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U.S. National Accordion News - 01-Jun-2017
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Highlights

Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
Russian Renaissance: M-Prize Chamber Arts Competition Grand Prize Winner
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 15-18
Accordion Association of Calgary Presents Music Festival and Competition
AAA Festival in Princeton, NJ From July 12-16
ATG Festival July 19-23
Guy Klucevsek Opens for the New York Philharmonic Players
Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band
Beverly Roberts Curnow Performs for the LIAA on June 7
Rob Reich in Summer Concerts
Bachtopus in Concert on June 3rd

Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc.

HS Student Wins Award With Documentary “The Life of Stephen Dominko”
15th Annual Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund Dinner-Huge Success!!
UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble in Conception, Missouri
“Accordions Rising” Film Available at Special Price
NAAC Launches New Projects
Joseph Soprani Presents Concert in Pennsylvania
Dr. Schimmel Releases New Steampunk Video
The Great Accordion Rendezvous in New York City on June 21
New York City Public Elementary School’s “Squeeze Box Nine”
Alex Meixner Summer Performances
Alicia Baker in Summer Performances
Rose City Accordion Club Camp June 4-8 in Portland, Oregon
Mary Tokarski and Nathan Chapeton Perform for LIAA
Brooklyn Accordion Club "Thinking inside the Box”
NWAS Seattle Accordion Social June 12
Children's Fiction Books Which Feature the Accordion

Future events

Victoria International Accordion Festival July 13-17
Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in July Includes Accordion Workshop
Jelena Milojevic to Perform at the Victoria International Accordion Festival
Paul Betken to Perform at ATG Festival in July
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Series
Michael Arnone's 28th Annual Crawfish Fest
27th Annual Cotati Accordion Festival
September 26 Tribute Concert to Tony Rozance

Over 2,100 titles of eSheet music, sent to you by email, secure server bank online payment

Highlights

Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA

by Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association

I am writing this on the plane flying internationally to Las Vegas for the Octoberfest Las Vegas International from 15th to 18th October at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.

Paul Betken & Jerry Cigler are newly added to a great line up of stars (list below) with lots of great seats still available! Want to hop a plane to come and enjoy this exciting festival?

Newsletter (picture right) with full information: 2018LVACnews.pdf
Picture left: Event organizer Paul Pasquali

The lineup starts with visionary accordionist Cory Pesaturo and bookends with a grand finale starring Grayson Masefield and the International Accordion Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Prof. Joan Sommers.

You can register online at www.AccordionStars.com or contact Paul Pasquali, event organizer, by phone at 1-800-472-1695 or (801) 485-5840, email: paul@accordioninfo.com.

Footer Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival

Accordion Repairs Made Easy by John Reuther

Russian Renaissance: M-Prize Chamber Arts Competition Grand Prize Winner

by Rita Barnea

Video of Russian Renaissance: Published on May 4, 2017
Program:
Tango pour Claude (1993)
Richard Galliano (b. 1950)
Bibo no Auzora (1996)
Ruichi Sakamoto (b. 1952)
Vanya (2016)
Crossover composition (arr. Russian Renaissance)
Caravan (1936)
Duke Ellington (1899-1974)
Barynya
Russian Folksong/arr. Aleksandr Tarasov

Russian Renaissance includes the following musicians:
Ivan Kuznetsov (balalaika), Anastasia Zakharova (domra), Aleksandr Tarasov (accordion), Ivan Vinogradov (balalaika-contrabasso).

Excerpts from article by Martin Slagter: The quartet of Russian Renaissance captivated the audience and jury on Thursday, May 4, inside Hill Auditorium to capture the second M-Prize chamber music competition. At $100,000, it is said to be the largest chamber music prize in the world. The competitions was organized by the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theater & Dance.

They also will receive important performance opportunities. The winners are invited to teach at the school of music, theatre and dance at the University of Michigan 2017-18 School year.

Aside from the big money, what sets M-Prize apart from the crowd is the breadth of the music that is welcomed as part of the competition. In addition to the traditional winds and strings categories in both senior and junior divisions, there is an open category: a musical catch-all for ensembles that don’t fit cleanly into the more customary instrumental combinations.

Coming out firing behind a ferocious interplay between the strings of a balalaika, performed by Ivan Kuznetsov, and domra from Anastasia Zakharova, Russian Renaissance executed with speed and precision, garnering loud applause following their 25-minute performance. They were joined by Aleksandr Tarasov on accordion and Ivan Vinogradov on balalaika-contrabasso.

Russian Renaissance competed for the $100,000 grand prize with senior strings division winner, the Argus Quartet and senior winds division winner the Donald Sinta Quartet.

The ensemble, Russian Renaissance, debuted in October 2015, performing with world-renowned director Emir Kusturica, two-time laureate of the Cannes Film Festival and the No Smoking Orchestra.

In Russia, the ensemble has performed in Tchaikovsky Concert Hall and Gnesins' Academy Concert Hall in Moscow; Yota Space concert hub in St. Petersburg; and the Youth Theatre in Rostov-on-Don. In Serbia, they have performed in the National Theatre of Uzice and the Concert Hall of the Russian House in Belgrade.

The group describes their style as bringing together tradition and modernity in unique crossover and fusion styles.

The M-Prize competition, hosted by UM's School of Music, Theatre & Dance, received attention during its inaugural running last spring for its format and large cash prize offerings, with the Calidore String Quartet taking home the $100,000 Grand Prize.

The international jury included former New York Philharmonic concertmaster Rodney Friend, Juilliard String Quartet cellist Astrid Schween, Swiss saxophonist Lars Mlekusch, renowned flautist Carol Wincenc, multigenre cellist Jeffrey Zeigler and Grammy Award-winning soprano Dawn Upshaw.

In addition to the grand prize, three $20,000 prizes are awarded to winners of three different categories of strings, winds and open competition, as well as junior strings and winds categories for ages 18 and under.

For further information: kuzvan@gmail.com

The Ins and Outs of the Accordion by famous accordion repairer and tuner Thierry Benetoux

Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 15-18

by Rita Barnea

The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration will be held from June 15-18, 2017 in Leavenworth, WA. The Northwest Accordion Society has been hosting accordion events in the Northwest for over 25 years. Included in it's accomplishments are monthly accordion socials, the annual "Day of the Accordion" at the Seattle Center, accordion scholarships, and it's elegant quarterly publication "The Northwest Accordion News".

Leavenworth is Washington’ s “Bavarian Village ” and a perfect setting for this celebration. Nestled in a narrow valley at elevation of 1100 feet surrounded by wilderness of rugged, majestic mountain ranges, over 2 million visitors per year from all over the world come to experience magical Leavenworth.

With the Northwest Accordion Society as your host and Leavenworth as the setting, why not plan to join them and enjoy four wonderful days of everything accordion. Whether you are a competitor, participant or just love great accordion music, there is enjoyment and participation for everyone.

Here is a partial list of what is happening: Accordion Competitions; Workshops; Concerts with World Class Performers; Free Performances at the gazebo, grange, and restaurants; Free Accordion lessons; Accordion Parade on Saturday; Accordion Vendors; Opportunity for all accordion players to play; Jam sessions and much more!

This is a celebration of the accordion’s versatility and its presence in many cultures. Accordion music is what this event is all about.

For further information contact the Northwest Accordion Society: Phone: (206) 622-4786
E-mail: bonniebirch@msn.com.

Accordion Association of Calgary Presents Music Festival and Competition

by Rita Barnea

The Accordion Association of Calgary, celebrating over 25 years, presents their Music Festival and Competition on June 24 and 25, 2017 at the Montgomery Community Hall, 5003 16th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta T3B 0N2, Canada.

Their annual music festival is a competitive opportunity for amateur accordionists and pianists. Each class is divided by age and music level of study. Participants need to be a member of the AAC in order to compete, and then fill out an entry form and pay their registration fees.

The adjudicator for the 2017 festival is Elizabeth (Liz) Finch) from California, USA. She was the 1st Vice President of the ATG (Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International), holds Baccalaureate and Master’s music degrees from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Wyoming. Liz Finch studied accordion with Professor Joan Sommers, who led the first accordion department at a university in the United States.

Liz Finch has worked for many years as a professional music copyist and orchestrator in Los Angeles, California as well, where she works with many of the best-known musicians and composers in the TV, film, and recording industries. Some of the films she has served as an orchestrator are “Shrek”, “Pirates of the Caribbean” “The Dark Knight”, and “Interstellar”, to name a few.

From the website: The Accordion Association of Calgary is a registered non-profit association established in 1989. We are a group of teachers, students, parents, and accordion enthusiasts who encourage the playing and development of the accordion. We work together to create performance opportunities for our musicians and listening opportunities for the public.

Through recitals, concerts, and an annual music festival, the accordion is alive and well in Calgary! We represent all genres of music played by soloists, groups and orchestras alike. Ethnic or Folk, Jazz, Classical, Pop, or Modern musical styles are embraced by our members and teachers. The AAC also maintains a set of guiding principals and standards for grade levels and exams for it's students. We have also established a music "library" to help maintain the original scores and selections needed for our students to continue to learn.

AAA Festival in Princeton, NJ From July 12-16

by Rita Barnea

You are all invited to attend and participate in the AAA Competition and Festival to be held in Princeton, New Jersey from July 12-16, 2017 at the Westin Hotel at Forrestal Village, 201 Village Boulevard in Princeton, NJ.
Reservation Code: call 1-609-452-7900 and mention the American Accordionists’ Association
Visit the AAA website for full details: www.ameraccord.com

The AAA Accordion Festival features an exciting line up of presenters and performers. The luncheon concert includes: Rachel Quirbach, Will Comer, Mitch Guido, Cody McSherry, Antony and Joseph Klettner.

The Accordion Pops Orchestra will be conducted by Al Terzo. Dr. William Morse will conduct the 2017 AAA Festival Orchestra. Junior Festival Orchestra will be conducted by AAA President Mary Tokarski. Mitch Guido will conduct the Youth Track and Youth Involvement Program Jazz Ensemble.

