![Jacques Mornet's [non] Method Book with Video Support](http://www.accordions.com/index/squ/graphics/jmornet-en.jpg)
Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
AAA Presents “A Valtaro Celebration” on September 11
The Amazing Accordion Kings in September 19th Performance in NY
Mary Tokarski To Perform at Wolf Trap on September 10 and 11th
Joe Natoli Releases New CD "Waltz for Ron"
Bruce Gassman Interviews Charlie Giordano - Springsteen's Accordion Player
Guy Klucevsek in September Performances at the NY Whitney Museum of American Art
Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival in LA on September 18th
Anthony Rolando to Perform at Las Vegas Accordion Convention in November
AAA Archivist Putting Archives Online
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Gelso Pellegrini, New York Valtaro Accordionist
Frank Busso, Jr. Performs with the US Air Force Strings
Springfield Accordion & Guitar Orchestra Performs in Bermuda
Washington, DC Area Accordionists in the News
“Crimebuster – A Son’s Search for His Father”
Michael Schimmel's 30th Birthday Art Gallery Exhibit
2010 Seminar – A Great Success
Future events |
Sergio Scappini Tours the USA in September
11th Annual Las Vegas Accordion Convention in November
"Angels and Accordions" on October 9th
The "Big Squeeze" Returns on October 10, 2010
CD Reviews |
Highlights |
Editor’s Noteby Rita Barnea |
| Summer is almost over, but accordion events continue to educate and entertain us. In this month’s issue, you will read about an amazing variety of accordion happenings. Just when you are thinking, “Are there any new and unique accordion stories?” …………the September USA News will reveal them! From accordion festivals to accordion personalities, it is all here on the USA News! Have you joined the USA Fan Club which is sponsored by MusicForAccordion.com who are offering one eSheet solo music (able to be sent to you by email) free of charge to all who join. You can select from any of the 1,400 plus eSheet solo titles online provided it costs less that US$12/Euro 9 at MusicForAccordion.com To join our USA Fan Club you only need to click: USA Fan Club and fill in your name and email address. There is no password or other sign-up questions or requirements. It is very simple and quick. The USA Fan Club will be used to inform you by email of important Breaking News during the month. If you know of some interesting accordionists or concerts taking place in your area. please contact me at Ritabelll@aol.com. I want to know and write about them in order that our readers continue to stay informed about our favorite instrument……… the accordion! |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USAby 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. |
 |
AAA Presents “A Valtaro Celebration” on September 11by Rita Barnea |
 |
| The American Accordionists’ Association is proud to present “A Valtaro Celebration Remembering Gelso Pellegrini” on September 11, from 12 noon until 5 PM at the Magnanini Farm Winery, 172 Strawridge Rd., Wallkill, NY. Phone number: 845-895-2767. Gelso Pellegrini was a Board Member of the AAA. He was born in NYC and began studying the accordion at the age of ten. During his lifelong accordion career, he recorded about 50 of his compositions in addition to Val Taro Musette Music. Gelso was a friend and colleague of both John "d'Scud’lein" Brugnoli and Pete "Filumena" Delgrosso, the original founders of the Valtaro Musette Orchestra. Gelso played in their Valtaro Cabaret (nightclub) and is included on recordings with John "d'Scud'lein" Brugnoli on the Colonial label (La Famosa Valtaro Musette.Orchestra LP-192). For more information about Gelso Pellegrini, please read the wonderful article by Dominic Karcic, in the Reports Section below. The event will feature traditional “Valtaro" music with guest artists: Mario Tacca, Frank Toscano, Eddie Monteiro, Emilio Magnotta, Frank Carozza, Chris Gorton, Ricky Magnanini, Ray Oreggia, Enzo Sangiacomo, Roberto Milanese, Anita and Bob Siarkowski, Bruce Gassman, and the Connecticut Accordion Orchestra directed by AAA President Linda Soley Reed. Tickets are still available. Please reserve now. Your donation of $65.00 includes wine tasting at 12 noon, complete dinner and entertainment. For further information: Dr.Joseph A. Ciccone: 914-238-0041 or 203-335-2045 E-mail: drjciccone@aol.com or aaa1938@aol.com |
The Amazing Accordion Kings in September 19th Performance in NYby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The Amazing Accordion Kings are three world renowned accordionists: Angelo DiPippo, Frank Tosacano, and Manny Corallo. These master musicians have created beautiful arrangements and cover the spectrum from opera to jazz. They will appear in concert on Sunday, September 19th at 2PM at the Five Towns College, Dix Hills Performing Arts Center, 305 North Service Road, Dix Hills, New York. Angelo DiPippo, a graduate of Holy Cross College, a Master’s degree from C.W. Post College and an honorary Doctorate from Five Towns College, has played on thousands of recording sessions having recorded and concertized with such artists as: Peggy Lee, Billy Eckstein, James Earl Jones, Judy Collins, The Ramones, Robert Merrill, Harry Belafonte, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O’Connor, Randy Newman, Theodore Bikel, The Four Lads, Roberta Peters, Don Sebesky, Mary Duff and Gilbert Becaud. Angelo and his Jazz Group have made appearances at the Newport Jazz Festival and many other Jazz venues. His appearances include: The Tonight Show, The Today Show, The Regis Philbin Show, The New York City ballet, Sesame Street, The New York Pops with Skitch Henderson, Jackie Gleason Show, etc. Angelo was voted best accordionist in America in the prestigious “Keyboard Magazine Poll.” Angelo may be seen and heard playing accordion in the wedding scene of Godfather I. He has also appeared or played in such films as “Lovers And Other Strangers”, “Wiseguys”, “Wait Until Spring Bandini”, “Cookie”, “Playing For Time”, “Tuff Turf”, “Johnny Skidmarks”, “The Dangerous Hero”, “Johnny Skidmarks”, “The Dangerous Hero”, etc. Angelo has played in several Broadway Productions including: “Carnival”, “Fiddler On The Roof”, “Irma La Douce”, and “Follies Bergere”. Angelo conducted and arranged for the eminent Metropolitan Opera baritone Robert Merrill. Angelo is presently active in New York City as an accordionist and arranger. Manny Corallo is one of the Amazing Accordion Kings. At age 4 he started out playing drums, switching soon after to accordion. “My father played accordion, and I started taking lessons from my father’s music teacher, Frank Toscano. It was a bonding thing for my father and I to play the same instrument. Sundays at my grandparents consisted of my father and I on accordion and my grandfather on mandolin and guitar. I remember how much fun that was when I was a kid.”By age 13 Manny began piano lessons and continued to study with Frank who provided Manny with proper classical training in addition to a love for jazz. Manny met another great musician, Angelo DiPippo. Inspired by Angelo’s accomplishments,, Manny discovered that he had an interest in arranging and began his career arranging for tenor Peter Colombo, accompanying him on his Catskill Mountain tours as his