, Samantha Wagner, and Cathy Weiss |
39th Annual International Polka Festby Rita Barnea |
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| Video: Patty Chmielewski and Michael Bell talk about the Funtime Polka Party and the Chmielewski Polkafest May 19-21, 2017 at Grand Casino Hinckley The 39th Annual International Polkafest will be held from May 19, 20, 21, 2017 at the Hinckley Grand Casino in Hinckley, MN. The festival features Joey Miskulin, Florian Chmielewski’s 90th Birthday Celebration and more groups that you will enjoy. Make your reservations early by calling: 800-472-6321 |
AAA Accordion Festival July 12-16 in Princeton, NJby Rita Barnea |
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| You are all invited to attend and participate in the AAA Competition and Festival to be held in Princeton, New Jersey from July 12-16, 2017. There is an exciting line up of presenters and performers. Workshop presenters include: Jamie Maschler, Will Holshousor, Bruce Gassman, Dallas Vietty, Dr. Robert Young McMahon, Rachel Quirbach and Joan Grauman. The luncheon concert includes: Rachel Quirbach, Will Comerr, Mitch Guido, Cody McSherry, Antony and Joseph Kiettner. The Accordion Pops Orchestra will be conducted by Al Terzo. Dr. William Morse will conduct the 2017 AAA Festival Orchestra. In addition to excellent performers and workshops there will be many opportunities to play in orchestras or solo. The hotel is in walking distance of shops and restaurants and close to tourist attractions. For further information on events and registration: www.ameraccord.com |
Victoria International Accordion Festival July 13-17by Jelena Milojevic |
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 Save the Date for the big celebration at the Victoria International Accordion Festival, July 13-17, 2017. The Victoria International Accordion Festival is celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday. The best Canadian and international artists are coming for this spectacular event. Victoria will be echoing with accordion music for four full days. Listen to world class concerts or going in on workshops, free accordion sessions, the accordion museum, accordion history lectures, dinner dance accordion competitions trade show and free open air performances.Make sure you do not miss July 13th - Gala Opening night concert featuring Canadian digital accordion champion Michael Bridge, jazz duo Jesse Mea and Roland Bougeoos, kings of fiddle Daniel Lapp trio with accordionist Adrian Dolan and Pierre Shryer trio JUNO winner joined with Irish accordionist Dermot Byne. This fun performance full of passion and explosive energy will bring the audience to their feet. Expect the unexpected at the dinner and dance night on July 14th. Satisfy all of your senses with exquisite Serbuab cuisine prepared by a professional chef from Vancouver. You will be dancing your feet off while entertained by Michael Bridge and energetic accordion groups Bijou de Bayou and Ensemble Transatlantico de Folk Chilean. If you would like to be knocked off your feet by world class artists and entertainers, to cry from laughter, do not miss the concert on July 15th. Double-Double duo will amaze you with comedy, virtuosity, and musical sensitivity with their all original arrangements of classical showpieces, sensitive jazz ballades and fiery folk music from around the globe Get ready for the competition! This year, Victoria International Accordion Competition will have seen solo and one ensemble category. The prize budget is over $5000 CAD! For all the details, please visit: www.bcaccordion.ca With featured festival performances, dance and dinner night workshops, competitions and free open air concerts, there something for everyone. We look forward to seeing you in beautiful Victoria, Canad! |
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77th Annual ATG Festival July 19-23by Rita Barnea |
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| The 77th Annual Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) Festival will be July 19-23, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in Lisle, Illinois. We’ve got an exciting line-up of solo and ensemble concerts, workshops, activities, and fun. So make sure to make room on your calendar for an unforgettable accordion experience at the ATG! ATG President Amy Jo Sawyer invites all to attend, "Check out the Quartette Gelato website: www.quartettogelato.ca. Another exciting group will be the “Alex Meixner Band” from Florida. See and hear their terrific showmanship on their website: www.alexmeixner.com. Fabulous Jazz accordionist, Paul Betken, will take the stage with two Chicago based excellent sidemen, drummer, Phil Gratteau, and Bassist Jim Cox. Paul resides in Arizona and has performed at many ACCORDION and Jazz Festivals. Workshops, Concerts, New Music for accordion Concert, Luncheons, Banquet, accordion vendors,Meet & Greet Party, CDs & Music for sale and new friendships! We all love to play the accordion! Please attend the Festival. You are guaranteed a “Squeezin’ Good Time”. The ATG Festival accordion Orchestra is a real highlight of the Festival, directed by Joan Cochran Sommers. Accordionists attending the festival sign up to rehearse/perform with the orchestra. When you register for the orchestra, you state the level of music you are able to play. Orchestra music is then sent to you several months ahead for you to learn and prepare to play with the fifty piece ensemble. Classical, Pops, Jazz, plus all kinds of ethnic music are chosen by Maestro Sommers for the orchestra to perform. It is always a very excellent performance that will enhance your accordion studies and experience. We are a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization. We welcome your donations to the various categories to promote and support the accordion funds: Youth Scholarship Fund, New Music Fund, ATG General Fund and more. We are here to help promote the accordion, to raise its standards, and to gain the popularity that it deserves in the world of Music!" |
“Annie Gong & Her Magic Orchestra” Concert Tourby Harley Jones |
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| Annie Gong is a highly accomplished digital accordionist & professional entertainer who has a very busy schedule playing on several Cruise lines as a headline Artist. Originally from China, now based in New Zealand and performing worldwide. Annie plays a Roland digital accordion and her unique 2 by 45 minute shows & performance receive many standing ovations & lots of great audience feedback. “Annie Gong & Her Magic Orchestra” includes music from classical, romantic, movie, pop and rock music. Annie will perform at 1. Queens Library New York City on the 29th of April. 2. Sellersville Theater on the 3nd of May. Ticket available at Sellersville Theater 1894 website. 24 W Temple Ave, Sellersville, PA 18960, USA 3. Sunrise Civic Theatre Thursday May 11 2017 at 6pm 10610 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Sunrise, FL 33351 Accordion lovers in the States will be able to see Annie’s show without having to be on-board a cruise. For further information, please email annie@annieaccordion.com |
Alexander Sevastian in Concert in Vancouverby Rita Barnea |
