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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Cory Pesaturo Wins First Place in the Coupe Mondiale International Digital Accordion Competition
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
AAA to Honor Faithe Deffner
New Zealand Lifetime Achievement Award to Faithe Deffner
Radio New Zealand Interviewed Betty Jo Simon
Bernadette Conlon to Perform at the Milwaukee Accordion Club
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Dr. Schimmel and The Tango Project Music Featured in: “So You Think You Can Dance”
Accordions Now! 2009: Lots of Accordions, Music, & Fun
Coupe Mondiale 2009....WORLD CLASS . . . without a doubt!
Cory Pesaturo in Concert in New Hampshire
Roland Introduces New FR-7x Accordion
Jon Hammond: Musician, Radio and TV Personality
Houston Accordion Performers Release Instructional DVD
Future events |
Alexander Poeluev Presents September Concerts in Connecticut
Music Magic Accordions USA hosts USA Premiere of Roland FR-7x V-Accordion
Las Vegas International Accordion Convention in October
Boki Quartet has Ohio Performance Dates
6th Annual O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat: October 23-25, 2009
9th Annual Florida Smash in November
Klezmatics on Fall Tour in the USA
Very Be Careful: Performance Dates
Wayne Toups Tour Schedule
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
| Summer is over. There is a chill in the air along with the continuing sounds of accordion music! No matter where you go, there will be an accordion festival or concert nearby. Check out the September USA news to see what happened this summer, what is going on now and what will be happening in future months. And…… there is more! Simply continue to read the USA news and you can plan your Fall and Winter trips so that an accordion event is never far away......... Enjoy! |
Cory Pesaturo Wins First Place in the Coupe Mondiale International Digital Accordion Competitionby Rita Barnea |
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 Cory Pesaturo, USA representative to the 2009 Coupe Mondiale in NZ, won first place in the International Digital Accordion Competition for Coupe Mondiale Contestants in Auckland, NZ. This inaugural division was sponsored by the Roland Corporation.Cory, a graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music, performed on Saturday evening, August 29, at the Bruce Mason Centre Auditorium where performances were given by the 1st place winners of the 7 Coupe Mondiale Categories. Pesaturo's extensive resumé includes appearances at the White House for President and Mrs. Clinton on four different occasions, along with six other appearances for Mr. and Mrs. Clinton. On one of those occasions, he became the youngest person ever to perform at a State Dinner. He is also featured in Mrs. Clinton’s book “An Invitation to the White House”. At 11, Pesaturo opened at the former Warwick Musical Theater for the ill Myron Floren. He has also opened at Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel, the Waterfires in Providence, and as a guest star at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford, CT. For nine consecutive years he has performed at the Sergio Franchi Memorial Concert in North Stonington, CT. Other past concerts include Festa Italiana in Milwaukee, numerous appearances with crossover Tenor Aaron Caruso, and Duo performances with World Champion Accordionist Mario Tacca. In July 2002, Cory became the youngest ever National Accordion Champion and went on to Copenhagen, Denmark for the Coupe Mondiale World Competition. A win in a concerto competition at the New England Conservatory of Music gave Pesaturo the rare opportunity to perform at the 2003 Christmas Pops Concert with the Brockton Symphony Orchestra as a featured soloist, where he became the youngest accordionist to ever solo with a symphony orchestra. Concerning his Jazz side, Cory has recently recorded two CD’s with saxophone legend George Garzone and his famous band “The Fringe”, and has been performing with them in the Boston and Providence region. Two years ago at the Coupe Mondiale World Competition, Cory was hailed as the world’s best young Jazz Accordionist. Cory is the 2009 Leavenworth International Accordion Champion in both Open and Jazz. Cory is the 2009 Kimberly International Jazz Champion which he won at the 2009 Kimberly Old Time Accordion Championship this summer. Cory’s future performances: Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Accordion Connection, 136 Route 106, Gilmanton, NH. Florida & Southeast Accordion Association SMASH - Nov. 13, 14, 15, 2009 - Holiday Inn International. Orlando, Fl. For further information: corypesaturo@corypesaturo.com |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USAby Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
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  I am writing this on the plane flying internationally to Las Vegas for the Octoberfest Las Vegas International from 15th to 18th October at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Paul Betken & Jerry Cigler are newly added to a great line up of stars (list below) with lots of great seats still available! Want to hop a plane to come and enjoy this exciting festival? Newsletter (picture right) with full information: 2018LVACnews.pdf Picture left: Event organizer Paul Pasquali The lineup starts with visionary accordionist Cory Pesaturo and bookends with a grand finale starring Grayson Masefield and the International Accordion Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Prof. Joan Sommers. You can register online at www.AccordionStars.com or contact Paul Pasquali, event organizer, by phone at 1-800-472-1695 or (801) 485-5840, email: paul@accordioninfo.com. |
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AAA to Honor Faithe Deffnerby Rita Barnea |