piano conductor. He gained experience in the recording studio at this point, by arranging and recording two albums for Peter .Soon after the tours, Manny met record producer and engineer Gerry “Doc” Comito of Sonic Sound Recording Studio in Freeport, NY. Manny’s next projects enabled him to write for live strings. After that Manny combined his arranging and playing on an Italian album, started teaching piano privately and started his own dance band. Manny returned to CW Post College for a Bachelors degree in Music Education, and continued his arranging projects. When he had an opportunity to score a TV commercial, he discovered that he truly loved to score music. Manny has worked on many different projects playing accordion on various ethnic albums, and scoring “Mr. Men & Little Miss”, a children's cartoon. The producer was so happy with the job that Manny did, that the next project that came along was to be given to Manny which was the famous “Pokemon”. This led to Pokemon’s motion picture followed by the animated television series “ Tama & Friends”, “Kirby Right back at ya”, Sonic X etc. Recently Manny had a dream come true recording with Frank Toscano, and Angelo DiPippo and continues to work as a composer, arranger, and music editor. Frank Toscano, coming from an Italian family who had a deep love for music, took lessons on the accordion and it became the passion of his life. He continued his studies on both the accordion and piano, and at the age of twenty-one opened the Frank Toscano Music School which continues to flourish with students of all ages. In his professional career, Frank has performed for many artists; including Peter Columbo Mikhail Barishnikov and Aidan Quinn and also can be heard on many recordings of other artists. The Amazing Accordion Kings have recently released a CD of their wonderful arrangements. DHPAC provides free, accessible and ample parking just off the Long Island Expressway between exits 50 and 51. The air-conditioned theater seats approximately five hundred, with all seats providing an excellent view of the stage. For most shows, special pricing is available for seniors, students and children. The Box Office can be reached for tickets, group rates, and directions at 631.656.2148. or email frank@franktoscano.com . |
Mary Tokarski To Perform at Wolf Trap on September 10 and 11thby Rita Barnea |
 AAA and ATG Board member, concert accordionist, Mary Tokarski will play in the pit orchestra at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center in Vienna, Virginia, on Friday night, Sept. 10, and Saturday, Sept 11th at 7:30 PM for the program,“The Lord of the Rings,The Return of the King”During this US Premiere Program, you will see the complete film in HD with a live orchestra including Mary Tokarski and soloists. There will be huge screens In-House and on the Lawn. Witness the stunning conclusion of the epic film trilogy with Howard Shore’s Oscar-winning score performed live on stage! Released on December 17, 2003, this movie became one of the greatest box-office successes of all time. It is the third-highest grossing movie of all time worldwide. The movie won every Academy Award it was nominated for—11 total—and was the first fantasy film to win Best Picture. Howard Shore won 14 awards for his original score and the song “Into the West,” including an Oscar, a Grammy, and a Golden Globe. Wolf Trap is only three miles from the Beltway and 20 minutes from Washington, DC. So while an evening at Wolf Trap feels like being in another world, it's really just a short drive away. Go to the park an hour before Friday and Saturday's show for a free Pre-Performance Discussion with Deb Lamberton, Senior Producer at Classical WETA 90.9 FM. As America's National Park for the Performing Arts, Wolf Trap plays a valuable leadership role in both the local and national performing arts communities. Through a wide range of artistic and education programs, Wolf Trap enhances our nation's cultural life and ensures that the arts remain accessible and affordable to the broadest possible audience. A typical season at Wolf Trap includes something for everyone with performances ranging from pop, country, folk, and blues to orchestra, dance, theater, and opera, as well as innovative performance art and multimedia presentations. Located at America's National Park for the Performing Arts, Wolf Trap's majestic Filene Center provides the Washington, DC metropolitan area with a magical outdoor venue for world-class performances of every genre. Operated in partnership with the National Park Service, the Filene Center houses over 90 performances annually from late May to early September, as well as a variety of education programs, artist master classes, special events, and a yearly Holiday Sing-A-Long for families and friends throughout the community. The late Catherine Filene Shouse founded Wolf Trap through a donation of 100 acres of her Vienna, Virginia farmland (near Washington, DC) to the U.S. Government, as well as funds for construction of a 6,800-seat indoor/outdoor theater. The gift was accepted by an Act of Congress in 1966 and Wolf Trap's larger venue, the Filene Center, opened in 1971. For further information: mary.tokarski@comcast.net |
Joe Natoli Releases New CD "Waltz for Ron"by Rita Barnea |
 |
 Joseph Natoli has released a new CD entitled "Waltz for Ron," which commemorates Ron Lankford and his contributions to the accordion world. For those of you who knew Ron and have benefited from his wonderful Roland customer service and love for the accordion, Joe is reaching out to you all for a helping hand to assist the Lankford family with a donation of $20 plus $5 shipping/handling for the “Waltz For Ron” CD. Joe had previously made the solo sheet music of the title track “Waltz For Ron” available free of charge online in the Roland V-Accordion Forum.Additionally, “Waltz for Ron” is now available in solo, duet, or accordion orchestra format and can be purchased from JANPress Publications at http://janpress.freeservers.com. Both the solo and the accordion orchestra recordings are included on the CD in addition to the other selections of music performed. Joe, composer/arranger/performer/publisher has been a performer and advocate of the accordion since the age of seven. Joe started his studies with prominent Ohio accordion teacher, the late Mickey Bisilia of Youngstown, Ohio, and won the 1972 American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) U.S. Virtuoso Accordion Championship under Mr. Bisilia’s tutelage, while placing first runner up in the Coupe Mondiale later that same year. Joe achieved his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the University of Toronto where he studied with Canadian accordionist, Joseph Macerollo. Joe later returned to school for a Computer Science degree and an MBA degree. He has worked in the Information Technology (IT) industry for the last 26 years. However, music (especially accordion and composition) remain his lifelong passions. In September 2008, Joseph competed and won the first Roland Corporation U.S. V-Accordion® competition and was consequently sent to Rome, Italy, in November 2008 for their 2nd International V-Accordion competition where he and wife JoAnn became fast friends with Ron Lankford. Joseph, who resides in Ohio with his family, joined the Roland Corporation U.S. team as a V-Accordion Product Specialist in early 2009. “Waltz for Ron”was recorded using Roland equipment -- the FR7 / FR7X as well as the Roland digital VS880ex hard disk recorder and the Edirol R-OH9R pocket digital recorder. It is studio quality and a testament to the wonderful products made by Roland. You can request the CD at janpresspub@yahoo.com with donations taken up to September 10, 2010. Thank you for your support. |
