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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Antique Accordion Restoration Course at A World of Accordions Museum
Kevin Friedrich Releases CD “Reflections”
New Accordion Scholarship at UVic School of Music
Jefferson Symphony Orchestra Season Premiere Features Stas Venglevski
A Windfall Donation to Superior’s Great Accordion Museum
Cotati Accordion Festival Press Release September 25 & 26
Joe Soprani's Arrangement of "Adagio for Strings"
Alex Meixner Band “On the Road Again”
Sergei Teleshev and Maria Telesheva: Father and Daughter Duo
Pearl Django Entertain at Jansen Art Centre
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
A Virtual House Concert Presented by NAAC
New Date for 2021 Not Just Oompah! Accordion Concert & Workshop Featuring Joseph Natoli
Joan Grauman and Dr.William Morse Perform for Golden Arts Festival
Brooklyn Accordion Club is Calling for Presenters
Dominic Karcic Entertains in New York
Long Island Accordion Alliance Meets on September 8
Polka Hall of Fame 17th Annual Slovenian Sausage Festival
Live Northeast Squeeze-In September 10-12 in Pennsylvania
Children's Corner |
Future events |
2021 IDEAS Symposium 4.0 is Virtual Oct. 29 - Nov.7
Mollie B and Ted Lange in Concert to Raise Funds for Local School
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Welcome to the September Accordions USA News which includes videos, photos and reports on previous and future accordion events on the North American continent.It is wonderful that readers can read about, listen to, and view all that is happening in the accordion world! Thank you to our advertisers, our authors and AWW volunteers that make it possible to pay the costs of providing the free Accordion USA News service 24/7 to the world. You are welcome to submit info for future articles in the Accordions USA News! Please send to Ritabelll@aol.com |
Antique Accordion Restoration Course at A World of Accordions Museumby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
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 Picture above, left to right are: Rod Dingman, Roger Schmitz, Kevin Friedrich, Helmi Harrington, Mayor Jim Paine and Tracey Gibbens.A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) curator Helmi Harrington, Ph. D., presented a seminar and course teaching Antique Accordion Restoration at the renowned A World of Accordions Museum in Superior, Wisconsin. The week long course, one of several in the series, focused on reeds with topics and practical work assignments including identifying dislodged reeds (a common occurrence in antique instruments), removing, cleaning and treating all the reeds, dealing with rust and age related issues, sequencing according to keyboard configuration, cleaning and prepping the reed blocks, reed leather work and finally waxing the reeds back into place. In this seminar, each topic’s complexities paid particular focus to how it applied to antique instruments. See pictures of the work at: 2021Course Participants included accordionist and CIA Ambassador and curator of the Accordion Gems Exhibition at the Dargaville Museum in New Zealand Kevin Friedrich and local Symphony Conductor, musician and accordionist Tracey Gibbens. Additional assistance was provided by Museum volunteer Robin Floyd. During the timeframe of the weeklong course, several of the AWAM Board of Directors met with the Mayor of Superior, Jim Paine. The Mayor is an enthusiastic supporter of his community and has been proactive in recognizing the importance and uniqueness of A World of Accordions Museum in Superior. The Mayor has invited A World of Accordions Museum to display several instruments at the City Hall offices to create awareness of the 2,000 instruments housed in the adjacent World of Accordions Museum. The Mayor was excited to hear that the Museum was the recent recipient of a substantial donation of instruments (350) from a private Washington DC and Paris based collector Alain Papineau. A preliminary display of instruments from these holdings is on display in the Special Exhibits area at the Museum. Helmi Harrington founded A World of Accordions Museum and Harrington ARTS Center and also established the curriculum for and teaches accordion repair. She has been recognized in various Who’s Who listings, through regional awards and the Confederation des Accordeonistes Internationale (CIA) (2006). She is writer of accordion-related articles for Groves New Dictionary of Music (London, 2000 Edition), the American Accordionists’ Association Newsletter and various scholarly journals, compiled and edited Charles Magnante: America’s Great Accordionist, and has ca. 60 music books and recordings available through Harrington ARTS Center Publications. Helmi completed a Ph.D. dissertation in Musicology on composer Hugo Herrmann under Dr. John Grubbs of the University of Texas, a double Master of Music degree from the University of Houston in Music Literature and Applied Piano under Dr. Elmer Schoettle, a Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Piano and Performer’s Certificate from the University of Houston under Prof. Albert Hirsh. She studied with Dr. Armin Fett of the Staedtische Musikschule Trossingen, from which she received an honorary degree, and Dr. Albert Feil of the Universität Stuttgart. Her many awards include a Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst scholarship. She holds certificates as Master teacher in accordion and piano from the National Music Teachers’ Association and the Minnesota Music Teachers’ Association. Future classes in the series pertaining to antique accordions will include Tuning, Bellows Work, Bass Mechanics and general aesthetics and restoration. For more information about A World of Accordions Museum, please visit www.worldofaccordions.org. Picture below, left to right are: Kevin Friedrich, Robin Floyd, Helmi Harrington and Tracy Gibbens. |
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Kevin Friedrich Releases CD “Reflections”by Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
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 New York based accordionist Kevin Friedrich has recently released a CD of his live performances titled ‘Reflections’, catalog friedrich02. Kevin says “Over the course of my accordion career I have had the joy of performing an array of music spanning transcriptions, showcasing the genius of the great Masters such as Johann Sebastian Bach through to creative original works for the accordion. Many of these performances were in conjunction with my days of competing in International competitions such as the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) Coupe Mondiale (1979, 1980 and 1981) and Klingenthal (1986) and during my Conservatory studies in both Kansas City (USA) and Paris (France).” Kevin goes on to say “One of the few regrets I have in life, is that I didn’t professionally record all this magnificent repertoire at the time I was performing it. In those days it was a rapid succession of exams and competitions often enticing new works. In the excitement and challenge of learning, the older repertoire was often unceremoniously discarded, making way for the new. Fortunately not all was completely lost and there were occasions that my live performances were recorded. Often these were made on cassette tapes, as was common in the 1970s and 1980s. While not ideal in this age of digital recording, in the interest of preserving recordings for prosperity’s sake, I feel blessed to have them.” At the request of the New Zealand Accordion Association (NZAA) Kevin has now compiled a series of his performances which will serve as a historical record of some of his work. An exponent of both the piano and button keyboards, some of the pieces are performed on his Pigini Super Sirius Bayan, (Instrument No. 85 - C System) and some on his Titano Emperor JW5 Piano Accordion (quint free bass system). Along with these live memorized performances, come a variety of considerations including external noises, imperfections in performance and the quality of the original tape. All these things could have been addressed and corrected in a recording studio at that time, but now have been captured for eternity due to the nature of live performance. Kevin remains grateful to his