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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Editor's Note
Bryant Park Accordion Festival Finale on August 16
Successful 2019 81st AAA Festival in Pennsylvania
29th Annual Cotati Festival August 17 and 18 in California
Last Entry 1st August for Bandoneon Competition in Vermont
Highlights Bandoneon Intensive Workshop with Hector Del Curto
Sam Reider and The Human Hands USA Tour
Concert of Hope on August 3rd
Meet Ricardo Cabrera 11 year old Accordionist
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
South Pasadena Review Reports Nick Ariondo Bastille Day Performance
Cory Pesaturo: May to July
Future events |
IDEAS Symposium 2.0
Classical Accordion and Strings: Vladimir Stupnikov and the Beo String Quartet on Oct. 27
Las Vegas International Accordion Convention 20th Anniversary Celebration
National Accordion Association (NAA) Announces the 2020 National Accordion Convention
Save the Date for the AAA Festival 2020!
Rybak Christmas Market Europe Tour from December 2-11
The Peter Di Bono Trio Performs for the San Francisco Accordion Club in September
List of Vancouver, Canada and USA Accordion Events
New and Updated Sites |
Updated Site: Mike Middleton, Texas Entertainer - USA
Highlights |
BREAKING NEWS: Passing of Lynn Singleton Ewingby Rita Barnea |
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| AWW is saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Lynn Singleton Ewing on August 10, 2019. Ken Schwartz of the SFAC shares, “It is with profound sadness that we must inform you that our dear friend and former SFAC President Lynn Ewing passed away suddenly yesterday while in New Mexico with her husband, Gail, visiting their daughter. Lynn was in good health but had some known cardiac issues. After her family and her church, probably nothing was more important to Lynn than her involvement with the accordion, whether it be as a young student starting at age 7 in San Diego or later as an accordion teacher. Lynn touched all who knew her over her decades of involvement with music and the accordion. Lynn was a teacher and mentor to countless students, was a member of the Accordion Teachers Guild, the SFAC, and the Accordion Chamber Ensemble, and other organizations. Lynn loved to travel, sometimes with her accordion (SFAC newsletter, December, 2016). Her involvement with the San Francisco Accordion Club went back to 1995, when she was invited to become a member by Frank Montoro (SFAC newsletter, September, 2018). The rest was history. Lynn ultimately became president of the club and single-handedly guided it from 2010-2016! Lynn was one of those special people who lit up the room and touched so many lives! Please share your memories of Lynn with us, which would be included in a bound volume for presentation to her family. This is all in real time, so we don’t have any details about services, etc. Regards, The SFAC Board of Directors, Elaine, Ken, Randy, Robert and Rosemary” Brittany K. Roney, Lynn’s niece said, ”Our family is devastated as we mourn the sudden loss of my aunt, Lynn Ewing. She was the nucleus of our family, and found herself at the heart and center of many groups and communities. She made time for everyone and everything she cared about, and had a vibrance and energy that could not be matched. She was my spiritual mentor, and one of my biggest cheerleaders. Her love was BIG and touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of people. The ripples cast by this tragic loss will be felt far and wide for a very long time.” There will be a memorial service for all of Lynn's friends and family in 2-4 weeks. She will probably be buried this weekend in a gravesite service for family only. For further information: kenneth.e.schwartz@gmail.com |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 Read the August USA news which contains numerous, detailed and fascinating informative reports about summer festivals including videos of concerts and workshops held at the various accordion festivals!Also, there are new, exciting young performers gaining well deserved recognition! Read about them today and in future publications. Over the next few months, we will continue to present videos of the performers who participated in the summer accordion events. It is so very inspiring to see and hear their enthusiasm and expertise. Summer is still here and there are many outdoor accordion happenings to attend. Plan your fall accordion schedule! Events taking place throughout the USA and Canada! |
Bryant Park Accordion Festival Finale on August 16by GreenHouse Publicity |
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 The Bryant Park Accordion Festival Accordions Around the World Finale takes place on Friday, August 16,2019, from 5-10:PM with:Rey Vallenato Beto Jamaica Los Texmaniacs Fedor Chistyakov Aces of Rhythm Toot Sweet Host Mickela Mallozzi (Emmy Award-winning host of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi) The Accordion Festival, a five-hour finale to the Accordions Around the World series at Bryant Park, features the the wide range of this often-overlooked and little-known instrument. This special event features Toot Sweet (Avant Garde Cabaret), Aces of Rhythm (Tango from Argentina), Fedor Chistyakov (Russian Rock & Roll), Los Texmaniacs (Texas-Mexican Conjunto), and Rey Vallenato Beto Jamaica (Vallenato from Colombia). The evening will be hosted by Emmy Award-winner Mickela Mallozzi, host of the PBS travel and dance series Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi. Ariana Hellerman, the series curator of Accordions Around the World, says, "Accordion is often confused for yesteryear kitsch in America; but, in many parts of the world, it's one of the most important instruments that convey the sound of the region. In New York, we are lucky to have access to many of these cultures. In addition to showcasing the versatility of the instrument and providing an intimate and accessible performance experience for audiences and passers-by alike, a priority for Accordions Around the World is to give communities where the accordion is played, a space and platform for sharing their cultures in the heart of Manhattan. We aim for the artists in this series to be reflective of the city. This year's Accordion Festival is particularly special; for the first time we feature conjunto tejano, music from the Texas and Mexico border. Los Texmaniacs, annointed by the legendary Flaco Jimenez as the next generation purveyors of conjunto, join us direct from San Antonio. We also have El Rey de Vallenato, a winner of one of the most important accordion festivals in the world, Colombia's El Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata, which was an inspiration for the creation of Bryant Park's Accordions Around the World series." This series is part of Bryant Park Picnic Performances presented by Bank of America, presenting world-class music, theater, and dance performances in Midtown Manhattan. All Picnic Performances are free to the public and designed to be enjoyed casually – no tickets required. At each show, the park lends out 250 free picnic blankets for audience members to relax on while enjoying the show on the Lawn. Accordion Festival Artists: Rey Vallenato Alberto “Beto” Jamaica is one of the leading vallenato and cumbia players in Colombia. Since winning the prestigious Professional Leyenda Vallenata Festival competition in 2006, he has become known as Rey Vallenato Colombia (“The Vallenato King”). His music is a vibrant mix of cumbia, paseo, porro all wrapped into his infectious accordion-driven vallenato. Originally the music of herders who combined Spanish minstrel and West African griot traditions, Vallenato, native to Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, is one of the country's most popular folk music forms. Annointed by the legendary Flaco Jimenez, Grammy Award winners Los Texmaniacs are the new kings of Tex-Mex. Combine a hefty helping of conjunto, simmer with several parts Texas rock, add a daring dash of well-cured blues and R&B riffs, and you’ve cooked up the tasty Texmaniacs groove. Founded by Max Baca in 1997, Los Texmaniacs combines the traditions of Tejano music with elements of blues, rock, country. They have performed at The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, International Accordion Festival, Kennedy Center and more. They received a Grammy Award for Border Y Bailes in 2010. Since the early 1990’s, Fedor Chistyakov has been known as the songwriter, front singer, and accordionist for the band Nol’ (Zero), a cult model of Russian rock music. His unique manner of singing and the fact that he played button accordion, an instrument atypical of rock music at the time, made the band stand out, to the extent of being featured as