![Jacques Mornet's [non] Method Book with Video Support](http://www.accordions.com/index/squ/graphics/jmornet-en.jpg)
Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
ATG Announces ATG Online Master Class Series
Circus of the Mind: Virtual Multimedia Concert by Canadian Accordion & Clarinet Duo, Acclarion
Bachtopus 2020 Composers Commissioning Fund Invites Submissions
Alicia Jo Straka to Perform for San Francisco Accordion Club on September 20
Book Completed: Play Your Accordion Without Pain
GDTLC’s Digital Essentials To Be Released on September 30
“Skerryvore” Performs at Rams Head On Stage, Maryland
Squeeze Play VIP Monthly Concerts with Kim and Dan Christian
Dr. William Schimmel and Peter Jarvis New CD: “Dragonfly” Released Sept. 1
First Ever IPA (International Polka Association) Virtual Festival
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
A World of Accordions of Museum presents World Premiere
30th Annual Cotati Virtual Accordion Festival
Ideas Virtual Symposium 3.0 Registration Now Open
Cory Performs Famous Flintstones Melody and More
Young Accordionist Gia Ciccone in Performances
Maria Telesheva Wins 2nd Prize in Online 12 Years & Under Australian International Accordion Championship
Scythian Presents Live Concert in Virginia on Sept. 5th and 6th
2020 Virtual Accordion Camp Reunion
AAA 2020 Master Class & Concert Series with Dr. William Schimmel, Moderator and Curator
Vancouver Squeezebox Circle Meets on September 3
Richard Noel Presents Front Porch Concert in California
New Products from AccordionGifts: Car Shade & Safety Mask
Future events |
Zydeco and Blues Workshop with Bruce Sunpie Barnes
AAA Festival: July 14-18 2021 in Philadelphia, PA
ATG 2021 Festival in Lisle, Illinois
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The accordion world is going strong with many online concerts, festivals, and competitions. Some events are being held outside in a socially distant fashion. In this month’s news, you will learn about new events, CD’s. videos, and classes. You can wisely use your at home time to practice, learn, and communicate with accordionists all over the world.Wishing you all continued good health and please remember to send your ideas and comments to Ritabelll@aol.com |
ATG Announces ATG Online Master Class Seriesby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Announcing the ATG Online Master Class Series. Come observe some of the finest accordion instructors in the world provide instruction to students. Their first Online Master Class will be held on September 27th at 3:00 C.S.T. You will have the opportunity to observe the world renowned Joan C. Sommers provide instruction to 4 different students at various levels. Don't miss out on this free chance to learn from the best. The e-learning series participants include: Beatrice Makkah (advanced), Zach Grindle (Intermediate/advanced), Tania Machl (Intermediate), Joyce Liftoff (Adult advanced beginner). ATG President Mary Ann Covone Carden said, “This is the first ATG sponsored online event, and it is open to all! Tune in to watch Joan Sommers, a master teacher, work with students at various levels of ability. All are welcome, and we especially invite all teachers to attend.” |
Circus of the Mind: Virtual Multimedia Concert by Canadian Accordion & Clarinet Duo, Acclarionby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
 Acclarion’s “Circus of the Mind” project was released on August 14, 2020. It is now available for viewing in the video above. It is available to stream on demand at any time. Acclarion has created “Circus of the Mind”, a one-of-a-kind 30 minute multimedia show that will celebrate the creative possibilities and natural evolution of classical music performance. The presentation marries virtuosic and emotional live performances alongside compelling visual imagery that captivates the senses and stirs the imagination.This program has been created with the support of the Canada Council for the Arts. Concert accordionist and composer David Carovillano and clarinettist Rebecca Sajo-Carovillano have charmed audiences throughout North America since 2003 with their warmth, passionate performances, and the spontaneous, humorous banter only a husband and wife team can create. Acclarion's four albums, featured on national and internet radio and selling globally on itunes, give classical masterpieces a makeover and showcase vibrant, contemporary works. Shattering expectations all over North America with their rare ensemble, the duo has performed with Order of Canada recipient George Zuckerman, given live CBC concerts at the Glen Gould Studio with pianist Angela Park, and shared the stage with harpist Erica Goodman for their concert-wedding at the University of Toronto. Excerpts from their website: Since 2003 the husband and wife team of accordionist David Carovillano and clarinetist Rebecca Sajo-Carovillano have created a luscious, irresistible blend with their instruments and delighted audiences with their virtuosic flare and entertaining banter. “I have never heard such fresh and exciting performances of my favourite classical pieces. This duo has a passion for their music and each other that we’ve missed from other concerts. Watch out for them!” (Stanley Solomon, former principal violist of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, President Friends of the Toronto Symphony) David and Becky met at the University of Toronto and fell in love practicing together for their Master of Music recitals. Upon graduation, these classically trained musicians traded the world of lengthy avant-garde compositions for classical crossover: short works featuring scintillating harmonies, sweeping melodies and lively rhythms that engage and entertain audiences. “Acclarion takes the perceived elitism out of classical music and makes it more accessible. You can’t compare these performers to anyone. They are in a class by themselves.” (Ben Nind, Artistic Director Northern Arts & Culture Center, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories) I thoroughly enjoy their music and recommend that you listen to their works. The combination of clarinet and accordion creates an experience which will truly enhance your life. For further information: acclarion@yahoo.com |