The following workshops will be presented during the AAA Festival:
1. Youth Track Workshop: "Chords and Grooves for the Accordion: How to Play with Bass and Drums" – Presenter, Dallas Vietty
2. " The Accordion in Opera, 1898 to the Present" –Presenter, Dr. Robert Young McMahon
3. "Telling Stories without Words: Improving Your Musical Expression and Phrasing" – Presenter, Rachel Quirbach
4. "The Accordion as Citizen of the World: Writing Music for our Eclectic Instrument" – Presenter, Will Holshouser
5. "Getting Around Stradella" – Presenter, Dr. William Morse
6. “ What Events Led to the Formation of the American Accordionists’ Association?" – Presenter Joan Grauman, AAA Historian ‘
7. " From Eisenhower to Flower Power –How to Perform "The Music You Grew Up With"!!! – Presenter, Bruce Gassman

After Hours Club Each Evening: Bring your instrument and be a part of the entertainment! Everyone is welcome. Wednesday with Guest Host Will Holshouser, Thursday with Guest Host Jamie Maschler, and Saturday with Guest Host, Bruce Gassman. After Hours Club will start at 9:PM or immediately following all other activities.

Gala Concert (Ticket required) – Guest Artists: Jamie Maschler, Will Holshouser, Eddie Monteiro, Bruce Gassman, Dallas Vietty and Ron Oswanski, Dr. Robert Young McMahan with Cecylia Barczyk and Emmanuel Borowsky.

In addition to excellent performers and workshops there will be many opportunities to play in orchestras or solo. The hotel is in walking distance of shops and restaurants and close to tourist attractions.

For further information on events and registration:
www.ameraccord.com

ATG Festival July 19-23

by Rita Barnea

The 77th Annual Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) Festival will be July 19-23, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in Lisle, Illinois. We’ve got an exciting line-up of solo and ensemble concerts, workshops, activities, and fun. Make sure to make room on your calendar for an unforgettable accordion experience at the ATG!

ATG President Amy Jo Sawyer invites all to attend, "Check out the Quartette Gelato website: www.quartettogelato.ca. Another exciting group will be the “Alex Meixner Band” from Florida. See and hear their terrific showmanship on their website: www.alexmeixner.com. Fabulous Jazz accordionist, Paul Betken, will take the stage with two Chicago based excellent sidemen, drummer, Phil Gratteau, and Bassist Jim Cox. Paul resides in Arizona and has performed at many accordion and Jazz Festivals.

Workshops, Concerts, New Music for accordion Concert, Luncheons, Banquet, accordion vendors,Meet & Greet Party, CDs & Music for sale and new friendships! We all love to play the accordion! Please attend the Festival. You are guaranteed a “Squeezin’ Good Time”.

2017 Workshop Presenters and Workshops:
Lisa DeAngelis: "Alexander Technique” Session 1: Body Awareness Basics: Strategies for Ease and Performance Enhancement with the Alexander Technique. Session 2: The Accordionist’s Body Instrument: Hands on with the Alexander Technique.

Alexander Sevastian: "How To Practice and Learn New Material for a Performance” Description: Alex will talk about some methods of how to learn new material faster and about the most efficient practice technique. He will analyze the problems in learning the new pieces and give suggestions in solving them.

Beverley Fess: "Ensemble Fear? – Get Over it!"

Betty Jo Simon with Joe Natoli and Kenn Baert: "Condensing Your Music Repertoire Down To One Convenient Tablet"

Mike Zampiceni: "Avoiding Bellows Pitfalls and Achieving Dynamic Proficiency"

Murl Sanders: Mixed Ensemble "Not Just For Accordions Anymore!" Mixed instruments ensemble playing a short program of contemporary pop/rock styles. Three rehearsals. Reading ability required. Bring your sturdy music stand. All ages welcome. All instruments welcome. Music provided, intermediate level. Limited space available, sign up now! Contact: murl@murlallensanders.com

The ATG Festival Accordion Orchestra is a true highlight of the Festival, directed by Joan Cochran Sommers. Accordionists attending the festival sign up to rehearse/perform with the orchestra. When you register for the orchestra, you state the level of music you are able to play. Orchestra music is then sent to you several months ahead for you to learn and prepare to play with the fifty piece ensemble. Classical, Pops, Jazz, plus all kinds of ethnic music are chosen by Maestro Sommers for the orchestra to perform. It is always a very excellent performance that will enhance your accordion studies and experience.

The ATG is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization welcoming your donations to the various categories to promote and support the accordion funds: Youth Scholarship Fund, New Music Fund, ATG General Fund and more. We are here to help promote the accordion, to raise its standards, and to gain the popularity that it deserves in the world of Music!”

See more articles in this publication on ATG Featured Performers.

Guy Klucevsek Opens for the New York Philharmonic Players

by Rita Barnea

Video 1: Guy Klucevsek performs "Dancing on the Vocano" at the Cotati Accordion Festival, Cotati, CA, August 2011

Accordionist Guy Klucevsek will open with a solo set for the New York Philharmonic Players “Share the Stage" performances which are performances presented by local musicians in their home boroughs, to salute the diversity of New York City’s resident musicians.

The free indoor concert at Snug Harbor, Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, Staten Island, New York, on Sunday June 18, 2017 at 2:PM. The Philharmonic performs at 3:PM with a program to include music by Mozart and Schubert. The event is free, but requires pre-registration through Paper Bag Tickets.

Guy Klucevsek is one of the world’s most versatile and highly-respected accordionists. He has performed and/or recorded with Laurie Anderson, Bang On a Can, Brave Combo, Anthony Braxton, Anthony Coleman, Dave Douglas, Bill Frisell, Rahim al Haj, Robin Holcomb, Kepa Junkera, the Kronos Quartet, Natalie Merchant, Present Music, Relâche, Zeitgeist, and John Zorn.

He is the recipient of a 2010 United States Artists Collins Fellowship, an unrestricted $50,000 award given annually to "America's finest artists."

He has premiered over 50 solo accordion pieces, including his own, as well as those he has commissioned from Mary Ellen Childs, William Duckworth, Fred Frith, Aaron Jay Kernis, Jerome Kitzke, Stephen Montague, Somei Satoh, Lois V Vierk, and John Zorn.

Performances include the Ten Days on the Island Festival (Tasmania), the Adelaide Festival (Australia), the Berlin Jazz Festival, Lincoln Center, Spoleto Festival/USA, BAM Next Wave Festival, Cotati Accordion Festival, San Antonio International Accordion Festival, Vienna International Accordion Festival, and the children’s television show “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.”

His 1987 project, Polka From the Fringe, a collection of commissioned polkas by Fred Frith, Elliott Sharp, Bobby Previte, Carl Finch, et. al., toured around the world and was released on 2 cds on the eva label, and were named “best recordings 1992” on WNYC-FM’s “New Sounds” program.

In 1996, he founded Accordion Tribe, an international ensemble of composer/accordionists Otto Lechner (Austria), Maria Kalanemi (Finland), Lars Hollmer (Sweden), Bratko Bibic (Slovenia) and himself. They toured internationally from 1996-2009, are the subjects of Stefan Schwietert’s award-winning documentary film, Accordion Tribe: Music Travels, and released 3 cds on the Intuition (Germany) label.

His music theatre scores include “Chinoiserie” and “Obon” with Ping Chong and Company, “Hard Coal,” with the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, “Industrious Angels” for Laurie McCants, “Cirque Lili” for French circus artist Jérôme Thomas, which has been performed over 250 times world wide, always with live music, and his own piece, “Squeeze Play,” an evening of collaborations with Dan Hurlin, David Dorfman and Dan Froot, Claire Porter, and Mary Ellen Childs. He and Dan Hurlin were awarded, jointly, a BESSIE for, “The Heart of the Andes,” which has played the Henson International Puppetry Festival, The Barbican Center in London, and the Ten Days on the Island Festival, Tasmania.

Klucevsek has released over 20 recordings as soloist/leader on Tzadik, Winter & Winter, innova, Starkland, Review, Intuition, CRI, and XI. Stereo Review cited his Starkland recording, Transylvanian Software, as a recording of special merit" (1995). He can also be heard on John Williams’s orchestral scores for the Steven Spielberg films, “The Terminal,” "Munich," “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” and “The Adventures of Tin-Tin,” and on A. R. Rahman’s score for “People Like Us.”

The New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks are presented by Didi and Oscar Schafer. MetLife Foundation, Citi, and Emirates Airline are Major Corporate Sponsors of Concerts in the Parks.

Concerts in the Parks are supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, and the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

For more information on Guy Klucevsek: gklucevsek@me.com

Gary Dahl eSheet music, sent by email, secure bank server system

Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band

by Rita Barnea

Video: Zydeco Junkie - Chubby Carrier & The Bayou Swamp Band [Official Music Video

Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band are an amazing group of musicians. If you haven’t experienced the high energy, swamp funky zydeco sound of Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, it is high time that you join the legions of fans that have.

Excerpts from his website: Once the accordion-playing virtuoso grabs the mic and takes to the stage with his band mates, audiences are treated to a show like no other. Chubby’s sound is infectious – a concoction of blues, 70s funk, rock and roll, and good-ole zydeco flavor – and makes even the most timid individuals get their feet a movin’.

Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band are turning heads around the world and bringing Louisiana flavor to the masses. The funky zydeco band’s release, “Zydeco Junkie,” earned one of the highest musical accolades when it was named Best Zydeco or Cajun Album during the 53rd annual Grammy Awards celebration in February 2011.

“It was unbelievable ... it was a moment,” Carrier said during a July 2011 interview with The Joplin (Mo.) Globe. “I never thought in a million years that I’d be a part of it. Looking at the names there ... Aretha Franklin, the Beatles, Stevie Wonder ... and knowing, ‘Mister, your name is going to be on this board.’ What an honor and a blessing."