teachers Ben and Doreen Emmett, Harley Jones (New Zealand), Joan C. Sommers (USA) and Max Bonnay (France) for inspiring him to continually explore and learn a variety of repertoire, something he continues to this very day. The tracks include: Toccata and Fugue in D minor (BWV 565) by J. S. Bach; A Farewell to St. Petersburg, No. 10, The Lark by Mikhail Glinka, arr. M. Balakirev; Reflections by Karen Fremar (I. The Prairie, II. The Plaza, III. The Festival); Four Pieces in Old Style, (III. Aria) by Georgiy Shenderev; Prelude and Fugue “The Great” in A minor (BWV 543) by J. S. Bach; Sonata by Alexander Timoshenko (II. Rondo, III. Lento Doloroso, IV. Rondo Finale); Prelude and Fugue No. XV in G Major (WTC I - BWV 860) by J. S. Bach; Concert Suite for Accordion by Albin Repnikov (I. Recitative and Toccata) and Sonata No. 2 (III. Vivacissimo Con Spirito) by Vladislav Zolotaryov. After leaving New Zealand, Kevin studied with Joan C. Sommers at the University of Missouri, Kansas City where he obtained his Bachelor of Music in Accordion Performance. In addition to the piano accordion, Kevin has also mastered the bayan and it is with this instrument that he furthered his studies at the Conservatoire Paul Dukas in Paris, France studying with CIA World Accordion Champion, Max Bonnay. Kevin has performed in concert, on radio and on television in many countries as a soloist, with Symphony Orchestra and as a member of The International Trio, the Air New Zealand Accordion Orchestra, the Musicale Accordion Orchestra and the Auckland Accordion Symphonietta from New Zealand and as a member and concert master of the renowned University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC) Accordion Orchestra. More recently Kevin has served as Concert Master for the CIA World Accordion Orchestra at their concerts in the USA, Scotland and New Zealand. After serving as a Vice-President for eight years, Kevin served two four year terms as President of the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA), the umbrella organization for more than 35 countries and their National Accordion Associations. Since the CIA (member of the International Music Council, IMC-UNESCO) formed in 1935, this was the first time ever that a non-European has held this title. At the conclusion of his Presidency, Kevin was elected to the CIA Executive Committee as CIA Ambassador. Kevin currently makes his home in New York City where he has lived since 1989. Keeping close ties to his homeland of New Zealand, Kevin curates the Accordion Gems, A Master Collection of Accordions in Time historical accordion exhibition at the Dargaville Museum where he hosts regular fundraising concerts. In the USA, in addition to playing in the UMKC Community Chamber Accordion Ensemble, his accordion activities include serving on the Board of Directors for both the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) and the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) as well as being First Vice President for the world’s largest accordion museum, A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) located in Superior, Wisconsin. For more further information and ordering ‘Reflections’ catalog friedrich02 as well as his CD showcasing the music of New Zealand composers Gary Daverne ‘The Journey”, catalog friedrich01 please visit: http://www.musicforaccordion.com/eTracks/inform/friedrich/index.htm |
New Accordion Scholarship at UVic School of Musicby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Music Professor Adam Jonathan Con (picture left) shares, “The new accordion scholarship at the School of Music helps create a program unique in North America for both undergrad/grad students—like Nikolay Ovchinnikov (picture above), our 1st accordion performance major!”The following article appeared in the University of Victoria School of Music publication, “On the Pulse” which offers updates about School of Music events and the lastest news and announcements from the faculty, students, and alumni of the University of Victoria. The article was written by John Threlfall on Aug 25, 2021: New Accordion Scholarship Offers Keys to the Future Visit any music academy in Eastern Europe, Russia or China and you’ll find numerous programs created specifically to study the accordion. Not so in North America, where it still doesn’t get the respect it deserves as a symphonic instrument. At UVic, however, that perception is changing thanks to the Brian Money & Nancy Dyer Accordion Scholarship in Music, which supports outstanding graduate and undergraduate students. New accordion program: Our new School of Music program is unique in North America (University of Toronto also offers accordion studies, but only at the doctoral and Masters levels), and was “purposely designed” to be flexible, says Music professor Adam Con—an accordionist himself who shares, “We’re preparing students to enter the market to be performers and ambassadors of the accordion with a wide variety of styles under their belt—even jazz, which you can’t do anywhere else.” Part of that preparation will come from internationally acclaimed accordion performer and teacher Jelena Milojević (picture right), as well as from our Phillip T. Young Recital Hall. “We had 30 professionals from all over the world come here for a festival and they thought our acoustics were the best they’d ever heard for accordions,” says Con. Gift makes program a reality: Donor Brian Money started playing accordion at seven and continued studying throughout his career as a telecommunications engineer—including with Milojević herself. Russian graduate student Nikolay Ovchinnikov became our first accordion performance student in 2020, with three more starting in fall 2021 and still more confirmed for 2022. “This instrument has a lot of ability to open up a diversity of music styles and experiences we’re otherwise blind to,” says Con. “There are a lot of students from Eastern Europe who want to come to North America." |
Jefferson Symphony Orchestra Season Premiere Features Stas Venglevskiby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  The Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. William Morse, is thrilled to announce that their first concert of the season will feature world-renowned bayan artist Stas Venglevski. The concert will take place on October 17, 2021 at 3:PM at the Green Center, Colorado School of Mines, in Golden, CO. where the entire season will be presented.Stas will perform “Concerto No. 2 for Accordion” by Galla-Rini. The Jefferson Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1953 and is a seventy-five member ensemble based in Golden, Colorado. Featuring fine musicians from many walks of life, the orchestra, under Maestro William Morse, continues to perform the most challenging of repertoire. Music Director and Principal Conductor Dr. Wiliam Morse shares, “We are proud to unite our audiences through their shared love for the arts. It is our 69th season. What motivates them to play in is the same thing that motivates the thousands of people who attend the concerts — a love of good music.” Dr. William Morse, Director and Principal Conductor, programs repertoire that adds a new dimension of awareness and engagement to our audiences, the symphony has brought a new dimension to the quality of life in Jefferson County. Excerpts from the website: Music Director and Principal Conductor Dr.William Morse has been Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra since 1999. The orchestra continues to develop and flourish under his leadership. Dr. Morse holds Bachelor and Master degrees in music from Oberlin Conservatory and a doctorate in orchestral conducting from the University of Arizona. He has also studied at the Mozarteum Academy of Music in Salzburg, Austria. He is Professor Emeritus at Metropolitan State College in Denver where he conducted the Metropolitan State Symphony Orchestra and taught Advanced Conducting and Music Theory. He also plays the accordion and has written arrangements for the accordion and other instruments. A man of diverse musical talents, Dr. Morse is fond of the literature for symphony and chamber orchestra. His dynamic conducting style, innovative musical taste, and outstanding musicianship have made him very popular with Colorado audiences. Stas Venglevski is an accordionist, musician, arranger, entertainer and teacher. Excerpts from his website: His repertoire includes his original compositions, and a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as a soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe, and the United States, including numerous performances with Doc Severinsen, Steve Allen and with Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion. Additionally, he has performed with symphony orchestras throughout the United States. He is a regular participant with 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 has performed in theater productions. Stas has produced numerous recordings and has published several books of original compositions. 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. Additional information about Stas and his music can be found at Stas Venglevski. Season tickets on sale now! Single tickets are available Sept 3. Check out the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra’s website. Be sure to attend this amazing and unforgettable concert! |