Bachtopus 2020 Composers Commissioning Fund Invites Submissionsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Bachtopus is still accepting submissions for their 2020 commissioning fund. They greatly encourage submissions from traditionally underrepresented groups in music composition, including ethnic minorities, women, and LGBT+. Bachtopus has awarded six subawards so far, and the list of awardees is impressive: Guy Klucevsek, Will Holshouser, Rob Curto, Denise Koncelik, Tony Kovatch, and Bob Goldberg. This fund is designed to promote awareness of contemporary accordion music in Brooklyn, provide composers with an opportunity to write for the instrument, and expand the repertoire for accordion ensembles. Submissions should be under ten minutes, written for intermediate accordion quartet, and accessible to the general public. Original work or a substantive arrangement of the composer’s previous work are acceptable. We will collaborate with composers as they work toward a final draft. Composers will be awarded $500 for the completion of the final draft within a time frame that is agreed upon. For more information: https://bachtopus.com/commissioning-fund/ Acknowledgements - The Bachtopus Accordion Ensemble’s 2020 Composer Commissioning Fund is sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development Fund of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, administered by Brooklyn Arts Council (BAC). Contributors: Brooklyn Arts Council, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs |
Alicia Jo Straka to Perform for San Francisco Accordion Club on September 20by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video 1: KOIN TV Oregon Musician Raises Money for CharitiesVideo 2: 2020 Not Just Oompah! Concert - Online Edition with Alicia Jo Straka Alicia Jo Straka will perform for the San Francisco Accordion Club on September 20, 2020. Portland musician Alicia Straka has been performing concerts specifically to raise money for the CDC and the International Rescue Committee and others. Alicia Jo Straka, previously Alicia Baker, is a professional accordionist, pianist, and vocalist from Portland, OR, currently residing in Denver, CO. Alicia received 3 bachelor of arts degrees from Oregon State University and a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from University of Colorado, Boulder. Throughout her years as a student, Alicia had the honor of being a sponsored accordion and piano artist for the prestigious company, Roland, and has wwon many International accordion competitions. 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 in New York. Alicia’s repertoire spans a wide variety of musical genres, including; jazz, pop, opera, French musettes, folk songs, polkas, contemporary, classical, romantic, and techno. She is also a composer and often features her own arrangements in concert. 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. For further information: aliciajostraka@gmail.com |
Book Completed: Play Your Accordion Without Painby Harley Jones |
  In March 2018, John Bonica PT CMP NZRP (New Zealand and USA), suffered a heart attack and heart failure with no prior discernible symptoms. At that stage, his book "Play Your Accordion Without Pain" was in the final review stage.Since that time, a colleague of John Bonica has reviewed the book completely and all the graphics in the book have been upgraded and finalised. The completed book is now available and the US$22 or Euro equivalent price has been kept the same. The book is sent to you by email in pdf format. "Play Your Accordion Without Pain" is an amazing book full of excellent advice. John Bonica was an accordionist for over 50 years. He has recorded four CDs of Italian and European folk music utilizing a MIDI orchestra ensemble. Other activities include writing and publishing (he was editor and publisher for the US published ‘Accordion World’ magazine from 1989 until 1994), sailing and photography. His day job in the medical profession as a specialist in spinal, extremity joint, and soft tissue diagnosis and treatment, meaant that he made a lifetime study of mechanical pain, and had at his disposal many different treatment and prevention options. He was able to utilize not just one method or theory, but many viewpoints and techniques to suit the diagnosis. Read all the information about the author and his book at: John Bonica Play Your Accordion Without Pain |
GDTLC’s Digital Essentials To Be Released on September 30by Dennis O'Toole |
 |
| The upcoming release of GDTLC Digital Essentials is being rescheduled, with the new release date being September 30. This time should allow time for a high quality product at a time of erratic and unpredictable work schedules. In the mean time, don't miss GDTLC's upcoming episode 1 of The Whole Note, a new video series for accordionists. Join us on the GDTLC Facebook page on August 8, 2020 at 7:PM for our live broadcast. The Gary Dahl–The Legacy Continues (GDTLC) organization curates the large collection of Gary Dahl’s accordion arrangements. After Gary’s passing, GDTLC was founded by accordionist Tris Gour and engraver Dennis O’Toole, with the support of the Dahl family. Not simply an archive of arrangements, GDTLC has expanded and modernized its offerings and services. GDTLC will soon be releasing its latest product, Digital Essentials, developed by Tris Gour. GDTLC’s Digital Essentials is a foundation collection of sound programming for digital accordionists. This initial product is for the Roland FR-8X and the Bugari Evo. The Digital Essentials collection includes both accordion Sets and User Programs. There are two refined accordion Sets that deliver distinct and rich sounds based on a sampled 2013 Borsini SuperStar IV with musette tuning. These unique sounds are not available elsewhere. The first Set is a faithful, “as sampled” (stock) Set with a digitally added third middle reed and two levels of tone chamber. It includes both dry and wet settings. The second Set is a similar instrument, but with digitally adjusted tuning for a noticeably milder musette. These sounds were created with a careful and exacting process of sampling and sound programming to reproduce the timber and characteristics of the Borsini SuperStar. These Borsini Sets are a great addition to the instrument sounds already available. GDTLC’s Digital Essentials includes 112 User Programs built on top of the Borsini Sets and carefully layered with orchestral sounds in both treble and bass. Each combination is carefully crafted for an effective musical impact, and has been acoustically adjusted and balanced for best results. This collection provides rich and professional sounds, suited to a wide range of musical styles and interests. The User Programs are grouped into 8 User Program Banks for fast and convenient installation. They are also available as individual User Programs for installation wherever you’d like. GDTLC’s Digital Essentials collection will be available beginning September 30, 2020 and can be ordered on the GDTLC website at AccordionMusicAndLessons.com at that time. |