Born on July 1, 1967 in Churchpoint, Louisiana, Chubby is the third generation of zydeco artists with such famous relatives as Roy Carrier (father), Warren Carrier (grandfather), and cousins Bebe and Calvin Carrier who are presently considered legends in zydeco history.

Chubby began his musical career at the age of 12 by playing drums with his father's band. He began playing the accordion at the age of 15. By age 17, Chubby had begun to play with Terrance Siemien and toured the world for 2 1/2 years, before forming his own band in 1989.

Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band have recorded ten CDs over the past 22 years of Chubby's professional career. His band has traveled all over the world, performing to audiences in all parts of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, Canada. North Africa and Europe. Chubby and the band travel 150-175 days a year, taking his act to big festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz Fest, the Chicago Blues Fest. Summerfest (Milwaukee), Memphis in May, and several festivals in Europe.

Chubby has also done guest appearances on recordings for Tab Benoit, 6Was9, and Jimmy Thackery. Ann Wilson of the group Heart encourages Chubby to "continue the great sound that you have. This sound will take you places."

In addition to the coveted Grammy, the band was honored with OffBeat magazine’s Best of the Beat award when it named “Zydeco Junkie” as the Best Zydeco Album. Furthermore, the 2011 Big Easy Music Awards awarded the group for Best Zydeco. For Carrier’s accomplishments as a musician and humanitarian, the band was awarded keys to the city from Lake Charles, Opelousas, and Lafayette.

To add to its growing presence outside Cajun country, the video of “Zydeco Junkie” is currently posted on MTV.com.

Carrier is a prince in zydeco royalty. His father, Roy Carrier; his grandfather, Warren Carrier, and his cousins, Bebe and Calvin Carrier, are considered zydeco legends. For more than 20 years, Chubby and the Bayou Swamp Band have toured relentlessly around the world, playing venues such as the Chicago Blues Festival, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Cajun and Zydeco Festival in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Montreaux Jazz Fest in Switzerland. For his steadfast dedication to zydeco music, Carrier was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame on October 16, 2011.

Carrier has shared the stage with many well-known musicians. To name a few, the list includes Carlos Santa, Buddy Guy, Eddie Money, Travis Tritt, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Taj Mahal, Morris Day and the Time, Confunkshun and “Weird” Al Yankovic.

Chubby Carrier, a Church Pointe, La., native, has taken on several causes that are dear to him, including children’s causes, education, and advocating a smoke-free environment. The band is an ardent supporter of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana, as they have held concert fundraisers to benefit the nonprofit organization.

The most-recent benefit, Zydeco For a Good Cause, raised money for the Opelousas unit. In an effort to spread zydeco music to the younger generations, Carrier and the gang teamed up with the Acadiana Symphony & Conservatory of Music to provide students with zydeco lessons. The project, Zydeco from A-Z, boosted participants’ understanding of zydeco music. Through Carrier’s inviting instruction, students learned about the rich history of the genre, the types of instruments used in zydeco such as the accordion, the rub board and the fiddle.

Of all the causes that Carrier endorses, his urge for a smoke-free environment is a personal one. In May 2010, his father, Roy Carrier, died from lung cancer. Carrier, along with Lafayette musicians David Egan, Joey Richard, Carol Fran, among others, has become a vocal spokesman for the Let’s Be Totally Clear campaign. The Bayou Swamp Band front man has made several media appearances to show his support for smoke-free venues in Lafayette and around Louisiana and for individuals to adopt a tobacco-free lifestyle.

The band has also participated in several local events that are aimed at increasing tourism in the Acadiana region. In addition, Carrier is featured in two documentaries, “Zydeco Breakfast(yet to be released),” which tells the story of zydeco music and the culture of French Louisiana; and “Hurricane on the Bayou (2006),” a detailed account of the damage Hurricane Katrina brought to New Orleans in 2005. Carrier is one of the main characters in the IMAX Film.

Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band will always have a place in the annals of French music history. With Carrier’s unmatched sound, the group will continue to grow as Louisianans and the world come to appreciate the beats of the ensemble. Zydeco is more than a calling for Carrier. His love for the music is etched in his pedigree. While winning a Grammy is the tip of the iceberg for Chubby and the band, now is the time for all to know to learn about the zydeco culture and Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band.

Future performances include:

Friday, June 2nd, 2017: The Hamilton, Washington, DC
Saturday, June 3,4,2017:
Michael Arnone's Crawfish Festival, 2:45- 5:PM, Augusta, NJ
Thursday, June 8, 2017: Mid City Lanes "Rock 'N' Bowl"New Orleans, LA
Saturday, June 10, 2017: Flagstaff Blues & Brews Festival, AZ
Thursday, June 15, 2017: Wc Handy Blues Festival,Henderson, KY
Friday, June 16, 2017:Broadway Oyster Bar, 10-1:30 PM
St. Louis, MO
Saturday, June 17, 2017: Backwater Jacks, 6-10:PM, Osage Beach,MO
Sunday, June 18, 2017: Shady Gators, 5-9:PM, Lake Ozark, MO

Beverly Roberts Curnow Performs for the LIAA on June 7

by Rita Barnea

World Champion accordionist Beverly Roberts Curnow will perform at the next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA), sponsored by La Villini Restaurant of East Northport, NY. Her performance takes place on Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at 6:PM.

Beverly was a student of the legendary accordionist Carmen Carrozza. She won the title of AAA Virtuoso Champion in 1965. Her winning performance was Liszt’s "Concerto #2 in A Major” which was arranged for her by Carmen Carrozza, for her Coupe Mondiale competition. She won the World Champion title in 1965 with her performance of the 28-page, 12 minute piece. It will be a very special event to hear her perform.

La Villini Restaurant is located on 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731.

For reservations: 631 – 261 – 6344 or lavillini@yahoo.com

James O'Brien eSheet music, emailed to you, secure bank server

Rob Reich in Summer Concerts

by Rita Barnea

Accordionist Rob Reich will bring his swing band to the De Young Museum for a free concert in Wilsey Court on Friday June 9, 2017 from 6:30-8:30 PM at the De Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, California 94118

The members of his group include:
Rob Reich - accordion / piano
Ben Goldberg - clarinet
Erik Jekabson - trumpet
Daniel Fabricant - bass
Vic Wong - guitar
Beth Goodfellow - drums

Rob is a graduate of Oberlin Conservatory with a degree in Composition. His works with two ensembles, the Rob Reich Trio and the Rob Reich Quintet, composing songs based on the poetry of e.e. cummings, and writing pieces for contortionists and trapeze artists at Circus Bella.

Reich performs with the groups Tin Hat, Todd Sickafoose’s Tiny Resistors, Gaucho, Nice Guy Trio, and has performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival, SFJAZZ Festival, and at San Francisco venues including Herbst Theater, Yoshi’s, and Yerba Buena Gardens.

Rob's debut album of original music, "Shadowbox" has been released on BAG Production Records and is available for purchase on iTunes or Amazon. Shadowbox is performed by Rob's quintet featuring Ben Goldberg, Todd Sickafoose, Ila Cantor and Eric Garland. It's a "stylistically varied suite of tunes that gracefully integrate improvisation and nuanced arrangements". - Jesse Hamlin, San Francisco Chronicle April 2015

Additional summer performances include:
June 4, 2017 at 11:30 AM Gaucho at the Boxing Room in SF
June 7 Dan Fabricant and Rob Reich Duo at The Page Bar, SF, 5:PM

For further information: rob@robreich.com

The Art of Playing the Accordion Artistically by Friedrich Lips

Bachtopus in Concert on June 3rd

by Rita Barnea

Accordion ensemble, Bachtopus, will participate in the River Arts Music Tour, which features 80 performances at 25 venues in the Rivertowns community.

Bachtopus performs on June 3, 2017 from 3 to 4:PM at the Dobbs Ferry Womens Club located at 54 Clinton Ave, Dobbs Ferry, New York 10522.

The program will feature music from Peter Flint, Guy Klucevsek, Phillip Glass, J.S. Bach and more. Bachtopus members include: Peter Flint, Robert Duncan, Denise Koncelik, Jeanne Velonis, and Mayumi Miyaoka.

Bachtopus performs music by living composers and Johann Sebastian Bach. Exceptions are made as for the music of Lars Hollmer and Alexander Borodin. Visit YouTube for some of their videos.

Now in its 3rd year, the RiverArts Music Tour is an annual celebration of the depth and breadth of the Rivertowns music community.

Folk, Rock, Classical, Blues, Jazz, Bluegrass, and World. Seasoned professionals, budding musicians, and everyone in between will perform. RiverArts has grown to become a haven – and inspiration – for a wide range of visual and performing artists and art lovers throughout lower Westchester and beyond. RiverArts produces and promotes high quality cultural events and educational programs that engage communities and support local artists.

The event is free and open to the public.

RiverArts educational programs and events reach more than 20,000 people annually. Many RiverArts events are free and all are open to the public. They produce events and provide platforms for internationally known, developing and student artists to present their work.

RiverArts carries on a half century tradition of a belief in the power of art to express, transform and bring joy to our lives and our community.

For further information:
sinolev@yahoo.com

Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc.

Larry Malmberg eSheet music, sent by email, secure bank server

HS Student Wins Award With Documentary “The Life of Stephen Dominko”

by Rita Barnea

Carly Storro, a senior at ConVal Regional High, New Hampshire, was recently recognized for her seven-minute documentary “The Life of Stephen Dominko,” concert musician and world champion accordionist. Her film was a jury award finalist at the annual N.H. High School Short Film Festival in May 2017.

Excerpts from an article by Ben Conant, Monadnock Ledger-Transcript: The film festival’s lineup consisted of 24 films picked from 66 entries, submitted by students at 16 high schools and technology and career centers in New Hampshire.The festival was presented by the N.H. Division of Film and Digital Media and screened at Concord’s Red River Theatres May 20.

Storro’s finishing as a jury award finalist will be included in the “awards list” in the credits of upcoming screenings of the festival’s films, according to Matt Newton, director of the N.H. Division of Film and Digital Media. Additional screenings are being organized and will be finalized next month.