Bruce Gassman Interviews Charlie Giordano - Springsteen's Accordion Playerby Bruce Gassman |
 |
 BG: I’m speaking with Charlie Giordano, the current Accordion and Hammond B3 player for both Bruce Springsteen’s legendary E Street Band and Seeger Sessions Band. Charlie – welcome, and thank you for being here. CG: You’re very welcome and it’s a pleasure to be speaking with you. BG: Let’s jump right in and please tell us about yourself. CG: Well, I started taking piano lessons at the age of 5 and truly love playing – Over time I started playing with bands, as many musicians do. Then in 1977 I went on the road playing – At that time I had the opportunity to play with such people as Genya Ravan, David Johansson and others – Then in the early 80’s I was in the opening act for Pat Benatar. Soon after, I joined on as her keyboard player and stayed on until 1990. BG: That must have been very exciting touring with her during that time period – Was it during this time that you were introduced to the accordion? CG: – Yes – Actually it was Mark Ribot who was playing with Tom Waits who made the suggestion that I think about playing the accordion. BG: What happened next? CG: Well, around late ’87 or maybe early ’88, Mark referred me to a great musician and instructor named Bill Schimmel in NYC – I’m sure you’ve heard of him. He was also playing with Waits at the time. BG: For sure – he is extremely well known in the accordion world. How long did you study with him? CG: Took lessons for about 6 months – He showed me the basics, such as hand positions, bellows control, bass (left hand) techniques, etc. - and then worked on my own after that. I discovered that the accordion has a different sound and quality that you can’t get from an electronic keyboard and adds a special feel and dimension to music. BG: What did you find most challenging going from keyboards to the Accordion? CG: Definitely the bellows phrasing and control – the breathing is so important – and, oh yes, the bass buttons – interesting because you can’t see what you are doing. BG: I agree that the left hand can be the challenge – the accordion is like playing two different instruments at the same time with two totally different types of operation. CG: I couldn’t agree more – maybe that’s part of why it’s so much fun to play. BG: So tell us what was next after Benatar? CG: Well, I started to do lots of recordings in New York. BG: Let me interrupt here – speaking of recording, just how many records have you played on? CG: Well, counting the Indie’s; over two hundred BG: WOW – I’ve done three – only 197 more to catch up. How many of those on the accordion? CG: out of the 140 or so on major labels, I would say about half have been on accordion BG: That’s impressive – sorry for the interruption – please continue. CG: - no problem - I even toured for a while with Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper and also Hall & Oates. But after a couple of years I wanted to get off the road... Once back home, I started getting calls to do jingles, more recording dates and local work. I also did 2 years in the orchestra pit on Broadway for Victor, Victoria with Julie Andrews – The music was very challenging so I got to practice a lot and that’s good - Then in the mid 90’s, I got to play in a gypsy band at the Russian Tea Room next to Carnegie Hall for several years – I truly believe it was these two gigs that made an accordion player out of me. BG: What was the instrumentation at the Tea Room? CG: We had 2 violins, piano, bass and Accordion – I absolutely loved it. BG: This brings us to Bruce – can you share some of how you guys got together? CG: A friend, Soozie Tyrell, who I had worked with before in Buster Poindexter’s band in the 90’s, had been playing with Bruce and organized a band for his birthday party. He sat in with us and shortly after, when he was asked to participate in a Pete Seeger tribute record, he invited us to back him up. We recorded half a dozen songs that day, and got together to record a few times after that. BG: So how many sessions were there? CG: There were three over a period of several years. It was very exciting and fun to do. This eventually became the We Shall Overcome record and tour and a fabulous experience which I would love to participate in again some day. BG: I guess that brings us to the E Street Band. CG: Well, as you know, during Bruce’s “Magic” Tour, Danny Federici had become ill and Bruce called me to fill in on some of the shows that Danny could not make. I was so honored that Bruce thought of me. Danny passed away during the tour, a very sad time for Bruce and the Band members. I did my best to fill his big shoes. It’s truly a privilege to be a member of the band. BG: That was a sad time – I had known Danny since the 60’s – he was a good man and a fine musician. CG: Yes he was – I was a fan of his since I first saw the band in 74. He’ll be remembered always. BG: So tell us about the types of accordions you own CG: I have a Hohner student 48 bass that I have used on many recordings (particularly the Seeger Sessions recordings) – I have an Excelsior 120 bass mussette – I also have a Sonola 96 bass mussette – I have a 72 bass Hohner concerto model – I love my Fantini 72 bass – and my newest addition is the 96 bass Scandalli that you took me shopping for – thanks for that. BG: - what do you find works best for you in the E Street Band? CG: I love the smaller accordions – I find they blend better with other instruments – it’s something magical – I use both the Fantini 72 bass and the Hohner 72 bass with E Street- also, interestingly, I use non-tone chamber instruments – they seem to cut through better – more brilliance BG: You are not the only accordion player in the group – tell us about that CG: That’s right – Roy Bittan, our piano player is an accomplished accordion player – I believe he studied with the same teacher you had, Joe Biviano – and Nils Lofgren, one of the groups guitar player’s original instrument was the accordion, so there’s lots of accordion going on. BG: I’ve had the pleasure of seeing you and the Boss perform at your last two tours – both times in DC – and I can’t tell you how great it was seeing accordions on stage, not only during the show but for the finale – that was awesome – you do realize that it’s people like you and Bruce, and some others, who will bring the accordion back by introducing it to a whole new generation. CG: Back in the late 80’s there were still the old accordion jokes going around – not so much any more. I even brought one to my daughter’s pre-K class and the kids loved it. BG: it’s a great feeling when I do a workshop at the local university for the performing arts department and the college kids can’t get enough of it. CG: I’m extremely happy to be part of the movement