 On Sunday, September 20, at 12:30 PM at Tavern on the Green in New York City, the AAA will honor long-time member and former AAA president Faithe Deffner for her extraordinary contributions to the accordion world. The event planning committee, headed by Dr. Salvatore Febbraio, includes Frank Busso, Sr., Dr. Joseph Ciccone, Kevin Friedrich, Joan Grauman, Marilyn O'Neil, Dr. William Schimmel, and AAA President Linda Soley Reed. The committee is organizing a star-studded concert that will start immediately following dinner. Faithe served as AAA president from 1985 to 1986 and again from 1995 to 2000. Most recently she coordinated the 2007 Coupe Mondiale, held in Alexandria, Virginia, and co-hosted by the American Accordionists’ Association and the Accordionists and Teachers Guild International. Concert performers will include The Busso Trio, Beverly Roberts Curnow, Karen Fremar, Guy Klucevsek, Dee Langley, Alexander Poeluev - 2004 World Champion from Russia, Dr. William Schimmel, Mary Tokarski, a Strolling Trio from Washington, DC featuring Frank Busso, Jr. on accordion, a video presentation by Grayson Masefield of New Zealand, 2009 World Champion, and others to be announced. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of Ernest Deffner, Inc., manufacturers of Titano and Pancordion and the North American distributor for Pigini accordions. In addition, the firm maintains a catalog of accordion parts, accessories, and accordion music. Tickets for the event are $95 per person and will include an assortment of Hot and Cold Hors D’Oeuvres and Canapes, complimentary White and Red Wine, Imported & Domestic Beers served throughout the event, Salad, main course of Filet of Beef or Roasted White Sea Bass, Dessert and Coffee as well as the Concert. Reservations are due now. Please make checks payable to AAA and mail to: M. Kendrick, 120 Valley View Road, Stratford, CT 06614 or fax credit card information to the AAA office at 203-335-2048. For further Info: aaa1938@aol.com |
New Zealand Lifetime Achievement Award to Faithe Deffnerby New Zealand Accordion Association |
 Faithe Deffner’s achievements for the accordion are well recognised in her home country, the USA, however the New Zealand Accordion Association (NZAA) wishes to recognise her lifetime of services to the development of the accordion in New Zealand, and the warm international friendship she has extended to New Zealand accordionists over the years. Faithe Deffner’s support and encouragement has been instrumental in setting the foundations for the accordion network we have in New Zealand today. Her inspiration has been mainly directed at two key NZ accordion figures – Kevin Friedrich (CIA President & NZAA Life Member) and Harley Jones (NZAA Vice President & CIA Public Relations Manager) – however the benefits of her guidance and support has spread far through the network of New Zealand accordionists. Over the years, Faithe Deffner has been very helpful to the many New Zealand accordion soloists and orchestras travelling to the USA and other parts of the world in helping them arrange concerts, tuition, competitions, and generally providing useful concert touring information and contacts. Faithe’s organisation has been instrumental to the musical career of Harley Jones, who gained from organised concert tours and tuition in the USA for Titano Accordions International in the early 1970's. Harley was able to pass this back onto his New Zealand accordion students upon his return home, leading to the beginnings of New Zealand accordion contestants on the international competition scene. During the late 1970’s into the 1980’s, New Zealanders started competing in the Coupe Mondiale and other international competitions, performing with distinction (several top 5th and 7th Placings achieved), and winning a considerable number of regional accordion competitions such as ASA (Australia), AFNA (California), AAA (USA) and ATG (USA) competitions. These early successes helped set a foundation for the excellent standards achieved by New Zealand contestants today. For New Zealand accordion orchestras, Faithe’s inspiration and organisation helped lead to the formation of the Air New Zealand Accordion Orchestra, conducted by Fay Schaw and directed by Harley Jones. Benefiting from his experience with world-class accordion orchestras in the USA, Harley and Fay co-ordinated and organised the Air New Zealand Accordion Orchestra which made several international Goodwill Concert Tours in the 1980’s to 1990’s, enjoying many standing ovations at these concerts and forming life-long international affiliations. Faithe was a key figure in the historical Air New Zealand Accordion Orchestra tour to China in 1988. This was the first accordion orchestra ever invited to visit China, a country with enormous numbers of accordionists, and was of great interest to accordionists all over the world. This tour formed the basis of the close relationship between New Zealand and Chinese accordion communities that has continued over the years. Faithe’s guidance and mentorship also allowed Harley to set up the Music Education Centre and then Accordions Worldwide. The Music Education Centre was started specifically for accordion tuition, and has today become New Zealand’s largest private music teaching studio, offering tuition for a range of instruments. Faithe’s foresight of the potential future of the internet prompted Harley to set up Accordions Worldwide in 1996, which has today become the largest group of internet websites dedicated specifically to the accordion, and an important international communications and networking medium (and a sponsor of this news). The NZAA also wishes to recognise Faithe Deffner’s support of the NZAA on an international level, in relation to the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA – IMC-UNESCO). Faithe has had a consistence presence on the CIA, as one of its longest serving delegates, and through her Presidency of the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA). Her influence aided New Zealand in 1980 when the NZAA first hosted the Coupe Mondiale. She also supported Kevin Friedrich to become CIA President in 2001. Her most recent efforts for the CIA include co-ordinating the 2007 60th Anniversary Coupe Mondiale in Washington DC, USA. NZAA President John Statham presented the NZAA Lifetime Achievement Award to Faithe Deffner: "The inspiration and support of Faithe Deffner has therefore had a profoundly positive effect on the development of the accordion in New Zealand and in the many musical successes of New Zealand accordionists over a long period of time. The NZAA wishes to recognise the important contributions of Faithe Deffner towards the development of the accordion in New Zealand, with the NZAA Lifetime Achievement Award." |
Radio New Zealand Interviewed Betty Jo Simonby Rita Barnea |