exemplary in Western documentaries on Russian Rock. He is a composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist musician, whose creative interests embrace rethinking classics and producing experimental instrumental music of many genres and styles. Aces of Rhythm, co-founded by producer and singer Pablo Pereyra and Grammy-winning bass player Pablo Aslán, pays tribute to the music and the style of legendary band leader, Juan D'Arienzo. Known for his very strong rhythmic condition, with noticeable emphasis on the four beat times, in the words of Tango historian, José Gobelo, “D’arienzo gave tango back to the dancers´feet,” capturing the interest of a younger generation. The septet plays D'Arienzo's original arrangements that have been transcribed from his original music. They made their debut at Midsummer Night Swing at Lincoln Center on 2017 and play the last Sunday of the month at the Astoria Tango Club in New York. Toot Sweet is the original cabaret soul project of Mary Spencer Knapp (of Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 Broadway fame) that expertly melds French chanson, funky pop, and psychedelic rock. Echoes of Edith Piaf, Patti Smith, and Talking Heads can be heard in Toot Sweet‘s addictive melodies, gut-chucking rhythms, and offbeat harmonies. Toot Sweet has released three full-length albums and has been a constant in NYC’s DIY scene, making it an unexpected and ever-evolving live experience. Professional dancer and trained musician Mickela Mallozzi is the four-time Emmy Award-winning host and executive producer of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi, a dance travel series airing on PBS. From rediscovering her family’s roots in Southern Italy to dancing tango in Buenos Aires, the series covers Mickela’s adventures as she experiences the world, one dance at a time. She has been featured in The New York Times, Travel Channel, Dance Magazine, USA TODAY, and Forbes. About Bryant Park Corporation: Bryant Park Corporation (BPC), a private not-for-profit company, was founded in 1980 to renovate, finance and operate Bryant Park in New York City. BPC is funded by income from events, concessions and corporate sponsors, as well as an assessment on neighboring properties, and does not accept government or philanthropic monies. In addition to providing security, sanitation, and horticultural services, BPC offers restaurants, food kiosks, world-class restrooms, and a wide range of free events throughout the year. The Midtown Manhattan park is visited by more than 12 million people each year and is one of the busiest public spaces in the world. BPC's website, bryantpark.org, offers more detailed information and a schedule of upcoming events. Location and Directions: Bryant Park is situated behind the New York Public Library in midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Take the B, D, F, or M train to 42nd Street/Bryant Park; or, take the 7 train to 5th Avenue. For further info@greenhousepublicity.com |
Successful 2019 81st AAA Festival in Pennsylvaniaby Rita Barnea |
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 The 81st AAA Festival and Competition was held July 17-21, 2019 in King of Prussia, PA. It was very well attended, an event filled with excitement, comraderie, great talent, collegial competition plus more! Attendees were enthused to meet old friends, make new friends, play together, hear young and upcoming accordionists and learn about both the acoustic and digital accordions.Additional photos and videos at 2019FestivalAAA There were many excellent participants in the AAA Competitions. Junior Carrozza Championship: 1st place winner is Gia Ciccone Senior Carrozza Championship: 1st place winner is Nathan Chapeton A complete list of winners will be included in an additional article in the September USA news. The first day, Wednesday, began with workshops by Joe Natoli and Dr. Robert Young Mcmahon, opening of Exhibits, Meet and Greet. The amazing “After Hours Club” hosted by Micheal Bridge featured impromptu performances by Micheal Bridge, Mario Tacca, Cody McSherry, Nathan Chapeton, “Papa Joe” DeClemente and more. Each night featured an After Hours Club filled with surprises and spontaneous performances! The Thursday Luncheon Concert included Nathan Chapeton (AAA USA Representative for the 2019 Coupe Mondiale, Saxophonist Mitch Guido, Stanislav Culcicovschi and an outstanding performance by Joe Soprani. Pasta Night featured more wonderful performances including Ray Oreggio, Cody McSherry, Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini, followed by the Westmont Philharmonia Accordion Orchestra conducted by Joanna Darrow. On Friday, there were performances at the King of Prussia Mall with Major Sargent Frank Busso, Jr. coordinating the events. The Busso Orchestra performed as did Papa Joe DeClemente and others. The Friday Night Gala Concert included the Joseph Natoli Chamber Ensemble ( with Dr. Robert Young McMahon, William Trigg and Cecylia Barczyk), presented Joe’s new compositions. Michael Soloway and Joe, Peter Maric and Featured Guest Artist, Michael Bridge, showcased their talents. The program MC was Manny Bobenrieth. The After Hours Club included many talented convention attendees.During the festival, there were many competition and evaluation categories in all ages, Junior orchestra rehearsals, Festival orchestra rehearsals, Master classes/workshops presented by Micheal Bridge, Sam Falcetti, Mario Tacca, Dr. Rober Young McMahon, Joe Natoli, Cody McSherry, Ray Oreggio, Don Gerundo. The Saturday Night Gala Banquet introduced by Ray Oreggio featured the Junior Orchestra, Youth Involvement Jazz Ensemble, and Competition Winners. The 2019 AAA Festival Orchestra conducted by Vesna Mehinovic presented an eclectic and sensitive program which included “Serenade Valse” by Tchaikovsky: “Humoresque” by Dvorak: “Concerto Grosso” by Handel and “Fugue on a Macedonian Theme” by S. Mehinovic. The Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Winner Gia Ciccone performed “Waltz Allegro” by Magnante. Don Gerundo provided wonderful entertainment during the cocktail reception. Will Comer performed his composition as an Elsie Bennett Competition Winner, AAA Coupe Mondiale Representative Nathan Chapeton gave an outstanding performance. It was inspiring to hear everyone and very encouraging to hear the Youth Involvment Jazz Ensemble which combines accordions and other jazz instruments. Each year since its inception, the group has grown in the number of accordion and other instruments. Mitchell Guido conducted. The exhibits in which attendees were encouraged to try out the many brands of accordions included Ernest Definer Affiliates, Liberty Bellows, and Music Magic Accordions USA. TV News Coverage and newspaper articles let everyone know about the AAA Festival. Special thanks for their great efforts, hard work and commitment go to Dr. Joseph Ciccone, AAA President; Mary Tokarski, AAA Contest Chairman and Festival Coordinator.Linda Soley Reed, Festival Coordinator; Ray Oreggio, Treasurer, Don Gerundo Comptroller, Rachel Quirbach, Secretary; Frank Busso, Public Relations/ Hotel Liaison; Frank Busso, Jr. Festival Coordinator, Exhibits; Joan Grauman AAA Archivist, Media and Workshop Chair; Marilyn O’Neill, Youth Involvement Program Coordinator; Mitchell Guido, Youth Program Jazz Ensemble Coordinator. Be sure to make plans for next years AAA Festival! Further details in future publications. |
29th Annual Cotati Festival August 17 and 18 in Californiaby Rita Barnea |