Stephen Dominko was Carly’s piano teacher for five years before he revealed that, at the time at the age of fourteen, he was the youngest person to perform at Carnegie Hall.

“He’s so humble about it and it’s not a big deal to him,” Storro said. “He lives in this small town, away from everyone, and he has this amazing successful career.”

Stephen Dominko had performed on the Lawrence Welk Show and as part of Leonard Bernstein’s Young Persons’ concerts, among many other achievements.

Carly was very impressed by her teacher’s story and decided to create a documentary film about his life. Storro had made several short films already, but her first documentary, “The Life of Stephen Dominko”, was selected as a Jury Award Finalist at the New Hampshire High School Short Film Festival.

Carly hopes to study at a film school in Austria next year. She is working on a longer documentary about Stephen since her film had to fit within the time frame of the competition.

Gary Daverne CD's and eSheet music available online

15th Annual Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund Dinner-Huge Success!!

by Rita Barnea

Video 1: Here is the performance from this years event held on April 30, 2017. The group performing includes. Cory Pesatauro, Frank Toscano, Frankie Carozza, Mario Tacca, and Cody McSherry with Ricci Saracino on drums. The Mistress of Ceremonies is Mary Mancini.

Video 2: Performance by 10 year old, Gia Ciccone, student of Mario Tacca, at the 15th Annual Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund Dinner on April 30, 2017 at the Villa Barone Hilltop Manor, Mahopac, New York

A page of pictures from this event will be online tomorrow.

On Sunday, April 30, 2017, the American Accordionists’ Association proudly presented the 15th Annual Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund Dinner dedicated to the advancement of promising young accordionists, Afternoon of Music, Food, and Fun, at the Villa Barone, Mahopac, NY. Chairman of the highly successful event was Dr. Joseph A. Ciccone, nephew of Carmen Carrozza.

About 125 people were delightfully entertained by an all star array of accordionists while enjoying a delicious banquet. The cocktail hour began with wonderful music by strolling accordionist Frank Busso. Ray Oreggia was the distinguished and delightful Master of Ceremonies who graciously introduced the line up of musicians.

During the event, there was dancing with beautiful music provided by Mario Tacca, Frank Carrozza and sons, Frank Toscano, Ray Oreggia and Eddie Monteiro. Percussionist Ricci Saracino accompanied all with virtuosic skills displayed.

The Connecticut Accordion Orchestra directed by Peter Pelosa opened the program with the following selections: “ Welcome to Venice”, “Moonlight Serenade”, “Parade of the Charioteers”. Members of the Connecticut Accordion Orchestra included Karen Buccitti, Julie Cardona, Jeanine Cariri, Bob Czarnecki Angie, Errico, Don Gerundo, Ginger Grider, Mary Mascolo, Peter Medick, Marilyn O’Neil, Mary Tokarski, Jack Varinelli, Sandy Zera, and Walter Ziemba.

Several incredibly talented young people entertained at the function. 10 year old Gia Ciccone, daughter of Dr. Joseph and Ethel Ciccone, grandniece of Carmen Carrozza and student of Mario Tacca, performed a flawless and sensitive performance. She truly shines with the spirit and talent of her great uncle, Carmen Carrozza. All were impressed with her advanced playing which you can see on Youtube.

13 year old Cody McSherry, presented a program of great variety with both singing and playing. His performance displayed his technical and interpretive abilities. He is a versatile musician who plays several types of accordions and sings in many languages.

Frank Toscano and Eddie Monteiro thrilled everyone with their improvisational skills during their performance. Guest performer, Cory Pesaturo, amazed all with his flawless technique and creative arrangements. Mario Tacca sensitively performed some of Carmen Carrozza’s favorite solos. Vocalist Mary Mancini presented a heartfelt tribute in song to Carmen.

There was also a 50/50 and many raffle prizes. The dinner at the Villa Barone, Hilltop Manor, in Mahopac was very delicious and the service provided was flawless.

Since the inception of the American Accordionist Association Carmen Carrozza Scholarship dinner 15 years ago, it has always been traditional to close the days' events with the playing of Jolly Caballero (Pietro Frosini). Until his passing, the late great Carmen Carrozza always conducted the group each year as a grand finale.

For further information: Drjciccone@aol.com

UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble in Conception, Missouri

by Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador

The University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC) Community Accordion Ensemble performed a well received concert at the Conception Abbey Basilica at The Conception Abbey: A Benedictine Monastery, in Conception, MO on May 6, 2017, as part of World Accordion Day.

This acclaimed ensemble, all former students at UMKC, performed a program inclduing: Arrival of the Queen of Sheba by George Frideric Handel (arr. Sommers), Concerto Barocco for Soloist and Accordion Orchestra (I. and II) by Gerhard Mohr, Morning Mood from "Peer Gynt Suite, No. 1" by Edward Grieg, (arr. Galla-Rini), Menuet from "Don Giovanni" by W. A. Mozart (arr. Galla-Rini), Autumn Song by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy (arr. Sviackevicius), Blue Swan and Fuga by Stas Venglevski, Waltz from 'Sleeping Beauty Ballet' by Peter I. Tchaikovsky (arr. Herold), Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin (arr. Sommers) and A Mighty Fortress is Our God by J. S. Bach (arr. Galla-Rini).

The UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble musicians are both alumni of the University of Missouri - Kansas City, and former members of the renowned UMKC Accordion Orchestra. The players make their living in various careers, but each have remained devoted to promoting the accordion and its varied repertoire, which includes transcriptions, commissions and other original works.

The UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble under the direction of Joan C. Sommers, has recently performed in Chicago, San Francisco and Kansas City. Members of the group for the Concert were Betty Jo Simon, Ron Barrow, Samantha Wagner, Cathy Sue Weiss, Joyce Davis and Joan Cochran Sommers.

The ensemble will next appear on Thursday, July 20th, 2017 at the upcoming ATG Festival in Lisle (Chicago), IL as part of their summer competition and festival.

Amy Jo Sawyer CD titled According to Amy

“Accordions Rising” Film Available at Special Price

by Rita Barnea

“Accordions Rising” Filmmaker Roberta Cantow announces that her film is available on more streaming sites now, including itunes. That information can be accessed at the website: www.accordionsrising/purchase or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AccordionsRising.

Additionally, Filmmaker Roberta Cantow informs all that the diminishing supply of DVDs will be on sale in June for the entire month, in honor of Accordion Awareness Month, and can be purchased from the website with the sale price ($10.00) applied during checkout. - www.accordionsrising.com - (All Streaming options are also listed there on the Purchase page).

From the "Accordions Rising" Website: "Accordions Rising offers entertaining, conversational style interviews, anecdotal commentary and both formal and informal music performances from celebrated accordionists, composers and bands working in America today.

These musicians make up the colorful and thoughtful cast of characters who drive the story by tracing their uniquely personal attractions to the instrument and sharing their surprisingly divergent paths: from immigrant roots, Creole or Roma beginnings, for example, to a recognition of the very special niche this so-called “low art” form provides for inspirations in jazz, classical, new music, pop, fusion forms, operatic styles and beyond.

The film provides a tapestry of fascinating individuals, their attitudes, deep passions, and above of all else, profound dedication to the instrument. We learn that though still a rebellious lot, these music makers have an audience in some of the hippest hide-a-ways and most sought after mainstream venues. The film makes clear that the so-called “accordion world” is actually a curious continuum that includes everything from wacky and kitsch to sophisticated, serious, meditative and post modern."

Roberta said, "People who may not be interested in purchasing for themselves, may want to suggest the film to their local public libraries. The purchase page of the above website includes information for public library purchase. One darn good way of promoting the instrument to the public! If folks choose to stream on amazon, I invite them to rate it and leave a short review, as it helps a lot."

Here are a few quotes from the 85 audience reviews on Amazon. "Brimming with lovely accordion music and passionate musicians!"

"Very cool! I'll never look at accordions the same way again. Very inspiring and thoughtful doc."

"Who knew accordions could be so interesting? It was really great. I truly enjoyed the different places, players, and yes, even the accordions featured in this film. You don't have to love the accordion to get into this work. It's a great piece of past and present made very alive by this fine film!"

Roberta's life long career in film making has rendered several Best of Category Awards, a Film of Great Merit Award and a Best of Festival Award, among others.

For further information: rcantow@originaldigital.net

NAAC Launches New Projects

by Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association

NAAC Board Member and Chair of the NAAC Education and Access Committee

Over the past week, the North American Accordion Collaborative (NAAC) Education and Access Committee has been busy working together with Accordion Renaissance (AR), a Virginia-based non-profit, to submit workshop proposals for the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Convention March 17-21, 2018 in Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Laura Jean Niland (NAAC Education Committee Chair), Jim Rice (Accordion Renaissance, President), Brian Berlin (NAAC Education Committee member, picture right) and Ina Yakubeika (Accordion Renaissance conductor and instructor) have completed two proposals for consideration.

The first proposal, Vertical Keyboard Lessons in the Elementary School Classroom, presented by Brian Berlin and assisted by Ina Yakubeika, will explore lessons learned from introducing the accordion to children in an elementary school music program. Strategies for including the accordion in the elementary music curriculum will be explored with video documentary of classroom experiences from Brian Berlin’s students and Ina Yakubeika’s inter-generational Accordion Ensemble.

Brian Berlin, M.A. in Music Education is an elementary school music instructor at Pearland Texas ISD. Ina Yakubeika, M.A.T. in Music and Art Education from Belorussian State University of Culture and Art and a piano, accordion and bayan instructor, is a private music teacher and director of the Accordion Renaissance inter-generational Ensemble. They have introduced the vertical keyboard (piano accordion) to young students in their respective settings: the elementary school music program and after school programs with individualized learning and group interaction.

Brian Berlin and Ina Yakubeika collaborated and jointly presented the First Piano Accordion Lesson Workshop to keyboard trained youth ages 4-18 at the National Accordion Association Conference 2016. This premiere workshop validated the belief that musical knowledge and skills from a keyboard can easily be transferred to a new instrument, namely the piano accordion.