that’s bringing the accordion back to its proper place in music. BG: So now that the tour is over, what’s Charlie Giordano doing these days? CG: Besides playing with the E Street Band at the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame Show at the Garden (HBO Special) and sitting in with Max Weinberg’s Big Band at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, NJ, I’m getting to spend much needed time with my family – they have been very supportive of me while touring and it’s time to kick back a bit and watch my kid grow up. BG: Charlie, I can’t thank you enough for taking this time to share some of your marvelous story with us. You’ve been more than gracious and the accordion world is extremely grateful to you. CG: Bruce, it’s been my pleasure – I feel very fortunate to have been guided to the accordion – it has added so much to my career and it’s a wonderful instrument. BG: Maybe some time in the near future, you would join me at one of our accordion national conventions and present a workshop or even perform for us. CG: I would love to – sounds like fun. For further information: accordion2bruce@gmail.com |
Guy Klucevsek in September Performances at the NY Whitney Museum of American Artby Rita Barnea |
 Guy Klucevsek will perform at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York in September, as part of the Christian Marclay Festival. Many of Marclay's art works double as musical scores, and Guy will interpret those. Some are prints, some are films. His performances will be solo, some in duo or trio format.Artist/composer Christian Marclay (b. 1955) is known for his distinctive fusion of image and sound. Celebrated as a pioneer of turntablism, Marclay transforms sound and music into visual and physical forms through performance, collage, sculpture, large-scale installations, photography, and video. This groundbreaking Whitney exhibition—activated by daily concerts and continually evolving—explores Marclay’s approach to the world around him with a particular focus on his “graphic scores” for performance by musicians and vocalists. Visitors to the Whitney will be encouraged to mark up a wall-sized chalkboard, with musical staff lines, thereby creating a collective musical score which will be performed throughout the run of the show. Other Marclay scores, including the premiere of a new scrolled vocal work forty feet in length and three scores conceived as projections, will be continually on view and performed on a regular basis. World renowned musicians and vocalists, some of whom have been regular collaborators with the artist for three decades, will interpret a dozen scores, enabling museum audiences to experience a less well known aspect of Marclay’s varied art practice. Christian Marclay: Festival was organized by curator David Kiehl with Limor Tomer, adjunct curator of performing arts. Guy Klucevsek is a versatile composer/accordionist who has worked with many prominent musicians. His solo performances have included Spoleto Festival/USA, Ten Days on the Island Festival (Tasmania), Adelaide Festival, Berlin Jazz Festival, Vienna International Accordion Festival, Cotati Accordion Festival and many more. As a soloist, he has premiered pieces by Aaron Jay Kernis, John Zorn, Mary Ellen Childs, Jerome Kitzke, Lois V Vierk, Stephen Montague, Somei Satoh, William Duckworth, and accordion concerti by Henry Cowell (Concerto Brevis) and Julia Wolfe (True Love). Guy founded the international group, Accordion Tribe, whose members are Maria Kalaniemi of Finland, Otto Lechner of Austria, and Bratko Bibic of Slovenia, and has released three recordings on the Intuition label. They are the subject of Stefan Schwietert's documentary film, "Accordion Tribe: Music Travels," which has had a theatrical release in Europe, and has played around the world on televsion and film festivals, winning several awards as best documentary. Guy has released over 20 recordings. Guy's latest recording is “Dancing on the Volcano”, on the Tzadik label, with a band consisting of Guy Klucevsek and Alex Meixner, accordions, Steve Elson, sax/clarinet, Pete Donovan, bass, and John Hollenbeck, drums. You can also hear him on John Williams's scores for the Steven Spielberg films, “The Terminal”, “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull”, and “Munich”. He has performed on Broadway in “Fiddler on the Roof”, “Victor/Victoria” and “Piaf”. Here is the schedule for Guy Klucevsek’s performances: Whitney Museum of American Art Christian Marclay Festival Wednesday September 1 1pm – Ephemera (solo) Thursday September 2 12:30pm – Ephemera (solo) Friday September 3 1:30pm--Informal Artist Talk, with Guy Klucevsek 2pm – The Bell and the Glass: Open Rehearsal 4pm – The Bell and the Glass Saturday September 4 12:30pm – Screen Play: Open Rehearsal 2:30pm – Screen Play Sunday September 5 4pm –Ephemera (solo) Wednesday September 15 1pm –Ephemera(solo) Thursday September 16 1pm – The Bell and the Glass: Open Rehearsal 2pm – The Bell and the Glass Friday September 17 1:30pm--Informal Artist Talk, with Guy Klucevsek 3pm – Screen Play: Open Rehearsal 4pm – Screen Play Saturday September 18 4pm – The Bell and the Glass Sunday September 19 12:30pm – Screen Play Wednesday September 22 1pm – Ephemera (solo) Thursday September 23 1pm –Ephemera(solo) Saturday September 25 2:30pm – Ephemera (solo) For further information: gklucevsek@si.rr.com |
Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival in LA on September 18thby Rita Barnea |
 Roland-USA in conjunction with the 4th Roland International V-Accordion® Festival is proud to announce the finalists chosen to compete in the Roland-USA V-Accordion Festival.This increasingly popular event, to be held at Roland Corporation Headquarters in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 18, 2010, will bring together some of America’s most talented accordionists. The Grand Prize winner will win a Roland FR-7x accordion and a trip to Rome, Italy to compete for the World Title and 5,000 Euros at the fourth International Accordion Festival in October (Senior Soloist Division only). This year’s V-Accordion Festival holds a special significance, as Roland is also celebrating reaching the milestone of 10,000 V-Accordions sold since its launch in 2004. Accordion players everywhere have embraced the versatile nature of Roland V-Accordions, and have discovered that the warm sound and tactile playability of this charming instrument remains unchanged from its traditional relatives. The Roland finalists selected are listed in alphabetical order. Youth Division 1. Andre Fry 2. Johan Knoff 3. Hannah Jane Robbins 4. Kassandra Patterson 5. Daniel Pavlotsky Adult Division 1. Alicia Baker 2. Steven Gordon 3. Christopher Gorton 4. Svetlana Ivanchenko 5. Cassandra Nelson In the unlikely event a finalist cannot attend, an alternative selection will be made. Youth Alternates 1. John Moceo 2. Anthony Federici Adult Alternates 1. Alexei Bordei 2. Tatiana Semichastnova 3. Lou Fanucchi The Roland-USA thanks all who submitted entries to the Festival. Roland Corporation is a leading manufacturer and distributor of electronic musical instruments, including keyboards and synthesizers, guitar products, electronic percussion, digital recording equipment, amplifiers, audio processors, and multimedia products. With over 38 years of musical instrument development, Roland sets the standard in music technology for the world to follow. For further information contact: Steven Albini V-Accordion Product Specialist Roland Corporation U.S. steven.albini@rolandus.com |