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 Video: Amazing duet " Bayan Mix " and the magnificent instrumental ensemble quartetto " International " Oktyabrskiy with Alexander Sevastian.Alexander Sevastian will perform on Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at The Russian Hall, 600 Campbell Avenue,Vancouver, British Columbia V6A 3K6. You are invited to attend the concert featuring Alexander Sevastian and the Folk -Band “Silver “performing Russian, Ukrainian, Jewish, Gуpsy and other songs with their beautiful voices and traditional costumes. Alexander Sevastian is a winner of the prestigious Coupe Mondiale International Accordion Competition in 2007 in Washington, DC. He is also a winner of three other competitions such as The Oslofjord (Norway 1998), Cup of the North (Russia 2000), Antony Galla-Rini (USA 2001). A native of Minsk, Belarus where he finished the Glinka College (class of Miron Boula) After his triumphal victory at the Coupe Mondiale in 2007 Alexander 's solo career began to thrive. He was invited to perform recitals at several prestigious festivals in Vancouver, Victoria, Mont-Treblant, Montmagny, Las-Vegas, Stresa (Italy), Kraguevac (Serbia), Castelo Branco (Portugal), Samara (Russia). While he was a student, Mr. Sevastian joined a Russian TV folk instrument orchestra and with great support from the conductor Nikolai Nekrasov he became a featured soloist. After graduating from the Gnessin Academy of Music and getting a Masters Degree in performance, Alexander moved to Toronto, Canada. Soon after he got an Advanced Certificate in Performance from the University of Toronto (class of Joseph Macerollo) and joined the famous ensemble Quartetto Gelato. With this group Alexander has toured every province in Canada and almost every state in the USA. Alexander was featured soloist with several leading North America symphony orchestras, including The Toronto Symphony with a very successful debut in 2008. Alexander became a Canadian citizen in 2005. He is married and lives in Thornhill, Ontario with his wife Anna and son Vova. Ticket $30 Seniors and students $20 ph.778-355-7377 His future performances include: May 7-9 Canmore, BC Canada with Quartetto Gelato May 13 Sudbury, ON, Canada with Sudbury Symphony (Forsyth Concerto) For further information: sevastian2004@gmail.com Photo by Vladimir Kevorkov. |
“Accordions Rising” Film Available at Special World Accordion Day Priceby Rita Barnea |
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 “Accordions Rising” Filmmaker Roberta Cantow announces that her film is available on more streaming sites now, including itunes. That information can be accessed at the website: www.accordionsrising/purchase or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AccordionsRising.There is a special sale which will continue through May 6th in honor of World Accordion Day, (US only). The DVDs for $10.00 and Blu Rays have a new price, $18.00 (same URL as above for website). After May 6, the DVDs will be pried at $15.00 (a reduction from last year's price). Very soon the sale of the DVDs and Blu Rays will be turned over to her distributor. The film will end up in retail shops across the land, so best to order now as a last effort to support the filmmaker for the making of the film. In addition to the attention that the film received at US film festivals, (Bare Bones, Cinema on the Bayou, Indie Filmfest and Global Accolade Competition, it is now getting seen with purchases far and wide and has made it into the UK, Sweden, Germany, Australia and Denmark. "Accordions Rising" is not a historical documentary but one that emphasizes some of the ways the instrument is alive today. AWW continues to provide up to date information on "Accordions Rising", the important documentary on the accordion, created by prominent film maker, Roberta Cantow. So far the film has received the Winner, Award of Merit from the Accolade Global Film Competition and is the 2016 Official Selection of the Cinema On the Bayou Film Festival. Roberta Cantow said, "Accordions Rising" had its debut screening at the Cinema on the Bayou Film Festival in Lafayette, Louisiana in January, 2016, where it was well received by an audience of film goers, music educators, music aficionados and film enthusiasts. Within no more than a week, the very reputable educational film distribution company, Filmakers Library expressed an interest in wanting it for their collection. This is very good news for the film since Filmaker's Library is now an imprint of Alexander Street Press, Inc. This means that the film will have the possibility of being purchased, screened, streamed and presented in university and public libraries, and for college classrooms all over the country and beyond." Roberta has a long-standing relationship with this company which has been distributing her film, “Clotheslines", since 1982, and she is thrilled. From the "Accordions Rising" Website: "Accordions Rising offers entertaining, conversational style interviews, anecdotal commentary and both formal and informal music performances from celebrated accordionists, composers and bands working in America today. These musicians make up the colorful and thoughtful cast of characters who drive the story by tracing their uniquely personal attractions to the instrument and sharing their surprisingly divergent paths: from immigrant roots, Creole or Roma beginnings, for example, to a recognition of the very special niche this so-called “low art” form provides for inspirations in jazz, classical, new music, pop, fusion forms, operatic styles and beyond. The film provides a tapestry of fascinating individuals, their attitudes, deep passions, and above of all else, profound dedication to the instrument. We learn that though still a rebellious lot, these music makers have an audience in some of the hippest hide-a-ways and most sought after mainstream venues. The film makes clear that the so-called “accordion world” is actually a curious continuum that includes everything from wacky and kitsch to sophisticated, serious, meditative and post modern. As Dr. William Schimmel points out, “the accordion is the icon of the 21st century.” Roberta's life long career in film making has rendered several Best of Category Awards, a Film of Great Merit Award and a Best of Festival Award, among others. For further information: rcantow@originaldigital.net |
Stas Venglevski Concert in Falls Church, Virginia on May 21by Rita Barnea |
 Video: Stas Venglevski and Tatyana Krasnobaeva perform "Dance Espagnole"--Manuel de Falla, on March 5, 2017 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Milwaukee, WI. Presented by Accordion XXI, artistry on a global scale. Bayan virtuoso, Stas Venglevski, blends his talent with Tatyana Krasnobaeva cimbalom (dulcimer).Virtuoso bayanist, Stas Venglevski, will be Guest Artist at the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society meeting on Sunday, May 21, 2017 at 4:PM. The concert will take place at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church, 3435 Sleepy Hollow Road, Falls Church, Virginia 22044. Stas’s future performances include: Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration on June 15, 2017 Milwaukee Accordion Club on June 26, 2017 Akkordemotion 2017 International Accordion Camp on August 6, 2017 in Switzerland 18th Annual Las Vegas International Accordion Convention on October 23, 2017. From his website: Stas is a regular participant the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra's Arts in Community Education Program (ACE); has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra; has done television commercials and performed in theater productions; produced numerous recordings including a transcription of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite for Bayan as well as one of original compositions. He has published several books of original compositions. Stas founded Accordion XXI Century Series in 2010 so that the Midwest audiences can experience the amazing range of the Accordion and Bayan by bringing gifted artists from all over the world. In a concert setting, these gifted musicians share their skills and cultures to provide the audience with a unique musical experience. The performances feature the Accordion or Bayan in solo presentation and, when possible, in concert with other instruments. Admission is free for WMAS members and $8 for non-members. Refreshments will be served. For additional information: Joan Grauman at Joangrauman@verizon.net |
Jamie Maschler to Perform for NAAC in Online Eventby Rita Barnea |