Innovative lessons that engage students and energize the music classroom will be shared and explored. Methods of managing the classroom, teaching young children in solo and ensemble performances and working with exciting music for the accordion and other keyboards will be shared. The intent is to demonstrate to music educators that the accordion should be viewed as a keyboard instrument with a wide-range of capabilities and can easily be included in classroom instruction.

The second proposal, Explore the Vertical Keyboard, the Versatile Accordion!, presented by Ina Yakubeika and assisted by Brian Berlin, will expand attendee's teaching experience with explorations on the accordion. Accordions will be provided for participants to use during the workshop. This hands-on workshop will encourage music teachers and keyboard instructors to add this instrument to their teaching repertoire and provided guided lessons and strategies for implementing the accordion for their students. This workshop will validate the belief that musical knowledge and skills from a keyboard can easily be transferred to a new instrument, namely the accordion.

Participants will explore the different voices of the accordion, bellows articulation and expression and bass/chord circle of fifths arrangement of the bass buttons. The intent is to demonstrate that the accordion has many applications as a keyboard and rhythm instrument that can easily be incorporated into primary and secondary school programs, particularly middle school and high school jazz ensembles.

Additional proposals are being considered for the upcoming National Association for Music Educators Conference March 22-24, 2018, featuring Music Research and Teacher Education; as well as examining the role of NAAC and AR in large regional NAfME conferences and state conferences in all 50 States. Reviewing options for presentations across USA, Canada and Mexico will be considered as options become available.

The general purpose for these presentations is to increase the number of instructors teaching accordion in public and private school environments as well as in music studios and private instruction. Providing advice, assistance and ongoing support for those wishing to engage in their own accordion project will be an important factor for consideration by NAAC.

Additionally, there is a desire to encourage music instructors to add to their repertoire by learning about the accordion and adding this to the instruction delivered in their studios. This will require opportunities for these instructors to attend hands-on workshop training, which NAAC may wish to consider for maintaining the vertical increase in both accordion instructors and students.

Another project that Laura Niland and Brian Berlin are working on is the establishment of the North American Fellowship Program. This project will be designed to train a cadre of accordion instructors in the best-methods, techniques, and strategies for teaching accordion in order to launch a series of workshops across North America that will improve training for teachers and students. Applicants will be considered for the Fellowship Program and selected by Committee. The goal is to increase the number of accordion teachers as well as students, therefore, the Fellows will be creating Outreach projects across North America to reach our goals. The project’s initial design is being formulated by the team Niland-Berlin. There will be more information upcoming.

We hope this gives you a good idea of some active projects for NAAC.

For more information: ljniland@texas.net

Picture below: left to right: Kelly Phillips, Jim Rice, Owen Phillips, Ina Yakubeika. Jim Rice was Owen Phillip's teacher at the time he won 3rd place in the youth performance competition at the same 2016 NAA convention. Owen was a graduate of Dale Wise's Accordion for Kids, USA Program.

left to right: Kelly Phillips, Jim Rice, Owen Phillips, Ina Yakubeika

Joseph Soprani Presents Concert in Pennsylvania

by Marian McDonnell

Joseph Soprani photo by Anthony Sinogoga

On Saturday, May 20, 2017, the Benvenuto Lodge of PA, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy, were treated to an interesting program of the year by accordion artist Joseph Soprani. He regaled those in attendance with his dexterity and musicianship in a variety of selections. "Dizzy Fingers' was his opening selection and the title of his recent documentary program which was presented to a sell out and standing room only audience at the World Cafe Live in Philadelphia last year. And in memory of his friend Dick Contino, who was a great influence on Joe's early style, paid tribute to him with “Lady of Spain” and his transcription of “Beer Barrel Polka”. The audience reacted with applause during the “bellows shake”. In fact, as Joe stated that by using Dick Contino style he became a winner on the Arthur Godfrey show. He mentioned that he was close to meeting with Dick Contino while they were both in Korea in 1953…Dick was in the Army at the time and Joe, at age18, was touring in Korea and Japan with a USO Show. Joe had the pleasure of meeting him many years later.

Joe then went into a question and answer segment of his program and gave an explanation and examples of the intricacies and features of the accordion which led to excerpts from "Arcari Accordion Concerto" which he performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra under Eugene Ormandy, the "Manhattan Concerto" by Ettore, the "Mendelssohn Concerto", "Romeo & Juliet" by Tschaikovksky representing the US Air Force Band and became the alternate accordion champion of the world in 1956. He also demonstrated how the accordion can be used in jazz quite effectively in the style of Mat Mathews and others. The audience found his program to be informative and entertaining. He has been nicknamed “Dizzy Fingers”, and for good reason.

The President of the Lodge, Anna Forte, shared that the members were honored and privileged to have Joe, who has been an active member and trustee of the Benvenuto Lodge for many years share his talent and love for the accordion.

Soprani remains active with engagements throughout the year and on June 15,2017 Soprani will perform as guest soloist at the ACME Accordion School in Westment, NJ to honor those students who have made outstanding achievements on the accordion.

For further information: joesoprani@gmail.com

Photo of Joseph Soprani by his former student, Anthony Sinogoga, who is a nationally known photographer.

Photo 1955 - First performance as featured accordion soloist with the USAF Band(1955-59)

Dr. Schimmel Releases New Steampunk Video

by Rita Barnea

"Old Manayunk" for accordion and electorics, composed, arranged and produced by Dr. William Schimmel, a new video piece can be seen and heard on YouTube and will be available at the AAA Master Class and Concert Series ( The Seminars -July 28, 29 and 30, 2017) in a limited cassette edition.

Manayunk, a section of Philadelphia, has a long history of factory and industrial life, drawing many ethnic groups as far back as the 19th Century. It suffered a decline in the 1960’s and came back in the 1980's with the help of the architectural firm, Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates.

The Term Steampunk is a Retro Term - looking back into the future wearing special goggles - it's past present: Victorian meets Today. Old Manayunk is mixed where one hears the industrial sounds and songs of the past in a new symphonic one movement work, hence the term - "A Steampunk Reality".

It can be viewed here - and on YouTube, "Old Manayunk A Steampunk Reality” by William Schimmel.

Additional summer performances by Bill Schimmel:
June 6 to 11 - New York City Ballet - Kennedy Center, Washington DC
June 12 - Helsinki Club - Hudson New York
July 28, 29, 30 - The Seminars - Tenri Cultural Institute - NY
August 3 - Talea Ensemble - new work by Georg Friedrich Haas

Bill is also playing in the Soundtrack to "Norman" - a new movie recently released starring Richard Gere.

For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com

The Great Accordion Rendezvous in New York City on June 21

by Rita Barnea

Ariana Hellerman, a New York arts consultant who produces the series, "Accordions Around the World for Bryant Park" presents: "The Great Accordion Rendezvous, A Make Music New York Mass Appeal and Celebration of the NYC Accordion Community"

As a thank you to the NYC accordion community and in celebration of Make Music New York, Bryant Park presents a special event on Wednesday, June 21, 2017 from 7 - 9pm on Bryant Park's Fountain Terrace: Between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, 40th and 42nd Streets, New York.

"The Great Accordion Rendezvous:
A Make Music New York Mass Appeal and Celebration of the NYC Accordion Community"

Presented by Bryant Park in partnership with the Brooklyn Accordion Club, American Accordionists' Association, Ariana's List, and Make Music New York

You're invited! Calling All Accordionists!

The two-part evening features an accordion “open mic”, led by the Brooklyn Accordion Club and an informal gathering of accordionists to play a 30 minute piece together.

PART I at 7:PM
The Brooklyn Accordion Club holds their monthly Accordion Open Mic in the park for the first time. Accordionists sign up in advance to play 1 - 2 short songs. Spots are limited so sign up early! Sign up by June 14. If space permits, a limited number of slots may become available on the day of the event.

PART II AT 8:PM (approximately)
Accordionist Melissa Elledge leads all accordionists in a simple, easy-to-learn, 30 minute piece, Terry Riley’s “In C”. Please bring a music stand and sheet music. The music is available here.

All accordionists, of all levels, are welcome!

Please remember to RSVP.

This event serves as a preview to Bryant Park's weekly Wednesday Accordions Around the World series, which officially begins on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 6 - 8pm. For four consecutive Wednesdays (6/28, 7/5, 7/12, 7/19), experience 24 accordionists each night, playing music from all parts of the globe. The series culminates on Friday, July 21,2017 with the Accordion Festival, showcasing music of the world via five bands, each with an accordion, of course!

Who: Accordionists of all levels + Fans of Accordion Music
What: A celebration of the NYC Accordion community; all are welcome!
When: June 21st, 7 - 9:PM
Where: Bryant Park, Fountain Terrace
What to Bring: Music stands + In C Sheet Music
RSVP for the 7pm Open Mic + 8pm In C here
RSVP on Facebook

Web: www.arianaslist.com
Twitter: @Arianaslist
FB: Ariana's List
Instagram: arianaslist

The International Trio, CD Available online, secure server

New York City Public Elementary School’s “Squeeze Box Nine”

by Linda Holcomb and Joe De Clemente

Video: Joe Clemente and “Squeeze Box Nine"

What could be cuter than a band of eight and nine year old accordion players? P.S. 203 in Bayside, Queens prides itself on having one of the few Accordion Clubs in a New York City public elementary school. The school’s music teacher Linda Holcomb, recounts how accordions first came to their school. “About fifteen years ago, we had a band teacher who knew how to play the accordion. Our principal and he thought it would be fun to purchase a few accordions and start an accordion band. They had enough funds to buy nine accordions, and we have had the ‘Squeeze Box Nine’ ever since!”