Anthony Rolando to Perform at Las Vegas Accordion Convention in Novemberby Rita Barnea |
 Las Vegas Accordion Convention will feature accordionist Anthony rolando (excuse rolando with small r to prevent linking to Roland company) with his wife Valerie Vacco rolando. The convention takes place from November 1-4, 2010. Anthony was the 1978 ATG United States Accordion Champion and in 1980 was the AAA United States Accordion Champion, and two time bronze medal winner in World Competition. Anthony has won over a hundred and ten trophies since he began studying the accordion at the age of five. A typical performance may include concert style musical selections, where only the skill and musicianship developed from many hours of practice could do justice to such difficult compositions. Anthony has performed throughout the United States, Europe, Canada and Australia where his talent was immediately recognized and well received. Some of his most memorable performances were on the Gene Carroll & Polka Varieties Shows, performing with Myron Floren, Henry Questa and the Lawrence Welk Orchestra. Anthony also gave a concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City, Severance Hall and the Front Row Theater in Cleveland, Ohio. He had the honor of performing for Tony Bennett, the former President of the United States, George Bush, and was chosen to perform with a sixty-five piece orchestra for the famous Italian Tenor, Mr. Luciano Pavarotti. Anthony has recently performed for the French Ambassador Piere Vimont. His recordings include "The Artist", (semi-classical) and "The Artist" II, (Italian & French Polkas and Waltz's) which features Anthony on the accordion. The Amore~Love recording which features vocalist and wife Valerie has been an overwhelming success for both of these talented performers. Anthony also has three other recordings with his previously owned Italian Band, Gli Amici. They are: Viva Italia, Salute, and Musica Bella. "I have performed with many famous artists and I love every minute of it" says Anthony. Because of his love for Italian music, you will find Anthony performing with vocalist Valerie for many Italian Festivals world wide. They also perform songs from around the world and have been guests for many television and radio programs. Anthony and Valerie will also perform at the Sun Bowl at the Sun City Arizona Concert Series on Sunday, October 17th, 6 PM. For further information email: av4music@cox.net |
AAA Archivist Putting Archives Onlineby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The American Accordionists’ Association’s archivist, Joan Grauman, is preparing to put online via AAA’s website: www.ameraccord.com, a chronological display of stories, events, programs and photos that document the history of the AAA, founded in 1938. Many have seen Joan’s archival displays at the annual AAA festivals. If you have ANY stories, photos, old programs, or old accordion magazines, please contact Joan at (301) 806-5998. She will scan and photocopy items and return them promptly. USA News will send a notice when the archives are online. For further information: joangrauman@comcast.net |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
New Long Island Accordion Club: September Meetingby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The inaugural meeting of the Long Island Accordion Club was a rousing success. The August 3rd, 2010 meeting attracted about fifty people that included nine performing accordionists and many accordion music lovers. The performers included Joe Campo, John Custie, Charlie Fontana, Dominic Karcic, Emilio Magnotta, Ray Oreggia, Phil Prete, Franco Ruggiero, and Mike Zeppetella. AAA President Linda Soley Reed, Marilyn O’Neil, Bob Vitale and Emilio Magnotta from Connecticut also attended. According to organizer, AAA Board Member Dominic Karcic, “The repertoire performed was diverse and very entertaining. The whole aura of the evening can best be described as very festive with new relationships being established and old ones being renewed. The conversation was focused on music and especially the accordion.” The evening ended with a mass jam session of the all the performers and that was followed by a unanimous decision to meet again on Tuesday, September 7th at 7PM at Campagnola Restaurant,( Commack Corners Shopping Center),6546 Jericho Tpke.,Commack NY. (631) 499-0088 If you play the accordion, you are welcome to play for the club on September 7th. All are invited no matter what your level of capability. The purpose is to get accordionists together to share their love for playing the “best musical instrument in the world.” People who love to just listen to accordion music are most cordially invited to attend. In photo from left to right: Phil Prete, Joe Campo, Charlie Fontana, Dominic Karcic, Emilio Magnotta, Ray Oreggia, Mike Zeppetella Please contact: Dominic Karcic: accordionman@optonline.net or phone: 631.864.4428 |
Gelso Pellegrini, New York Valtaro Accordionistby Dominic Karcic |
 One of the most prolific and probably the greatest virtuoso of the “Valtaro Musette Accordionists” was the late great Gelso Pellegrini. Gelso, (Jan. 17, 1934 – Jan. 10, 2002 ), an only child, was born in New York City. Either one or both of his parents, Joseph and Felicita, were from the town of Pessola (comune di Varsi) in the Emilia Romagna region of Parma, Italy. At the age of ten he started taking accordion lessons with Aldo Bruschi and at some point also studied with Giuseppe Rossi. He loved the accordion with a passion and constantly was practicing. Aldo Bruschi relates that Gelso’s father one time came to him and pleaded with Aldo to tell him not to practice so much. He was afraid that his son would get sick. Aldo relates that Gelso was a magnificent student who always strived for perfection. These diligent study habits paid off in due time. Geslo won a gold medal first prize in an accordion competition in New York City on May 19.1946. He also eventually went on to study the violin and viola with Amedeo Liva and the tuba with Antonio Capucci. He was a graduate of the High School of Music and Art and went on to New York University where he spent three years studying psychology. Unfortunately, he never finished or attained a degree. He always attributed his acquired musical skills to his close and lifelong musical relationship and friendships with his teacher Aldo Bruschi and later accordionist Hugo Nati. Both individuals played very significant parts in his early development of his professional musical abilities and style. This threesome (Aldo, Hugo and Gelso) eventually combined their talents in forming the Master Trio. The Trio’s very first performance (1951) was at the Brooklyn Museum where they performed Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro Overture, Bizet’s Carrnen Suite, and the first movement of Schubert’s “Unfinished Symphony”. All the arrangements were the work of Aldo Bruschi. On March 21, 1951 they appeared on the Arthur Godfrey Talent Scouts TV