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 Gabe Hall-Rodrigues, NAAC Secretary and Board Member invites all to extend the celebration of world accordion day by attending the monthly online meetup featuring accordionist Jamie Maschler! When: May 7, 2017 at 7:00 PM Eastern Standard Time Jamie is a professional accordionist who lives and works in Seattle, WA. This meet up is a great opportunity for any and all NAAC members to hear a fantastic musician and to ask questions regarding performing and educating as a young professional in today's accordion landscape. The theme for this monthly meet up is "Giving Yourself to the Accordion” featuring professional accordionist and educator Jamie Maschler. Jamie will perform and answer questions offered by you, the NAAC members. Questions should be focused on themes such as or related to: -Learning techniques or styles -Performance perspectives -Finding work as an accordionist Jamie Maschler is carving her name in the music scene as a virtuoso accordionist. Most recently accompanying the Seattle Symphony and opening Seattle Opera’s- Hansel and Gretel. Maschler also teaches at the Jazz Night School in Seattle and is a music festival favorite performing and presenting workshops on stylized Brazilian & Tango music around the country. Questions must be submitted to contact@thenaac.org prior to the online meet up. Date: Sunday May 7, 2017 Time: 7:00-8:30 Eastern Time (US and Canada) Location: NAAC will be using the video conference platform Zoom. For online registration information: contact@thenaac.org to find the details and register on the NAAC events page Cost: Free This meet up is a great opportunity for any and all NAAC members to hear a fantastic musician and to ask questions regarding performing and educating as a young professional in today's accordion landscape. |
Accordion Pops Orchestra in Concert in NJby Rita Barnea |
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 The Accordion Pops Orchestra conducted by Al Terzo takes place Sunday, May 21, 2017 at 3:PM:East Brunswick Community Arts Center 721 Cranbury Road East Brunswick, NJ 08816 Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door. Guest soloists are: Cody McSherry (Lancaster's Got Talent Champion will be performing "Dance of the Comedians" with the orchestra.) Vocalists Sasha Leon and Emmanuel Cruz from the New Jersey Opera. Andrea Maurer - Flute Virtuoso. (Performing 2 selections with the orchestra. Conductor of the Accordion Pops Orchestra since 2011, 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 is 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. The largest professional accordion orchestra of its kind on the East Coast, the APO consists entirely of accordions plus percussion instruments. In addition, the orchestra often accompanies guest soloists including pianists and vocal artists. Much of the orchestra's music needs to be transcribed to accommodate the range of the accordion. While accordion transcriptions are sometimes available for symphonic pieces, most often they must be produced. The orchestra has drawn on the talents of the conductor and its members for this arduous task. Most of the twenty-five plus members of the orchestra are professional musicians or teachers. Many are soloists in their own right. The orchestra performs a repertoire of light classical, Broadway, big band and popular music. It has entertained audiences at concert halls, county fairs, festivals, schools, and playhouses at many locations primarily in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York. For further information: E-mail: webmaster@accordionpops.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Tony Lovello Presents Workshop at New England Accordion Connection and Museum Companyby Rita Barnea |
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| Video: Tony Lovello - Accordion Legend and Cory Pesaturo - Digital and Acoustic Accordion World Champion team up for the very first time to perform at the New England Accordion Connection & Museum Company. Enjoy this very special rendition of Summertime!!! The Tony Lovello instructional workshop at The New England Accordion Connection and Museum Company took place on April 29 and 30, 2017 at the New England Accordion Connection and Museum Company. Topics covered included precision, execute, authority, bellows shake, and more. As you may have heard, this was Tony's last public appearance. He is retiring from playing in public after this event. But he will continue his online accordion teaching program. Papa Joe De Clemente said, “I had the great opportunity to meet the fabulous Tony Lovello at the New England Accordion Museum in Canaan CT. The photo of Tony and me is in front of his father's accordion which was made by my Great Grandfather Augusto Iorio." Also on display were over 300 accordions and memorabilia.The New England Accordion Museum is now the New England Accordion Connection & Museum Company! In addition to our accordion museum, they are now offering new and used accordions for sale, servicing and repairs. Tony says, “Well folks, I think ‘It is Time.’ After my upcoming appearance at the New England Accordion Museum on April 29-30, 2017, I will no longer perform live or give live seminars. However, I will, of course, continue with my SKYPE lessons and will continue to record new videos and post them on You Tube. The soundtrack of my life has been very interesting and I like to think of my legacy as not how I lived my life but how many lives I have touched with my music.“ To contact Tony: Phone 859-223-1778 Cell: 859-227-1932 Email: tlovello@windstream.net For further information on the museum: ramunni@comcast.net |
Texas Folklife Announces the 2017 Big Squeeze Accordion Winnersby Sheree Scarborough |
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| Photo included: Big Squeeze Champs 2017 (from left to right): Luis Gonzalez, Donovan Bourque, and Mason Nesvadba, Photograph by David L. Dodd, Courtesy Texas Folklife] Austin, Texas – April 24, 2017 – Texas Folklife is pleased to announce the names of the young accordionists who were chosen as this year’s Big Squeeze Accordion Contest Champs. They are: Donovan Bourque, 16, from Beaumont, Grand Prize Winner for Cajun/Zydeco; Mason Nesvadba, 20, from Guy, Grand Prize Winner for Polka; and Luis Gonzalez, 21, from Grand Prairie, Grand Prize Winner for Conjunto. The winners were chosen at the Big Squeeze Statewide Accordion Contest Finals and Concert that was held on the Lone Star Plaza at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin on Saturday, April 22, where 10 finalists competed for the three titles. It was an afternoon celebrating Texas’s vibrant roots music and all things accordion with more than 400 in attendance—many dancing to music by Rio Jordan, Ruben Paul Moreno, and the Gulf Coast Playboys. Congratulations to our new Big Squeeze Champs, the finalists and all of this year’s contestants—thank you for keeping the accordion tradition alive in Texas. This was the 11th year for the statewide program that supports up-and-coming Texas musicians who are 21 years of age or younger. The contest is one of the ways in which Texas Folklife carries out its mission to preserve and present Texas’s diverse cultural heritage. The contest recruits players in all genres of the Lone Star State’s accordion-based music. This spring Texas Folklife produced 8 Big Squeeze talent showcases in communities throughout the state to search for young accordion talent. Showcases were held in the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas, Houston, Southeast Texas, Dallas and San Antonio so that the squeezeboxers could display their accordion skills at public performances in their communities. Texas Folklife also accepted digital and mail-in entries. A panel of esteemed music professionals judged the contestants on their technical proficiency—skill in playing, and technical and musical accuracy—as well as their song interpretation (stylistic choices, innovation, and