“Skerryvore” Performs at Rams Head On Stage, Marylandby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video: Alec & Daniel // Live Across The World warmup On September 5, 2020, Skerryvore will return with their first live performance in 6 months with a very special show streamed live from the stunning Clydeside Distillery, Glasgow. As well as a performance from the band, there will be a virtual tour of this exciting new distillery and interviews with the band in the Tasting Room that overlooks the River Clyde Tickets for this event have no set price and those wishing to support the band can donate whatever amount* they wish when securing their access to the live stream.There are exclusive add-ons and merchandise available to all attendees of the stream including limited edition signed posters and t-shirts, digital set-list & programme and a chance to keep this special show for life via a bootleg download of the concert! There is also a very special competition where the band will have a unique bottle of malt whisky presented by the Clydside Distillery that can be won by 1 very lucky person who will have their own name on the label of the bottle! Tickets for the draw are available via the add-ons section of the ticketshop. “Skerryvore” (which includes brothers Daniel on accordion and Martin Gillespie on pipes, whistles and accordion) will also perform at Rams Head on Stage in Annapolis, Maryland, USA on September 13, 2020 at 8:PM.The band, who won the Scottish Traditional music’s ‘Live Act of the Year’ in 2011 and 2016 play a variety of folk rock, funk and contemporary Scottish traditional music. Skerryvore represent the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music, with a growing fanbase worldwide and with the promise of much more to come. 2020 will mark the 15th year of Skerryvore, and see the band embark on an special anniversary world tour to select venues and festivals. Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter. Skerryvore are a multi-award winning Scottish band creating a ‘trad-rock’ fusion that has seen them perform in over 25 countries worldwide. Twice awarded 'Live Act of the Year' at the Trad Music Awards For details email: info@skerryvore.com |
Squeeze Play VIP Monthly Concerts with Kim and Dan Christianby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video: Squeeze Play…In this video, you will enjoy several different styles of music which we will soon be sharing in our concert of the month club. For the first time ever, you will have the capability to experience World Class Accordion Artists, Kim and Dan Christian (Squeeze Play) LIVE, delivered directly to your home. With the magic of the internet, some amazing video production, lots of ingenuity and a dash of creativity, you will now have up close and personal concerts available on your computer screen, cell phone or smart TVs. The first concert is scheduled for Saturday, September 12, 2020. Sign up to receive it: kdcstudios@gmail.com Each month, Squeeze Play will perform a private concert that will be available for VIP Concert of the Month Members Exclusively! The 2nd Saturday of each month at 2:00 will become the magical, energetic, amazing and just plain FUN virtual performance! You will start looking forward to this particular day every month! If you are unable to "attend" the performance time of 2:PM no worries! The concert will be available for 72 hours so you can enjoy it whenever it is convenient to you.Through this Concert series, Dan and Kim will be presenting a different genre and style of music each month that coincides with the holidays celebrated that month, so you can plan on a party or celebration while experiencing your live concert! Along with the Theme of the Month, Squeeze Play will also deliver a few flashy and "showy" numbers so that the audience stays mesmerized and intrigued. In fact, as a bonus, there will be a World Premier of Dan’s latest and greatest arrangements performed each month!! Kim Christian at a glance: US National Champion (AAA), Honorary Bronze Medal World Champion (Coupe Mondiale), 2 time RMAS Virtuoso Champion AFNA Virtuoso Solo Champion, Accordion Major at Loretto Heights College in Denver, CO, Director of many accordion orchestras from Beginner to Virtuoso Producer and Manager for "Music Makes the World Go Round," which celebrated an amazing 2 year run in Branson, MO., Accordion teacher and educator for over 35 years. Dan Christian at a glance: Four time Rocky Mountain Accordion Virtuoso Champion Winner, Winner of the Prestigious Anthony Galla-Rini traveling Trophy Director of the US National Champion Accordion Orchestra with record of 1st Place wins across the country Esteemed arranger and transcriber of music for accordion orchestra, duet and solo including works by Tschaikovsky, Dvorak, Saint Saens, Schubert and many others, Spotlighted solo accordionist for the premier run of 'La Curandera", the first opera to highlight the accordion as the principal instrument, Arranger for the music for the Christian duo's original Branson production "Music Makes the World Go Round", Accordion teacher and educator for over 40 years Phone Number: (719) 459 2061 Kim and Dan Christian |
Dr. William Schimmel and Peter Jarvis New CD: “Dragonfly” Released Sept. 1by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Dr. William Schimmel and Peter Jarvis have combined their superb talents to create a new CD, “Dragonfly” a collection of duos: Peter Jarvis – Composers, Percussion, William Schimmel – Composers, Accordion, and vocals. "Dragonfly" consists of composed and improvised music for accordion, percussion, and voice. The digital release on NAXOS, etc. will be on September 6, 2020. In the meantime, please contact Peter Jarvis if you are interested in a hard copy ($10.00 free US Shipping.) The release is on Composers Concordance Records #CONCOM0060. David Kerzner did the engineering and mastering. Cover photo by David Kerzner. Peter Jarvis is a percussionist, drummer, conductor, composer, music copyist, print music editor and college professor. He is Director of New Music at William Paterson University. He teaches percussion and chamber music at William Paterson University, Connecticut College and Bergen Community College in New Jersey. He is an Associate Director of he Composers Concordance and has over 100 compositions. Over the decades, he has performed popular and unpopular music with equal enthusiasm. He has performed as a soloist, chamber player, Broadway musician and as conductor/player with numerous chamber music ensembles, orchestras and choruses. The proliferation of percussion literature is extremely important to Jarvis, and nearly 100 solo pieces have been composed for him, which he has performed on multi percussion, timpani, vibraphone, marimba, solo snare drum and drum set composed for him.He has been nominated for a Golden Globe and an Academy award for “Best Score” as part of the composing