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| Betty Jo Simon was interviewed on the NZ national radio station, Radio NZ, to kickoff the 2009 Coupe Mondiale. Picture above shows Betty Jo at the Radio New Zealand studio with Harley Jones, head of CIA Public Relations. Eva Radich has a daily show of music news, interviews and concert reviews. Each day a specialist is invited to explore an aspect of their chosen field. On Thursday, August 20, USA accordionist Betty Jo Simon was interviewed on Radio New Zealand. She was in New Zealand as part of the 2009 Coupe Mondiale World Accordion Championships and Festival. You can hear her interview via podcast at: http://www.radionz.co.nz/concert/programmes/upbeat/20090820 Betty Jo gave three outstanding performances of the Galla-Rini “Concerto No. 1 in G minor for Accordion & Orchestra" with the Auckland Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gary Daverne. For more information and photos, please visit the Coupe Mondiale web site. Click on "Daily Reports and Information from Auckland, New Zealand" |
Bernadette Conlon to Perform at the Milwaukee Accordion Clubby Rita Barnea |
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 The Milwaukee Accordion Cub presents Australian born International artist Bernadette Conlon Zabawa on Monday, September 28th, at 8 PM at the Root River Center, 7220 W. Rawson Avenue, Franklin, WI.Bernadette Zabawa is a virtuoso accordionist. Her dazzling technique and musicality have earned her over 100 first-place awards in competitions. She is a four-time South Pacific Champion, 7-time Australian National Champion, and she maintains a busy concert schedule. Bernadette has an amazing repertoire, which ranges from classical, to jazz, pop and various folk and ethnic music. Astounding her professors in Russia with her amazing technique, she built on her already mature and sensitive musical style, resulting in a unique mastery of the instrument with a western approach, upon which she added her unique Russian teachings. Bernadette is famed for her own intricate orchestral arrangements, some of which appear on the six CD's she has released. Academically, Bernadette has won scholarships to study in the Ukraine, Russia, England and Germany, with some of the world's top accordionists. All this is even more remarkable, considering the fact that Bernadette has less than 1% eyesight. Her memory of thousands of pieces of music is internationally renowned, and she often gives concerts made up solely of audience requests. As well as acoustic accordion (both stradella and free bass), Bernadette specializes in MIDI accordion, on which she has already released six CDs: “Accordion Popular Classical Masterpieces”, “Accordionally Yours”, “Absolutely French”, “A Christmas Selection”,” Abduction By Tango”, and “Accordiana”. In addition to the accordion, Bernadette has a great interest in reed organs, bandoneón, concertina, button accordions of many different systems, as well as various forms of antique accordions, flutinas, and harmony flutes. Her love of reeds even meant that she studied saxophone and clarinet in school! But her first instrument, and first love, is of course the piano accordion. Bernadette will perform a Las Vegas style program with her husband, Ed Zabawa. The Zabawas now live in Northern Illinois. The tickets are $3 for MAC members and $5 for non-members. For further information: csherry@att.net To contact Bernadette directly: bernadette.zabawa@hotmail.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
USA Delegates Attend the 122nd General Assembly of Delegates in NZby Rita Barnea |
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| Mary Tokarski, Dee Langley, Joan Sommers, and Faithe Deffner served as delegates attending the August 2009 Coupe Mondiale in NZ. Each of them has contributed in important and unique ways to the advancement of the accordion. Mary Tokarski, AAA and ATG Board member is an international concert artist and teacher. She has recorded many CD’s and has established a new duo, “Buttons & Keys”, with pianist, Dessislava Vassileva Vaughan. Mary is also a member of the new group, “Accordion Brats”. During the Coupe Mondiale, Mary was featured as soloist with the Auckland Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gary Daverne. Dee Langley is the President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International and a member of the nationally based performing trio, “Accordion Brats”. She lives in Minneapolis where she also performs with Orkestar Bez Ime (OBI) and Wild Hollow. Ms. Langley is founder of the NE Accordion Festival being the recipient of their 2002 Lifetime Accordion Award. She teaches accordion in the Metro area of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. Joan Sommers has been honored numerous times by the American Accordionists' Ass'n., the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, Int'l, the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes, as well as other musical organizations for her ongoing dedication and contributions to the field of music. In NZ, she conducted the World Accordion Orchestra who played “Suite from Video Games Live” arranged by Joan C. Sommers. She is sought after as a performer, conductor, clinician, adjudicator and musical director for major accordion festivals throughout the world. Joan is the immediate Past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, marking the third time she has led this esteemed International organization which is affilitaed with the International Music Council (IMC) - UNESCO. Joan loves teaching, adjudicating competitions, giving workshops, writing reviews of CDs for Accordions Worldwide and, most of all, working with accordion orchestras. Faithe Deffner served as AAA president from 1985 to 1986 and again from 1995 to 2000. Most recently she coordinated the 2007 Coupe Mondiale, held in Alexandria, Virginia, and co-hosted by the American Accordionists’ Association and the Accordionists and Teachers Guild International. On Sunday, September 20, at 12:30 pm at Tavern on the Green in New York City, long-time member and former AAA president Faithe Deffner will be honored by the AAA for her extraordinary contributions to the accordion world. During the August Coupe Mondiale in NZ, Faithe received the NZAA Lifetime Achievement Award: “The inspiration and support of Faithe Deffner has therefore had a profoundly positive effect on the development of the accordion in New Zealand and in the many musical successes of New Zealand accordionists over a long period of time. The NZAA wishes to recognize the important contributions of Faithe Deffner towards the development of the accordion in New Zealand, with the NZAA Lifetime Achievement Award” Photos of delegates attending the 122nd General Assembly of Delegates: Left to right, Mary Tokarski (AAA-USA), Dee Langly (ATG-USA), Joan Sommers (ATG-USA), Faithe Deffner (AAA-USA). For more information: Coupe Mondiale |
Dr. Schimmel and The Tango Project Music Featured in: “So You Think You Can Dance”by Dr. William Schimmel |