originality) and stage presence. There were 7 judges representing a variety of Texas-based accordion genres who judged the showcases and the Big Squeeze Finals. The Big Squeeze 2017 Grand Prize Winners receive a prize package valued at more than $4,000, including a cash prize, a brand new Hohner accordion, performance opportunities with Texas Folklife, publicity, and other professional development opportunities. Additionally, the Grand Prize Winners will be given the chance to perform onstage with legendary Texas musicians at Texas Folklife’s Accordion Kings & Queens Concert, held at Houston’s Miller Outdoor Theatre on Saturday, June 3, 2017. “Congratulations to our 2017 Big Squeeze Champs,” said Executive Director Charlie Lockwood. “The 2017 contest brought us 29 young musicians from all parts of the state with accordion skills in every genre. We had a great turnout at every showcase and an incredible group of young contestants this year. I am grateful to all who participated—our sponsors, our venue hosts, our talented musicians at the showcases and the Finals Concert, and especially the contestants and their families. Thank you.” The Big Squeeze is supported by Hohner Inc., the Texas Music Office, and Rancho Alegre Radio, by grants from H-E-B, Texas Commission on the Arts with an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art, the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department, the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, and the Houston Endowment. Regional community and venue partners include Hacienda Records, Texas Polka News, Cajun Sounds Internet Radio, www.zydecoevents.com, Conjunto Heritage Taller, McDonald Public Library in Corpus Christi, Café 4212, Multicultural Education & Counseling through the Arts, Larry’s French Market & Cajun Restaurant, 508 Amphitheater at Encore Park and the Museum of Street Culture, Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, Los Fresnos High School, La Joya Independent School District, Central Texas Accordion Association, Motorblade Postering Service, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum. 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, and is designated by the National Endowment for the Arts as the Folk & Traditional Arts organization for the state. Since 1984, 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 inquiries: Sheree Scarborough 512-922-5483/ sheree.scarborough@gmail.com Program inquiries: Alysha Hernández 210-286-1999 / bigsqueeze@texasfolklife.org |
Connecticut Accordion Association Concert at Mattatuck Museumby Rita Barnea |
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 The Connecticut Accordion Association presents a Pops Concert, “Bellows Open: The Great Squeeze Project” on Sunday, May 21, 2017 at 3:PM at the Mattatuck Museum, 144 West Main St., Waterbury, CT. 06702. Conductor Peter Peluso will lead a program including rock, jazz and movie classics. The concert is named after a grant program called “Bellows Open: The Great Squeeze Project” which CTA President Marilyn O’Neil obtained. The program was designed to introduce band students at Wolcott High School to the accordion and several of the students from Walcott High School’s Band Program will join the Connecticut group on their instruments. This program is supported in part by the Arts and Culture Collaborative, Waterbury Region, in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Connecticut Acccordion Association began in 2004, the brainchild of Marilyn O'Neil and her accordion teacher, Mary Tokarski. The CAA is dedicated to the promotion of the accordion through all music genres and all variations of accordion instruments! Welcomed are musicians who play all types of accordions....piano accordion, diatonic, chromatic button and more. accordionists at all levels, and people who may not play the accordion, but love to listen are invited. The Connecticut Accordion Association goals are: To promote public interest in the accordion through public awareness. To hold gatherings, concerts and other activities throughout the state of CT. To act as a resource to provide referrals in accordion instruction, repair, sales and/or trade, sheet music, accessories, etc. To network with fellow associations throughout the USA in an effort to provide unity within the accordion world. For further information: Marilyn@CTAccordion.com or call 203-272-1202 |
Dr.William Schimmel: Brooklyn Accordion Club Concert and Additional Touring Datesby Rita Barnea |
 Video: Arrangement (Reality) and performance by William Schimmel, accordion, at the Mostly Mozart Festival at Lincoln Center with the International Contemporary Ensemble ICE at The Clark Studio Theatre. Bill has performed at this festival several times.On Sunday, May 14, 2017, Dr. William Schimmel will present ”Thinking Inside the Box” at the BAC, Brooklyn Accordion Club, 61 Bergen St. Brooklyn, NY from 3:PM to 5:PM. Admission: $5.00 (Kids under 18 enter free! You know kids who are interested in learning accordion? Bring them along!) It's Mother's day! Bring your mom(s), and moms enter for free! Dr. William Schimmel's Spring to Summer Tour includes: The New York City Ballet - Lincoln Center - NY May 4 - 6 and 7 new Ballet by Alexi Ratansky - music by by Leonid Desyatnikov May 11 - 13 - Ottremare by Bruno Moretti - Dr. William Schimmel, Accordion Soloist May 14 - Brooklyn Accordion Club - Thinking Inside the Box May 19 - The Godfather Project - Long Island Symphony - NY May 25 - International Society of Contemporary Music Orchestra - Miller Theater - Columbia University June 6 to 11 - New York City Ballet - Kennedy Center - Washington DC June 12 - Helsinki Club - Hudson New York July 28, 29, 30 - The Seminars - Tenri Cultural Institute - NY August 3 - Talea Ensemble - new work by Georg Friedrich Haas Bill is also playing in the Soundtrack to "Norman" - a new movie recently released starring Richard Gere. The Brooklyn Accordion Club builds a community of accordion players of all levels and accordion enthusiasts in the heart of Brooklyn, and provides performing/learning opportunities for players of all levels. For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
Roland V-Accordion East Coast Event Hosted by Music Magicby Rita Barnea |
 About 40 people attended an informative and entertaining demo of the Roland accordion FR-4x sponsored entirely by Alex Chudolij of Music Magic USA at the UACCNJ Community Center in Whippany, NJ.Attendees to the event came from as far away as West Virginia, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Upstate NY, Long Island, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. All were delighted by Alex's fun presentation and had their questions expertly answered. Roland expert Steve Albini, who attended via Skype, was available to answer more questions about the instrument. Steve said, "The FR 4x is the instrument I use the most for my gigging. The weight and size make it a hit. Batteries are not an issue. I am pleased with the battery life. I have had the 4x since November 2016." Steve and Alex patiently and clearly answered questions from the audience. Bruce Gassman, Rock 'n Roll accordionist, enthusiastically entertained the audience. There was also an open mike portion of the program. Open mike performers included John Custie, Bruce Gassman, Papa Joe De Clemente, Ralph Salerno, Michael Soloway, David. Goclowski, Ralph Salerno, and Nick Franco. Eddie Monteiro thrilled everyone with a virtuosic demonstration as he played impromptu on the FR-4x towards the end of the afternoon - right from the audience area! Founder and President of Music Magic USA and Accordions USA, Alex Chudolij, started his musical career at the age of 6. For the next 10 years he studied the piano accordion as a student of well known professor, teacher and performer Tulio Gasperini in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. During the latter part of his formal training Alex earned numerous awards in solo, band and ensemble categories at Rhode Island state competitions as well as national American Accordionists Association championships held in Pittsburgh, PA, Washington, DC and Springfield, MA. As a teenager Alex was already making numerous concert and festival appearances, pleasing the crowds with classic showpieces and his own concert arrangements. In 1991, Alex recorded a unique one man band instrumental album, "Electric Kozak" which was recorded using a midi accordion. This recording made its debut at the Garden State Arts Center, where it sold over 200 copies in its first day of sales. For the next four years Alex's Electric Kozak Band had been providing entertainment for crowds of all sizes and for all occasions, including a gala reception for then Olympic gold medalists Oksana Baiul and Victor Petrenko. Alex's wife, Lillianna, performed as the band’s lead singer until 1996, when Alex retired from regular band engagements and subsequently founded one of North America’s first and largest Internet based accordion dealerships – Music Magic USA. For further information: info@musicmagicusa.com 888-887-0975 |