A Windfall Donation to Superior’s Great Accordion Museumby Helmi Harrington |
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 A World of Accordions Museum proudly announces receipt of Alain Papineau’s antique accordion collection consisting of 350 of the rarest and most beautiful instruments from the century after Cyril Demian’s first patent (1829). This donation, added to the 1,400 free-reed aerophones currently exhibited on the museum’s main floor and the 750 in reserve at Harrington ARTS Center, affirms the Superior, WI, institution as largest and most comprehensive in the world. About 70 of the new acquisitions are temporarily displayed in the “Special Exhibits” area of the concert hall, viewable by appointment.This spectacular windfall acquisition has a decades-long history. In a 1997 meeting, museum curator Helmi Strahl Harrington, Ph.D., met accordion enthusiast Alain Papineau (World Bank architect) and viewed his Washington D.C. collection. A quarter-century later, Papineau offered Harrington the gifts of his lifelong searches, most instruments of which are not described in organological references. Along with the accordions and concertinas were 90 boxes of music and supportive reference materials that will greatly supplement the museum’s books and recordings libraries. This is but the latest major contribution to the museum’s resources that also include numerous musicians’ estates. |
Cotati Accordion Festival Press Release September 25 & 26by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 For Immediate Release:The nonprofit, multi-cultural Cotati Accordion Festival is Roaring back this coming September 25th and 26th live in La Plaza Park in downtown Cotati, Ca. Our 30th anniversary celebration will be replete with the polka tent, the jam tent, the zydeco dance party, the Ray's Deli and Tavern Stage, the two main stages, a kid's area, food, beer and wine. Headliners such as Cory Pesaturo and Sergi Teleshev will be performing along with 40 acts ranging from zydeco, klezmer, Indie, conjunto, western, to rock, and much more. There is a free shuttle service, kids 15 and under are free when accompanied by a parent, and we will have some special surprises in honor of our 30th anniversary. We will comply with any guidelines from the Sonoma County Department of Health. We will have masks available for anyone who wishes one, and sanitation stations to help keep people safe. Currently, because we are an outdoors event, we are deemed a safe environment. Tickets are $21.00 at the gate for one day and $29.00 at the gate for two days. Online, you can take advantage of the early bird specials with tickets at $19.00 for one day and $27.00 for two days. Saturday, September 25 performers include: Bella Ciao Sourdough Slim Nuevos Aventureros The Great Morgani Gail Campanella The Alpen Band Sergei Teleshev & Maria Cory Pesaturo The Mad Maggies Junk Parlor Nathan & Jessie Hernandez Hideaway Culann’s Hounds ….& more to come! Zydeco: Mark St. Mary Motordude Wild Catahoulas Les Amis Polka Tent: Steve Balich Band Sheri Mignano & Jim Lehmann Sunday, September 26 performers include: Mike Zampiceni Paul Betken The Great Morgani Kugelplex Sergei Teleshev & Maria Cory Pesaturo Intuitive Compass Pistoleros Famosos Bellow Shakes Those Darn Accordions For more information contact scottgoree23@gmail.com or call Scott at 707 479-5481. |
Joe Soprani's Arrangement of "Adagio for Strings"by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Video: "Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber, arranged by Joseph SopraniPhoto of Benny Cintioli in his store. Accordionist Joe Soprani has created a musical tribute “In Loving Memory of Benito N. “Benny” Cintioli”. The selection is “Adagio for Strings” by Samuel Barber, special arrangement by Joe Soprani. Benny was an accordion enthusiast. Benny was the successful proprietor of Cintioli Music Store which he opened in Philadelphia in 1959. Benny is well known and loved among many musicians in the Philadelphia and surrounding areas due to his personality, good nature, business acumen, and generosity. At 87 years young, Joe Soprani is going strong, always busy practicing, performing, and planning his next musical adventure. Over the years, I have attended many of his live performances as soloist and with orchestra, the most recent being his performance with the 65 piece Philly Pops Orchestra in Disney’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” on October 24-25, 2019. Joe said, “ The score to “The Nightmare Before Christmas has a very powerful score and an interesting accordion part.” In addition to performing in Broadway shows such as "Fiddler on the Roof", "Zorba", "Cabaret" and "Irma la Douce", Joe has performed in world premieres of "Frida,” a musical that called for a virtuoso accordionist and "Another Kind of Hero,” a musical which featured him on stage for an entire scene. Joe, who appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and won the Arthur Godfrey Show, appeared with TV Star Nell Carter in a "Colors of Freedom" production at the Convention Center in Philadelphia in 1995. He also appeared with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops playing a special arrangement by Nero with Soprano Evelyn de LaRosa. In November of 1997, Soprani became the first accordionist to perform in "La Traviata" by Verdi presented by the Opera Company of Philadelphia, at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia. Klaus Arp, the opera conductor from Germany, decided to use the accordion in the small ensemble on stage during "La Banda" sections. Joe has also performed with Russell Watson on Good Morning America, and continues to promote the accordion as a serious instrument at various clubs and organizations. His workshops at schools and colleges, where he demonstrates his skills as performer and arranger to young composers and arrangers, have been well received. Presently he is arranging, for accordion, a book of cocktail piano selections, a Hal Leonard Publication, arranged by Brent Edstrom. It will include selections such as “Blue Moon”, “Fly Me to the Moon” etc. Joe has also performed with Russell Watson on Good Morning America, and continues to promote the accordion as a serious instrument at various clubs and organizations. His workshops at schools and colleges, where he demonstrates his skills as performer and arranger to young composers and arrangers, have been well received. For further information: jsop119@verizon.net |