This year the “Squeeze Box Nine” was fortunate to have had some tutoring sessions from professional accordionist/entertainer Joe DeClemente, or “Papa Joe” as the students like to call him. “One day I received a phone call from Joe,” recalls Holcomb. “After he introduced himself, he said he had heard we had an accordion club, and that he would like to volunteer to help. We took him up on his offer and he has been a tremendous help to us and a source of inspiration to our students. When they watch him play, they are inspired to be great accordionists.”

The accordions are a huge hit at the school, playing seasonal concerts, and even performing at events in their community. But the students most enjoy playing their accordions at Nursing Homes, Senior Centers and even at a Preschool for children with special needs. “It is so rewarding to give our students the opportunity to see how they can use their talents to bring joy to people”, says Holcomb. “Hopefully that is something they’ll remember long after they graduate from fifth grade!”

Photo of Linda Holcomb who is the music teacher at PS203Q.

For further information: lindaholcomb203@gmail.com

Alex Meixner Summer Performances

by Rita Barnea

Alex Meixner's busy sumer schedule includes his appearance as a featured guest artist at the 2017 77th Annual Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) Festival on July 19-23, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in Lisle, Illinois.

Alex Meixner’s performing career began at age 6 with his two sisters and father in an ethnic folk ensemble. From these early experiences through headline appearances at music festivals throughout the US; concert performances with the London Symphony Orchestra, Sandy Duncan and his own jazz and ethnic ensembles; as well as over 50 recordings, Meixner has developed a unique musical mix that appeals to a wide cross-section of audiences.

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 even featured on the Tonight Show on NBC in 2004. Most recently, his “Polka Freak Out” CD with Bubba Hernandez garnered a Grammy nomination in December 2007.Currently based in Palm City, FL, Alex is performing as a solo artist and with numerous touring ensembles.

Alex’s Summer Performances include:

June 1
Toledo, OH
Bavarian Sports Club

June 2 & 3
Johnstown, PA
Johnstown Polka Fest

June 4
Fleetwood, PA
Polka Palooza
Evergreen German Club

June 22-25
Nashville, TN
Bavarian Bierhaus

July 4
Fredricksburg, TX
Luckenbach, Texas
12th Annual Wilkins Family
Live Free & Fly 4th of July Celebration

For further information:
info@alexmeixner.com

Alicia Baker in Summer Performances

by Rita Barnea

Video: Alicia performs "Melody Gardot song les toilets" — at Caffè Sole in May 2017

Accordionist Alicia Baker has a busy performance schedule this summer. On July 16, 2017, she will be the featured performer for the San Francisco Accordion Club at 2:PM.
The SFAC now meets at:
Chetcuti Community Room
Civic Center Plaza
450 Poplar Aveune
Millbrae, CA 94030

The San Francisco Accordion Club is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization whose purpose is to enhance, promote and stimulate an appreciation for the accordion within the membership and throughout the general public.

Excerpts from Alicia's website: Alicia Baker is a classically trained accordionist, pianist, and singer from Portland, OR. She has performed on various stages, from the operatic stage to the headlining spot at accordion festivals. Alicia has explored her many avenues of musical ability in both performance and educational venues. She received three music degrees from Oregon State University, including piano performance, vocal performance, and choral education.

Alicia’s repertoire spans a wide variety of musical genres amongst her instruments, including french musettes, opera, folk songs, jazz standards, polkas, contemporary, classical, romantic, techno and popular hits throughout the decades.

Alicia has competed and won multiple International accordion competitions, in addition to headlining major accordion festivals all around North America. These include the American Accordionists’ Association, The Vegas International Accordion Festival, the Cotati Accordion Festival, the Big Squeeze, the Accordionists and Teachers Guild International Festival, KIOTAC, Leavenworth Old-Time Accordion Festival, and the NAMM show. She even had the honor of performing an accordion concerto with the Corvallis Symphony in 2011. Alicia has also sung the leading role in multiple operas, including Queen of the Night from Mozart’s "The Magic Flute" with OSU opera.

In 2009 Alicia became connected with Roland Corporation, the maker of a fully digital accordion, when she entered the Roland US V-Accordion competition. Her relationship with Roland continued to blossom, leading to her full-time work with the company today where she is a product specialist, demonstrating pianos and accordions around the country. This relationship helps Alicia show the accordion in a whole new light, by utilizing Roland's progressive technology.

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 and pop, Alicia is passionate about reinventing the face of accordion in today’s world.

Alicia strives to play all genres of music well, and her favorite styles include french musettes, jazz, polkas, opera, pop, and techno. In May 2017, Alicia received her Master of Music degree at CU Boulder.

Future Performances include:
June 18 and July 30, Aug. 27 - La Cour
Alicia on Accordion and Vocals, Alex Heffron on Guitar
7:00 - 10:00 pm

French jazz and jazz standards
July 29 - Caffé Sole
Alicia on Accordion and Vocals, Scott Martin on Piano,
Gonzalo Teppo on Bass, and Kevin Matthews on drums
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

September 28 - Oregon's Alpenfest
Alicia on Accordion and Vocals
Old-time favorites, polkas, waltzes, and more!

For infurther information on the SFAC: info@sfaccordionclub.com
For further information on Alicia: bakerajo@gmail.com

Rose City Accordion Club Camp June 4-8 in Portland, Oregon

by Rita Barnea

Join the Rose City Accordion Club’s Annual Accordion Camp Sunday, June 4 – Friday, June 9, 2017 at the Silver Falls State Park Conference Center, Sublimity, Oregon.

Conductors at the event will be Murl Allen Sanders and Beverley Fess. Workshop Instructors include AAA President Mary Tokarski.

Enjoy music in ensembles, workshops and more in a beautiful setting. Lodging, maid service and meals are included. Enrollment is limited. Please reserve your place early. A non-refundable $50.00 deposit will hold your place

The Rose City Accordion Club, located in Portland, Oregon, is a non-profit organization comprised of individuals who share enjoyment of and enthusiasm for the accordion. The Club embraces all styles of accordion music and welcomes all who have an interest in the accordion whether they play or not. Their intent is to promote the future of the accordion and the enjoyment it gives to all. Members play the accordion at various events and venues around town.

Two scholarships (tuition, room and board) will be awarded for individuals to attend the 2017 RCAC Accordion Camp at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon.

"Squeeze" some music into your life. Whether you live in the Portland, Oregon area or are just passing through, you are invited to stop at one of their monthly meetings. The Rose City Accordion Club is open to all accordion players, from beginners to professionals, their friends and families, and to anyone who enjoys music. Meetings are held monthly on the third Saturday of each month at the Milwaukie Public Safety Building, 3200 SE Harrison Street (SE 32nd and Harrison), Milwaukie OR, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM

For further information: wjtiusanen@yahoo.com

Mary Tokarski and Nathan Chapeton Perform for LIAA

by Dominic Karcic

AAA president and accordion virtuoso Mary Tokarski and Nathan Chapeton were the featured guest artists at the May 3, 2017 meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) at La Villini Restaurant in East Northport, NY. The two artists presented a very interesting and diversified program of accordion solos to a room filled with "accordion music lovers."

Ms. Tokarski's selections included: Scherzo (John Gart), Sunrise, Sunset from Fiddler On The Roof, Funeral March of a Marionette (Gounod) - also known as the Alfred Hitchcock Theme), Spanish Holiday (Ettore) and Magic Fingers (Neupauer).

Mr. Chapeton's selections included the Bach Prelude and Fugue in C minor, Waltz Allegro (Magnante), Impasse (1st movement by Angelis), Omaggio ad Astor Piazzolla (Zubitzky).

The superb concert ended with the two artists collaborating in the performance of Parisian Musette (Carrozza).

The next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) will be on Wednesday, June 7th and feature Ms. Beverly Roberts Curnow

Photo: left to right) Mary Tokarski, Santo Endrizzi (LIAA member) and Nathan Chapeton

Brooklyn Accordion Club "Thinking inside the Box”

by Rita Barnea

Dr. William Schimmel gave a fascinating presentation at the May 14, 2017 meeting of the Brooklyn Accordion Club in celebration of Mother’s Day.

His future performances include:
June 6 to 11 - New York City Ballet, Kennedy Center,Washington DC
June 12 - Helsinki Club - Hudson New York
July 28, 29, 30 - The Seminars - Tenri Cultural Institute - NY
August 3 - Talea Ensemble - new work by Georg Friedrich Haas

You can hear Dr. Schimmel playing in the soundtrack to “NORMAN" - a new movie starring Richard Gere currently in theatres.

Brooklyn Accordion Club meets at 61 Local, 61 Bergen St, Brooklyn, New York.

For further information email: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com

Photo of Dr. Schimmel and his past/current students: (from left to right) Andrew Cordle (Julliard '74), Frank DeLucca (Combs College of Music '82), Tzipora Bronstein (Brooklyn College '79), Kathi DeLucca (Neupauer Conservatory '82), Denise Koncelik (Neupauer Order of the Shield member), Mayumi Miyaoka

NWAS Seattle Accordion Social June 12

by Rita Barnea

The Northwest Accordion Society sponsors the Seattle Accordion Social on Monday, June 12, 2017 from 7:30 to 9:30 PM at the Senior Center of West Seattle, 4217 SW Oregon Street. Admission is $5.00.

The event features the Bayou Groove with Mark Myking; Bonne Birch Trio: Elsy and Hermann Caresser.

For further information on performing:
Bonnie Birch 206-622-4786

Sounding Out the Accordion by Thierry Benetoux

Children's Fiction Books Which Feature the Accordion

by Rita Barnea

June is National Accordion Awareness Month, a designation created in 1989 by San Franciscan accordionist, Tom Torriglia, to introduce the instrument to a wider audience. In order for the accordion to remain a valued member of the musical world, I believe that we need to educate everyone, especially children, about the accordion. In this article, you will read about books which include the accordion. Books which include the accordion make a wonderful birthday gift, graduation present, or for any other special occasion.