Mary Tokarski and Nathan Chapeton at LIAAby Rita Barnea |
 La Villini Restaurant of East Northport, NY is sponsoring the next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at 6:PM. The featured guest artists will be Mary Tokarski and her student, Nathan Chapeton.Come join us for a great evening of accordion music. Bring your friends. Check us out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandAccordionAlliance Place: La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731. Call for reservations: 631 – 261 – 6344 |
Accordion Round-Up YVRby Rita Barnea |
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| Accordion Round-UP YVR will take place on May 7, 2017 at the Princeton Pub in Vancouver. The event is hosted by Debra Peters and Sue Baines. Also join Texas accordionist Debra Peters and her band as they celebrate World Accordion Day on May 30th, 2017 from 6-8:PM at the Broken Spoke, 3201 S. Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78704. For further information on both events: dp@debrapetersmusic.com |
Bachtopus in House Concert in Dobbs Ferry, NYby Rita Barnea |
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| On Saturday, May 13, 2017, accordionist Jeanne Velonis will host a concert at her house in Dobbs Ferry, NY featuring the Bachtopus Accordion Ensemble, of which she is a part. Concert guests may arrive after 3 PM for some light refreshments and a chance to mingle with the band. The performance will begin at 4 PM and will last about an hour. Admission will be by donation. Space in her house being a finite quantity, it is critical that you RSVP to reserve a spot. Reservations will, by necessity, be on a first-come, first-serve basis, so please respond as soon as you can! Details on directions and parking will be sent later to those who plan to attend. Bachtopus members include: L-R: Peter Flint, Robert Duncan, Denise Koncelik, Jeanne Velonis, Mayumi Miyaoka Bachtopus performs music by living composers and Johann Sebastian Bach. Exceptions are made as for the music of Lars Hollmer and Alexander Borodin. Visit YouTube for some of their videos. For further information: sinolev@yahoo.com |
Interest Growing In Frog Festival Accordion Competitionby Harley Jones |
 Excerpts from an article written by Steve Bandy, Rayne Acadian-Tribune:Interest is growing in the Frog Festival Accordion Contest, where the winner in the adult division walks away with a brand new handmade accordion. The contest, to be held under the Frog Festival Pavilion on Saturday, May 13, has been expanded slightly due to the overwhelming interest shown in the inaugural event, according to Blaine Dupont, chairman. Last year’s contest saw a total of 14 participants in three age divisions. In the Youth (ages 10 and under) and Junior (ages 11 through 17) divisions, top three winners are awarded cash prizes. The Adult Division is a winner-take-all contest, with first place awarded the accordion. All competition rules, regulations, and registration forms will be available at www.raynefrogfestival.com |
Trio Musette to Perform at La Villini in East Northport, NYby Rita Barnea |
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| La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731 (631.261.6344) in keeping up with its history of promoting successful accordion events on the first Wednesday of each month is now adding an additional evening of accordion music on the third Wednesday of the month. On Wednesday, May 17, 2017 La Villini Restaurant will be sponsoring "Trio Musette" featuring accordionists Manny Corallo, Dominic Karcic and Frank Toscano. Musical festivities start at 6:PM. Reservations are highly recommended.Please come and join us on Wednesday, May 17th and hear “accordion music at its best.” |
36th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, TXby Diatonic News |
 The Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center will host the 36th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival May 24-28, 2017, at the historic Guadalupe Theater and Rosedale Park in San Antonio, Texas. The festival expects to draw over 5,000 Conjunto music lovers from across Texas, the U.S., Mexico, as well as international visitors. Executive Director Cristina Ballí will direct and curate the festival and Juan Tejeda, founder of the Tejano Conjunto Festival, will serve as advisor.The festival will feature about 30 of the very best and most popular bands in Conjunto music complemented by plenty of dancing, food and beverage booths in a family-friendly environment. The festivities include special events such as the presentation of new inductees into the Conjunto Music Hall of Fame at a special gala event; a free Seniors Conjunto dance; an Accordion Tuning workshop; the Tejano Conjunto Festival Poster Contest; and the opportunity to win top-of-the-line Hohner accordion. Locations: Historic Guadalupe Theater 1301 Guadalupe St., San Antonio, TX 78207 Rosedale Park 303 Dartmouth, San Antonio, TX 78227 Sam’s Burger Joint 330 E. Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215 Info: http://www.guadalupeculturalarts.org/tejano-conjunto-festival/ |
Angela Falcetti Wins in 55th New England Music Festivalby Rita Barnea |
 Accordionist Angela Falcetti won top prizes in two categories in 55th Anniversary New England Music Festival: Electronic Solo - 1st place Adv. Polka up to 12 - 3rd place Angela started on the accordion at 6 years of age and has won several trophies for her participation in both regional , (New England Music Festival in Boston), and national, (American Accordion Association in N.Y.) Angela started on an acoustic accordion and recently switched to a Roland Digital Accordion. She loves to sing and play and has no fear of introducing her own program and handling the entire process of entertaining her audience. Her first gig was at 9 years old when she was hired and performed a Christmas Concert at a local Senior Center. Her teacher and grandfather, Sam Falcetti, was apprehensive about sending her out to perform by herself so he played a few duets with her, but of course she was the hit of the party. Angela plays all genres of music from Broadway to Pop to Polka and Jazz. She has just recently found a new love: Jazz, Scat Singing and Improvising. She loves to participate in talent shows, frequently plays at her school, has performed in “The Lion King Jr." and “The Little Mermaid” has been taking dance lessons for 6 years. She also recorded a half hour session on her Roland Digital Accordion for Public TV which appeared on National News. Her grandparents, Sam and Peggy Falcetti, have been operating Falcetti Music sharing the joy of music with thousands of people in Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut for 60 years. It all started as a small retail store and place to learn and play music. Today, hundreds of students come through the doors each week to study and make music of all types. For further information refer to the ATAM web site: www.atammusicfestival.com . For further information: peggyf1944@gmail.com |