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  Don’t miss this year's accordion extravaganza featuring 40+ international & national acts on 7 stages. Come listen to the unforgettable Cory Pestauro, Ginny Mac, Pietro Adragna, and so many more!With 5 different stages, there truly is something for everyone! And this year, there will be Zydeco music from noon to dusk for dancing. Become a vendor! Early application ensures best selection. It is not too late to advertise either online or in the program! Don't forget to buy your tickets!! The 29th Annual Cotati Festival takes place August 17 and 18, 2019 at La Plaza Park, Cotati, CA 94931. The Cotati Accordion Festival is a two-day, multi-cultural, multi-generational accordion extravaganza held in La Plaza Park in downtown Cotati. Festivities begin on Friday before the festival. See 40+ bands on seven stages including the Jam Tent, Polka/Zydeco, two main stages, Accordion's Apocalypse Stage, Student Stage, and Friar Tuck's Pub. Performers include: Accordion Apocalypse Stage, Anaïs Bessières, Andre Thierry, Amber Lee Baker, Art Peterson & Laurie Miller, The Bellow Shakes, Big Lou’s Dance Party Big Lou the Accordion Princess, Corky Bennett, Cory Pesaturo, Crème Brülée, Creosote, Dona Francisca, Duckmandu,En Canto, Future Accordion Stars, Gary Blair, Geoff Berner, Ginny Mac, Golden State Accordion Club, Grand Finale, The Great Morgani, Intuitive Compass, Jim Gilman, Junk Parlor, La Agency, the Mad Maggies, Mark St. Mary, Miss Moonshine, MotorDude Zydeco, Nathan Rivera Jessie Anders, Penny Opry, Pietro Adragna, Rene Sevieri, Skyler Fell, Sourdough Slim, Steve Balich, The Wild Catahoulas, ZLA VILA CAF Charter states: “The CAF is a 501C3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing funds for Performing Arts Programs in our local schools. With all the budget cuts constantly eliminating school programs, our organization recognizes the need for outside sources to keep these programs alive. We believe that discontinuing the Performing Arts (music, drama & art) is detrimental to the education of future generations. The event started in 1991, through the selfless dedication of many volunteers who donated time and money. There has been a tremendous support of individuals and businesses working together to create this three-day multi-cultural, multi-generational, musical extravaganza for both residents and visitors.These last 28 events have been wonderful community building affairs. We’re now in our 29th year, generating positive public relations and giving credibility for our community, Cotati, and the accordion. By producing these problem-free events that have benefited our local schools, we have donated over $470,000 to our community.” Tickets are: $19.00 for one day, when purchased at the gate. $29.00 for two days, when purchased at the gate $17.00 for one day, purchased in advance – online or at an outlet. $27.00 for two days, when purchased in advance – online or at an outlet. $15.00 for a one-day senior ticket when purchased in advance. SENIORS – BE PREPARED TO SHOW ID AT THE GATE Kids 15 and under FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. For further information; email: info@cotatifest.com phone: 707 664 0444 fax: 707 664 0444 |
Last Entry 1st August for Bandoneon Competition in Vermontby Holda Paoletti-Kampl |
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| The 2019 Che Bandoneon International Competition will be held in Stowe, Vermont USA from August 12 – 18, 2019 as a part of the 2019 Stowe Tango Music Festival. The Competition is open to bandoneon players of all nationalities and at least 18 years of age by August 1, 2019. All application materials must be submitted using the online application form. View at rules and entry information at: 2019che.pdf FINAL ROUND REQUIREMENTS All finalists of the 2019 Che Bandoneon Competition are required to: • Rehearse and perform with Stowe Tango Music Festival Orchestra, the first bandoneon part of two orchestral works (orquesta tipica) • Perform one solo of contestant's choice that is different from the first round. |
Highlights Bandoneon Intensive Workshop with Hector Del Curtoby Diatonic News |
 August 5 – August 11, 2019 Stowe, Vermont The Stowe Tango Music Festival's Bandoneon Intensive Workshop is open for all levels of bandoneon students. Led by world–renowned bandoneon player Hector Del Curto, the one–week program consists of daily technique classes, workshops, bandoneon orchestra, private lesson and performance opportunities. Technique classes focus on instrument management, fingering, and other techniques that will narrow the gap between musical intention and execution. The workshops will help students acquire knowledge and experience in stylistic and interpretative skills. In addition, students will have the opportunity to apply their skills through master classes and performance. Attendance to the Bandoneon Intensive Workshop is required for bandoneon players who are invited to the Tango Academy as the workshop will provide the necessary preparation for rehearsing and performing in the Stow Tango Music Festival Orchestra (orquesta tipica). For advanced bandoneon players who are interested in participating in the Tango Academy, an audio recording must be submitted. Further information at: 2019StoweWorkshop.pdf |
Sam Reider and The Human Hands USA Tourby Rita Barnea |
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| Sam Reider and The Human Hands willI be performing everything from Bartok and Tchaikovsky to Joni Mitchell, teaching a workshop on composition at the Stanford Jazz Festival, and collaborating with amazing musicians all over the east coast. Sam Reider is a composer, accordionist, pianist and singer from Brooklyn, NY.He’s been featured at Lincoln Center and on NPR and collaborated with pop stars, jazz and folk musicians around the world. Reider is the leader of a “staggeringly virtuosic band” (RnR Magazine) of bluegrass and jazz musicians based in Brooklyn called The Human Hands. Excerpts from his website: Following the release of their critically-acclaimed record Too Hot to Sleep (2018), Sam and the Human Hands have appeared at major festivals and venues throughout the US and the UK and performed live on the BBC. Irresistible melodies, fiery improvisation and otherworldly sounds collide in what Songlines Magazine has dubbed "mash-up of the the Klezmatics, Quintette du Hot Club de France and the Punch Brothers.” Too Hot To Sleep features Eddie Barbash (The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Jon Batiste and Stay Human), Alex Hargreaves (Turtle Island Quaret, Live From Here, Sarah Jarosz), Dominick Leslie (Hawktail, Ricky Skaggs Band, Deadly Gentlemen), Roy Williams (Stephane Wrembel), Grant Gordy (David Grisman Quintet) and Dave Speranza. Reider grew up in San Francisco, the son of a musical theatre composer and klezmer musician. He began performing at a young age, and was interviewed on Marian McPartland’s “Piano Jazz” on NPR when he graduated high school. At Columbia University, he fell in love with American folk music. While writing his senior thesis comparing the songwriting of Woody Guthrie and Ira Gershwin, Sam began studying bluegrass and old-time, transcribing the fiddle melodies for the accordion and learning to sing the songs. This set him off on a journey that has taken him from back porches and dive bars to concert halls and major festivals in practically every state in the country. Representing the U.S. Department of State as a musical ambassador, Sam has travelled to China, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Estonia, Turkey and Azerbaijan, carrying his accordion on his back everywhere he goes and collaborating at with international artists. Sounds and stories from these travels frequently serve as the inspiration for Reider’s compositions, which together form an ongoing musical travelogue. As a side-man, collaborator and recording artist, Reider has worked with artists including Sierra Hull, Jorge Glem, Phoebe Hunt, Courtney Hartman, Jon Batiste and Stay Human, T-Pain, David Amram, Nellie McKay Ranger Doug, the Brother Brothers and more. A passionate educator, Reider leads ongoing performances for public school students throughout the New York City area in partnership with Jazz at Lincoln Center. He has designed curricula and taught courses at the Stanford Jazz Festival, San Francisco Jazz, and other private institutions around the country. Keep a special eye out for August 8th at Bard College's Fisher Center Spiegeltent where they are teaming up with the Catskill Jazz Factory and award-winning vocalist Kéren Tayár for a tribute to Joni Mitchell and other singers of the Sixties. Sam’s performance schedule includes: August 1st - Galway, NY \\ Cock n' Bull 7:30 PM August 2nd - Hancock, NY \\ Hancock Town Square 7:30 PM, Free! August 3rd - Putney, VT \\ Next Stage Arts 7:30 PM August 6th - Ridgefield, CT \\ CHIRP 7 PM, Free! August 8th - Annandale-on-Hudson, NY \\ Bard Fisher Center Spiegeltent w/ Kéren Tayár, presented by Catskill Jazz Factory 8 PM August 10th - West Kortright, NY \\ West Kortright Center 8 PM Fall Tour Announcement The Human Hands will be hitting the road in October with lots of dates in the Northwest, Colorado and Northeast. Mark your calendars now! 10.11 Monmouth, OR 10.12 TBA 10.13 Ferndale, CA 10.15 Boise, ID 10.16 Enterprise, OR 10.17 Prosser, WA 10.18 Seattle, WA 10.19 Portland, OR 10.20 Denver, CO 10.22 Ft. Collins, CO 10.24 Beaver Creek, CO 10.25 Georgetown, CO 10.26 TBA 10.27 TBA 11.1 Burlington, VR Sam says, “Stay in touch and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions about music, lessons, puppies, etc” For further information: sam@samreidermusic.com |
Concert of Hope on August 3rdby Robert Patterson |
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| Concert of Hope to Benefit MDA/ALS Center