team for major Hollywood films. Dr William Schimmel is a leading accordionist, composer and academic, based in New York, where he organizes the annual ‘Master Class and Concert Series (The Seminars)’ sponsored by the American Accordionists' Association. He received a Merit Award from the AAA for his contributions spanning fifty years plus the "Accordionist of the Year" Award in 1988. He has performed with many major symphony orchestras in the US, many chamber groups, as well as with rock), jazz, and avant-garde groups. As a Juilliard trained musician, he is frequently asked to play with the Philharmonic and other orchestras around the country. He also performs in the pit orchestras on Broadway, his most recent performance being the accordionist for the award winning production of “An American in Paris." Over the years Bill’s music has been included in television shows and films. His best known appearance is in the tango scene of "Scent of a Woman" starring Al Pacino. (See video above) Bill Schimmel learned accordion as a child and attended Julliard School of Music where he received his doctorate in composition. While he was still a student at the school, his career was launched after he recorded songs of avant gard composer, Luiano Berio. An authority on Kurt Weill, Dr. Schimmel has recorded all of Weill's music with accordion. Beginning in 1981, Schimmel’s Tango Project has released a string of acclaimed recordings on the Nonesuch and Newport Classic labels. The first Tango Project recording went to No. 1 on Billboard’s classical charts and was named Record of the Year by Stereo Review magazine. Dragonfly - liner notes.pdf For further information: Accordionbill@gmail.com |
First Ever IPA (International Polka Association) Virtual Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| The first ever IPA (International Polka Association) Virtual Festival streamed via Facebook & Youtube will be on Sept 4-6, 2020. The Master of Ceremonies for the weekend is Craig Ebel who was a 2012 IPA Hall of Fame Inductee and host of the popular “It’s Polka Time” Radio Show heard on the Polka Jammer Network. Craig is also the leader of the DyVersCo polka band. Friday, Sept 4th – from 5-10 PM (CST) Saturday, Sept 5th – 3:30-10 PM (CST) Sunday, Sept 6th – 11 am – 6:PM (CST) If you are interested in visiting the International Polka Association’s Hall of Fame and Museum, please call: 1-800-TO-POLKA (1-800-867-6552) or I.P.A. Official Rick Rzeszutko at 1-312-758-7490 to make an appointment. The International Polka Association is a non-profit organization whose purpose is the advancement of polka music. Your membership dues allow the IPA to continue its mission. Join today and be a part of this exciting organization! For further information: For further information: ipapolkas@gmail.com |
 |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
San Antonio Accordion Association Online Zoom on September 29by Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association |
 It's time to celebrate the end of summer and beginning of Pre-Octoberfest Season! San Antonio Accordion Association will be meeting online on a Zoom meeting on Tuesday, September 29, 2020 from 7-8:30 PM. Get online early with the link at 6:45PM to meet folks. We will be playing Hawaiian and German music plus solos from our members and guests! Please join us for the fun! Get your beverage of choice ready and wear Hawaiian shirts for a great online photograph!There are two booklets of German Music and Hawaiian Music which includes words for a sing along! You will enjoy learning these songs and adding them to your repertoire. If you need a link to our special zoom meeting, please email Laura: Ljniland@texas.net All meetings are on last Tuesday of the month Because of Covid-19, we are not meeting at Chesters in August, September, and October. All meetings will be online zoom. All meetings are 7-8:30 PM Central Time. Log-on at 6:45 PM and we start promptly at 7 PM. Download music for Zoom meeting at: ZoomSanAntonioAA.pdf |
A World of Accordions of Museum presents World Premiereby Dr. Helmi Harrington, Curator, A World of Accordions Museum, USA |
 |
 Milwaukee based accordionist Stas Venglevski performed on July 19, 2020 a highly successful live stream concert featuring the world premiere of a work by Joshua Schmidt. The concert was produced and streamed by Scott Lillo (Sound Central, LLC Duluth, MN). Josh Schmidt is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and guest lecturer at Harvard, Suffolk, University of Mississippi-Oxford, Illinois-Urbana/Champagne, and UNLV. His major compositions have won numerous awards including the Lortel Award for Best Musical; the Outer Critic’s Circle Award for Best Score & Best Off-Broadway Musical; Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Musical; four Obie Awards, nine Drama Desk nominations, and Drama League nomination for Best Musical. His work “ADD1NG MACH1N3” was heralded as one of the ten best events of 2008 in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Time Out NY and Chicago Tribune. Many recent prestigious credits have followed subsequent compositions. A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) was privileged to present the world premiere of Schmidt’s Suite “Eleven for Accordion” as interpreted through the genius of our special Museum friend Stas Venglevski. Stas Venglevski, well known throughout the USA, was born in the Republic of Moldova and since 1992 a resident of Milwaukee, WI, has honored us with performances on several occasions. His compositions range from masterpieces in miniature to orchestral feats. Additional to his international concerts, he teaches privately in Milwaukee. He earned a Masters Degree in music from the Russian Academy of Music in Moscow and has won many significant world competitions. Under the guidance of Friedrich Lips, Stas’s artistry, dazzling technical command and musical sensitivity have brought him to the forefront among concert accordionists. He has performed in solo concerts in Canada, Europe, throughout the former Soviet Union,throughout Europe, and in many events in the United States. His acclaim has advanced through theater productions, television commercials, and appearances with celebrities. He has been further distinguished as premiere performer of numerous original compositions. In service to the accordion community, Stas accepted duties as board member and president of Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, at which festivals he has performed, adjudicated, and conducted his orchestral compositions. In 2010 he founded Accordion XXI Century Series in order to share with Midwest audiences the skills and cultures of gifted artists from all over the world in unique musical experiences. As composer and arranger, Stas touches the souls of countless accordionists through self-published scores and recordings. In his Masterclasses, aspiring accordionists gratefully receive intelligent advice and tactful counsel by this inspired and inspiring adjudicator. The world premiere work by Josh Schmidt was: “Eleven for Accordion” (Suite in 11 movements): 1. Prelude (for Summer Lee Jack) 2. First Invention 3. Chorale 4. Second Invention 5. Touch Piece/Anthem of the Time (after Julius Eastman) 6. Waltz (for Dick Scanlan) 7. Third Invention 8. Lullaby (for Maggie Jo Langs) 9. Air/Tabula Rasa (after Terry Jennings) 10. Fourth and Final Invention 11. Post/Prelude (for Summer Lee Jack For more information on upcoming activities, please visit www.worldofaccordions.org. |