Future events |
Texas Folklife Announces 28th Annual Accordion Kings & Queens Concertby Sheree Scarborough |
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| The 28th Annual Accordion Kings & Queens Concert Free Concert will be held at Houston’s Miller Outdoor Theatre on Saturday, June 3, 2017. Featuring the Texas Tornados with Flaco Jiménez, Santiago Jiménez Jr., Step Rideau & the Zydeco Outlaws, Sheryl Cormier & Cajun Sounds, the Moravians, and the Big Squeeze 2017 Grand Prize Winners Texas Folklife will bring its annual celebration of the state’s accordion roots music to Houston’s Miller Outdoor Theatre on Saturday, June 3, at 7:00 p.m. In keeping with its mission to preserve and present Texas’s diverse musical heritage, the concert will feature Texas accordion music legends in polka, Cajun, zydeco, and conjunto. This year’s accordion stars will include the Grammy-winning Texas Tornados with National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellow Flaco Jiménez, National Medal of Arts winner Santiago Jiménez Jr., Step Rideau & the Zydeco Outlaws, Sheryl Cormier & Cajun Sounds, and the Moravians. Writers and radio hosts Joe Nick Patoski and Tony Diaz return again as the emcees. The concert is free and open to the public. There are two seating sections: open seating on the garden lawn and reserved covered seating under the shade of the pavilion. Concertgoers interested in reserved pavilion seats have two options: · Pick up tickets on the day of the concert at the Miller Box Office. The ticket limit is 4 per person and all are first come, first served. · Or, become a member or renew your membership to receive special reserved covered seats and the option to receive your tickets in advance. Memberships begin at $25 for students and seniors and $35 for individuals. Further membership information is available at http://www.texasfolklife.org/info/membership. In addition to supporting the non-profit work of Texas Folklife, during the concert, members will be entered into a raffle. Raffle prizes will include a brand new Hohner accordion, tickets to the Alley Theatre, an autographed photo of Flaco Jiménez, Texas Folklife merchandise, and more. The Grammy-winning Texas Tornados have been called the ultimate Tex-Mex super group and can be considered a Texas music All-Star band. The band’s music is a fusion of rock, country, R&B, and various Mexican styles. The initial combination of musicians that formed the Texas Tornados happened almost by chance at a San Francisco concert performance in 1990. The original group was made up of Freddy Fender, Flaco Jiménez, Augie Meyers, and Doug Sahm. They took the title Texas Tornados, after Sahm's song "Texas Tornado.” After the untimely deaths of Sahm (1999) and Fender (2006), the group disbanded for a period of time. The current group includes Tornado original musicians Louie Ortega, Speedy Sparks, Augie Meyers, Flaco Jiménez, and Ernie Durawa, as well as new members Nunie Rubio and Shawn Sahm, Doug Sahm’s son. The new Tornados produced their first album together in 2010, Esta Bueno, which was produced by Shawn Sahm. Grammy-winner and “Greatest Tejano Accordionist Ever” Flaco Jiménez said about the new Tornados sound, “the groove is back,” and it appears to be true. Santiago Jiménez Jr. has a more traditional accordion style than his brother Flaco, and has won numerous awards during his long career. Just some of his numerous significant achievements: He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in traditional Tex-Mex/folk music in 2000, an NEA Heritage Award in 2000, and in 2015 President Obama awarded him a National Medal of Arts. Stephen Joseph “Step” Rideau was born in 1966 in the St. Landry Parish town of LeBeau, Louisiana. Surrounded by Creole culture and zydeco music from infancy, it wasn’t until relocating to Houston in the mid-1980s that he began to play the accordion and eventually formed his own band. Today, Step Rideau is widely acknowledged as one of the living masters of the instrument. He’s also established himself over the past two decades, through multiple recordings and festival appearances, as one of the most prolific and passionate zydeco recording artists, songwriters, and live performers across the globe. Cheryl Cormier is known as the queen of the Cajun accordion. She was one of the first women to break through the sexist restrictions of Louisiana's Cajun music scene. A former leader of an all-woman Cajun band, Cormier is currently the leader of Cajun Sounds, a group that features Isaac Miller, Jr. (steel guitar, vocals), Ben Goodwin (drums), Ivy Dugas (bass) and Travis Matte (fiddle). The oldest of four children, Cormier grew up surrounded by Cajun music. Her father was the leader of the Sunset Playboys, a band that included her mother on drums. The Moravians are a polka band that hails from Ennis, Texas. The young band came together in 2009 with a group of high school and college students. The band gets its name from the fact that all the members have ancestors who emigrated from Moravia in the Czech Republic to the United States. Although they have only been together a few years, they’ve played at numerous festivals, dances, and events throughout the state. And keeping with tradition, the Accordion Kings & Queens will be joined onstage by the current Big Squeeze Accordion Contest Champions. Crowned on April 22 in Austin at the Bullock Texas State History Museum after a series of performances and judges opinions, the three 2017 Grand Prize Winners—Donovan Bourque from Beaumont (Cajun/Zydeco), Mason Nesvadba from Guy (Polka), and Luis Gonzalez from Grand Prairie (Conjunto)—will take to the stage and have the opportunity to play with this older generation of Texas musicians who helped pave the way for their accordion dreams. “The Accordion Kings and Queens Concert is one of the flagship programs of Texas Folklife,” said Executive Director Charlie Lockwood. “The concert honors the ‘national instrument of Texas,’ and the legends and superstars performing Texas roots music across the state in several different genres—polka, Cajun/zydeco, and conjunto. It is our mission to preserve and promote this music, and at our annual Accordion Kings & Queens Concert we bring communities together to celebrate these shared accordion music traditions. Please come out to the Miller Theatre on the first Saturday evening in June, help us celebrate, and wear your dancing shoes and boots!” The Accordion Kings & Queens Concert is funded in part by the Board and members of Texas Folklife, the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, Houston Endowment, Hohner Inc., Arena Energy Foundation, and by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts with an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art, the Raven Grill, the Houston Press, and KPFT 90.1 FM. Additional support is provided by South Central Music Source, and the City of Austin through the 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. Since 1984, 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. Miller Outdoor Theatre The Miller Outdoor Theatre is located just south of downtown Houston, near the museum district and the Houston Medical Center in Hermann Park. The address is 6000 Hermann Park Drive in Hermann Park, Houston, Texas, 77030. For more information contact (281) 373-3386 |
Ksenija Sidorova in Mostly Mozart Debut in NYC in Augustby Rita Barnea |