at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University. (Philadelphia, PA) – The ALS Hope Foundation, in support of the MDA/ALS Center of Hope at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University (LKSOM), will host a Concert of Hope at the Media Theatre in Media, Pa., on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019. The concert will benefit the ALS Hope Foundation and the MDA/ALS Center of Hope at LKSOM, one of the first multidisciplinary ALS clinics in the country. Patients who visit the Center of Hope, directed by Terry Heiman-Patterson, MD, can expect to meet with a team that includes a neurologist; speech language pathologist; nutritionist; mental health specialist; respiratory, physical, and occupational therapists; and others to address every aspect of care. “This concert is our way of recognizing and honoring the memory of Dr. Stephen Senderoff, an advocate of fellow ALS patients and their caregivers and a talented composer and scientist,” said Dr. Heiman-Patterson, Professor of Neurology at LKSOM and President and Co-founder of the ALS Hope Foundation. “Stephen was instrumental in developing musical performances similar to the Concert of Hope, including three song cycles that were played at prior fundraisers and will be re-performed at this event. He sadly lost his life to the disease in 2016. This concert is a tribute to all he did to champion the progress made over the years with treating ALS as well as the research and work that still need to be done.” Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that impacts nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. When motor neuron cells die, muscle movement is affected. A person may lose their ability to walk, talk, eat, and breathe. While treatment has advanced over the years, and there are now four U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved medications, there is no cure. According to the ALS Association, more than 5,000 people are diagnosed with the condition each year, and there are 16,500 Americans living with it. Its cause remains unknown. Dr. Heiman-Patterson will perform on stage during the Concert of Hope with her husband Bob and son Justin, all accordionists. They will be joined by daughter Elizabeth, a singer with the Phénix Opera Company, based in San Francisco. Elizabeth Patterson, along with another soprano, and a pianist will perform pieces by well-known artists such as Mozart, Puccini, and Bernstein. An accordion sextet, the Ensemble of Hope, will round out the program with a Latin arrangement. For more information about the Concert of Hope, set for 6-8 p.m. on Aug. 3 at 104 E. State St., visit www.alshf.org/concertofhope. About Temple Health Temple University Health System: (TUHS) is a $2.1 billion academic health system dedicated to providing access to quality patient care and supporting excellence in medical education and research. The Health System consists of Temple University Hospital (TUH), ranked among the “Best Hospitals” in the region by U.S. News & World Report; TUH-Episcopal Campus; TUH-Northeastern Campus; The Hospital of Fox Chase Cancer Center and Affiliates, an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center; Jeanes Hospital, a community-based hospital offering medical, surgical and emergency services; Temple Transport Team, a ground and air-ambulance company; Temple Physicians, Inc., a network of community-based specialty and primary-care physician practices; and Temple Faculty Practice Plan, Inc., TUHS’s physician practice plan comprised of more than 500 full-time and part-time academic physicians in 20 clinical departments. TUHS is affiliated with the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University. The Lewis Katz School of Medicine (LKSOM), established in 1901, is one of the nation’s leading medical schools. Each year, the School of Medicine educates more than 800 medical students and approximately 240 graduate students. Based on its level of funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Katz School of Medicine is the second-highest ranked medical school in Philadelphia and the third-highest in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. According to U.S. News & World Report, LKSOM is among the top 10 most applied-to medical schools in the nation. Temple Health refers to the health, education and research activities carried out by the affiliates of Temple University Health System (TUHS) and by the Katz School of Medicine. TUHS neither provides nor controls the provision of health care. All health care is provided by its member organizations or independent health care providers affiliated with TUHS member organizations. Each TUHS member organization is owned and operated pursuant to its governing documents. It is the policy of Temple University Health System [and/or Temple University Hospital, Inc.; Jeanes Hospital; Fox Chase Cancer Center] that there shall be no exclusion from, or participation in, and no one denied the benefits of, the delivery of quality medical care on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, disability, age, ancestry, color, national origin, physical ability, level of education, or source of payment. |
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Meet Ricardo Cabrera 11 year old Accordionistby Rita Barnea |
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| Recent Video of Ricardo Cabrera competing. Jose and Lyzet Cabrera, Ricardo Cabrera’s parents share: It has always been our tradition to listen to Conjunto music in our family since Sr. Refugio Cabrera migrated in the 70’s to the United States. He presented this form of music to his sons and now it has been passed down to Ricardo’s generation. Ricardo has decided to be the musician in the family since we don’t have any musicians at all. This journey has become a fantastic one. We have met amazing people that recognize Ricardo’s talent and have helped him to achieve his dream and develop his passion for accordion. May 2016 was our first time coming to the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio because one of our friends mentioned it. Ricardo, who was 8 years old at the time, was amazed by the live performances and especially of the button accordion. In May 2017 we came back again to the Tejano Conjunto Festival and this time Ricardo was at the playground with his younger brother, Juan Pablo, and Ricardo disappeared and we could not find him… it took us over 10 minutes for us to find him. When his father, Jose Cabrera, found him, he was standing near an accordion store admiring a “red accordion”. He asked us to purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win an accordion and we didn’t have any luck. In June, Dad purchased his first accordion but we could not find any classes in Austin Texas and decided to drive to San Antonio Texas every Monday for some classes at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center with Ms. Eva Ybarra 2017 Endowment of the Arts Winner 2017. Ms. Eva Ybarra invited him on stage with only two months of learning at the MACC, Mexican American Cultural Center and it was very successful presentation. During 2018, Ricardo improved greatly! We learned from a friend that closer to Austin there was another great button accordion instructor Joel Guzman, Butler School of Music- the University of Texas, grammy award winner. Mr. Joel was amazed by his skills of playing the bass with the left hand since it's a tradition that was lost over the years and not common for a 9 year old to play in less than six months learning. In Spring 2018 we heard about the Big Squeeze from Texas Folklife contest, Ricardo auditioned and move on to the finals held at the Bob Bullock State of Texas History Museum in Austin Texas. He also auditioned for the 2019 making it to the semi finals, and moving on to the finals. Ricardo was invited to the Manor Texas Heritage Festival where he improvised an amazing duo with Juan Dias, Austin’s own artist and later he invited Ricardo to perform as a special guest at the Paramount Theatre Fiesta 2018 in Austin. In 2018 Ricardo was interviewed by Joy Dias from the Texas Standards and KUT 98.9 Eklektikos with John Aielli. University of Texas in 2019 for the KXAN special interview for being the only finalist from Austin Texas. He also auditioned for Drama Entertainment Youth Show and successfully passed to the finals achieving 2nd place. Last 2018 Cinco de Mayo Festival At Fiesta Gardens in Austin TX Ricardo was congratulated for playing Conjunto music by Johnny Degollado. In 2018 and 2019 at Cinco de Mayo Tejano Conjunto Festival Rancho Alegre at Stubbs BBQ he met Flaco Jimenez and performed on stage with J. R. Gomez. In 2018 and 2019 Accordion Wars IV & V gave him second place for the AW- V. In 2018 & 2019 Ricardo performed on stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio with the Guadalupe Mexican Cultural Center Student Academy who askedhim to perform last to recognize his talent. In 2018 Ricardo recorded a