Alex Meixner Band “On the Road Again”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: On The Road Again - Alex Meixner Band (Alex Meixner, Tom Haller & Paddy King)In celebration of finally being able to hop back into the van for some tour dates, Alex Meixner (accordion), Tom Haller (spoons), and Paddy King (fiddle) entertain you with the Willie Nelson classic tune, “On The Road Again!” The Alex Meixner Band is scheduled to perform at three Oktoberfests during September 2021: • Cleveland Oktoberfest in Cleveland, Ohio: September 3rd – 8:PM to midnight and September 6th – 4:PM to 8:PM • Duluth Oktoberfest in Duluth, Minnesota: September 17th – 6.45 to 8.45 PM, September 18th – 6 to 8.15 PM and September 19th - 2 to 4:PM • Fort Worth Oktoberfest in Fort Worth, Texas: September 23rd - from 9:PM in the Wiesn Tent, September 24th – from 6.30 PM in the Spaten Halle and September 25th – from 6:PM in the Wiesn Tent, 9 to 9.45 PM in the Spaten Halle and from 10:PM in the Wiesn Tent Alex Meixner is one of the most dynamic accordionists on the scene today. Meixner has performed around the world, notably at American festivals like The National Folk Festival and Central Park SummerStage, as well as at uncountable community celebrations and accordion-centric events. His virtuosic yet delightfully quirky style has made him a sought-after collaborator (he worked alongside Jack Black in the 2017 Sundance pick The Polka King), spokesperson (Hormel and Ford have used his music and performance to promote their products) and educator. As a recording artist, he has worked with renowned avant garde accordionist/ composer Guy Klucevsek, popular Irish entertainer Seamus Kennedy, Texas indie rockers The Krayolas. His recording “Polka FreakOut” with Brave Combo’s Bubba Hernandez won him a GRAMMY nomination. Meixner’s formative musical studies were on piano and piano accordion, but he quickly branched out on drums, diatonic button accordion, bass and trumpet, his college major. This instrumental versatility is combined with a musical background that has included intense studies and performance of jazz, classical, pop, polkas and many ethnic folk music genres with some of the leading artists in the world. His talents in music and comedy were featured on the Tonight Show on NBC. Alex’s reputation for professionalism and quality performance attracted additional commercial opportunities including performing on radio commercials for Ford Trucks and the soundtracks for numerous episodes of Moonshiners on the Discovery Network. Alex has performed on over 50 albums, including 17 as a leader or soloist. His performance with his Father on Canadian Polka King, Walter Ostanek’s, “Music and Friends” won a Grammy Award.. For details email: info@alexmeixner.com |
Sergei Teleshev and Maria Telesheva: Father and Daughter Duoby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video 1: ”Thunderstruck" by AC/DC performed by Maria & Sergei Teleshev 2 Accordions Video 2:"Dance Prelude No.5 Allegro molto" by Witold Lutoslawski Video 3: Indifference by André Verchuren It is a special treat to listen to the duo of Sergei Teleshev and Maria Telesheva. Their performances are entertaining, virtuosic, and delightful to watch. Be sure to see them perform on the Internet and in person at the 2021 Cotati Accordion Festival. Classically trained at the Academy of Music in Voronezh, Russia, Sergei Teleshev is a winner of many International Accordion Competitions and the US V-Accordion Champion of 2013. Being founding member and accordion player of Trio Voronezh (Russia/USA), Classic Klezmer Trio (Sweden), Valinor Quartet (USA/UK), East-West International Project (USA/Japan), Sergei & Nati (USA/Russia) and Duo Two Accordions (USA), he collaborates with many internationally recognized artists, ensembles, and orchestras, composing and arranging music, participates in recording projects of different genres. Sergei is a jury member at International accordion competitions in Russia, Canada, USA, France, Italy. He is also the Founder and President of the Accordion Star International Competition and Festival based in the USA. Sergei is providing online accordion lessons, master classes and educational school programs. His multitalented daughter, Maria Telesheva, is a winner of the International Accordion Competitions in the USA, Canada, Australia, France, Italy and Belarus. She has performed with her dad since she was 6 years old. The Duo "Two Accordions" (Maria & Sergei Teleshev) is becoming more popular around the world because of their unique arrangements and outstanding performance. Do not miss their next appearance at the Cotati Accordion Festival September 25-26, 2021. For further information: steleshev@yahoo.com |
Pearl Django Entertain at Jansen Art Centreby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video 1: “Under Paris Skies” Video 2: “La Vie En Rose” Gypsy Jazz group Pearl Django which includes accordionist David Lange will entertain with two shows at the Jansen Art Centre in Lynden, Washington on September 11, 2021. Their first show will be held at 3:PM and they will be joined by vibraphonist, Susan Pascal for their 7.30 PM show. On September 12, 2021, the band will perform at the Marysville Opera House in Marysville, Washington at 5.30 PM. The group enjoy performing music made famous by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. Their extensive repertoire includes traditional jazz classics and original compositions. Photo top: Tim Lerch , Guitar; Jim Char, Guitar; David Lange, Accordion; Michael Gray, Violin; Rick Leppanen, Bass Excerpts from the website: “With a performance history spanning more than 27 years and having released 15 CDs, Pearl Django endures as one of the most highly regarded Hot Club style groups working today. Although the band’s roots are firmly in the music made famous by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli, its extensive repertoire includes traditional jazz classics and original compositions. Pearl Django has performed at festivals, dances and nightspots throughout the U.S. and abroad. They have played at the prestigious Festival Django Reinhardt in Samois sur Seine and have been featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered.” The band’s signature style is marked by pristine and dexterous string work, colors of Bal Musette, the steady pulse of rhythm guitar and an unmistakable swing that delights audiences of all musical sensibilities. Throughout the years, Pearl Django has cultivated a devoted and enthusiastic following and they continue to play to packed houses wherever they perform.” The group’s inception was as a trio in Tacoma, Washington in 1994. The focus of Pearl Django was, and is, to incorporate the music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with American swing music. They quickly expanded to a quintet, adding a violinist and a third guitarist. An interview on NPR’s All Things Considered in 2001 brought the group to national attention. In June 2002, Pearl Django performed at the prestigious Festival Django Reinhardt in Samois sur Seine, just outside of Paris, France. As of 2007 Pearl Django is working as both a quartet and a quintet (with accordionist, David Lange) All of the members are contributing original compositions to the band’s expansive repertoire. Accordionist David Lange has been an unofficial member of Pearl Django since the group's inception. He has been the recording engineer and co-producer of all of the Pearl Django CDs. David's fine accordion playing can be heard on all but the first two Pearl Django CDs. He is a well-respected and in-demand recording engineer and for the last 40 years has worked with and recorded top musicians at his studios (David Lange Studios) in Edgewood, Washington. In 2007 he was persuaded to return to his first love and make time to play the music he loves with Pearl Django. Since joining Pearl Django, David has released two fabulous CDs under his own name. Future 2021 performances include: Saturday, September 11 Jansen Art Center (Shows at 3 PM and 7:30 PM) The 3 PM show will be just Pearl Django and for the 7:30 show we will be joined by our friend and vibraphonist, extraordinaire, Susan Pascal 321 Front Street, Lynden, WA 98264 | Contact Us | 360.354.3600 Sunday, September 12 Marysville Opera House ( 5:30 PM ) A very nice performance venue. Reservations (pre-registration) suggested 1225 3rd St; Marysville, WA, 360-363-8400 Our trip to Little Rock, AR on 9-16 has been postponed. We look forward to performing there at some future date. Thursday, September 23 Djangofest NW (8:00 PM - 2 sets) Whidbey Island Center for the Arts; 565 Camano Avenue, Langley, WA, 98260 Saturday, September 25 San Juan Community Theatre (7:30 PM) 100 Second Street - Friday Harbor, WA; Phone: 360 378 3210 October, 2021 Saturday, October 2, 2021 Sudden Valley Dance Barn (TBA PM) 8 Barn View Ct. Bellingham, WA 98229; 360-306-1800 Thursday - Sunday, Oct 14-17; Sun Valley, ID; 10 performances over 4 days. Pearl Django will be back at Sun Valley Jazz for the Jazz & Music festival This is a Jazz and Music festival and we will be playing music - maybe some jazz, too. For further information on having Pearl Django for your event (concert, wedding, dance, birthday, etc.) contact Michael Gray. 206-781-1862 graywhit@msn.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