30th Annual Cotati Virtual Accordion Festivalby Christine Johnstone |
 |
| Video 1: Cotati Accordion Festival “Lady of Spain-A-Ring Video 2: Grand Finale online concert The 30th Annual Cotati Accordion Festival was held online in Cotati, California on August 22nd and 23rd, 2020. The fun “Lady of Spain-A-Ring" usually invites everyone who has their accordion to come up onto the stage and play. As this year's event was online because of Covid-19, the event had to be held differently, so organisers put out the call for folks to send in videos of their playing the "Lady of Spain" so they could be presented as part of their live stream. Everyone looked like they had a great time. Did you see the young lady in pink dancing? The festival was a two-day, multi-cultural, non-profit, multi-generational accordion extravaganza and included a variety of performers. See list above. The event finished with a Grand Finale online rendition of the well known song "So Happy Together" by the Turtles (1969). Picture below: Lady of Spain participants.  |
 |
Ideas Virtual Symposium 3.0 Registration Now Openby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| There has been a very positive response to Symposium 3.0. The Virtual Symposium 3.0 registration is now open on the Ideas website. Also, 2020 is the ideal time to attend the IDEAS Symposium, if distance and travel may have inhibited you before. You can experience what others have made excellent reports about from previous Symposiums, and enjoy this Symposium in the privacy of your own home. Joe said, "Consider attending Symposium 4.0 in 2021 in person if you love the experience, which we know you will, based on previous attendees! Michael Soloway and I are excited to welcome all new and previous attendees!" For further information: gr8.ideas@gmail.com |
Cory Performs Famous Flintstones Melody and Moreby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video 1: Jacob Collier’s “Flintstones” arrangement on Solo Accordion - CPez Video 2: Cory Pesaturo & Cassandra Pinataro perform Luigi Arditi's "Il Bacio" Cory Pesaturo (“C Pez”) aims to revolutionize the accordion. A multi world champion, C Pez is also a graduate on accordion of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. In 2017, Pesaturo became a Guinness World Record Holder, as RedBull® flew him to Austria to break the Marathon Accordion Record, in which Cory played for over 32 hours. His winning competition performances were played on accordions which were not his and were generally 90% improvised; virtually unheard of in international competitions. Cory has given 2 TED Talks, 2 Google Talks, an EG Talk, and spoken at various other conferences on the accordion. Cassandra Pinataro attends the New England Conservatory of Music for Classical Vocal performance. She sings classical music as well as pop, contemporary, and some jazz. Additionally, her interest in medicine has led her to take pre-med courses at Tufts University while studying at NEC and supplement this education with research internships at the Lehigh Valley Health Network Regional Burn Center. She is also a previously nationally ranked tennis player, mathematics tutor (specifically in Calculus I and II), freelance vocal instructor, part time songwriter and Pangea.app ambassador. For further information: cory@corypesaturo.com |
Young Accordionist Gia Ciccone in Performancesby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video: "How Great Thou Art" Gia Ciccone 12 yr old Accordionist. Arr. By A. Gallarini / M. Tacca on December 13, 2019 at Mario Tacca/Mary Mancini "A Candlelight Christmas Concert" at church of the Assumption Peekskill NY During these difficult times, it is always uplifting to witness the musical talents and progress of young people. Gia Ciccone is such a person, talented, motivated and always willing to share her musical talents with others. For these reasons, I thought our readers would enjoy her performance when she was the Guest Artist at Mario and Mary Tacca’s “A Candlight Christmas” Concert on December 14, 2019. Gia’s proud dad is AAA President, Dr. Joseph Ciccone, who also performs with the Hudson Valley Accordion Ensemble. The great Carmen Carrozza was her uncle. 12-year-old Accordionist, Gia Ciccone, is a 7th grade student at Somers Middle School in Somers, NY. She started taking Accordion lesson at the age of 5 with her Great Uncle Maestro Carmen Carrozza. Gia has consistently entered and won many prizes at the American Accordionists' Association's Annual Festival/Competitions and is a student of Maestro Mario Tacca, with whom she has been studying accordion and music with for the past 5 years. She has participated in The AAA's Youth Orchestra under the direction of Mary Tokarski and has been featured as a Guest Artist for: Mario Tacca & Mary Mancini’s “A Candlelight Christmas Concert", The Connecticut Accordion Association, The Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fundraiser Events, The Valtaro Reunion, Mario Tacca AAA’s Life Achievement Award Concert, The Feast of St Joseph the Worker, The AAA's Youth Outreach Program, The Hudson Valley Accordion Ensemble, The Accordion Pops Orchestra and the 2019 American Accordionists’ Association’s Gala Banquet/Concert. Gia is the first student Accordionist to receive The DeBellis School of Performing Arts Music Scholarship on May 19, 2019 and was the First Place Winner of the 2019 Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Competition Jr Division which took place in King of Prussia PA July 16, 2019 at the American Accordionists’ Association annual Festival/ Competitions. For further information: Drjciccone@aol.com |
 |