program and won first prize playing Frosini’s Jolly Caballero Paso Doble. As a result of being winners on the Talent Scout TV program they also appeared on three sessions of Arthur Godfrey’s CBS morning radio show. On these shows they performedLeroy Anderson’s “Fiddle Faddle,” Smetana’s “Dance of the Comedians,” and a Gershwin composition. Once again, all arrangements were by Aldo Bruschi. These significant accomplishment resulted in their performing in a series of one hour classical concerts which were broadcast on radio station WNYC. Gelso had the good fortune to meet opera composer Gian Carlo Menotti while Menotti was preparing his now famous one act operas (“The Telephone” and “The Medium”) for Broadway. This encounter resulted in giving Gelso the opportunity to study composition with maestro Menotti. One characteristic of Gelso’s wonderful playing was his ties to and love for the Valtaro Musette style that was originated by John Brugnoli and Pete Delgrosso back in 1936. He played in their Valtaro Cabaret as a young accordionist from 1958 to 1961 and learned much by working with these two creative accordion masters. Gelso loved this style with a musical passion and took it and elevated it through his imaginative, magnificent musicianship and interpretation to another level of artistic excellence. He eventually had the opportunity to perform in Europe, Hawaii (1989 for four months) and in 1996 represented the United States in the world famous accordion exposition and festival in Montmagny, Quebec, Canada. His virtuoso technique; great harmonic knowledge and concepts; and his creative improvisator skills made “his Valtaro interpretations” really unique and special. His playing was vibrant, brilliant and many an accordionist would come to Magnanini Winery in Wallkill, NY on weekends to sit, listen and be amazed by “this master accordionist.” This, by the way, also included myself, who would go there to be mesmerized by his magnificent playing. He, in due time,turned this winery into a “gathering locale” for accordionists of all kinds and styles. He also performed on weekdays on a steady basis at Milanese Restaurant in Hyland, NY. Gelso recorded with John Brugnoli on the LPs titled “La Famosa Valtaro Musette Orchestra” (Colonial LP-192 ) and “Danze Dalla Riviera Ligure” (Colonial LP-72&). Gelso also recorded two cassette tapes of his music late in his career (July 11, 1996). These included “Gelso Pellegrini Solo Accordion - Nuove e Vecchie” Vol. 1, Vol. 2. These sessions were produced by his friend Carl Restivo at “Third Studio from the Sun” on French Hill Road in Wayne, NJ. A third cassette (“Gelso Pellegrini – Accordion” Vol. 3) was recorded later. I think that one of his most impressive and outstanding performances can to found on a video tape of a conglomerate of Mario Tacca "Accordion Spectaculars Concerts" which took place in Poughkeepsie, NY. On this video Gelso is seen playing his “Fantasy and Variations on an old Northern Italian Folk Song.” I firmly believe that here we see Gelso Pellegrini accordion playing at its finest. Beside the above mentioned accordionists Gelso collaborated and worked with many other fine accordionists which included Emilio Chiesa, Pete Spagnoli, Mindie and Addie Cere, Dano Bertoli, Frank Vance, Carmen Carrozza, Frank Carozza, Mario Tacca, Frank Toscano and Willie Brunelli. He married his wife Dee in December 1976 and they were very happily married for twenty-five years. He worked for IBM from about 1977 to 1989 in Poughkeepsie, NY. |
Frank Busso, Jr. Performs with the US Air Force Stringsby Rita Barnea |
 The United States Air Force Band has completed its Summer Concert Series. AAA Board member, Technical Sergeant Frank Busso Jr. performed with the United States Air Force Strings, several times throughout June, July, and August at the Air Force Memorial and on the west steps of the US Capitol, during which time they shared the Air Force message with thousands of audience members.Frank Busso Jr. is the accordionist with the United States Air Force Strings, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C. During one of the concerts, Frank performed Dvorak’s “Bagatelles” with the United States Air Force String Orchestra. This piece was written in 1878 for two violins, cello, and harmonium. Senior Master Sergeant Bill Tortolano arranged this piece for string orchestra with accordion. The United States Air Force Band's Summer Concert Series has been part of Washington D.C.'s cultural life for more than a half-century. Throughout the summer months of June, July and August, each of the Band's performing ensembles presents outdoor concerts in local venues for Washington area residents, as well as for visitors from around the world. Any one of the Band's six performing units can be enjoyed at the United States Air Force Memorial every Wednesday and Friday throughout the summer. The Band also performs Tuesday evenings at the west steps of the US Capitol as well as neighborhood parks and civic centers in the outlying areas around Washington, D.C. A notable highlight of the summer schedule is the July Fourth Celebration at the Air Force Memorial. Originally from Staten Island, New York, Frank Busso, Jr. became the accordionist with The United States Air Force Strings in 2005. Frank also performs with the Busso Trio which includes his father, Frank Busso, Sr. and his sister, Christina Lammer. Frank is the Director of the Busso Music School in Alexandria, VA. He serves as the Vice President of Sales and Education for Ernest Deffner, Inc., which manufactures Titano Accordions and Pancordion, is the North American distributor for Pigini Accordions, and distributes Roland V-Accordions and also offers full-service accordion repair and tuning services, as well as pickup/MIDI installations, and its Deffner Music Publications catalog which includes sheet music and method books for accordion, plus recordings featuring the accordion. The firm also maintains a full catalog of accordion parts, tools, and accessories. For further information email: frank@bussomusic.com |
Springfield Accordion & Guitar Orchestra Performs in Bermudaby Rita Barnea |
 |
 On July 16th, 2010 the Springfield Accordion and Guitar Orchestra, under the direction of Michael Falcetti, embarked from Boston, MA aboard the Norwegian Spirit Cruise Ship for a week long concert tour of Bermuda. By invitation, the Orchestra performed for several hundred people at the “Destination Dockyard” Summer Festival in Bermuda at Kings Wharf. They also performed to a large enthusiastic crowd aboard the Norwegian Spirit in the “Galaxy of the Stars” lounge. This was the Orchestra’s third trip to Bermuda aboard the Norwegian Cruise Lines. When not performing, the group spent some well deserved time touring Bermuda and enjoying the sun-filled days aboard the ship. The Orchestra consists of approximately 20 members on accordion, guitar, keyboard, trumpet, vocal and percussion. The members range in age from 11 – 18 and are from Massachusetts and Connecticut. The Orchestra was founded by Sam Falcetti in 1969 and the conductor’s baton was turned over to his son Michael in 1994. During the last 40 years, this internationally famous Orchestra has traveled throughout the world performing concert tours. In 1970, by invitation, the Orchestra performed a concert at the World’s Fair in Osaka as part of a concert tour of Japan. In 1971 they performed on National TV on the David Frost Show with Roberta Flack. 