 Recently Dr. William Schimmel and The Tango Project supplied the music of the solo section for the winner, Jeanine Mason, in the hit television show, “So You Think You Can Dance”. The piece was “Por Una Cabeza”, which was also used in the tango scene in “Scent of a Woman” starring Al Pacino as well as “True Lies”, “All the King’s Men”, “Sex in the City”, The Medium” and other TV spots.Dr. Schimmel performed in an event for the Celebration of Life of Ellie Greenwich, a songwriter who passed away on August 26 at 68 and who collaborated with other greats such as Phil Spector, Darlene Love, Ike and Tina Turner, the Ronettes, the Crystals and many others in gold and platinum hits songs that date as far back to the early 1960’s. Some of the songs are: “Be My Baby”, “Da Doo Ron Ron”, “The Mountain High/the River Deep”, and “Then He Kissed Me”, “Leader of the Pack”, “Walking in the Sand”, “The Hanky Panky” and many others. Dr. Schimmel was asked to perform all of these works on the accordion. It turns out that Ellie Greenwich’s first instrument was the accordion. Her photo was on display at the event: Ms. Greenwich and her accordion. On September 8, 9 and 11, Dr. Schimmel will perform with the New York Philharmonic in a concert that will feature the famous tenor, Andrea Bocelli. The concert will take place at Carnegie Hall. On September 9, Dr. Schimmel will perform his own work, “Club Parusia”, at the Union Theological Seminary in New York. His work was initially commissioned by the Presbyterian Biennial and premiered in Tucson, Arizona. It was conceived in creative collaboration with Rev.Robert Brashear. On September 12, Dr. Schimmel will perform with The Argento Ensemble conducted by Michel Galante in a world premiere of “Xenos”, by Austrian composer, Beat Furrer, who will also act as the narrator. The performance will take place at Le Poisson Rouge, a performance space devoted to innovative new music. It was formerly The Village Gate. On September 14 and 5 consecutive Tuesdays following, Dr. Schimmel will perform with singer Gay Marshall in a series of songs made famous by the great Edith Piaf. The performances will take place at the Metropolitan Room, one of Manhattan’s most sophisticated nightclubs. On September 20, Dr. Schimmel will premiere his new work, “Let’s Celebrate”, at New York’s Tavern on the Green, in a tribute to Faithe Deffner, who will be honored with A Lifetime Achievment Award from the American Accordionists’ Association. Dr. Schimmel and Micki Goodman’s new video, “The Reality of La Cumparsita”, can be seen on Dr. Schimmel’s website as well as on Daily Motion. All of their other videos can be seen on Dr. Schimmel’s site as well as Youtube and/or Daily Motion. For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
Accordions Now! 2009: Lots of Accordions, Music, & Funby Donna Maria Regis |
 Accordions Now! 2009, co-sponsored by New Hampshire Accordion Association and Accordion Connection LLC, was a tremendous success. “Fantastic,” “great”and “wonderful” are some of the adjectives used in unsolicited praise for the second annual music festival held recently in Manchester, NH. Festivities kicked off Friday, August 7th at the Highlander Inn with a spirited Open Mike Night, exuberantly hosted by NHAA members Jean and Phil Minichiello. Tony Lovello, the ‘Liberace of the Accordion’, jazz wizard Eddie Monteiro (appearing courtesy of Roland Music Corporation), and Russian master Vladimir Sidorov treated enthusiastic attendees to fabulous concerts and fascinating workshops. The popular Accordions Now! Festival Orchestra, conducted by Donna Maria Regis,honored the former Donati Quintet by playing arrangements they performed in their youthful heyday, the 1930s and 40s. Soloist Gary Morin performed a march he composed in the quintet’s honor as well as a waltz written by Tony Donati, the 83-year-old ‘baby’ of the musical family. The oldest brother, Arthur, passed away some years ago and 91-year-old sister Eleanor was unable to attend, but Gene and Joe were on hand to join brother Tony in accepting the accolades. Original music by Nils Lundin was featured in the Welcome Concert by members of the NHAA ensemble (Bill Baukus, Tom Duprex, Lynda Fish, Dorean Kimball, Phil Minichiello, Donna Maria Regis, Sue Welch, and Peter Widmark), while new Tony Lovello arrangements written for NHAA featuring Donna as soloist were premiered in the “2, 3, 4, More” concert. The up-and-coming next generation of accordionists was well represented by William Grise, 11, Johan Knoff, 12, Kassandra Knoff, 15, Katarina Knoff, 11, Joseph Quirbach, 10, and Rachel Quirbach, 13. William, Joseph, and Rachel study at the Miguel School of Music with Francisco Coelho and Donna Michael. The Knoff children, all NHAA members, study with Vladimir Sidorov. Kassandra has just been chosen as one of five finalists to compete in the youth division of the Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival on September 25. She and the other young players provide hope for the future of the instrument. Other fine ACCORDIONS NOW! 2009 performances were presented by ALAMBIC [Bob & Brenda Lanoue], Jon-Richard Knoff, Phil Minichiello, Sylvia Miskoe, Al Paradis, Jerry Tramontozzi, and VITALity (formerly the Connecticut Accordion Association Small Ensemble) [Karen Bucitti, Kathy DiCocco, Marilyn O’Neil, Judy Sehnal, and Bob Vitale]. Visitors to the Vendor Room benefited from 100+ years of combined musical experience represented by Sam Falcetti of Falcetti Music and Arthur Welch of Accordion Connection LLC. For more information: Donna Maria Regis: regisdonna@yahoo.com |
Coupe Mondiale 2009....WORLD CLASS . . . without a doubt!by Mary Tokarski |