video- “El Color de Tus Ojos”- with Mia, age 11, possibly the youngest winner in history for the category of Female Tejano Music Award and in 2019 they both performed at the Austin Rodeo. Ricardo has participated in many local events including Non-profit organizations that assist the community to performing to Sweet 15 parties. He has been tremendously recognized having people coming to him to tip him monetarily to support his music classes. Ricardo purchased his own accordion with his tip money. In addition, he also plays the piano, drums, congas and guitar. Ricardo’s parents, Jose and Lyzet Cabrera said, “Our son has been invited many times by local bands including Dia Cero, Down South Band and the latest on July 30th 2019 at the Broken Spoke with Ms. Debra Peters and The Love Saints. It was amazing to receive great compliments from the audience who fully enjoyed their music. We are very thankful to Ms. Debra Peters for her support and we are looking forward to working with her in future presentations as well for instruction.” Debra Peters has included him as a member of her band, Debra Peters & The Love Saints. She will be featuring Ricardo at the Broken Spoke on the last Tuesday of every month Accordion Round-Up. The location is 3201 South Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX. The next date will be Tuesday, August 27, 2019. Make sure to see and hear this rising talent. His proud parents added, “Ricardo is now 11 and going strong. Self taught by ear, he has a large repertoire. He is also composing on his own and working on his vocals. We are very excited about his musical future. He plays with his soul and his heart. He is very humble in that he doesn’t realize how great he is, so natural.” Ricardo said, ““I love to play accordion,” he said. “It’s kind of like my life.” We all can see and hear that. We wish him continuing successes! For further information: Jaimeslyzet@msn.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini Perform for 9th Anniversary of Long Island Accordion Allianceby Rita Barnea |
 La Villini Restaurant of East Northport, NY is sponsoring the next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 6:PM. The featured guest artists will be accordionist Mario Tacca and international vocalist Mary Mancini. This event marks the 9th anniversary of the LIAA.Mario Tacca, on the Board of Directors of the AAA, was born in Italy. During his childhood, his family moved to the Alsace Lorraine region of France where he began his musical studies. This is where his love and intense desire to play the accordion began. He loved the sound! He would pick up the accordion and imitate some of the songs his mother used to sing. The desire and love never diminished, despite having to walk three miles weekly to his teacher with his instrument strapped to his back! While in France, he was the winner of many regional and national accordion competitions. He went on to become a world champion, winning the World Cup of Italy, the Grand Prix of Paris, the US National Competition and the International Accordion competition held at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Mario Tacca dazzles audiences across the US and around the world with his outstanding virtuosity and his exciting interpretations of international music, the classics and pop. Internationally acclaimed vocal artist Mary Mancini has been featured in the New York Times, the Forth Worth Star-Telegram, and the Journal News and has performed in a variety of venues around the world. Able to sing in eight different languages, Mary draws from a deep repertory reservoir. She is adept at pop, show tunes, operatic arias, and sacred music and has received worldwide acclaim. The Spring City Evening News in Kunming, China, writes that “audiences were greatly impressed by Mary Mancini’s singing ability…Through her music, we see her heart is smiling.” Mary has headlined numerous concert halls and festivals in North America, Europe, and China. She has performed at the Garden State Arts Center, Resorts International Casino Hotel, Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, and Mohegan Sun Resort Casino in CT. As a dynamic and popular performing duo, they have completed two concert tours of China. As guests of the China Ministry of Culture, they toured five cities in three weeks and performed with three symphony orchestras. Joining them on their tour was highly acclaimed Chinese tenor, Douglas Song. In addition to performing with the Symphony Orchestras, some of the most memorable moments included a performance held at the 1600 seat True Color Jazz Supper Club in the booming city of Shenzhen and in the 3500 seat Golden Opera House. The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) meets the first Wednesday of the month at La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731 For further information: www.gioiaproductions.com or lavillini@yahoo.com Reservations are recommended. |
South Pasadena Review Reports Nick Ariondo Bastille Day Performanceby Harley Jones |
| Video: Musette a la Russe composed and performed by Nick Ariondo Nick Ariondo was performing for Bastille Day at Nicole’s Gourmet Market & Cafe in South Pasadena and received a complimentary review from the South Pasadena Review Newspaper. |
Cory Pesaturo: May to Julyby Rita Barnea |
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| Videos from the recent South Pacific Accordion Festival in New Zealand: Video 1: Guest artist Cory Pesaturo (USA) performing Fly Me To The Moon, Doo Ops Video 2: Cory Pesaturo performing Klezmer Medley Daily Reports including results, photos and video are online at: 2019SouthPac Cory Pesaturo is a very busy accordionist, always traveling the world, and bringing his love of the accordion to people of all ages. Here is a list of his activities from May to July 2019. Versatile is a good word to describe Cory. May 1-5: Speaker at the famous EG Conference in Carmel, California May 9 / 10 / 11: Concerts with Jazz Legend Ralphe Armstrong, doing the music of Gregg Hill in Lansing and Detroit, Michigan May 11: Masterclass and Concert at a Community Center in Lansing, Michigan May 12: Mother's Day Event in Detroit with Joe Recchia May 13: Einstein High School Concert / Workshop in Detroit May 13: Kalamazoo College Masterclass, and then Concert with Elden Kelly May 14: Masterclass at the only High School in the country with an Accordion Program, in Cleveland. Then fly to San Francisco. May 15: Private Concert in San Francisco May 16: Different Private Concert in San Francisco May 17: Another Separate Private Concert in San Francisco May 18: Go to a Warriors Playoff Game May 19: San Francisco Accordion Club Concert and Masterclass May 20: Accordion Club of the Redwoods Concert May 21: Fly to Chicago May 22: Concert for the Italian Club of Chicago May 23: Public Concert outside of Chicago May 24-26: 2 Performances and Pit Pass to the Indy 500 in Indianapolis May 27: Picture Day at the Indy 500 with the Winner, Teams, and Manufacturers May 28: Fly to New Zealand May 31: Masterclass for the South Pacific Accordion Championships put on by the NZAA June 1: Concert for the South Pacific Accordion Championships put on by the NZAA June 3: Mini-Concert put on by New Zealand Music Legend and Accordion Friend Gary Deverne June 9: Performance at the Paris Cat Jazz Club in Melbourne, Australia June 11: Auckland Jazz Club Concert, in Auckland, New Zealand June 12: Hawaii June 20: House Concert in Boston, MA June 22: Recording Session June 23: Jazz Concert in Newport, RI with Tony Bennett's Pianist and RI Legend Mike Renzi June 27: Performance with Ezekiel's Wheel's at the famed Regattabar in Boston, AM July 7-15: Concerts in Iceland July 17-21: Festa Italiana in Milwaukee, WI, the Biggest Italian Festival in the Country July 23: Jazz Concert at Dazzle Jazz Club in Denver, CO July 24; Jazz Performance with Jeff Nathanson at the ATG Festival in Denver, CO July 25: Concert at the ATG Festival July 26: Concert in Gran Junction, CO, put on by the family of the Fastest Female Racecar Driver in the US who is currently in the W Series in Europe July 27: Test Drive a Profesisonal level DD2 Go-Kart at Grand Junction Speedway with the Blue Angels Air Show right above. For further information: cory,pesaturo@gmail.com |
Future events |
Joey Miskulin AAA Lifetime Achievement Award Presentationby Harley Jones |