The 2021 Dr. William Schimmel Virtual Accordion Seminars 21 - The Twilight Timeby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Large videos, so allow a few seconds for the video to load in the player.Dr. William Schimmel, curator of the 2021 Virtual Accordion Seminars, shares: “The Seminars, sponsored by the American Accordionist’s Association, were a great success! The event took place on three days, July 30, 31 and August 1 on Zoom. It was our 27th smash year. We look forward to our 28th Smash year.” From 3 to 4:PM we presented intriguing Master Classes and Lectures. From 4 to 5:PM we presented Innovative Concerts. Both the Lectures and Concerts presented the Accordion in fashions yet to be explored to a wider public, much like a laboratory or incubation of new ideas or new takes on old ones." Dr. Schimmel hosted the entire weekend and introduced each performer or performers as well as all of the lectures and demonstrations. The topics included: A new AAA commissioned work 51 ways to go - oom pah Playing the Accordion for babies The use of the Accordion for Special needs adults Sea Shanties The accordion in confined space The Accordion and Alcohol - including Happy Hour The Accordion and no Alcohol - Coffee and Culture New exciting videos The accordion and the “chi” The resonance of the accordion when absent Which/What - Which accordion for what purpose Unusual accordions and accordion replacements and how to use them Art Songs, Indie Songs and new takes on Rapture Hymns and Psychedeliia And Twilight Time:The short list of featured participants included: Micki Goodman, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Paul Stein, Will Holshouser, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Michael Schimmel, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, John Foti, Jeanne Velonis, Bachtopus, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Mary Spencer Knapp, Charita Paramikatorn, Sarah Starpoli, Miwa Gemini, Jennie Muoio, Erica Marie Mancini, Carl Riehl, Doug Makofka, Bob Goldberg, David Stoler, Benjamin Ickies, Corn Mo, Brian Dewan, Mike’s Place (Mike, Edith, Keith, Tony, Brian, Micki), Ted Nash, The Yorkvillians, Melissa Elledge, Rachel Quirbach, Rachel Swaner, Elaine Yau, Peter Flint, Robert Duncan, Mayumi Mayaoka, Dan Cooper, Michio Suzuki, John Ferraro, Dave Soldier, David First, Peter Jarvis, Linda Reed, Raymond Storms, Natasia Thweatt, Gene Pritsker, Quentin Tice, Milica Paranosic, Elliott Sharp and others to be announced. - and Dr. Schimmel (the long list on the downloadable flyer may contain some past participants) The videos took place on July 31 and August 1, 2021. July 30th is in preparation and will be shown on the October Calendar. Each video lists the participation artists and Dr. Schimmel announces them as well. 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). 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. 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. Check future publications of the USA news for more information on next years Seminars. For more information on the Seminars: accordionibill@gmail.com |
A Virtual House Concert Presented by NAACby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
| Video: This is a large video so allow a few seconds to load. A Virtual House Concert 8/12/21 A Virtual House Concert sponsored by Petosa Accordions was presented by NAAC Board Members Alicia Straka and Frank Petrilli with guitarist Patrick Brooks on Thursday, August 12, 2021. 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 won 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, french musettes, opera, 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. Excerpts from article on the Cotati Festival: Frank Petrilli was born and still lives in Los Angeles California. Much of his energy has gone into the successful business he owns and operates, Petrilli Concrete Contractors, but his creative musical side has always been a strong drive as well. He started playing the accordion at age 7, and by age 16 was playing professionally. As the popularity of the accordion declined in the U.S., Frank switched to playing Hammond B3 Organ and saxophone for about 15 years. In 2006, he returned to the accordion and started playing with the César Mateus Latin Jazz Band at many jazz venues throughout the Los Angeles area. In late 2006, Frank began intensive study with the great jazz accordionist, Frank Marocco which quickly evolved into a very close friendship. By virtue of their close relationship and mutual love of jazz, Frank Petrilli became Frank Marocco’s protégé, and Frank Marocco often commented that Frank Petrilli was like the son he never had. Unfortunately, this relationship ended far too soon with Frank Marocco’s untimely passing on March 3rd, 2012. As Frank Petrilli became known as an excellent player in the jazz community, he began performing frequently in the Los Angeles area with artists such as guitarists’ Patrick Barrogain and John Chiodini at top venues such as the Vibrato Jazz Club. Frank has also performed at many of the major accordion festivals and clubs in the U.S. including the AAA Festival in Charleston 2011, and at the San Francisco Accordion Club on numerous occasions. In October of 2011, Frank appeared on the TV series "Mad Men". In May of 2012, he was invited to play in the spot that Frank Marocco had been scheduled for as a featured performer at the Accordion competition in Kiev, “Accofestival 2012.” He also was one of the judges for the jazz portion of the competition. Immediately following that, he performed at the Frank Marocco Memorial Concert in Castelfidardo, with many other stars of the accordion world. His debut CD, ”Totally Frank,” was recorded in Italy during this trip. It was produced by Elke Ahrenholz of “Artist Signed Records, ” and includes the playing of three fine Italian musicians; Felice Del Gaudio, Max Ferri, and Fabio Zeppetella. Frank has performed with renowned artists such as guitarist John Chiding at top venues such as “Herb Alpert’s”Vibrato Grill and Jazz. Frank’s interest and experience with jazz is long and deep. But his study of the Gypsy jazz niche is more recent, starting more or less with his attendance at Django in June in 2017. To hear him tell it, he attended at the encouragement of friends, and especially Dallas Vietty, who has taught there many times. As you will hear, Frank is a versatile and talented musician. Donations and proceeds will go directly towards NAAC community programs. (naac.org) |
New Date for 2021 Not Just Oompah! Accordion Concert & Workshop Featuring Joseph Natoliby Shirley Johnson and Laura J. Niland, Co-founders of NJO |
 It’s time for more summer fun with Not Just Oompah! featuring Joseph Natoli, who will present a two-day workshop on “Music Composition” and a special online concert as well. Due to extenuating circumstances, it has become necessary to move the Not Just Oompah Joe Natoli Accordion Workshop on Music Composition and also the Natoli Concert to a different date. Registration to Sept 25, 2021. The New Concert Date will be September 26 @ 3-4 PM Central Time and the Workshop Dates will be September 27 & 28 from 7-9:30 PM. All other information remains the same regarding workshop content and pricing. One new feature is added: The workshop will be recorded on ZOOM and those who cannot hear it live on the Sept 26 date may view it for a two-week period via a link that we will send to you. Please register for the Workshop and register for the concert, as both are delivered on ZOOM: 5 •Workshop + Concert Fee: $70 includes all materials delivered by pdf and workshop on zoom PLUS one concert admission. Registration is required. Fill out the form. • Concert only fee: $25 and can be viewed on zoom on the date Sept 26 or viewed later via a link sent to you. Registration is required. Fill out the form. We will be sending out notifications to all who have registered so far to indicate these changes. The website is updated to reflect these changes. Details: call Laura Niland: 210-651-4359 or email: Ljniland@texas.net The Natoli Concert will be held on ZOOM and will feature a variety of music from Joe’s creative collection. Concert date is September 26, 2021. 