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| The Coupe Mondiale at North Shore City (Auckland), New Zealand is truly the "Best of the Best"! I arrived ten days early for rehearsals with the Auckland Symphony Orchestra as well as a lovely holiday with the folks at the Canterbury Accordion Association on the South Island. The CAA sponsored a concert for me on Wednesday, August 18th, at the Christchurch Girls High School Concert Hall. The audience was so attentive and appreciative, and the people were warm and friendly. The concert included Gary Daverne's “Musical Party”, DeFalla's “Ritual Fire Dance”, Belfiore's “Scherzo in B Flat Minor”, Ettore's “Spanish Holiday” . . . and much more! Thanks to Meg Fidler, Lynette and Len Kelcher, and John and Keay Arthur for being such gracious hosts . . . and giving me a great tour of the area. The Christchurch stay was only the tip of the iceberg, so to speak . . . it is winter here in New Zealand, so give me another sweater . . . oops, I mean "jersey". Isn't it amazing how language is the same AND different at the same time? Tuesday, August 25th was opening day for the Coupe Mondiale. The day began with a reception with His Worship the Mayor of North Shore City, Andrew Williams. The reception provided warm greetings, lively conversations, great camaraderie and was aglow with local New Zealand treats, coffee, and .... My day continued with a visit to the New Market Rotary Club, where I played a few pieces at their luncheon meeting . . . then off to the Bruce Mason Center in Takapuna, for the afternoon Congress where delegates from member countries meet to discuss the new projects, tell the accordion community of the "happenings" and plan new events and strategies to bring our beloved accordion to everyone. One major addition this year was "World Accordion Day" on May 6, 2009 (May 6th is the historic day the accordion was patented!) The members described many events and announced plans for next year that were taking form. The opening concert was a stunning display of the accordion . . . and thanks to Gary Daverne and the Auckland Symphony Orchestra . . . soloists Betty Jo Simon, Stephanie Poole, Tracey Collins, and myself were given the opportunity to bring great accordion music with symphony to the public eye, and the 62nd Coupe Mondiale was declared officially open! Look for more news and photos of the competition on the CIA website, Coupe Mondiale. |
Cory Pesaturo in Concert in New Hampshireby Rita Barnea |
 The New Hampshire Accordion Association & Accordion Connection LLC will present Cory Pesaturo in concert on Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Accordion Connection, 136 Route 106, Gilmanton, NH. Cory is the 2009 Leavenworth International Accordion Champion in both Open and Jazz. You can read more about Cory in this month’s USA news. Tickets will be $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For NH Accordion Association members tickets will be $3. Seating is limited so reserve early. Call Toll Free 1-800-328-5227 or regisdonna@yahoo.com |
Roland Introduces New FR-7x Accordionby Rita Barnea |
 The Roland Corporation introduces its newest accordion. The V-Accordion is the first instrument of its kind to provide powerful digital modeling technology in a traditional, immediately familiar, accordion design, and with performance functions and authentic sounds. It combines the familiar sounds and nuances of a traditional accordion with the versatility of a modern digital musical instrument.The FR-7x is the successor to the current FR-7. It is enhanced with the latest V-Accordion features. For more information: Ron.Lankford@rolandus.com |
Jon Hammond: Musician, Radio and TV Personalityby Rita Barnea |
 Jon Hammond is a well known musician, composer and host of the Jon Hammond Show TV show which has been broadcasting for 26 consecutive years from New York City. He is an accordionist, pianist and bandleader. In addition, he is a TV/Radio personality and voice over artist. Jon is a member of the American Federation of Musicians Union-Local 6 and Local 802, ASCAP Artist. Jon Hammond is one of the premier B3 PLAYERS in the world. He has played professionally since age 12. Beginning as a solo accordionist, he later played Hammond B3 organ in a number of important San Francisco bands. His all original group HADES opened shows for Tower of Power, Quicksilver Messenger Service and Michael Bloomfield. Eddie Money and Barry Finnerty. Moving East, he attended Berklee College of Music and played venues as diverse as Boston's "Combat Zone" in the striptease clubs during the '70's and the exclusive Wychmere Harbor Club in Cape Cod, where he was house organist and developed a lasting friendship with House Speaker Tip O’Neil. He also toured the Northeast and Canada with the successful show revue "Easy Living", and continued his appearances at nightclubs in Boston and New York. Hammond lived and traveled in Europe, where he has an enthusiastic following. Jon is currently the host of a daily CBS radio program, HammondCast on KYOU & KYCY 1550 AM, 7 days a week at 4AM PST. He performs in hospitals and nursing homes regularly. He has been a bandleader for annual overseas dates for over 20 years. You can catch Jon every day on KYOU Radio HammondCast. For more information: jonhammond@jonhammondband.com |
Houston Accordion Performers Release Instructional DVDby Rita Barnea |
 Houston Accordion Performers announces the release of their first instructional DVD for beginner GCF Diatonic Accordion players. It is called " GCF Diatonic Accordion Basics". Shelia Lee has developed a basic approach to teaching the diatonic accordion that starts with learning chords first, followed by simple tunes based on these chords, with accompanying left hand. The student learns to read music as well as improvise from the beginning.This will be the first of 3 DVDs in the series with each showing via the DVD how to play – using both full in and out bellow notes. The DVD will be available after Sept. 15. The charge will be $19.95 for DVD and sheet music book. There are 11 lessons – equal to about 2 months of lessons. Also available are 4 workshops and books designed for the piano keyboard accordion. There are plans to update these same workshops for the button accordion. More information will be available at the end of September. Shelia Lee is no stranger to accordion music, arranging, and performance. She has played the accordion since the age of 5. Before she opened Houston Accordion Performers with her partner Mark Ropel, Sheila had her own accordion studio for 14 years in Dayton, Ohio with over 300 students. She and Mark, along with a staff of over 6 other instructors, already can boast having chromatic, button, and keyboard accordion students and they have only been open 3 months. For further information: slee@shelialee.com or call 281-788-6667 |
Future events |
Roland Corporation U.S Sponsors V-Accordion Festival National Finals in Septemberby Rita Barnea |