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 The 2019 Carrozza Dinner on Sunday, September 8, will feature the Presentation to Joey Miskulin of the AAA Lifetime Achievement Award. The evening at Famee Furland of NA Club includes Cocktail Hour, Dinner and Dancing, wine with all proceeds going to the Camen Carrozza Scholarship Fund for the advancement of promising young accordionists. Download the reservation and booking flier: 2019CarrozzaDinner.pdf This honour is in recognition of the exceptionally prolific contribution Joey Miskulin has made to the recording industry, having played on hundreds of albums with many of country and popular music’s best known names over many years. Since the 1970s, Joey Miskulin has recorded with the likes of Paul McCartney, U2, John Denver, Ricky Skaggs, Andy Williams, Ricky Van Shelton, Emmylou Harris, Frankie Yankovic, Garth Brooks, to name but some. Also a singer, arranger, and producer, Joey Miskulin is well known for performing country music as ‘Joey the Cowpolka King’ with the band Riders in the Sky and polkas with Frankie Yankovic, but his versatility extends into jazz, evidenced by his album, ‘The Other Side of the Fence’. Also in 1990 for his ground breaking ‘Accordion Styles and Techniques’ video/DVD, which was the first video of its kind. Miskulin’s production credits include ‘Toy Story’ for Disney/Pixar, and recently in Shanghai, China, where he spent two weeks working with the Walt Disney Company. |
IDEAS Symposium 2.0by Bob Donovan Executive Committee Member |
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| The biggest and most exciting event of the year for IDEAS is our second annual IDEAS (International Digital Electronic Accordion Symposium 2.0) to be held Nov 6-10, 2019 at the beautiful Avalon Inn Resort and Conference Center located in Warren, Ohio (USA). Come and be a part of accordion history - an accordion event like no other ever experienced in America. Take a front row seat at the accordion event that will, single handedly, bring about a paradigm shift in what accordion events can be, should be, and with respect to IDEAS - will be into the future. The Symposium features a comprehensive 4 full days of immersion into the exciting world of digital accordions and will offer several paths or “tracks” from which participants will choose to tailor their individual musical journey to include classes, lectures, presentations, demonstrations and hands-on-the-keyboard workshops that match each participant’s experience, knowledge, and areas of interest. Whether desiring to maximize the benefits of the digital accordion during public performance, or to enhance playing enjoyment and creativity in private at home, the IDEAS Symposium promises all participants (from novice to advanced), a track to musical discovery, fun, and interaction with your fellow IDEAS members. Further, there is opportunity to learn, discuss, and have your questions answered by renowned instructors whose only goal is to enhance your abilities, understanding, and appreciation of your instrument. They will participate in showing you how to leverage your Symposium experience to help elevate your musical journey to a higher orbit. This video above provides some of the highlights of the 2018 Ideas Symposium. This video contains excerpts from some of the concerts performed by the teaching staff of the Symposium. The performances were a great way to see how the features of the digital accordion can be used to entertain with a wide range of music from various genres. This is an American accordion event that gives so much, teaches so much, entertains so much. It will provide an activity-filled four days that will leave you musically enriched while providing your spouse or significant other with a most affordable vacation. They will have the ability to enjoy concerts as well as full spa facilities, multiple restaurants, Olympic-sized indoor pool, world class health club, indoor tennis, racquetball, a first-rate golf course, and other recreational facilities. Free shuttles to two of Avalon’s sister resorts make the possibilities endless. The teaching staff continues to evolve tremendously and stay tuned for more information. Rest assured also that we have locked in the finest digital accordion talent in the world to perform for you, all equally brilliant and exciting. Watch this site carefully for upcoming surprises. This year’s registration is $995, and we are offering three incentives this year towards registration costs. 1. Paid members will automatically receive a $100 discount 2. We also offer a referral incentive program: Refer 1 new* registrant = $200 discount Refer 2 new* registrants = $400 discount Refer 3 new* registrants = Registration waived!! 1. Attendees who register before 6/6/19 will receive an additional $50 discount (*New registrants are those who have not attended the IDEAS Symposium previously) The spousal/partner program will still be available at $295, which includes all food, concerts, and use of any of the three Avalon facilities (including spas, new $14M Roman spa, world class fitness center, Olympic size pool, indoor tennis, and recreation centers). So once again, you can see that we are bringing you the finest in digital accordion knowledge sharing, entertainment, and total immersion. Come and be a part of accordion history again in 2019. You will be thrilled at what’s in store for you on every level. Check out the GR8 Ideas website for more details. The registration window is OPEN! Email your requests to: thegr8.ideas@gmail.com |
Classical Accordion and Strings: Vladimir Stupnikov and the Beo String Quartet on Oct. 27by Rita Barnea |
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 Dr. Paul Merenbloom presents "Classical Accordion and Strings" -- an afternoon of music with world champion classical accordionist Vladimir Stupnikov (Saint Petersburg, Russia) and Beo String Quartet (Pittsburgh, PA), including Sean Neukom, viola; Jason Neukom, violin; Ryan Ash, cello; and Aviva Hakanoglu, violin. This is sure to be a unique experience!Excerpts from Coupe Mondiale website: Vladimir Stupnikov is one of the brightest representative of the young generation of accordionists, winner of many International competitions, a musician who performs on the most prestigious concert stages of the world and an active member of several different musician ensembles. Vladimir was born on the 31 August 1996 in Ufa, Russia. In 2009 he graduated with honors from the Music School where he was taught by R. A. Hamatiarova. After that, he moved to St. Petersburg in order to attend the Special Music School as a student of D. A. Ivanovic. At the age of 12 Vladimir won his first prize at the International competition in St. Petersburg. Since that time he has started his successful musical career. Every year he has been the winner of International competitions and takes part in different festivals and concerts in Russia and abroad. Vladimir is a prize-winner of more than 20 International competitions, and was crowned the CIA Coupe Mondiale Champion in 2017 in Osimo, Ital Paul shares, “Make it a weekend! Come to Louisville for "Classical Accordion and Strings" featuring Beo String Quartet, with Sean Neukom, Jason Neukom, Ryan Ash, Aviva Hakanoglu, and accordion virtuoso and winner of the Coupe Mondiale 2017, Vladimir Stupnikov. Our music venue at the Hilton Seelbach hotel is directly across the street from Louisville's entertainment and retail complex, Fourth Street LIVE. Come to the Grand Ballroom at the Seelbach Hilton Hotel in downtown Louisville, on Sunday, October 27, 2019, for our 2:00 PM concert with Vladimir Stupnikov and the Beo String Quartet.” Classical Accordion and Strings is open to the public. $32 for adults; $26 for students. Children under 12 will be admitted free of charge and will be given front row seats with their families. Located at 500 South 4th Street in the heart of downtown Louisville, the Hilton Seelbach is a luxurious hotel built in 1901. Numerous restaurants surround the hotel, which is one block south of Louisville's Fourth Street Live! Our program will be held in the Grand Ballroom. A limited number of hotel rooms at a reduced rate is being held under the group name, "Classical Accordion and Strings." The hotel phone number is 502-585-3200. Valet and public parking are available. Cash bar. Business casual attire. For further information: Cell: 502-759-0248 Email: paul.e.merenbloom@gmail.com |
Las Vegas International Accordion Convention 20th Anniversary Celebrationby Rita Barnea |