3:00 - 4:PM Central Time & is free to those taking the workshop. Additional Concert tickets are $25 to view the concert only. Registration is required to view the concert. The NJO workshop will focus on Composing Music and will also include these topics: 1.Critical Elements in Composition & Arranging, 2.Alternative Stradella Chord Voicings with examples, 3.Using Accordion Registers Effectively (How to Orchestrate Possibilities Beyond That Master Switch) 4.How to Play Musically which is more than just notes to consider. Joe will lead you through the process of composing and arranging so that you can find your creative ninja! Joseph Natoli is a master musician, performer, arranger, composer, and teacher. He is a past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild (ATG) and in addition to his many projects, he is the co-founder and co-director of IDEAS (International Digital Accordion Society). Joe’s education includes a Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in music theory and composition from the University of Toronto (Canada) Faculty of Music. Although he started his musical career mostly as a performer, he has always been interested in composition, and in recent years his focus is more on his compositional craft. Natoli has written many original pieces in all musical styles and genres for standard and free bass accordion, all of which are available by inquiries to janpressmusic@yahoo.com , including his latest pieces: "Children’s Suite" for accordion solo; "Smooth" (a Latin jazz piece for solo or accordion quintet); 2018 commission for the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) 80th anniversary entitled "Sonata in F Major (in the Classical Style)"; and another 2019 AAA commission for 2 accordions, cello and percussion called "Child’s Play". Joe has numerous recordings in both all-acoustic accordion and all-digital accordion. His CDs are available on his JANPress website Joe continues to compose new pieces daily, enjoying the creative process. We look forward to seeing you at this exciting workshop presentation. Explore your own creative talents and have fun learning with Joe Natoli. Joe will help you through the process of writing your own compositions with a few surprises along the way. For more details, registration, and payment visit the website: www.NotJustOompah.org For more information please contact: Shirley Johnson, co-founder NJO 512-680-0422 ShirleyJ@Vjeverica.com accsaj@gmail.com or Laura J. Niland, cofounder, NJO 210-651-4359 Ljniland@texas.net |
Joan Grauman and Dr.William Morse Perform for Golden Arts Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 For decades, the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Dr. William Morse, has been performing annual outdoor concerts for the Golden, Colorado Arts Festival. The festival takes place each August in downtown Golden,Colorado along the beautiful Clear Creek and Historic Park. Due to the pandemic, the orchestra has not been meeting in person for well over a year. This year, in lieu of an orchestra performance, small ensembles of mostly orchestra members played for two evenings during the festival. The first night featured a brass quintet and several small string groups. The second night of performances featured the accordion! Joan Grauman and Dr. (Bill) Morse played a set of duets by Frank Marocco, Stas Venglevski, Guy Klucevsek, and a few classical pieces arranged for two accordions by Bill Morse. The accordion was also featured in “Tryptych”, a trio consisting of cello, piano and accordion, a group that has delighted Colorado audiences for several years. Tryptych played several selections by Astor Piazzolla and ended with excerpts from the gorgeous “Enigma Variations” by Elgar, all arranged by Bill Morse. These musicians were joined by a terrific cello sextet for an evening of fun and, as a few audience members stated, “wonderful live music — finally!! It has been way too long!” For further information: Graumanjoan98@gmail.com |
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Brooklyn Accordion Club is Calling for Presentersby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The Brooklyn Accordion Club is calling for presenters! BAC will continue with remote meeting via zoom this fall. While the BAC will miss meeting in person, one of the silver linings is that they can invite presenters and participants from all over the world.The BAC is looking for presenters who can lead a workshop this fall. The presentation or workshop is for one hour. Previously BAC had presenters from Tuva and many more countries and on various music genres. The meeting usually takes place on Sunday from 2-3:PM NYC time but it can be adjusted to your time zone! If you have suggestions or would like to self-nominate please email: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com |
Dominic Karcic Entertains in New Yorkby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Join accordionist, Dominic Karcic, for the special “Bouilabaisse Dinner” event on Thursday, September 30, 2021 6:00 PM at:La Baraka Restaurant 255-09 Northern Boulevard Little Neck, NY 11362-1461 Call: 718-428-1461 Originally from Astoria, NY AAA Board member, accordionist, pianist, and band leader, Dominic Karcic attended St. Francis of Assisi grammar school, William Cullen Bryant high school, New York College of Music where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree and continued his education at the City University of New York (CCNY) where he received his Masters Degree in Music. Dominic was one of the founders and first president of the Adriatic Islands Charity Committee and served as its president for thirteen years during his tenure the committee raising thousands of dollars for senior citizen homes, hospitals and churches in the Mali Losinj (Lussin Piccolo) area of Croatia. The organizations first fund raiser at the Oyster Bay caterering house in Astoria, NY attracted nine-hundred and fifty people and Dominic and his orchestra supplied the music for the monumental event. Dominic has always played professionally (accordion and piano) in the New York metropolitan area and continues to do so today. He and his musicians “The Continental Sound” have been house musicians at the Columbus Citizens Foundation (NYC) for over twenty-five years and he has played for organizations like the Valtarese Foundation (Parma, Italy), Fubinese Society (Piemonte, Italy), Italian Charities of Queens, NY, Italian Heritage Association of Long Island, La Pace Restaurant (Glen Cove, NY) and also at Magnanini Winery in Wallkill, NY. His love for the Valtaro Musette music was instilled in him through his years of study with noted accordionist Peter Spagnoli. In recent years he has been involved in the preservation and documentation of this musical style. He collaborated in writing a biographical article on the life and career of accordionist John “Scudlein” Brugnoli (founder of the Valtaro Musette Orchestra). He and fellow accordionist Ray Oreggia have given workshop presentations on the Valtaro Musette style for the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA), Connecticut Accordion Association (CAA), Maryland Accordion Club, the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) and the Istria Women’s Club (Astoria, NY). Dominic founded the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) The wide spread success of LIAA events has endeared it to accordionists and accordion music lovers from all over the New York Metro area and has made it (LIAA) and its events the “Voice of the Accordion on Long Island.” He also created and performs with various singers in a program titled "From Broadway to the Met” which features the music of the American Song Book and Opera. The restaurant has received many positive reviews: “French cuisine with a touch of North Africa” “It’s quite a unique little restaurant.” "Visiting La Baraka is like being a guest in a good friend’s home and enjoying not only the hospitality but also the gourmet dining." "inexpensive, crisp decor, impeccable food " - citysearch.com ... "Great food excellent service " - citysearch.com ... " "The food is delicious and the prices reasonable" - zagat.com ... Reservations are necessary. Fine dining plus great accordion music! For further information: dkarcic10@gmail.com |