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| Roland Corporation U.S. announces the finalists chosen to compete in the Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival. This event, to be held at the Doubletree Hotel in Commerce on Friday, September 25th, will bring together some of America’s most talented accordionists. The competition presents an opportunity to hear a number of promising players of different ages perform in a wide variety of different musical styles. The finalists listed in alphabetical order are: Youth Division: Peter Chudolij, Micaiah Elliott, Kassandra Knoff, Wayne Munoz, and Danielle Renz. The Adult Division: Kenneth Baert, Alicia Baker, Michael DeSciscio, Lou Fanucchi, and Svetlana Ivanchenko. The Youth Alternates are Kassandra Peterson and Hannah Jane Robbins. The Adult Alternates are Jessica Faltot, Mark Kenneth, and Paul Betken. The "Grand Prize" winner of the Youth Division will receive the following Roland product: (1) FR-1, FR-2 or FR-3S V-Accordion (to be selected by winner). The Adult "Grand Prize" winner will receive the Roland FR-7 V-Accordion and will also be flown to Rome, Italy for the International Festival to be held on/around November 21, 2009. Domestic transportation and roundtrip airfare will be paid for by Roland Corporation U.S. In addition to hearing the talented finalists perform on the full line of Roland V-Accordions and seeing the winners selected, there will be a featured guest artist who will perform a special concert. Cory, first place winner in the International Digital Accordion Competition for the 2009 Coupe Mondiale Contestants in Auckland, NZ, will be a major part of this year’s Second National V-Accordion Festival. For further info contact Festival Coordinator Ron Lankford: Ron.Lankford@rolandus.com |
Alexander Poeluev Presents September Concerts in Connecticutby Rita Barnea |
 Two special concerts, sponsored by the American Accordionists’ Assoc. and the Connecticut Accordion Assoc., will be given by Russian accordion virtuoso and world champion, Alexander Poeluev. The first concert is scheduled for September 23 at 7:PM at the Pequot Library, Southport, CT. The fee is $20.00 per person. For tickets or additional information, contact: Linda Reed 203-556-0002 or Sandy Zera 203-913-5119 Another concert will take place on Sunday, September 27 at Cugino's Restaurant, Cheshire, Ct. The Time/ Cost: 1:00 Buffet & Concert - $25 (Preferred seating) 2:15 Concert only - $10 (No reserved seating) Reservations are required for the buffet by Tuesday, September 22nd. Please call for reservations:203-272-1202 Mr. Poeluev is a 29 year-old native of Rostov-on-Don, Russia. He began his music studies at the tender age of 6. From 1991 thru 1996, Alexander was enrolled in the Tchaikovsky Music School in the Class of Selected Members of the All-Russia Musical Society of I. N. Pilipenko. In 1996, he entered the Rostov State College of Arts, qualifying for the special class of S. S. Galkin for Outstanding Russian Artists. After completing one year of studies, he continued his education at the A. Shnitke Music College in Moscow in the distinguished class of Russia’s National Artists, and went on to win several international competitions under the tutelage of noted educator, composer and accordion virtuoso, professor Viatcheslav A. Semionov. He completed graduate and postgraduate studies at the Schnitke State Music College in Moscow and at the Gnessins Music Academy. In 1997, he became the double winner of the All-Russia competition for accordion players in Belgorod. In 2002 at the “Coupe Mondiale” International Competition, held in Copenhagen, he won in two categories: Senior Coupe Mondiale and Coupe Mondiale International Piano Accordion Category. In 2005, he became the laureate of the Stolaruk International Entertainment Competition sponsored by the American Accordionists’ Association, held in Detroit. In 2006, Alexander was awarded first place in the International Competition held in Shanghai, China. Alexander has performed in New Zealand, Australia, USA, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, France, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Lithuania, Latvia, Ukraine and in many cities in Russia. He is currently a concert artist and serves as an adjudicator at international competitions. His concert program includes music by J. S. Bach, D. Scarlatti, N. Paganini, F. Liszt, E. Grieg, F. Mendelssohn and many others. He has recently expanded his repertoire to include jazz, and has performed with noted jazz accordionist Art Van Damme. Alexander’s performances are distinguished by his great mastery of the instrument, brilliant technique, and sensitive interpretations. |
Music Magic Accordions USA hosts USA Premiere of Roland FR-7x V-Accordionby Rita Barnea |
 On October 11, 2009 Music Magic USA and Roland US jointly present an afternoon of “V-Accordion X-citement” to be held from 1:00pm-4:00pm at the Holiday Inn, 1 Route 46W in Totowa, NJ - centrally located 30 min from New York City, 45 min from Westchester, NY, 60 min from Connecticut, and 90 min from the South Jersey, Philadelphia and Allentown, PA areas. Music Magic USA operates two musical cyber stores being Music Magic USA and Accordions USA as well as their accordion and midi sales, distribution and repair facility and showroom in Clifton, NJ. This will be the first such event in the greater New York City area, featuring a unique program of live V-Accordion musical performances by special guests including Roland V-Accordion Clinicians - Jazz Great Eddie Monteiro and the 2009 Coupe Mondiale International Digital Accordion Competition Champion Cory Pesaturo, as well as US National V-Accordion Festival Junior Division finalist, Peter Chudolij, with other performers to be announced. The program will include activities designed to entertain, educate and enhance the audience’s understanding of today’s electronic accordions and provide a forum where participants can question the V-Accordion Clinicians, the National V-Accordion Director of Marketing or a Roland authorized V-Accordion service technician Attendees can audition the FR-1, FR-2, FR-3s and FR-7 models and attend a public demonstration and workshop premiering the new FR-7x, complete with on-board capabilities and engineering advances. All models will be available for sale. An interactive mini “Town Hall” Meeting will be hosted by Ron Lankford, Roland’s National V-Accordion Director of Marketing. Bob Duncan, Roland US Regional Sales Manager, will be present to provide information on the Roland products. A free V-Accordion Tune-up and Optimal Settings Check will be offered to current V-Accordion owners who bring their “V”s to the event. Tips and hints for maximizing V-Accordion satisfaction will be offered by Music Magic USA owner, Alex Chudolij, an accomplished award-winning accordionist and bandleader. There will also be exhibits of new accordions, including other new reedless, midi and acoustic models as well as accordion amplifiers and V-Accordion accessories. Special event pricing will be offered on all featured accordions. Beverages and snacks will be served. All reservations should be made by October 4th. Seating is limited so please reserve quickly. All RSVP’s received by October 4th will receive free admission, preferred seating, and two entries each towards valuable door prizes. Accordionists and accordion lovers alike are invited to come and bring a friend to what is sure to be a fun afternoon filled with great music, great products and a great time for all! For tickets and information, please call Music Magic USA toll-free at 888-887-0975 or via e-mail at info@MusicMagicUSA.com |