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| Video: Latvian accordionist Ksenija Sidorova performed at the Night of the Proms in Belgium. The concert was aired by EEN in Belgium. This video contains “ armen" (with Il Novecento) and "All Rise" (with Il Novecento and Blue). Ksenija Sidorova will make her New York City Mostly Mozart Festival debut on Saturday, August 5 at 10:PM at the Stanley H. Kaplan Penthouse. A Deutsche Grammophon artist, Sidorova combines blazing technique with “flair and fun” (Gramophone). Watch from a cabaret table in the Kaplan Penthouse as she deftly unleashes the full expressive range of the instrument—from manic wit to sultry incantations. Excerpts from her website: Encouraged to take up the instrument by a grandmother steeped in the folk tradition of accordion playing, Ksenija started to play the instrument aged eight under the guidance of Marija Gasele in her hometown of Riga. Her quest for more exposure to both classical and contemporary repertoire took her to London where she became a prize-winning undergraduate at the Royal Academy of Music studying under Owen Murray. She subsequently received her Masters Degree with Distinction. In 2009 Ksenija made her debut at London’s Wigmore Hall and appeared in the Park Lane Group Young Artists Showcase prompting The Times to single her out as“one of the real finds of the series”. In May 2012 she became the first International Award winner of the Bryn Terfel Foundation, and this year appears at the Royal Albert Hall as part of his 50th birthday celebrations alongside Sting. A recipient of both the Philharmonia Orchestra’s Martin Musical Scholarship and Friends of the Philharmonia Award, as well as the Worshipful Company of Musicians Silver Medal, Ksenija has just been appointed a Junge Wilde Artist by the Konzerthaus Dortmund. Ksenija regularly collaborates with Miloš Karadaglić, Juan Diego Flórez, Nicola Benedetti, Thomas Gould and Joseph Calleja. She works extensively with Avi Avital who, along with Itamar Doari, comprise the trio for the “Between Worlds” project which this year sees performances at Shakespeare's Globe, throughout Germany and on a substantial US tour (including dates in Boston, Washington and New York) in spring 2016. She has also appeared on Arte’s “Stars von Morgen” with Rolando Villazón. Forthcoming highlights include performances of Erkki-Sven Tüür Prophecy with the NHK Symphony and Paavo Järvi; a tour with Latvian National Symphony Orchestra; and concerts with the Luzerner Sinfonieorchester, WDR Rundfunkorchester, and at the Cheltenham and Bad Kissingen Festivals. She made her debut at the Vancouver Recital Series in September 2016. For ticketing information and general questions, please call 212.721.6500. |
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 15-18by Rita Barnea |
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| The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration will be held from June 15-18, 2017 in Leavenworth, WA. The Northwest Accordion Society has been hosting accordion events in the Northwest for over 25 years. Included in it's accomplishments are monthly accordion socials, the annual "Day of the Accordion" at the Seattle Center, accordion scholarships, and it's elegant quarterly publication "The Northwest Accordion News". Leavenworth is Washington’ s “Bavarian Village ” and a perfect setting for this celebration. Nestled in a narrow valley at elevation of 1100 feet surrounded by wilderness of rugged, majestic mountain ranges, over 2 million visitors per year from all over the world come to experience magical Leavenworth. With the Northwest Accordion Society as your host and Leavenworth as the setting, why not plan to join us and enjoy four wonderful days of everything accordion. Whether you are a competitor, participant or just love great accordion music, there is enjoyment and participation for everyone. Here is a partial list of what is happening: Accordion Competitions; Workshops; Concerts with World Class Performers; Free Performances at the gazebo, grange, and restaurants; Free Accordion lessons; Accordion Parade on Saturday; Accordion Vendors; Opportunity for all accordion players to play; Jam sessions and much more! This is a celebration of the accordion’s versatility and its presence in many cultures. Accordion music is what this event is all about. For further information contact the Northwest Accordion Society: Phone: (206) 622-4786 E-mail: bonniebirch@msn.com. |
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Seriesby William Schimmel |
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 The 2017 AAA Master Class and Concert Series will be held on July 28, 29, 30, 2017 at The Tenri Cultural Institute, 43A West 13thSt between 5 and 6 Ave. Master Classes from 3:PM to 5:PM. Concerts at 7:PM to 9:PM.$25/ Master Class $30/Concert $50/day - Includes Master Class and Concert $135 for the entire weekend Dr. William Schimmel - Moderator and Curator The Red Lantern Accordionist….. Our 23rd Smash Year Accordion Culture is based on Contests. Championship Contests - much like sports. Who comes in First of course is the Champion - whether its the World Champion, The U.S. Champion or the Whatever Champion. Sometimes the term, Champeen, is used. There are those who come in Second and Third - they get trophies - but they are not Champions - or Champeens. What about the person who comes in last place? Ever watch a marathon? - and the final runner still running while practically every one has gone home or partying? He or She just wants to make it to the end - to run the course - personal best and proud to be a part of it - as St. Paul says - “I fought the good fight. I have kept the Faith”. That’s the Red Lantern Winner - Last place - a last place winnerWe have Red Lantern Accordionists - The backbone of the industry - in it for the long haul - signed up for the whole ride - putting other’s interests first - working for the betterment of the culture We dedicate this weekend to The Red Lantern Accordionist - May his or her light shine bright! Are you crying yet? Ok - We got the maudlin stuff out of the way - now let’s get down to the real deal of it. The Red Lantern Accordionist doesn’t think too much about making a difference. He or She already has - by constantly showing up and working. The Red Lantern Accordionist doesn’t think too much about His or Her relevance. Too busy helping others - including those who think they are. The Red Lantern Accordionist is not concerned about making history every time He or She takes a breath or makes an excrement - much too busy in the mere doing of their art, and trying to improve it - and yours as well. The Red Lantern Accordionist can be a bit cynical at times - He or She knows a little too much - been around a bit - knows that their days are numbered and wants to make the most of them - some quietly - some with a vengeance. Red Lantern Accordionists never quite know whether they have won or lost the good fight - even at the end - and neither did St. Paul - or Don Quixote - or any warrior worth mentioning. He or She has totally obliterated themselves - understands the value of the Third Banana - is tempered like steel - has been through the fire - and came out it wounded, vulnerable and stronger than an ox - a work horse - a mule. Red Lantern Accordionists are kind - happy and a bit sad - and not to be fooled with. There is no logical reason to become a Red Lantern Accordionist Red Lantern Accordionists are called By whom? Don’t quite know But They feel the call Of a different winning Of heard labor Of a different winning For no other reason other than to do it As best as they can Because they can If you are one of them This is your time You’re welcome Others are welcome too But the focus will be Red Lantern! Participants will include: Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Will Holshouser, Doug Makofka, Brian Dewan, Yoichi Fukui, Gene Pritsker, Melissa Elledge, Mark Nathanson, Benjamin Ickies, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dragica Banic Curcic, Peter Flint, Erica Maire Mancini,Dave Soldier, Mayumi Miyaoka, Dan Cooper, The Yorkvillians, Rachel Swaner, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Bachtopus, Milica Paranosic, Michael Dames, Peter Jarvis, David Stoler, David First, Mary Spencer Knapp, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Lee Mc Clure, Ken Laufer, John Foti, Kathleen Tipton, Marni Rice, Bob Goldberg, The Famous Accordion Orchestra, Corn Mo, Rachid Eladlouni, Carl Reihl, Linda Reed, Rita Barnea, Dr Denise Koncelik, Alicia Svigals, Elizabeth Brown, Ted Nash, Jeanne Velonis, Cecylia Barczk, Devon Tipp, Sydknee, Michiyo Suzuki, Robert Duncan, Miwa Gemini, Jenny Cho, Elliott Sharp, Jennie Muiio, Elaine Yau, Carita Patamikakam, Uri Sharlin and many others and a few surprise guests - and Dr. Schimmel. Reservations and Information: Phone: 212-876-0827 Email: accordionbill@gmail.com |