An informative, delightful, and entertaining book is "An Accordion! What is That?" Looking at the accordion inside and out….. by award-winning author of children's books, Karen Malan-Uribe, illustrated by celebrated artist, Joan Geller Grauman who created its mascot, an animated honeybee named "Buzz Treble". The CD includes a wonderful narration of the book as well as music beautifully performed by world renowned accordionist, Mary Tokarski. These three fellow accordionists have combined their special talents to create this wonderful children's book about the accordion. The book includes a CD with narration and music. You can order the book by contacting Mary at mary.tokarski@comcast.net

"Mendel's Accordion" by Heidi Smith Hyde (author) and Johanna Van Der Sterr (illustrator) is a picture book history of klezmer music. Mendel is the accordionist forming a traveling band, going to America when his life becomes difficult in the old country.

In his journey, he encounters musicians and organizes his own group. He goes to New York City, marries, has a family who like different styles of music. His great grandson finds his old accordion in the attic, has it repaired and begins a new generation of klezmer musicians. The story also celebrates the experiences of the Jewish immigrants. The book is geared to ages six and up. It is available on Amazon.

"Dallas and the Accordion" was written by Vanessa Schukis, published on March 3,2015. The story is about a young boy who felt bored and opened a box he found in the closet. He was surprised to see that it was an accordion. He never felt bored again because he found music! It can be ordered through bookemon.

In addition to being a performer, the author,Vanessa Schukis, is an award winning teacher with over thirty years experience in performing arts education focusing on students with learning disabilities and special needs. Currently Vanessa teaches music at The Murphy School in Dorchester, MA and The Harvard-Kent Schoot in Charlestown, MA through the outreach program of The Community Music Center of Boston. Vanessa has been on the faculty at Longy School of Music of Bard College, Cambridge, MA and New England Conservatory of Music, Boston, MA.

"Hector, The Accordion Nosed Dog" by author John Stadler is an illustrated uplifting children's book about a dog who has an accident that turns his nose into an accordion.

Instead of being defeated by that, Hector becomes a celebrated musician by way of his musical nose. This title was a "Reading Rainbow" book on the Public Television program of the same name, MC'd by Lavar Burton. More information and illustrated excerpts are available on the author's website, johnstadler.com. The book is available on Amazon.

"Accordion Mouse" by Mike J. Preble is the story of Petunia Onion who is visiting her grandma out on the farm in Cordova. She asks her grandma to tell the story, again, about the Mouse and the House and the Accordion. Grandma says, "Alright, but first we need to get comfortable."

So, get comfortable, pour some tea and read this tale about how a "mouse" came to a "house" and happened to find a home in an accordion. You can order this book from Barnes and Nobles or Amazon.

If you know of other children's fiction books which feature the accordion, please send the titles to Ritabelll@aol.com. I will include them in a follow up article in a future publication.

Happy Accordion Month!! For more information on Accordion Awareness Month, please email the sponsor of NAAM, Tom Torriglia, at: info@ladyofspain.com.

Future events

Victoria International Accordion Festival July 13-17

by Jelena Milojevic

Save the Date for the big celebration at the Victoria International Accordion Festival, July 13-17, 2017. The Victoria International Accordion Festival is celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday. The best Canadian and international artists are coming for this spectacular event. Victoria will be echoing with accordion music for four full days. Listen to world class concerts or going in on workshops, free accordion sessions, the accordion museum, accordion history lectures, dinner dance, accordion competitions, trade show and free open air performances.

Make sure you do not miss July 13th - Gala Opening night concert featuring Canadian digital accordion champion Michael Bridge, jazz duo Jesse Mea and Roland Bougeoos, kings of fiddle Daniel Lapp trio with accordionist Adrian Dolan and Pierre Shryer trio JUNO winner joined with Irish accordionist Dermot Byne. This fun performance full of passion and explosive energy will bring the audience to their feet.

Expect the unexpected at the dinner and dance night on July 14th. Satisfy all of your senses with exquisite Serbuab cuisine prepared by a professional chef from Vancouver. You will be dancing your feet off while entertained by Michael Bridge and energetic accordion groups Bijou de Bayou and Ensemble Transatlantico de Folk Chilean.

If you would like to be knocked off your feet by world class artists and entertainers, to cry from laughter, do not miss the concert on July 15th. Double-Double duo will amaze you with comedy, virtuosity, and musical sensitivity with their all original arrangements of classical showpieces, sensitive jazz ballades and fiery folk music from around the globe

Get ready for the competition! This year, Victoria International Accordion Competition will have seen solo and one ensemble category. The prize budget is over $5000 CAD!

For all the details, please visit:
www.bcaccordion.ca

With featured festival performances, dance and dinner night workshops, competitions and free open air concerts, there something for everyone.

We look forward to seeing you in beautiful Victoria, Canada!

Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in July Includes Accordion Workshop

by Rita Barnea

The FSAF (Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival) will be held from July 16 to July 30, 2017. The FSAF is a music festival that takes place at multiple locations in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Accordionist Jamie Maschler will present several workshops at the FSAF this July. From the website: Jamie Maschler is carving her name in the music scene as a virtuoso accordionist. She has accompanied multiple symphonies, starting at age 15 with a premiere performance with the Pueblo Symphony.

Most recently she accompanied The Seattle Symphony during the live scoring of Lord of the Rings film and opened Seattle Opera’s Hansel and Gretel. Maschler teaches at the Jazz Night School in Seattle and is a music festival favorite performing and presenting workshops on stylized Brazilian & Tango music all around the country. Maschler is a lead accordionist for the band En Canto, Seattle’s only Brazilian forró group.

Maschler has played in venues all over the world including St. Lucia, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico. Her original music has been aired on the Radio in Seattle, Austin, Salvador BR, and Canada. In 2017, her accordion playing will be featured in PopCap mobile games.

Jamie will present four workshops:
1. Accordion Workshop
Price: $150
Days: TWThF/MTWThF, July 18–28
Times: 10:30–11:50am
Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church

Designed to help the accordionist become a better musician, this class will be performance based. You will learn the basics of playing from a lead sheet and tricks to help you play more authentically in multiple music genres including: french, tango, zydeco, jazz, brazilian and more. We will look at creative ideas for warm-ups and theory that will help you learn how to play better faster. The class is crafted to accommodate beginning to advanced students.

2. Brazilian Music Ensemble: Forró
Price: $100
Days: MTWThF (week 2), July 24–28
Times: 5:00–6:30pm
Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church
In this ensemble we will be working with music from Northeast Brazil. Traditional instrumentation includes accordion, zabumba (drum), triangle, and voice but in a more modern tradition has several instrumental variations. We will play works by Luiz Gonzaga, Gilberto Gil, Sivuca, Hermeto Pascoal, Marcelo Caldi, Toninho Ferragutti and more. We will learn from charts as well as by ear — focusing on how to comp, solo, and play specific to the genre.

3. Intermediate Tango Ensemble
Price: $50
Days: TW (week 2), July 25 & 26
Times: 3:00–4:30pm
Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church

We will explore tango in its most traditional roots in Buenos Aries, Argentina and it’s evolution to popular culture as Tango Nuevo. We will read through a tango, milonga and vals in order to learn comping patterns, performance practices, and specific articulations used in the style. Music will be provided. Open to the following: Piano, Guitar, Bass, Accordion, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet/Trombone/Sax, Violin.

4. Beginning Tango Ensemble
Price: $50
Days: TW (week 1), July 18 & 19
Times: 3:00–4:30pm
Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church

We will explore tango in its most traditional roots in Buenos Aries, Argentina and its evolution to popular culture as Tango Nuevo. We will read through a tango, milonga and vals in order to learn comping patterns, performance practices, and specific articulations used in the style. Music will be provided. Open to the following: Piano, Guitar, Bass, Accordion, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet/Trombone/Sax, Violin.

About The Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival Core Purpose:
To Awaken Everyone's Inner Artist, the Festival's mission is to provide highly qualified guest artists who offer multidisciplinary study and performance opportunities that increase both personal growth and arts appreciation to all participants. Our philosophy is to enrich the lives of all with whom we associate—through study and performances—by engaging their spirit, intellect and energy in an empowering way.

The Festival gives people who are enthusiastic about the fine arts an outlet to release their passions. We offer classes and workshops at various ability levels, so beginners will find plenty to do. Given the multi-disciplinary nature of our course offerings, a participant with one main area of study has the opportunity to branch out and the explore other arts: a violinist can take ballroom dance before their orchestra rehearsals, or a painter can play in a steel drum band after spending all day in watercolor classes.

Think of the Festival as summer camp for adults. You get to make new friends, hone your artistic talents, and just plain have fun. There are concerts nearly every day, so keeping busy is not a problem. The Festival takes place in Fairbanks, which often has beautiful weather at that time of year, so you can enjoy some extremely long days, and maybe take a weekend trip to Denali to see nature at its best.

If spending your whole days for two weeks with the Festival is not a possibility due to work or travel commitments, you may be pleased to see the number of evening classes and one-day mini workshops available.

For further information on the accordion workshops:
Coordinator Louise Kowalski: louisek@acsalaska.net
For more information on the FSAF:
Call 907-474-8869 or
Email info@fsaf.org

Jelena Milojevic to Perform at the Victoria International Accordion Festival

by Rita Barnea

Jelena Milojevic will perform at the 11th Victoria International Accordion Festival taking place July 13-16, 2017 in Victoria, BC.

Jelena is an accomplished accordionist. Born and raised in Croatia, she started playing the accordion at a very young age. She studied both in Croatia and Serbia and ultimately received her Master’s Degree in Accordion Performance and Education, from the Music Academy in Kragujevac (Serbia).

Being a versatile musician with an extensive performing history, she has played numerous concerts in Europe, Canada and the USA, as a soloist, chamber musician and a soloist with various orchestras. She is the winner of some of the most prestigious international accordion competitions. Her debut concert in New York City at the Weill Recital Hall in Carnegie Hall, in 2009, was the first accordion recital after 30 years, in that prestigious venue.

Her performances have been highly acclaimed. She continues to actively collaborate with composers and performs and records new music for accordion.