Maria Telesheva Wins 2nd Prize in Online 12 Years & Under Australian International Accordion Championshipby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Maria Telesheva USA J.S.Bach Inventions No 4 and No 8, A. Dorensky "Diamond Fingers"Congratulations to Maria Telesheva, 2nd Prize winner in the Online Australian International Accordion Championship Category: IO 250 International Open Accordion Championships, 12 years and under. Her winning video is above. 1st Prize winner was Yongxi Hong from China. 3rd Prize winner was Faris Halilovic from Bosnia and Herzegovina. There were 40 competitors in that category! It was a large competition with 139 competitors from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, China, Taiwan, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, UK, USA, New Zealand and Australia. The International jury was from 10 countries. Maria Telesheva started playing the accordion at age six. Since then, she has won several international accordion competitions in the United States and Canada. In 2018, Maria won second prize in the International Open Trophy World Accordion competition. Maria is learning from her father Sergei Teleshev and other accordion teachers around the world. She is playing different types of accordions and other musical instruments, singing, and dancing. For further information: steleshev@yahoo.com |
 |
Scythian Presents Live Concert in Virginia on Sept. 5th and 6thby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
 The popular band “Scythian” which includes accordionist Dan Fedoryka are pleased to perform their first live concerts since Covid-19 at “The Big Hooley” outdoor lawn show which will be held at the B Chord Brewery in Round Hill, Loudoun County, Virginia, USA on September 5th and 6th, 2020.The event will include 3 other bands, all playing on an outdoor stage, a special show for children entitled “Cake for Dinner”, plus Scythian will feature different shows on each day.“Scythian” (which includes accordionist Dan Fedoryka) performed on August 2, 2020 as part of the Fairfax County Park Authority Virtual Concert Summer Entertainment Series.The concert was live streamed and included the group’s new guest drummer, Alex Kuldell. Scythian is a Celtic/Celtic rock band based in the DC Metro Area that formed in 2002.The band's name, according to the members of Scythian, means “a bunch of pre-Mesopotamian barbarians who did not use forks or phonics," to describe a varying sound that encompasses everything from traditional jigs and reels to contemporary covers. The UB Post describes their sound as a mix of Celtic, Klezmer, Gaelic, Gypsy and Rock. The band was named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythians, due to the Ukrainian ancestry of Alexander, and Danylo Fedoryka.The band comprises brothers Alexander Fedoryka (Violin/Mandolin/Harmonica/Bass/Vocals) and Danylo Fedoryka (Rhythm Guitar, Accordion, Vocals) as well as band members Ethan Dean (Bass/Percussion/Vocals) and Johnny Rees (Percussion/Drums/Vocals). Scythian developed from a group of street performers in Alexandria, VA,and became the 2009 winner of Washington City Paper's Best of DC 'Best Local Band' competition. For details email: scythianmail@gmail.com |
 |
2020 Virtual Accordion Camp Reunionby Dan Grauman |
Video 2:
 Video 1: Les Miserables Medley arranged for accordion orchestra & conducted by JoanCochran Sommers at the 2014 Mesa Accordion Event Video 2: "A" Train arranged for accordion orchestra & conducted by Frank Marocco at the 2011 Frank Marocco Accordion Event In 2006 Frank Marocco asked Joan Grauman and me to run an accordion orchestra camp for him. We had previously attended accordion orchestra camps, but had never run one. We couldn’t turn Frank down, so we agreed to give it a try. Eight wonderful camps followed starting in January 2007, where lots of friendships were made. Frank had the foresight in 2009 to name Stas Venglevski as Assistant Music Director. When Frank sadly passed away on 2012, we were able to continue the camp for three more years, culminating in the 2014 event at which we celebrated Joan Sommers’ 80th birthday with an orchestra of 55 accordionists plus percussion and upright bass. The onset of the Corona Virus has certainly changed the way we live. Seeing all the virtual concerts that are taking place online, it occurred to me that a virtual reunion with people who attended our camp over the years might be feasible. I polled past attendees, and 35 signed up to participate in a video conference. With that many participants, we had to limit each person to talking for no more than two minutes. Three videos were interspersed during the session, two of which are included with this article. The reunion was a huge success lasting nearly three hours. While some of the participants have been communicating one-on-one, interacting virtually as a group was very exciting and meaningful. I highly recommend it! |
 |
AAA 2020 Master Class & Concert Series with Dr. William Schimmel, Moderator and Curatorby Dr. William Schimmel |
 |
 The 2020 Seminars were an outstanding success. It was our 26th year. It was the first time that The Seminars were presented on-line. Each day consisted of a Master Class at 3:PM and a Concert at 4:PM Dr. Schimmel hosted it live and performed live as well. The rest of the performances were pre - recorded. In addition to a staggering array of styles and genres (as always), there were tributes to Lou Coppola and Daniel Desiderio which can be seen in the enclosed program of events each day.The Online production was by Rachid Eladlouni. The Artistic direction was by Micki Goodman and I thank Denise Koncelik for her assistance and Linda Reed for her help in the reservations. The programs included: Friday, July 31: 3:PM: William Schimmel, History of the accordion and accordion ancestors; Will Holshouser, The Accordionist as a collaborative musician; Robert Young McMahan, AAA Commissioned Works; Jack DiBenedetto, “Psalm 98” by Karen Berry Chapman; Robert Young McMahan, Lou Coppola tribute age to Morton Feldman; William Schimmel, “Memory Amor” by Elliott Sharp, grphic piece; William Schmmel, “Etude 15” by Dave Soldier Friday 4:PM: Micki Goodman, Dancer Choreography/Performer; Will Holshouser Murmor for 4 accordions WH; John Foti Interplanetary Music JF; Lee McClure For Paul (Nash) LM; William Schimmel; Robert Young McMahan For Lou Coppola RYM; Denise Koncelik Fox/Fire Song DK; William Schimmel Year of Goodbye Gene Pritske; William Schimmel- Consumation of Right and David First - Wrong; Benjamin Ickies Exquisite Corpse BI, and others (4 bars each) Saturday 3:PM: Performer. Title Composer: William Schimmel & Peter Jarvis Playing (hitting) the bellows; William Schimmel, Hot-headed Accordionists,; Guido Diero, Nicky Wayne; Paul Stein, Concerts from the Stoop, Sunset Park, Brooklyn; Sari Kalin, Come Sunday by Duke Ellington; Denise Koncelik & Jeanne Velonis, Accordion Appetites, programming concerts; Bachtopus Quartet, Immortal Bach by Knut Nystedt, video compilation Rob Duncan; Denise Koncelik, Catalonia! By William