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 Coordinator Paul Pasquale shares: “ From October 14 – 17, 2019 we will celebrate our 20th year in Las Vegas with an Accordion Event (Party) of a lifetime! There are a few great reasons to attend – but perhaps the biggest reason is this year’s lineup of Accordion Stars including Prof. Friedrich Lips!Yes you read that correct Prof. Lips – a once in a lifetime opportunity to hear and be in workshops with the most famous accordionist and accordion Professor in all of Europe and Russia. Books by Prof. Lips include: Catalog kslips00 The Art of Playing the Accordion Artistically Catalog kslips01 Die Kunst des Bajanspiels ist ein Buch für Akkordeonisten Catalog kslips02 Die Kunst der Bearbeitung klassischer Musik für Akkordeon Catalog kslips03 The Art of Arranging Classical Music for Accordion Of course we will be featuring the BEST of the BEST – with talent like Cory Pesaturo, Grayson Masefield, Stas Venglevski and MORE, plus Prof. Joan Sommers conducting the Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra! Come join the FUN – and be a part of our ROARING TWENTIES Celebration. The Las Vegas International Accordion Convention – where everyone is a STAR! Those who have attended come back year after year because they know what fun and what a great value! If you have not attended then come find out why nothing else compares to the Accordion Celebration in Las Vegas!" When – October 15-18, 2019 – Rooms only $47 per night on our block with a special $12 per night resort fee savings! Plus we will take $50 off your registration when you book on the convention block – in addition to the Early Bird savings by registering before March 15! There are 4 options to choose from! Single Attendee Package – $680.00 All events All 7 concerts 7 Meals Single Attendee & Evening Partner – $1025.00 Same as Single Attendee Package Adds One guest admission to each of the four evening concerts/meals Double Attendee Package – $1175.00 Same as Single Attendee Package Adds all events, all 7 concerts and 7 meals for an additional person Evenings Only Package – $440.00 4 Concerts with dinner Key Benefits of Attending the Convention Join the fun and make new friends from all over the World. See the latest in new accordions with factory exhibits. Hotel accommodations are very inexpensive. Be inspired by some of the finest. Learn from the masters. For registration details view the website: The Las Vegas International Accordion Convention or contact event organizer Paul Pasquali at paul@accordionstars.com |
National Accordion Association (NAA) Announces the 2020 National Accordion Conventionby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
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  National Accordion Association (NAA) officials proudly announces the 2020 National Accordion Convention! To review the fun time we had in the March 2019 convention, visit to our newly updated website and open the 2019 Gallery and Survey dropdown menu. As shown in the following image, you will find the results of the 31st annual convention and view over 250 pictures and videos. www.NationalAccordion.org The Annual "Call for Convention Presenters" is Coming Soon! The Board of Directors and Coordinators will be meeting in mid-August to lay out 2020 convention plans. At the appropriate time, all those on the NAA accordionist list will be contacted via e-mail. To assure that you will be notified, contact President Norman Seaton: NatlAccordion@sbcglobal.net A special notice will be delivered in the September 1, 2019, issue of www.accordionusa.com |
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Save the Date for the AAA Festival 2020!by Rita Barnea |
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| Be sure to make plans for next years AAA Festival at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites, Alexandria, Virginia from July 8-12, 2020. Guest artists will be Sam Reider, Cory Pesaturo, Joey Miskulin and many more. The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Linda Soley Reed with a tribute to all the Great Ladies of the AAA… Past and Present. Further details in future USA publications. |
Rybak Christmas Market Europe Tour from December 2-11by Rita Barnea |
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| Chris and Edita Rybak invite everyone to sign up for their Rybak Christmas Market Europe Tour, Dember 2-11, 2019 to Austria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Germany. It includes a fun and adventurous tour with parties, cruises, slivovice and accordion music by Chris Rybak. Join them for a trip of a lifetime! The tour includes: Monday, December 2:Depart from Houston airport and fly in direction of Europe, Vienna, Austria. Tuesday, December 3:Arrival in Vienna, the capital of Austria. The luxury bus with attendant team (including your tour guide) will be waiting for you at the airport and take you to the first destination which is Vienna downtown. We will do a short sightseeing tour of Vienna by bus. Then we will step into the joy of Christmas as we visit the amazingly magical Vienna Christmas Markets with the beautiful streets of Vienna as your backdrop. Hot wine and chestnut stands draw customers with seasonal treats and stallholders get shoppers in the Christmas spirit with handcrafted goods. The Christmas Markets in Vienna truly are an age-old tradition! Check-in our hotel. Leisure time for you to relax! Wednesday, December 4:Leave for the Czech Republic. Stop en-route in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia and the country's largest city with a rich and colorful history. It was an important European hub due to its proximity to the advanced cultures of the Mediterranean and the Orient as well as its link to the rest of Europe, made possible by the Danube River. We'll have a chance to tour the local Slovak Christmas Markets and also enjoy a mini cruise on the enchanting Danube river accompanied by live music from Chris Rybak. Then continue on our way to Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, Czech Republic. Check in and then party in the evening at a local koliba – old fashioned Wallachian restaurant! Thursday, December 5: In the morning we will visit one of the 3 parts of the Wallachian open-air museum established in 1925. The Wallachian Village occupies the largest part of the museum, encompassing farmsteads, wells, bell towers, windmills and gardens, and other related structures, all set among the jagged landscape, roads and clusters of trees to faithfully copy the character of traditional Wallachian villages. You will be able to see an exhibition of traditional winter labors and traditions, and rituals in the Christmas time back in those times. Lunch in open-air museum. In the afternoon, we can go up on one of the peaks of Beskydy mountains for beautiful view of the area in winter! Come back to our hotel to rest for a while and then finish the day with a nice party at Koliba Vlcina - moravian wine, music and the world's best grilled chicken -“Everyone´s favorite place”! You will always remember Vlčina! Don't miss this party!! Friday, December 6: Leave for Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. We will stop in Olomouc for traditional Christmas markets, where you can try all kinds of drinks, buy little handmade gifts, eat traditional street foods (sausages, snacks, etc.) and have fun listening to the nice Czech Christmas Carols right at the historical square. Continue on our way, check in at our hotel. In the evening enjoy the boat cruise on Vltava River, including a buffet dinner! See the beauties of the capital – beautifully illuminated Prague Castle, Vyšehrad-Upper Castle, National Theatre and other sights of Prague. Saturday, December 7: In the morning, we will have a guided walking tour of Prague - beginning with Prague Castle and then on to St. Vitus Cathedral, Hradčany Quarter, and the Church of Our Lady Victorious which houses the famous wax statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague. We will walk across the famous 14th century Charles Bridge and continue on to Old Town Square to see the Astronomical clock and also admire the tallest Christmas tree in the Czech Republic. Spend some time at the Christmas markets. Lunch in this area. We will end the tour at Wenceslas Square, which has historically been the sight of many events, including the 1989 Velvet Revolution demonstrations. You will have free time for individual sightseeing and great shopping at the numerous stores lining the square. In the evening, you will be treated to dinner at U Marcanu, where you can enjoy a great program with examples of typical dances and playing different instruments, as well as enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and unforgettable wine experience! Sunday, December 8: Leave for Germany, stop en-route in Chodova Plana, tour the local brewery where you will be shown the production of beer and will be told all about it. Of course, you will be tasting it at the end of the tour. Lunch at the brewery. Departure to Nuremberg, one of the major cities of Germany. Monday, December 9: We will have a guided tour of the modern part of Nuremberg, the Nazi center. We will view the unfinished Coliseum that Hitler ordered to be built as a grandiose copy of the Coliseum in Rome, as well as Zeppelin Field where Nazi parades took place. We will round out today’s tour in the medieval part of Nuremberg where we will see the