Las Vegas International Accordion Convention in Octoberby Rita Barnea |
 The Las Vegas International Accordion Convention celebrates its Ten Year Anniversary from Oct. 19-22, 2009 at the Gold Coast Hotel Casino, 4000 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas.The convention consists of 4 nights and 3 full days of accordions and fun including 7 meals, 7 concerts, all events and all seminars in one low price. The Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra returns under the esteemed direction of Joan Cochran Sommers. You can be part of this orchestra. Bring your accordion. Performers will include: Pete Contino, Stas Venglevski, Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini, Silvia Marie, Michael Bridge, Dick Contino, Art Van Damme, Pete Barbutti, Peter and Mady Soave, and Gina Branelli. Also performing and teaching will be Mary Tokarski, Gordon Kohl, Ron Borelli and many more! Among the many benefits of attending the convention: Making new friends from all over the world; seeing the latest in new accordions with factory exhibits; inexpensive hotel accommodations; hearing, learning from, and being inspired by some of the finest accordionists in the world. For more info: paul@accordioninfo.com Call: 1-800-472-1695 |
Boki Quartet has Ohio Performance Datesby Rob Howard |
 The Boki Quartet, based in Columbus, Ohio, consists of Boki K. Cvetkovski – accordion, Adrian Caso - guitar, Austin Kay - bass, and Michael Zarrilli -drums. Pete Quint – trumpet, and Betsy Pandora – vocals..Formed in 2008, the Boki Quartet’s first CD, "Boki Quarte"’, was released on June 4th Giorgio's Italian Restaurant, Columbus, where the group has been a regular attraction since the beginning of this year, appearing on the first Thursday of the month. The Boki Quartet is available for any event that requires a professional unique jazz band that plays traditional jazz standards with a unique twist. The Boki Quartet’s forthcoming shows include: September 3rd, 7.30 to 10pm - Giorgio's Italian Restaurant, 2941 N. High St., Columbus, OH September 5th, 9pm - Rumba Café, 2507 Summit St, Columbus, OH) - opening for singer/guitarist Miss Molly October 1st, 7.30 to 10pm - Giorgio's Italian Restaurant, Columbus November 5th, 10pm to 2am - Dick's Den, 2417 N. High St, Columbus For further information email: bokiquartet@gmail.com |
6th Annual O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat: October 23-25, 2009by Rita Barnea |
 A tonic for the times -- spend three relaxing days in a comfortable, scenic setting saturating yourself in traditional Irish music with a community of motivated students and gifted teachers. The 6th annual O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat will be held October 23-25, 2009 at the Hoblitzelle Camp and Conference Center in Midlothian, Texas.Three 90-minute classes and an additional one-hour workshop will be taught each day. Classes will be offered in fiddle, flute, whistle, guitar (standard, dropped-D & DADGAD), piano, bodhran, harp, uilleann pipes, button accordion (C#/D & B/C), piano accordion, concertina, tenor banjo, bouzouki, mandolin and Gaelic singing. Enrichment classes teaching Irish music history or exploring Irish music today will also be offered. Workshops presenting music theory, use of ABCs (cyber notation), learning by ear, and basic sound system operation will be available. The retreat will officially begin on Thursday night, October 22, with a “meet & greet” BBQ and bonfire. Classes start Friday morning and continue through Sunday late afternoon. Each evening there will be concerts by instructors and mini-concerts during meals with a “farewell” concert on Sunday evening. On the Saturday night program, there will be a “Texas Tune & Song Tussle” which features friendly competition among ensembles that form at the retreat vying for “O’Diddley Awards.” Sessions will be plentiful and organized by levels with some instructor-led and others not. New to the 2009 Retreat will be a youth camp during the retreat for children ages 6-10 called the Kids Irish Music & Heritage Workhops. Participants will enjoy fun activities including instrument classes, storytelling, singing, history, cooking, games and more. Patty Furlong and Mark Kenneth will be the accordion instructors. Patty, originally from Bronx, New York, plays the Irish button accordion in the key of C#/D and B/C. In her teen-age years, as a student of Martin Mulvihill, Patty won numerous New York titles as placing at the Fleadh Cheoil in Ireland in both solo and group titles. She has played with the world renowned group "The Chieftains" as well as being an original member of "Cherish the Ladies". Patty and members of her band "Coolmagort" have performed throughout the U.S (including Alaska), Canada, Bermuda, and Ireland. Patty Furlong has won numerous New York championships as well as three All-Ireland titles, including one solo title. Patty plays the ceili circuit throughout the Tri-state New York area and concerts throughout the U.S Mark, a born and bred Scotsman, has been learning and playing the accordion since he was 6, studying classically with the British College of Accordionists until he "found" traditional music in himself. Mark has won championships across Scotland and also taken first place at the All Scotland and All Britain level. Most recently he came in 2nd place in the US finals of the 2008 Roland International Accordion Competition. Mark is a sought after session and recording artist, and has an unfailing ability to keep both the music lively and the topics interesting in his presentations and teachings. Mark plays in his own developed Scottish style of playing, and can convey the intricacies and technique requirements through his classical background to playing and theory. For more info: info@oflahertyretreat.org or call 972-238-8724. |
9th Annual Florida Smash in Novemberby Rita Barnea |