For further information:contact@bcaccordion.ca

Paul Betken to Perform at ATG Festival in July

by Rita Barnea

Accordionist Paul Betkin will be a featured guest artist at the 2017 77th Annual Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) Festival on July 19-23, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in Lisle, Illinois.

Paul Betken is a jazz accordionist who mentored under the legendary blind jazz accordionist, Leon Sash. Their friendship blossomed into a life long relationship. During that time, Leon blessed him with the gifts of his wisdom, music and philosophy.

Paul was also a former resident accordionist in Chicago for Bobbi Vinton and his concert shows. He has performed for many years (as a soloist, with small groups and larger ensembles) throughout metropolitan Chicago and the Phoenix metro area.

In June, 2014, Paul released his latest CD, "Paul's Turn - Jazz Accordion". The CD has drawn International recognition and impressive reviews from critics such as Paolo Picchio, President of Consorzio Music Marche, Castelfidardo, Italy, and Howard Reich, music critic for the Chicago Tribune.

For further information: pdbetken1@msn.com

American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Series

by William Schimmel

The AAA Master Class and Concert Series will be held on July 28, 29, 30, 2017 at The Tenri Cultural Institute, 43A West 13thSt between 5 and 6 Ave.Master Classes from 3:PM to 5:PM. Concerts at 7:PM to 9:PM

$25/ Master Class
$30/Concert
$50/day - Includes Master Class and Concert
$135 for the entire weekend

Dr. William Schimmel - Moderator and Curator

The Red Lantern Accordionist….. Our 23rd Smash Year

Accordion Culture is based on Contests. Championship Contests - much like sports.

Who comes in First of course is the Champion - whether its the World Champion, The U.S.

Champion or the Whatever Champion.

Sometimes the term, Champeen, is used.

There are those who come in Second and Third - they get trophies - but they are not Champions - or Champeens.

What about the person who comes in last place?

Ever watch a marathon? - and the final runner still running while practically every one has gone home or partying? He or She just wants to make it to the end - to run the course - personal best

and proud to be a part of it - as St. Paul says - “I fought the good fight. I have kept the Faith”.

That’s the Red Lantern Winner - Last place - a last place winnerWe have Red Lantern Accordionists - The backbone of the industry - in it for the long
haul - signed up for the whole ride - putting other’s interests first - working for the betterment of

the culture

We dedicate this weekend to The Red Lantern Accordionist - May his or her light shine bright!

Are you crying yet?

Ok - We got the maudlin stuff out of the way - now let’s get down to the real deal of it.

The Red Lantern Accordionist doesn’t think too much about making a difference.

He or She already has - by constantly showing up and working.

The Red Lantern Accordionist doesn’t think too much about His or Her relevance.

Too busy helping others - including those who think they are.

The Red Lantern Accordionist is not concerned about making history every time

He or She takes a breath or makes an excrement - much too busy in the mere doing of their art,

and trying to improve it - and yours as well.

The Red Lantern Accordionist can be a bit cynical at times - He or She knows a little too much - been around a bit - knows that their days are numbered and wants to make the most of them - some quietly - some with a vengeance.

Red Lantern Accordionists never quite know whether they have won or lost the good fight - even at the end - and neither did St. Paul - or Don Quixote - or any warrior worth mentioning.

He or She has totally obliterated themselves - understands the value of the Third Banana - is tempered like steel - has been through the fire - and came out it wounded, vulnerable and stronger than an ox - a work horse - a mule.

Red Lantern Accordionists are kind - happy and a bit sad - and not to be fooled with.

There is no logical reason to become a Red Lantern Accordionist

Red Lantern Accordionists are called

By whom?

Don’t quite know

But

They feel the call

Of a different winning

Of heard labor

Of a different winning

For no other reason

other than to do it

As best as they can

Because they can

If you are one of them

This is your time

You’re welcome

Others are welcome too

But the focus will be Red Lantern!

Participants will include:

Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Will Holshouser, Doug Makofka, Brian Dewan, Yoichi Fukui, Gene Pritsker, Melissa Elledge, Mark Nathanson, Benjamin Ickies, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dragica Banic Curcic, Peter Flint, Erica Maire Mancini,Dave Soldier, Mayumi Miyaoka, Dan Cooper, The Yorkvillians, Rachel Swaner, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Bachtopus, Milica Paranosic, Michael Dames, Peter Jarvis, David Stoler, David First, Mary Spencer Knapp, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Lee Mc Clure, Ken Laufer, John Foti, Kathleen Tipton, Marni Rice, Bob Goldberg, The Famous Accordion Orchestra, Corn Mo, Rachid Eladlouni, Carl Reihl, Linda Reed, Dr Denise Koncelik, Alicia Svigals, Elizabeth Brown, Ted Nash, Jeanne Velonis, Cecylia Barczk, Devon Tipp, Sydknee, Michiyo Suzuki, Robert Duncan, Miwa Gemini, Jenny Cho, Elliott Sharp, Jennie Muiio, Elaine Yau, Carita Patamikakam, Uri Sharlin and many others and a few surprise guests - and Dr. Schimmel.

Reservations and Information:
Phone 212 876 0827
Email: Accordionbill@gmail.com

Michael Arnone's 28th Annual Crawfish Fest

by Rita Barnea

New Orleans music legends and authentic Louisiana home-cooked cuisine await festival goers at Michael Arnone's 28th Annual Crawfish Fest. The 3 day Music, Food and Camping Festival will be held June 2, 3, 4, 2017 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, NJ. This year's festival features 24 artists playing on four different stages.

Artists include Kim Wilson, Anders Osborne, Tab Benoit, Rebirth Brass Band, Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience, Charles "Horn Man" Neville, Henry Butler's Jambalaya Band, Geno Delafose and French Rockin’ Boogie, Little Freddie King, John Papa Gros Band, The New Stew featuring Corey Glover and Roosevelt Collier, Chubby Carrier and The Bayou Swamp Band (2 sets),Maggie Koerner, Kevin Naquin and The Ossun Playboys, Cabinet, Feufollet (2 Sets), Yarn, Brandon "Taz" Niederauer, Alexis P. Suter Band, Nick Moss Band, Mason Ruffner, Darcy Malone and The Tangle, John Ginty Band, John The Martyr and Krystal A. Livingston. Master Workshops by Terrance Simien, John Gros, John Ginty

For further information: Michael@crawfishfest.com

27th Annual Cotati Accordion Festival

by Rita Barnea

The 27th Annual Cotati Accordion Festivaaml takes place on August 19 & 20, 2017 ~ Saturday & Sunday, 9:30 AM to 8:PM each day. Please call 707-664-0444 for questions about event information. Customer Service: 1-888-559-2576

The Cotati Accordion Festival is a yearly event. The venue is open under the shade trees of La Plaza Park in Cotati, CA. If you plan to stay for the whole day, bring your own comfortable, short-backed folding lawn chair. A shuttle will be provided from Park and Ride at the corner of Highway 116 and Old Redwood Highway on St. Joseph Way. Handicap parking is available at 102-104 W. Cotati Ave. (kitty cornered from the Korean Baptist Church) and in front of the Korean Baptist Church at 81 West Cotati Ave. Annual attendance reaches 2,000-3,000 a day.

The Honorary Director this year is Marjorie Konrad. Performers include: AlpenBand California, Amy Jo Sawyer, Big Lou's Dance Party, Cory Pesaturo, En Canto with Jamie Maschler, Future Accordion Stars 2017, Gail Campanella, Ginny Mac, Gordon Kohl
Jim Gilman, La Familia Peña-Govea, Lizeth Olivo, Ljubinka Kulisic - Serbia, Mark St. Mary, MotorDude Zydeco, Oddjob Ensemble, Royal Jelly Jive, Squeezy Peezy, T-Luke and the Tight Suits, The Golden State Accordion Club Band, The Great Morgani, The Mad Maggies
and a free accordion jazz 101 workshop by Paul Betken.

Events happening in and around Cotati the day before the festival:
Friday, August 18, 2017 events include Scholarship Fundraiser to benefit future accordion stars. It will be held at the Redwood Cafe in downtown Cotati at 6:PM

For more information, contact Sheri Mignano at cotatiaccordionstudentstage@yahoo.com. Event 2 features the Mad Maggies, Event 3 is the CAF kickoff in front of Oivers’ Markets; Event 4 is the After Hours Party at Volpi’s in Petaluma,CA.

The Cotati Accordion Festival has something for all types of accordion aficionados. Make sure to include Cotati in your summer plans.

September 26 Tribute Concert to Tony Rozance

by Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association

Accordionist Mike Middleton has agreed to come to San Antonio to play a tribute concert to the late Tony Rozance, who was instrumental in teaching the accordion to so many of us in the 40s through 70s. Mike is also trying to collect Tony Rozance memorabilia so that he can place a special tribute to Tony at the Accordion Museum.

You can come down to San Antonio for this Tribute Concert on Tuesday Sept 26, 2017 at 5:30PM at Chesters Hamburgers on NE Loop 410 between Nacogdoches Rd and Broadway in the Private Party room where the San Antonio Accordion Association will be holding its monthly meetings.

Tony deserves his place in history and we want to make this happen. If you have any photos, letters, arrangements, writings, concert booklets or other things with Tony Rozance’s influence, please donate that to the cause. Help us give Tony the credits that he deserves and a special place in the history of the accordion at the Accordion Museum. As many of you know, he was also a past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild.

Mike will be playing Tony’s beautiful old vintage Excelsior accordion with all the bling and he will also bring the Tony Rozance Accordion School sign that Mike found in Pennsylvania at a pawn shop just by accident.

Tony used to live in Pennsylvania and had a studio there for many years. We appreciate Mike Middleton for making this happen. He would love to see some of Tony’s former students come to this concert and those who knew him. Let’s share this wonderful time together.

We look forward to seeing you all and hope to have a big crowd.

For further information:
Laura Jean Niland, President of SAAA
Phone: 210 651 4359

Email Mike Middleton if you have specific items to donate: Michael.Middleton@BSWHealth.org