Victor Prieto’s International Jazz Accordion Master Classesby Rita Barnea |
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| Registration for The International Jazz Accordion Master Classes in Ourense, Spain. July 8-9 and 15-16 2017 is officially open. The classes will take place at Centro Cuntural Marcos Varcarcel. Group 1 (8th-9th). Group 2 (15th-16th). At this time there are only 3 spots open for July 8-9 and 5 spots open for July 15-16. Ourense City (Spain) will become once again the center of the Jazz accordion world wide with attendees coming from all over the World. It will be an unforgettable musical and fun experience for all the attendees. If you have any question please write to the organizers: masterclass@victorprieto.net or contact by phone: 34-665-629-110. (English, French, Spanish and Portuguese are spoken) Groups and Schedules info: -The group will have a maximum of 8 students. Once the 8 spots are filled more students will not be accepted. Students will be admitted by order of registration. -The Master Class will last for 10 hours distributed as follows: 3 hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon each day. -The classes will run from 10:30 to 13:30 and 15:30 to 17:30. The lunch break will be from 13:30 to 15:30. -The Master Class will be entirely in English. (Victor will translate to Spanish in case is needed as in past years) July 8th and 15th during the night, there will be an open Jam session at the best Jazz Club of the city "Cafe Cultural Auriense", so all the participants can play with other instruments, experiment, socialize and have a great time performing in front of an audience. During the Master Class the following subjects will be worked on: There will be a rhythm section (bass and drums) both days. -Improvisation: in different styles and understanding scales. (Pop, rock, bolero) not only in jazz. -Comping: How to form chords, close position, open position, Upper structures. Poly-Chords: My technique "Chord Approach on both hands.". -Styles ,How to frase and comp: Jazz, blues, Brazilian, traditional tango, new Tango and other styles of modern harmony. -How to work and what to do in a recording studio when you get only chord changes. -We will watch videos and analyze them. How the accordion interacts with other instruments depending of the instrumentation of the groups. (Duo, Trio, Solo, singer, piano) - A book with Material will be given to each student for further studies and review (to take home with you). -We will practice and perform with a rhythm section (bass and drums). So everyone can apply all the information that we have gone over. -How to use the registers and voices of the accordion to orchestrate and and have a bigger variety of colors and sounds. Payment will be accepted through PayPal or credit card through the following link: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LTECFDQ4YGYM6 Put the name of the student in the description. For Spain residents: -El importe del curso es de 210 €. - Se abonaran 110 € de registracion y los 100 restantes se entregaran en efectivo el primer dia de la clase. - Los abonos atraves de Paypal tienen que ser completos. -El ingreso se efectuará en el siguiente número de cuenta (Banco Santander): VÍCTOR PRIETO CRUZ IBAN : ES53 0030 6035 2000 0137 9270 BIC : BSCHESMM Concepto: MASTERCLASS Ourense 2017 You will receive information about transportation, hotels and lodging. If you have any question please write to masterclass@victorprieto.net or contact the organizers at: Phone 34-665-629-110. |
40th Annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival in Julyby Rita Barnea |
| Video 1: Videoclip de la canción "Maltzeta” from the CD/DVD "Korrontzi dantzan” by the group Korrontzi. The 2017 Vancouver Folk Music Festival lineup of accordion acts include Basque Korrontzi, Colombian Sidestepper, and Ferron's All-Star Band,. The event takes place July 13,14,15,16, 2017 in Jericho Beach Park. Excerpts from the Vancouver website: "The Korrontzi folk band from the Basque Country in Northern Spain was formed back in 2004 by trikitixa (Basque diatonic accordion) player, Agus Barandiaran. He wanted to give Basque and Biscayan folk music and Basque ancestral and traditional sounds a more contemporary feel, while not straying too far from a musical heritage based on the trikitixa and other ancient instruments like the txalaparta (percussion) and alboka (woodwind). To that end, the group incorporated varied contemporary and mainstream instruments such as the mandolin, bass guitar, electric contrabass and other percussion, and musical influences from around the globe, to create great Basque roots music with a global flair. The band takes their name from an old trikitixa player who used to go from his farm on donkey to the Biscay town of Mungia’s main square and back every Sunday – bringing cheer to the villagers who gathered there to listen to his songs. The group has shared that same joy in their culture, language, dance and music with folks all around the world to applause and great acclaim. Now, to us, Korrontzi brings the rich tapestry of colours and landscapes found in traditional Basque music & dance with a unique and forward-looking vision. Prepare to be enthralled!” Early bird tickets are now on sale. The rumours are true. Early Birds do get the lowest prices, so purchase now and save! PHONE: 604.602.9798 IN PERSON: VFMF office #230, 275 East 1st Avenue during regular office hours Adults, Elders, Students and Youth Early Bird discount rates are in effect until June 9 |
Vancouver Island Musicfest July 14-16by Rita Barnea |
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 The Vancouver Island Musicfest will be held from July 14-16, 2017 at the Comox Valley Fairgrounds.The VI MusicFest has been bringing great music to the Island since 1995. Produced by the Comox Valley Folk Society, the organization is a not-for-profit, largely volunteer driven event. DakhaBrakha will perform on Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 7:PM on the Concert Bowl Stage. Excerpts from the Vancouver Island Music Fest Website: "DakhaBrakha was created in 2004 at the Kyiv Center of Contemporary Art “DAKH” by the avant-garde theatre director – Vladyslav Troitskyi – and given the name that means “give/take” in the old Ukrainian language. Theatre work has left its mark on the band performances – their shows are always staged with a strong visual element. After experimenting with Ukrainian folk music, the band has added rhythms of the surrounding world into their music, thus creating the bright, unique and unforgettable sound of DakhaBrakha. They strive to help open up the potential of Ukrainian melodies and to bring it to the hearts and consciousness of the younger generation in Ukraine and the rest of the world as well. Accompanied by Indian, Arabic, African, Russian and Australian traditional instrumentation, the quartet’s astonishingly powerful and uncompromising vocal range creates a trans-national sound rooted in Ukrainian culture. At the crossroads of Ukrainian folklore and theatre, their musical spectrum is at first intimate then riotous, plumbing the depths of contemporary roots and rhythms, inspiring “cultural and artistic liberation”. |