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| The 9th Annual Smash of the Florida Accordion Association - Southeast Accordion Association will be held on November 13-15, 2009. The location will be the Holiday Inn International Drive Resort, 6515 International Drive, Orlando, FL. The Florida Accordion Association will feature an amazing lineup of accordionists: Cory Pesaturo, from Cumberland, RI., is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music, where he was the first to major in accordion. At age 21, Cory's extensive resume includes four performances for President & Mrs. Clinton! Murl Allen Sanders, from Seattle, WA., is an independent, modern accordionist, pianist, composer, teacher and recording artist who plays pop, rock, zydeco, country, jazz, blues and various ethnic styles on piano and accordion. He has worked with such diverse national and international artists as: Chuck Berry, Etta James, Merrilee Rush, Theodore Bikel, Peter Duchin, Leslie Gore, The Von Trapp Children, Lee Oskar, OhNo, Underground Resistance, Leroy Bell, Clare Fischer, Todd Simon, and composer David Matthews. Alex Meixner, from Allentown, PA., is a Grammy-nominated musician and producer. 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 40 recordings. Tony Lovello, from Lexington, KY., will perform and, in addition, will be “roasted” this year. Come out and witness The Lovello Roast. Tony will also conduct the accordion orchestra, in which all attendees are welcome to participate! Walter Kasprzyk, from Navarre, FL, a two-time Connecticut state championship winner, and part of the world-famous K Trio, will perform at the Smash and also has a surprise for Tony. Alvaro “Beaver” Barsi will host the famous Café Accordeon on Friday, November 13th in the hotels’ Front Street Café where anyone may play. On Sunday morning, Jerry Tramontozzi will present a concert. There will be dealer displays and 50/50 raffles. Come to Florida for an exciting, fun filled, accordion weekend! For further info: Karen Adam, President: Flaccassoc@bellsouth.net |
Klezmatics on Fall Tour in the USAby Rita Barnea |
 The Klezmatics, a Grammy Award winning American klezmer group, are world-renowned superstars of the klezmer world. They erupted out of New York City’s East Village in 1986 and revitalized klezmer for the new century. Their klezmer is one steeped in Jewish spiritualism and Eastern European tradition while incorporating more provocative themes such as social rights and anti-fundamentalism with eclectic musical influences such as gospel, punk, and Arab, African, and Balkan rhythms. Over the course of nearly twenty years, they have released six albums of wild, spiritual, provocative, reflective, and ecstatically danceable music, forever redefining and transcending traditional labels. Their 2009 fall USA dates are: 10/17 Carnegie Lecture Hall, Pittsburgh,412-394-3353 10/18 College Park, MD, U of Maryland, 301-405-2787 10/23 Davenport, IA, St Ambrose, 563- 333-6251 10/24 Minneapolis, MN, Cedar Cultural, 612-338-2674 12/10 South Orange, South Orange, NJ, 973-275-1114 12/12 Port Washington, Jeanne Rimsky, 516-767-6444 12/13 Brooklyn, NY, Kingsborough, 718-368-5596 12/19 Skokie, IL,Centre East, 847- 673-6300 For more information: mitchgh@verizon.net |
Very Be Careful: Performance Datesby Rita Barnea |
 Very Be Careful is a homegrown vallenato band from LA. that plays Colombian traditional cumbias which centers around the accordion, backed with percussion and bass.Its five Angelenos part ways with the music taste of most urbane thirtysomething musicians by playing a traditional form of Colombian folk music called vallenato. To the uninitiated, this music, the name of which literally translates to "born in the valley," sounds like a sun-soaked, country cousin of Colombia's popular dance music, cumbia. Since 1997, the group has independently released six albums, each filled mostly with cover songs, that channel the sound and texture of early vallenato recordings. The group’s latest CD is called "Salad Buey". Members include: Ricardo "Ricky G" Guzman on accordion and vocals, Arturo "Brickems" Guzman on bass, Craig "Peabody" Martin on guacharaca, Dante "The Rip" Ruiz on campana, and Richard "Mil Caras" Panta on caja vallenata. Their fall performance schedule is: Sep. 18, The Mint, Los Angeles, CA. Oct. 31, Bordello, Los Angeles, CA. Dec. 5, La Cita, Los Angeles, CA. For more info: downtownpijao@yahoo.com |
Wayne Toups Tour Scheduleby Rita Barnea |
 Wayne Toups calls his band Zydecajun, which is an attempt to describe his distinctive fusion. He draws on French-language traditional material of his Cajun ancestors, but adds the unmistakable r&b textures of Zydeco music. Add to that his undeniable charisma as a rocker and you begin to understand why he's been dubbed "The Cajun Springsteen" or "Le Boss."Born to a French-speaking rice farmer in Crowley, LA. Toups was steeped in bayou music from boyhood. He learned to play Cajun accordion at age 13 and was soon on stage in local talent contests playing the tunes of Iry LaJeune and other heroes of his culture. As he matured as a musician, Toups began incorporating the soul music of Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, Percy Sledge and Wilson Pickett into his sound. By the 1980's he'd picked up influences from rock bands such as The Doobie Brothers. Lynard Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers. He decided he wanted to make music for "the younger generation," as he puts it, by stirring all of this into his musical stew. He debuted his fusion style on a 1987 album called ZydeCajun. And he's been criss-crossing musical genres ever since. Signed to Mercury Records, Toups became the first Cajun act to crack the Top Pop Albums chart when Blast From the Bayou appeared in 1989. He was tapped to sing the theme song for TV's Broken Badges series and his "Two Step Mamou" appeared on the soundtrack of the hit movie Steel Magnolias. Wayne’s Tour Schedule: Sep 3 CONROE ,TEXAS THURSDAY CONCERT SERIES Sep 11 BEAUMONT, TEXAS, WHISKEY RIVER Sep 12 JENNINGS, LA. ROASTIN' WITH ROSIE BAR- B-QUE FESTIVAL Sep 13 ANAHUAC, TEXAS, TEXAS GATOR FEST Sep 18 BATON ROUGE, LA.,THE TEXAS CLUB Sep 25 HOUSTON , TEXAS, FIREHOUSE SALOON Sep 26 SCOTT, LA., COWBOY'S NIGHTCLUB Oct 2 WINNIE , TEXAS, TEXAS RICE FESTIVAL Oct 3 KAPLAN, LA., LOUISIANA CAJUN FOOD FEST Oct 8 GULF SHORES, AL., NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL Oct 9 CONROE, TX.,THE CONROE CAJUN CATFISH FESTIVAL Oct 10 ABBEVILLE, LA. LOUISIANA CATTLE FESTIVAL AND FAIR Oct 11 NEW IBERIA, LA. NEW IBERIA GUMBO COOK-OFF Oct 16 CROWLEY, LA INTERNATIONAL RICE FESTIVAL Oct 18 LAPLACE, LA ST. JOHN ANDOUILLE FESTIVAL Oct 24 SHREVEPORT, LA THE STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA For more information: info@waynetoups.com |