ancient castle overlooking the city, the Church of Our Lady on the main market square. Spend the rest of the day in this area at the well known Christmas markets in Germany. Enjoy delicious Nuremberg sausages (Bratwurst), try iconic Nuremberg gingerbread, meet Nuremberg's Christkind – a German symbol of Christmas. And much more! Tuesday, December 10: Drive to Munich, the center of economic and cultural activity in southern Germany - it's one of Germany’s most attractive cities where every year the largest beer festival Oktoberfest takes place. Walking tour of the historic core of Munich – the main square Marienplatz with a new town hall built in the Neo-Gothic style and possessing an animated carillon, Church of Our Lady, the vast Late Gothic hall-church which has become the symbol of the city. Stop also in the famous beer house – Hofbräuhaus which dates from 1589. This is the favorite place where every day 17500 mugs of beer in 1 liter tankards are served. Spend the rest of the day in the historical center of Munich, shop for last Christmas gifts and souvenirs or just enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. Check-in. Wednesday, December 11: Depart from Munich airport early in the morning heading back to Houston, HOME SWEET HOME! * Itinerary subject to change depending on availability. * ACCOMMODATIONS Tue December 3 Austria Vienna Wed, Thu December 4, 5 Czech Republic Roznov p. Radhostem Fri, Sat December 6, 7 Czech Republic Prague Sun, Mon December 8, 9 Germany Nuremberg Tue December 10 Germany Munich TOUR: Includes program, hotel accommodations, flights, breakfast & dinner everyday, 5x lunch, drinks with group meals, luxury climatically controlled tour bus with restroom on board and snacks, soft drinks, water, juice & alcoholic drinks served while traveling, a professional European English speaking tour guide, and money exchanged on the bus. AND ACCORDION MUSIC AND PARTIES! For more info on this tour: Edita Rybak at (512) 963-6660 chrisrybak@msn.com |
The Peter Di Bono Trio Performs for the San Francisco Accordion Club in Septemberby Rita Barnea |
 The Peter Di Bono Trio has been serenading Bay Area audiences for over 25 years. Venues range from an elegant wedding on Nob Hill, to a forest picnic in Carmel Valley. The music covers a very wide spectrum from Broadway to Bach, and back. Excerpts from the website: Peter Di Bono has played nearly every type of music, and in every setting imaginable. Performances include musical theater and guest soloist with Bay Area symphony orchestras. His many musical styles include classical, jazz, Italian, French, German – “You name it, I do it!”. Peter has an active teaching practice with over 20 students, and is on the faculty of The Community Music Center in San Francisco. Violinist, Harriet Newhart is equally comfortable playing Mozart, Mancini, or marches. Classically trained on piano and violin at The San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Harriet brings such warm vitality to her music that she has been a favorite of San Francisco audiences and musicians for her entire career. Bass player, Steve Hanson was raised on the family farm in Minnesota, and as soon as he was of age, joined the United States Navy. He was soon accepted into the Navy Band playing horn. Steve's bass playing style and all around musicality keeps him one of the busiest musicians in the entire Bay Area. Also performing in September will be Garf's Uncle - an Accordion, Violin and Drum trio from Palo Alto that plays an eclectic mix of tango, klezmer, bossa nova, oldies and jazz. For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com |
List of Vancouver, Canada and USA Accordion Eventsby Rita Barnea |
 There are numerous accordion events in the Vancouver, BC area in August and beyond. Here is a list of upcoming events In Canada and the USA. Choose one or more and enjoy the friendliness and camaraderie of accordion festivities. See old friends, and, of course, you will make interesting new friends.August 1, 7.30-9.30 PM- Squeezebox Circle monthly get-together - Spartacus Books, 3378 Findlay (near Commercial & 18th) * August 2, 7.15-8:PM - Parno Drom - Kitsilano Showboat * August 2-9 - Festival Judio celebration of Latin American Jewish culture - Peretz Centre, 6184 Ash * August 5, 7.30 PM - Accordion Madness: Ana Bon-bon, Mizz Lisa, Nuvo Zydeco - w. Bruce 'Sunpie' Barnes from New Orleans, Princeton Pub, 1901 Powell * Aug 9-11th - Balkan Shmalkan, Honk BC Festival * Aug 11, 2:30-5:PM - Artful Sundays presents Teapot in the Tuba, Napier Greenway * Aug 17, 8:PM - Rusty Creek - Eclipse Lounge, Hastings Racecourse & Casino, 188 N Renfrew Street, * Aug 18, 2.30-5:PM - Artful Sundays presents Double Rainbow, Napier Greenway * August 18, 7.30 PM - Illiteratty CD release, Trinity Grace United Church, 8 E 16th, $20 * Aug 24, 9am-11:30 AM - Teapot in the Tuba, Trout Lake Farmer's Market * Aug 24, 8-11:30 PM - Balkan Shmalkan and Melez Band, Details TBA * August 24, 8:PM - Calexico, Vogue Theatre, $44.50 * Aug 30-Sept 1 - Quadrapalooza, Balkan Shmalkan, Quadra Island * Nov. 1 - Geoff Berner - Chutzpah! Festival, STAGED MUSICAL READING FOLLOWED BY ALBUM RELEASE SHOW - WISE Hall Ongoing events • Every Tuesday, 7.30-9.30 - Breaking Boundaries Experimental Quartet - La Mezcaleria, 68 E Cordova St * First Thursday of every month, 7.30-9.30 - Squeezebox Circle monthly get-together - Spartacus Books, 3378 Findlay (near Commercial & 18th) * Second Thursday of every month - Black Bear Rebel Ceilidh Band - Black Bear Pub, 1177 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver. * Third Thursday of every month - Balkan dance party - "Balkan Shmalkan headlines a night of wedding and funeral music from Balkan and Klezmer traditions. Each month also features a set by different Balkan or Kelzmer guest band." - WISE Hall & Lounge, 1882 Adanac (at Victoria). * Roma Swing Ensemble - Thursdays, 7-10:PM: East is East, 4413 Main Street: Saturdays (7-10pm) & Sundays, (7:30-10 PM) East is East, 3239 West Broadway * Every Friday, 6-8:PM - Breaking Boundaries Quartet, La Taqueria, 586 Hornby St. * Every Friday: 7:30 to 10:30 PM- Alpine music accordion get together- Austria Vancouver Club, 5851 Westminster Highway, Richmond- all welcome! * Every second Friday evening - 'International music' on accordion + guitar by our friend Rick W. - Jagerhof Alpine Restaurant, 71 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver - Call restaurant to confirm dates - (604) 980-4316 * Every second Saturday of the month - Nuvo Zydeco - The Cheese Inn, 4585 Dunbar, 604-620-1951 * Every Sunday, 7-10:PM: Gary Comeau & Cannery Row, Ouisi Bistro, 3014 Granville * First Thursday of every month, 7.30-9.30 PM - Squeezebox Circle get-together; Spartacus Books, 3378 Findlay (just off Commercial Drive at 18th) * First Sunday of every month, 2:PM - Victoria Accordion Club - Victoria Edelweiss Club, 108 Niagara Street Accordion-friendly festivals (in BC): • Chutzpah Festival - Vancouver (February-March) * ArtsWells (Wells, in Northern BC- Aug) * Princeton Traditional Music Festival (August) * Accordion Noir Festival - Vancouver (September) * World Accordion & Tango Festival (Victoria, November) Accordion-friendly festivals (everywhere else): • The Big Squeeze - Texas folklife accordion contest (various locations in Texas - February through March) * Cotati Accordion Festival (Cotati, California - August 17-18, 2019) * Carrefour mondial de l'accordéon - Montmagny, Quebec (Aug-September) * Deep Squeeze - Port Townsend, WA (early September) * Castelfidardo Music Festival - Castelfidardo, Italy (early September) * Festival d'Accordeon Le Grand Soufflet (Rennes, département d'Ille-et-Vilaine, France - October) * Las Vegas International Accordion Convention (October) |
New and Updated Sites |
New and Updated Sites: CPez Academy by Cory Pesaturoby Harley Jones |
 The CPez Academy is a Private Subscription based Class which provides 2 Masterclasses (90 minutes or so) a month with Cory Pesaturo on the interactive video conference app "Zoom", which can be used with computer, tablet, or phone. The Masterclasses will cover aspects of improvisation for both non-improvisors & more pro-improvisors, music theory for all levels, chord changes, how to jam and learn what you hear instantly, and Many other musical aspects. In addition to the Masterclasses, documents & homework-like assignments will be provided to help out with your learning. Through Zoom, these Masterclasses are fully interactive, and will be archived on private YouTube links, so if you can't be there for the live Masterclass, you can watch it whenever is good for you. |
Updated Site: Mike Middleton, Texas Entertainer - USAby Harley Jones |
 Updated site has a new schedule of concerts and some new photos for Texas entertainer Mike Middleton. |