Long Island Accordion Alliance Meets on September 8by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) meets on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 6:PM: La Villini’s Restaurant 288 lark field Rd. East Northport, NY Phone: 631-261- 6344 The aim of the LIAA is to promote a love for the accordion and accordion music, bring former accordionists back to the instrument, and celebrate the accordion culture. Reservations are necessary. Join the LIAA for an evening of fine dining plus accordion music. |
Polka Hall of Fame 17th Annual Slovenian Sausage Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Polka Hall of Fame Slovenian Sausage Festival returns on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 from 12:PM EDT to 9:PM EDT at SNPJ Farm, Kirtland, Ohio. Enjoy nine hours of music and munching. Your host, the National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame, welcomes you back for the country’s tastiest polka celebration. Dance from noon to 9:PM with ten polka orchestras and entertainers, featuring Polka Hall of Fame legends. Sample Slovenian smoked sausages from each maker and then vote for your favorite. Bring your banjo or accordion and jam along with music-makers from coast to coast. Nationality dishes, desserts and refreshments served all day. Get ready to get back on the dance floor with the orchestras of Polka Hall of Famers Frank Stanger, Eddie Rodick and Kathy Hlad. Your polka favorites include Frank Moravcik, Anthony Culkar, the Fairport Jammers, Ray Kovac, Patty C and the Guys, plus an All-Star Band. Check in for updates to the music schedule. Tickets are $10 each in advance and $12 at the gate. Food and beverages extra. 18 and under free. Order your Slovenian Sausage Festival tickets and tee-shirts from the Polka Hall of Fame. Phone (216) 261-FAME, toll-free (866) 66-POLKA, or drop a line at PolkaShop@aol.com. Proceeds benefit the Polka Museum, open Wednesdays and Fridays, 11:AM to 4:PM, 605 East 222nd Street, Euclid, Ohio. The Slovenian Sausage Festival takes place at SNPJ Farm, 10946 Heath Road in Kirtland, Ohio, off Chardon Road (Route 6), three miles east of Route 306 and six miles west of Route 44. |
Live Northeast Squeeze-In September 10-12 in Pennsylvaniaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Northeast Squeeze-In is an annual gathering of free-reed players in the heart of the Berkshires. NESI 2021 is going to be a live event and registration is now open! September 10-12, 2021 Limited camping and RV sites are available, and nearby motels are still options. Registration & Attendance email: register@squeeze-in.org Location: Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Dingmans Ferry, PA. This site is a national park. That means its hiking trails and the lobby portion of the admin building are open to the public between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. They have had no problems in the past arising from the limited public access and private events that have exclusive use of the rest of the facilities. Vaccination: Full vaccination at least 3 weeks before the event (by August 19) will be required of all attendees. A copy of your vaccination card must be submitted with your registration form. NESI is a non-profit, laid-back, weekend gathering of free-reed players and their partners welcoming beginners and advanced alike to play, sing, and dance together. Assemble with friends old and new in a comfortable, rustic setting with many places for workshops, sessions, and spontaneous jams. Hobnob with other squeezebox aficionados and explore an assortment of instruments for sale and swap. |
Children's Corner |
Children’s Corner: Gia Ciccone plays “Hungarian Dance No. 5”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| 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. 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. 14 year-old Accordionist, Gia Ciccone, is in the 9th grade at Somers High 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 & Music with for the past 6 years. Gia 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. At the 2021 AAA Virtual Competition, Gia won the following awards: 1st Place - Honors - Intermediate (Cascade, Tico Tico) Gold - Open - Intermediate (Hungarian Dance #5) Gold - Ethnic - Intermediate (Samba Italiano) Gold - Evaluation (Tico Tico) AWW will continue to feature young accordionists each month in the Children's Corner. You may send information about your talented students to Ritabelll@aol.com for consideration to be included in this section. For further information about Gia: Drjciccone@aol.com |
Future events |
National Accordion Convention Request for “Expressions of Interest” for the 2022 Conventionby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
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 The NAA is inviting you to submit your “Expression of Interest” for the 2022 convention which is an updated term for the old "Call for Presenters")Be Creative! The 2022 door of opportunity to conduct a workshop during the 2022 Convention closes in 15 days (September 15, 2021). The 2022 National Accordion Convention (March 16-19, 2022) will be held in Richardson, Texas (near Dallas). The 2022 Planning Committee met on Saturday, August 15, 2021, to officially begin the process of putting together our long-overdue event. We mix our accordion friends and know that you miss getting together with other accordionists! But we still need input from you. The convention will consist of our traditional activities plus a focus group discussion related to 2022 popular styles of music. Saying that, the 2022 Planning Committee is looking for individuals to participate in both the focus group discussion and to present workshops related to new opportunities. Please send Sharon or Norman Seaton your ideas for discussions and training related to new opportunities for accordionists. We are hoping to find some new talent or some not-so-new talent who have been undiscovered as of yet. Maybe it’s you, or it may be someone you know or have heard. Don’t keep it a secret! Send the NAA an e-mail message with your Expressions of Interest for teaching a workshop session during the convention, general suggestions, or other proposals. These will be processed by NAA Board Members and the Planning Team. Sharon Seaton: AccordionSharon@sbcglobal.net Norman Seaton: NatlAccordion@sbcglobal.net http://www.Accordions.com/naa http://www.NationalAccordion.org |
2021 IDEAS Symposium 4.0 is Virtual Oct. 29 - Nov.7by Joseph Natoli |
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 IDEAS Symposium 4.0 Registration Now Open: This year’s virtual Symposium is shaping up to be another spectacular event with some new faces (like Valeriya Grechenkova), new digital accordions (Concerto & Proxima), new digital sounds premieres, and new music from our artists, not to mention our incredible workshops! Registration pricing will be the same as it was last year.To register, simply go to https://www.gr8ideas.org/register-4-0, click on the "Register Now" red button inside the Symposium Registration graphic. This will create an automatic RSVP to IDEAS and a registration PayPal invoice will in turn be quickly sent to you. All the pricing info detail will be displayed under “About the Event.” If you have any problems or questions, please feel free to send them to: thegr8.ideas@gmail.com. The updated www.gr8ideas.org website is taking shape daily, and while much of the new information is out there already, including the Artists, Faculty, the new Concerto Corner webpage, check back frequently to see latest updates for the Symposium (including pre-requisite workshop info and more). This year IDEAS is proud to have with us a great representation of the Concerto digital accordion family, with Paul Pasquali as developer and owner of the instrument with his Accordions International Company located in Salt Lake City, Utah. There will be workshops and performances on the Concerto DA-300 and DA-265 instruments from multiple Concerto artists. So you won’t want to miss this. There is also a new “Concerto Corner” https://www.gr8ideas.org/concerto-corner which Concerto and other digital accordionists will find very interesting (see accompany screen shot of the web page). Also just like last year, all concerts and workshops will be recorded and archived so that the entirety of the Symposium will be available throughout the year for continued learning and reference. Last year’s IDEAS Symposium produced 103 hours of recorded video, all available online at anytime for symposium attendees to reference whenever they choose to. Also having every event, concert, and workshop on video is like being able to attend the Symposium live for people who could not attend during the official time because of scheduling conflicts. Many people paid their complete registration knowing that they would have this material available for later use. So if there is a silver lining to the Covid problem, this technology capability is certainly that. For further information: thegr8.ideas@gmail.com |