Schimmel, accordion & video DRK Saturday 4:PM: - Performer. Title Composer: William Schimmel Cyclops Girl WS; For the Main Squeeze Orchestra Video by Denise Koncelik,Doug Makofka (Trio) Benedictus Dave Cousins ed WS; William Schimmel - talk Jacob C. Neupauer Order of the Shield Conservatory; David Stoler Tempo Voyager DS; Hap Kuffner, mandolin Accordion, Mandolin, Tape; Godfrey Nelson, guitar, voice; Gretchen’s Spinning Wheel, a realization Franz Schubert/Nelson/WS; Lorraine Nelson-Wolf, piano; William Schimmel, acc, Alexandra Hofman, soprano Sunday 3:PM: William Schimmel, Accordion ancestors; Erica Marie Mancini, Travelling Through Musical Zones; William Schimmel, “Vespero” by WS, homage to Daniel Desiderio; Erica Marie Mancini, Glamour and the Accordion; Main Squeeze Orchestra, “Carousel Breakdown” by William Schimmel; William Schimmel, Don’t be afraid to make theater, Projection & Intent & Chi Sunday 4:PM: Performer Title Composer: Bob Goldberg Pressed Rat & Warthog; Ginger Baker/Mike Taylor Passing the Time arr. & video BG; Denise Koncelik, acc Crow Song by DK; Raymond Storms, voice Margaret Atwood Video by DK; Melissa Elledge Long Road Lil Nas X, arr. ME; Mary Spencer Knapp Factory Suite MSK; Denise Koncelik, acc, vocal Those were the days Raskin/Fomin; Carl Riehl (and friends) Carl Riehl & Company CR; Robert Young McMahan Sonata for Accordion; Robert Baska 2nd. Movement; Erica Marie Mancini, acc, Feira de Mangaio Sivuca, arr. EMM Vocal, Fun Machine Yorkvillians @ Bar Thalia Key West WS; William Schimmel, acc John Ferrari, Drums; Dan Cooper, 8 string bass; Michiyo Suzuki, Clarinet; Denise Koncelik, acc, vocal Don’t get around much Duke Ellington; Brian Dewan Enough About Human Rights BD & Moondog; William Schimmel Beaux Arts Tango WS; Micki Goodman, Dancer Choreography/Performer You can see the entire program on YouTube. For further information: accordionbill@gmail.com |
 |
Vancouver Squeezebox Circle Meets on September 3by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| The Vancouver Squeezebox Circle meets on Thursday, September 3, 2020 7:PM at MacLean Park in Vancouver, British Colombia, Canada.There will be at least 12 accordionists “squeezing” and all are welcome to bring their instruments along and join in, or just come along to listen if you prefer.The group meets on the first Thursday of every month. It's "an informal gathering of accordions and their players from around the Vancouver region. Some play, some watch. No experience necessary, punk-rockers and polkas welcome." Set up a lesson, learn a lick, share a song, plan the squeezebox revolution (it is at Spartacus Booksl). The Circle was started by Bruce Triggs and Rowan Lipkovits, co-hosts of Vancouver Coop Radio (CFRO)'s Accordion Noir radio show (every Wednesday, 10 - 11 pm on CFRO 100.5 FM or anytime online and are now hosted by Alan Zisman of Vancouver folk band The Gram Partisans. See the short documentary One Less Guitar: A Film about Accordion Noir by Pull Focus Films. Write to macleanparkmusic@gmail.com For the songlist and download links for Thursday's Squeezebox Circle in the park (weather report is promising), email: macleanparkmusic@gmail.com |
Richard Noel Presents Front Porch Concert in Californiaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Accordionist Richard Noel decided to offer a neighborhood musical event a few months ago which included his family.The MC for the event was his daughter-in-law, Brenda Noel and the drummer was grandson Landon Noel. The audience members were spaced across the large tree-shaded lawn and the weather was comfortable for a June evening in Bakersfield. The video shows excerpts from the concert.Dr. Richard Noel from Bakersfield, California had a busy career as a Professor of Psychology at California State University and Director of CSUB Teaching and Learning Center. At the same time, he has performed on his accordion all his life. He was a winner of numerous state Contests in Oregon and Washington also holding titles in New York in solo, duet, quintet and orchestra division. For more than ten years Richard has performed as soloist in community events, dinner parties, restaurants, concerts, and more. Richard is an active supporter and consultant for the worldwide Roland v-accordion community. and involved in the development of popular programming for the Roland v-accordions--FR-8x, 7x, 3x, and 1x. He has a Youtube channel with almost 7 million hits, entirely dedicated to the digital accordion. For further information: richard@noelaccordion.com |
New Products from AccordionGifts: Car Shade & Safety Maskby Dan Grauman, AccordionGifts.com |
 |
 Dan Grauman of AccordionGifts announces the introduction of its two newest products, the car shade and safety mask.Keep your car cool in hot weather and show your pride in your instrument by placing the SUNbuster car shade behind your windshield. This corrugated cardboard sun shade prevents the sun from penetrating the windshield so the air is more bearable upon return. The sun shade efficiently folds up accordion-style to maximize vehicle space. The double layer mask, imprinted with two accordions, is made of soft breathable fabric consisting of 95% cotton and 5% Spandex. It is washable and reusable, and is adjustable around the nose. One size fits most adults. The mask is available in black or charcoal. AccordionGifts has a wide variety of gift items such as clothing, jewelry, stationery, and novelties with images of one or more accordions or keyboards. www.accordiongifts.com |
 |
Future events |
Acme School of Music Seeking Guest Artist(s) for “Virtual” Awards & Concertby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| On October 9,2020 the Acme School of Music will host its“end of the year awards program” for all students, club and orchestra members. Obviously this year they were not able to do so due to the Covid Pandemic and this will be their very first Virtual performance. The program will be held via zoom. and they would like to have two or three Guest Artists who would volunteer a 15 to 20 minute solo program. Each Guest Artist would perform in their own location via zoom. No traveling involved. This program will not be streamed over the internet or posted on youtube. It is a studio event, free of charge. Donations may be asked to support the Acme Scholarship Fund. The purpose of the program in addition to Awards, is to expose attendees to various genres of accordion. Guest Artists can play their special interest type of music. Guest Artist Selection will be based on a first response basis. Founded in 1948 and home of the Westmont Philharmonia Accordion Orchestra, the Acme Accordion School is the place for everything accordion. Acme sells new and used button box and piano accordions, CDs, DVDs and sheet music. They give accordion lessons and handle accordion repair. Acme is also the home of the Musik Garten, a music and art program, where children from birth to 6 years old can come to develop their sense of rhythm, coordination and social skills. Please contact Joanna Darrow: acmeaccordion@gmail.com or 856-281-4035. |