1973 found them performing throughout Italy with a grand performance for over 4000 people in Castelfidardo, the accordion capital of the world. In 1980, by invitation of the New Zealand Government, they traveled to New Zealand and toured the country with a final concert at the Coupe Mondiale in Auckland. Many other concerts were performed over the years in Canada, Hawaii, Bermuda, Walt Disney World in Florida, Philadelphia in front of the Liberty Bell, and many other places throughout the United States. Throughout the years the Orchestra has performed at the annual New England Music Festival, sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts, in Newton, MA. and has competed in many local and national competitions and festivals where they have been consistent winners of top awards. The crowning jewel of this internationally famous Orchestra was in 2007 when a 50 piece orchestra, comprised of present and alumni members, performed at the annual ATAM Festival in April and in May at the 50th Anniversary Gala Celebration Dinner of Falcetti Music. The Orchestra was conducted by both Sam and Michael Falcetti. The Falcetti Music Company was originally founded in 1957 by Sam Falcetti as a company centered around music education. They take pride in remaining a high quality educationally-focused organization today. One of the hallmarks of their success is the flexibility offered to the students. Because the students range in age from 4 years old to over 100, Falcetti Music specializes in adapting teaching methods to suit the individual interests, experience level, and goals of each and every student. Whether the instrument is new to you and you want to just casually explore your level of interest or you’re already a “serious” musician, they have a program and a teacher for you. The mission is to provide a fun learning environment where you will feel comfortable, while being supported in working toward your potential. Their teachers will inspire you and become your personal music coach, giving you new techniques, tools, guidance, and feedback to nurture your talent and fuel your love of music! For more information: mfalcetti@falcettimusic.com |
Washington, DC Area Accordionists in the Newsby Rita Barnea |
 |
| Two well-known accordionists from the Washington DC area made the news this summer. Frank Busso, Jr. was featured in the Washington Post and Joan Grauman had two feature articles: one in the Bethesda Magazine and one in the Frederick, Maryland Gazette. The subject matter of all of these articles is their involvement in the accordion world, of course! Joan and Frank are both on the governing board of the American Accordionists' Association. In addition to being involved with the AAA, Joan is also the Vice President of the WMAS. She is also the illustrator of the new book,"An Accordion-What is That?" Frank Busso Jr.(please refer to story about Frank in this issue) is also a member of the US Air Force Strolling Strings and Director of the Busso Music School in Alexandria, VA. He serves as the Vice President of Sales and Education for Ernest Deffner, Inc. For further information email: Joangrauman@comcast.net frank@bussomusic.com |
“Crimebuster – A Son’s Search for His Father”by Dominic Karcic |
 Because of my involvement with Valtaro Musette music, I recently came in contact with Mr. Louis F. Dematteis (San Francisco, CA) who is a renowned photojournalist and documentary film producer. His resume includes “decades of documenting wars and struggle in Asia and Central America and managing the San Francisco photo bureau for Reuters” (The Examiner - March 14, 2010) and has covered issues of social, political and environmental importance around the globe for over 30 years. Dematteis began his work in film in 1997 on Charles Koppleman’s feature “Dumbarton Bridge” and Lise Swenson’s 2004 feature “Mission Movie.” Mr. Dematteis current project and documentary film is titled “Crimebuster – A Son’s Search for His Father.” The film is about a son’s (Mr. Louis F. Dematteis ) journey in search of the story of his father, crimebuster and jurist Louis B. Dematteis. Louis B. Dematteis was district attorney and Superior Court judge in San Mateo County, CA and the film documents and details the family’s two generations in America, estrangement, justice and healing. Three points of interest that peaked my enthusiasm in his project was that Mr. Dematteis’ uncle was the noted accordionist virtuoso John Molinari (San Francisco 1912 -1989), that his maternal grandmother was a great fan of Valtaro Musette music and that he wanted to include some Valtaro Musette music in the sound track of the film. Hence, I had the opportunity to assist him in a very small way to get certain questions answered and secure some needed paper work regarding the Valtaro music. The sound track includes two Valtaro recorded songs “Occhi Brillanti” (Brugnoli) and “Sulle Ali D’Amore” (Beaucaire) both of which are found on the Valtaro Musette “Dance Time Album” (Colonial Recording). His uncle John Molinari’s recording of "La Danza" (Gioachino Rossini), “Oh! Marie” (Eduardo Di Capua) by John Linda plus several other selections. The film will be presented on Friday, October 22, 2010 (4:30PM) as part of the two day gala festivities of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) at the Washington, DC Hilton (Oct. 22nd and 23rd). Other venues for presenting the film in the New York Metro area are currently being explored. If you get the opportunity please see a great film “Crimebuster – A Son’s Search for His Father” and also hear a great accordion music sound track. |
Michael Schimmel's 30th Birthday Art Gallery Exhibitby William Schimmel |
 Michael Schimmel, son of Micki Goodman Schimmel and Dr. William Schimmel, celebrated his 30th birthday with a special celebration and art exhibit. The event took place at Nina's Gallery in New York City, a gallery and restaurant that specializes in Argentine cruisine.Dr. William Schimmel provided the accordion music for the event which included his famous Tango repertoire and other selections. The event was organized by Micki Goodman Schimmel with the assistance of Jay Catlett and Katie Fitzsimmons. This is Michael's second gallery exhibit, consisting of sixteen water color paintings. All proceeds of the sale of his paintings went to YAI - Young Adult Institute, an advocacy organization for Young Adults with special needs. Michael has Down Syndrome. Many of Michael's friends and relatives attended the event and the majority of the paintings were sold. Needless to say, his parents are very proud of him. BRAVO, MICHAEL! For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
2010 Seminar – A Great Successby William Schimmel |