Mollie B and Ted Lange in Concert to Raise Funds for Local Schoolby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Second video is a large video, so allow a few seconds for the video to load in the player.Tickets are available for Mollie B and Ted Lange November 20, 2021 Polka Party at Park School-New. Cross Plains Lions have partnered with Park School to raise funds to build a new Pavilion in Cross Plains, Wisconsin Mollie and Ted have presented fund raising concerts in the past to support the school.Their group, SqueezeBox, is head-lined by two Polka Hall of Famers: multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Mollie B, host of the Mollie B Polka Party TV show on RFD-TV; and two-time Grammy Nominee, Ted Lange; and was named the 2019 Best International Band of the Year by the International Polka Association. In addition to being featured on the Mollie B Polka Party, the band composed a song for and appeared in the Clint Eastwood film, “The Mule.” The band, as well as the unstoppable duo Ted and Mollie, have been recipients of multiple awards for their recordings and performances. Additionally, Ted and Mollie B co-produced and performed in the award-winning live show the “Mollie B Christmas Special” for multiple years in Branson, Missouri and Reedsburg, WI. To date, SqueezeBox has released four CDs. They have performed all over the US to capacity crowds, and as of November 2020, have made over 1300 appearances in 24 states. When not performing for live events, Ted and Mollie can be found working on their two-hour Sunday “Mollie B Polka Party” Radio Show which airs on SiriusXM channel 147 and knei radio. Come support the school that is supporting polka music!!! Future 2021 performances include: September: Thursday, September 2 - SqueezeBox - Krause's, New Braunfels, Texas - dance Join us during Krause's celebration of Oktoberfest for a fun-filled experience including keg tappings, costume contests, Bavarian hat dances, and more! Doors open at 1:00pm. Location: Krause's Cafe & Biergarten, 148 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130. Tickets begin at $25; children 2 and under get in free. There are a limited number of tickets, so act now! Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite, or by calling (820) 625-2807. Food will be available for purchase. No carry-ins, please. Friday, September 3 - SqueezeBox - The Houston Liederkranz, Houston, Texas Performance: 7-11 pm Address: 5100 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77018. Tickets are $15.00 in advance and $20.00 (kids 15 and under FREE). Doors open at 6:00pm. There is a wooden dance floor for your enjoyment. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. No carry-ins please. To order ticketsl: (713) 957-9004. Saturday, September 4 – SqueezeBox - Westfest, West, Texas Performance: 2-3:30 pm & 5:30-7 pm Sunday, September 5 – SqueezeBox - Westfest, West, Texas Performance: Noon-1:45 pm & 4-5:45 pm September 11 - Mollie B Variety Show with SqueezeBox, Sarah Koenigs, Jim Busta, and Dancers - Reedsburg, WI For tickets, please call Richard at 608-393-7314, and in the evenings: 608-524-2684. Sunday, September 12 - Silver Lake, MN - SqueezeBox Performance: 1-4 pm - dance Doors open at 12:00pm. Location: Silver Lake Auditorium, 320 Main St W, Silver Lake, MN 55381. Tickets are $30. Food will be available, as will a wooden dance floor for your enjoyment. No carry-ins, please. For tickets and more info: Betty Davis at (320) 455-7459 or Tammy Schermann at (320) 282-8393. Thursday, September 16 - SqueezeBox - Mt. Angel Oktoberfest, Mt. Angel, Friday, September 17- SqueezeBox - Mt. Angel Oktoberfest, Mt. Angel, Saturday, September 18- SqueezeBox - Mt. Angel Oktoberfest, Mt. Sunday, September 19- SqueezeBox - Mt. Angel Oktoberfest, Mt. Angel October 2021: Mon, Oct 4 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 7-10:15 pm 706-878-1908 Tues, Oct 5 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 7-10:15 pm 706-878-1908 Wednes, Oct 6 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 7-10:15 pm 706-878-1908 Thurs, Oct 7 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 7-10:15 pm 706-878-1908 Fri, Oct 8 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 7-10:15 706-878-1908 Sat, Oct 9 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 2-11:45 pm (various times throughout the day) 706-878-1908 Sun, Oct 10 - SB - Helen Oktoberfest, Festhalle, Helen, GA Performance: 2-6:45 pm FREE admission - 706-878-1908 Monday, October 11 - SqueezeBox - Private Engagement - Delphos, OH Thursday, October 21 - SqueezeBox - Hiller, PA - tentative Friday, October 22 - SqueezeBox - Callicoon, NY Saturday, October 23 - SqueezeBox - Girard, OH - dance Performance: 3-6 pm Come join us for this event sponsored by Peppermint Records! Doors open at 2:00pm. Location: Avon Oaks Ballroom, 1401 N State St, Girard, OH 44420. Admission is $25. Food will be available, as will a wooden dance floor for your enjoyment. No carry-ins, please. For tickets and info, contact Peppermint Records at (330) 783-2222, or email:l info@peppermintrecords.com. Sunday, October 24 - SqueezeBox – St. Henry, OH - dance Performance: 7-10 pm Doors open at 5:PM. Location: Romer's Catering, 321 S Eastern Ave, St Henry, OH 45883. Admission is $35. For tickets and info, contact the office at (419) 678-8482 Dinner is at 6:00pm, followed by a show at 7:00pm, and then a dance from 8:30-10:00pm. A wooden dance floor will be available for your enjoyment. No carry-ins, please. Saturday, October 30 - SqueezeBox – St. James Catholic School Gym, Liberty, MO Performance: 7-11 pm 309 South Stewart Road, Liberty, MO. The event has been rescheduled from the October 31, 2020 dance. The event is sponsored by the St. James Knights of Columbus. Food/drink available for purchase. No carry-ins, please. For more info and advance tickets: Kathy at (816) 721-7252 or mendyk2017@gmail.com. Sunday, October 31 - SqueezeBox – TBA November 2021: Friday, November 5 - SqueezeBox - Wursthalle, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 5:30 pm opening ceremonies Friday, November 5 - SqueezeBox - Big Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 6-7 pm & 8:45-9:45 pm Saturday, November 6 - SqueezeBox - Big Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 12:50-1:50 pm & 4:50-5:50 pm & 8:40-9:35 pm Sunday, November 7 - SqueezeBox - Big Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 11:30 am-12:30 pm & 2:10-3:15 pm Tuesday, November 9 - SqueezeBox - Little Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 6:10-7:10 pm & 7:50-8:50 pm - FREE Wednesday, November 10 - SqueezeBox - Little Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 6:40-7:10 pm & 8:30-9:00 pm - FREE Thursday, November 11 - SqueezeBox - Little Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 6:15-7 pm & 8:15-9:00 pm Friday, November 12 - SqueezeBox - Little Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 6:40-7:10 pm & 8:30-9:35 pm Saturday, November 13 - SqueezeBox - Little Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 5:55-6:55 pm & 8:25-9:25 pm & 11 pm -12 am Sunday, November 14 - SB - Big Tent, Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX Performance: 12:50-1:55 pm & 3:35-4:35 pm & 6:15-7:20 pm & 8:55-10 pm Friday, November 19 - SqueezeBox - Private Party Saturday, November 20 - SqueezeBox - Cross Plains, WI - 1:00 show |