Zydeco and Blues Workshop with Bruce Sunpie Barnesby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Bruce Sunpie Barnes at the 2016 Bloomington Blues & Boogie Woogie Piano FestivalNot Just Oompah! is proud to announce another Workshop and Concert: "Zydeco & Blues with Bruce Sunpie Barnes" from New Orleans. Register NOW online at www.NotJustOompah.org. The cost is $65 person for the workshop will includes all materials delivered by email. (Details below) The free concert will be held on Facebook on Monday, October 5, 2020 7:00 – 8:00 PM Central Time. The Concert is free, but Virtual Tips are appreciated, and go to support the artist. To send Sunpie a Virtual Tip, Log into your PayPal account & Send a Virtual Tip to sunpie@cox.net A ZOOM Meet and Greet session will be held on Tuesday, October 6 from 7:00 -9:00 PM to meet participants and become familiar with the workshop agenda. The ZOOM Workshops will be held on Sunday, Oct 11 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm & Monday Oct 12 from 7:00 -9:00 pm (again, all times are Central Time Zone). The workshops will include video and audio sound bytes to familiarize participants with the rhythms which will be taught in the workshop which will focus on : Melody and Bass Rhythmic Elements. Participants will learn to play: Creole Two-Steps, One-Step, Blues Shuffles and Waltz. In addition, participants will learn How to create a Syncopated Dance-able Sound, Bass Button Patterns and Technique for playing Zydeco in Any Key, and to Sing at least One Song in Louisiana Creole. All workshops and Meet and Greet will be recorded for later viewing by participants who miss the presentation due to conflicts in scheduling. Bruce Sunpie Barnes is a veteran New Orleans musician, former park ranger with the National Forest Service (30 years), actor, Ethnographic photographer, book author, former high school biology teacher, former college football All-American, and former NFL player (Kansas City Chiefs). He is also a co-author of the book: Le Ker Creole : Creole Compositions and Stores from Louisiana (authors: Bruce Sunpie Barnes, Leroy Etienne, Rachel Breulin) which archives lullabies, prayers and songs of work and dance sung in Creole. He has traveled to over 50 countries playing his own style of Afro-Louisiana music incorporating blues, zydeco, gospel, Caribbean and African influenced rhuthms and melodies. He is a multi-instrumentalist, master accordionist and harmonica player. He also plays piano, rubboard, talking drum and dejembe. Sunpie learned to play the accordion from some of the best Zydeco pioneers in Louisiana, including Gernest Arceneaux, John Delafose, and Clayton Sampy. Along with his musical group "Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots" he performed at festivals and concerts across the US and around the globe. Barnes has 7 critically acclaimed CDs with his compositions currently featured in 16 Hollywood film productions. In addition to his musical work he is also a former member of the Paul Simon Band that embarked on a 62 city world tour "Paul Simon and Sting Together" which spanned 36 countries (2014-2015, and 2016). In April 2018, Barnes was honored to be invited by Carolos Vives to play for a week at the 51st Vallenato Festival in Valledupar, Columbia. A master at his craft, Sunpie Barnes will give us a tour of the energy and excitement of Zydeco & Blues music. Join in for this exciting presentation. For further information: Shirley Johnson 512-680-0422 shirleyJ@Vjeverica.com or accsaj@gmail.com Laura J Niland 210-651-4359 Ljniland@texas.net |
AAA Festival: July 14-18 2021 in Philadelphia, PAby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Festival 2020 in Alexandria, Virgina is cancelled. AAA President Dr. Joseph Ciccone shares, “It is with great disappointment that due to the circumstances surrounding the Corona Virus (COVID-19) emergency, we have made the necessary decision to cancel the AAA Festival July 8-12, 2020 at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites in Alexandria, Virginia. Our guest artists have been working hard over many months to prepare this wonderful event and we are so sorry that we will not be able to share these magnificent performances with you. Hopefully our artists will be available to perform at our 2021 AAA Festival in West Philadelphia. We are committed to public safety, including that of our many loyal attendees, guests and performing artists, and to help support the nation’s strong efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19, we join a long list of events that have already been cancelled. For those who purchased event packages and tickets, we offer them the following options: a full refund, leaving it as a donation or applying it to the 2021 AAA Festival at the Marriott Philadelphia West Hotel in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania July 14-18, 2021. The rate for the hotel remains the same - $130 plus free parking. We sincerely apologize for this cancellation but feel it is absolutely necessary for the good of everyone at this time." 2021 will feature the Festival Orchestra conducted by Mary Tokarski, Competitions, Vendors Workshops, Youth Involvement, Jazz Ensemble Junior & Senior, Fun Band and "The Divas" being the well known ladies of the AAA: Linda Soley Reed, Mary Tokarski, Rita Barnea, Joan Grauman, Beverly Roberts Curnow, Joanna Darrow, Jeanne Velonis, Marilyn O’Neil and Rachel Quirbach. Additional performers and details will be announced in future publications. For further information visit: American Accordionists' Association (AAA) |
ATG 2021 Festival in Lisle, Illinoisby Christine Johnstone |
 |
 The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International(ATG) have announced that their 2021 festival will be held at the Hyatt in Lisle, Illinois from July 21st to 25th, 2021. Further details on the event which includes concerts, exhibits, workshops and competitions will be announced soon.The new ATG board of directors includes President Mary Ann Covone (picture right), First Vice President: Liz Finch, Second Vice President: Beverley Fess, Treasurer: Kenn Baert, Executive Secretary: Esther Lanting and board members Joanna Darrow, Donna Dee Ray, Kevin Friedrich,Dr. Helmi Harrington, Gordon Kohl, Karen Lee, Joe Natoli, Cory Pesaturo, Amy Jo Sawyer, Betty Jo Simon, Joan C. Sommers and Stas Venglevski. For further information: kenbaert@gmail.com  |
 |