 The American Accordionists' Association Master Class and Concert Series celebrated its 16th season on July 30, 31 and August 1 at Tenri Cultural Institute in New York.The moderation/curator, Dr. William Schimmel, says that it was one of the best ones yet – intriguing workshops, stellar performances and, most of all, a collegial attitude in its presentation. What makes the Seminars different than any other event concerning the accordion? 1. The weekend is totally about the accordion and its culture. No stars – only the accordion. 2. The weekend is entirely non-competitive. 3. We present ideas and we are always learning. 4. We provide and intimate atmosphere which empowers anyone who chooses to attend. 5. We listen to every idea that is presented to us and we take it seriously. No one is ridiculed or put down over an idea that doesn't seem to “fly” at the moment. 6. Everything is presented in a clear cut fashion. Everyone who attends will understand what we are saying or doing. There is no esoteric shop talk. 7. There is something for everyone. If you attend, we urge you to “stick it out” and suspend your judgment. There will be inevitably something for you in it. 8. We present innovative information and yet we always present too much of it. Our concerts are a bit too long and our workshops make one's head spin. One participant said that her head spun for over a year due to all of the information that was presented in a short span of time. 9. Many of the spectators become actual participants in time. We are interested in everyone who attends. We are interested in helping you realize your goals. Anyone may attend – at any level. All we ask of you is to come with an open mind and most of all, a warm heart. 10. There is a certain “humility” to those who attend and participate at the Seminars. Ironically, many of the participants and presenters come from the greatest universities and conservatories in the world. 11.We span the horizon: Juilliard, Peabody, Mannes, Oberlin, Columbia, NYU, Harvard, Yale – yet there is a certain “humility” in those who are there to serve the accordion in the best light that they can. They consider it to be a privilege and, yes, it can be humbling at times. Although we believe that there is something for everyone in the Seminars, we also realize that they may not be for everyone. This may sound like a contradiction. We raise the bar extremely high yet we also present ideas that show the accordion in new and unusual manners as well as new takes on old ideas. This may be at times startling, due to the fact that our ideas about technique and process in general may differ greatly from conservatories and academic institutions – yet still maintain a “schooled” philosophy due to the “rub” and friction between the two. This is part of what we call “The built in ironic duality”. We revel in the “rub”. We don't look for the easy way out. 12. We believe that the accordion is in a better place since the Seminars. And we say that proudly and we also say it with humility. Time out New York has called the Seminars “ The Apotheosis of the Accordion” - the laboratory where ideas are bred. 13. If you feel that the Seminars are for you – join us next year! We will announce the date and title soon. Deiro delights – Ettore elaborates – Frosini Fascillitates – Ellegaard is elegant – Magnante magnifies – Palmer is pedagogy – John Gart grabs you WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO? FIND OUT – AT THE SEMINARS! Check out the photo gallery by composer David Stoler on William Schimmel's Facebook page. Participants were from the local New York area, across the United States as well as China, Japan and Norway. Featured participants and performers included: Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Dr. Mark Birnbaum, Will Holshouser, Art Bailey, Doug Makofka, Ingrid Kvale, Carl Riehl, Brian Dewan, Martini Li, Mani Okada, Mr. Fukui, Cristina Speligene, Dr. Rocco Jerry, David Stoler, David First, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Lee Mc Clure, Ken Laufer, John Foti, Mary Tokarski, Kathleen Tipton, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf and Dr. William Schimmel. |
Future events |
Frank Marocco: Guest Artist in October at Castelfidardo Festivalby Rita Barnea |
 The 35th edition of the International Castelfidardo Accordion Festival will be held from October 5-10, 2010. Thanks to last year’s success the Festival will be hosting very important guests famous for their musical innovation who will play the accordion backed by many different forms of artistic expression.On Thursday, October 7th, the World Accordion Trio consisting of Frank Marocco (USA), Richard Galliano (France) and (Japan) will perform. For info and tickets contact the Pro Loco of Castelfidardo +39 071 7822987 - prolococ@tiscali.it The International Award and Competition for Soloists and Accordion Groups with competitors from all over the world, will take place at the Astra Theatre. The amazing Festival Route becomes longer than ever and has been enriched by new theme events, live day and night shows as well as a Club to entertain the little ones with musical games and education. An exciting new Music Reality Show will again be organized: a Creative Suite will be fitted out with all the most advanced audio-video technologies, in which three polyhedral artists will live for the entire week of the Festival in direct streaming 24 hours a day. During their stay in the house the artists will alternate daily life jam sessions with creative activities, enriching the location with musical and expressive experimentation of a very high artistic level. Frank Marocco, who will be one of the featured artists, is one of the brightest stars in the great names of accordion, whose music sounds in more than 300 films shot in Hollywood, and in 250 TV series. A big musician who collected collaborations with several artists from Frank Sinatra to Pink Floyd, from Prince to Madonna, from Jon Hammond to Luciano Pavarotti, from Artur Rubinstein to Ricky Martin, from Brian Wilson to Russel Watson, from Liza Minnelli to Sophia Loren. Frank was nominated eight years in a row for the Most Valuable Player Award by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (N.A.R.A.S) and received that award twice. Frank Marocco is also a consummate jazz artist and a gifted composer with several of his own albums to his credit. He has played his music for audiences all over the world. Laid down between the Aspio and Musone Rivers Valleys, just two hundred metres above sea-level, Castelfidardo, the town of the accordion, as it is known in the whole world for its first industrial vocation of the reed instrument, is placed between the mountains and the sea. Castelfidardo has a central main vocation: the craftsmen who once hand crafted accordions started an international phenomenon that originates in Castelfidardo. Much of the accordion is produced still today by skilled hands that guarantee a warmth and originality to these instruments that have made them famous all over the world. Many of the internal components, such as the “reeds” which are the true heart of the instrument, are often produced by hand making these instruments not only valuable but unique. Castelfidardo today has diversified its production with galvanic, mechanical and electronic instruments… and is by right one of the most important industrial centres of Southern Ancona. For further information: elkeahrenholz@gmail.com |
Sergio Scappini Tours the USA in Septemberby Rita Barnea |
 Italian accordionist and Roland V-Accordion Artist Sergio Scappini will tour the western U.S. Sept. 13, 2010 - Sept. 18, 2010. Sergio Scappini teaches accordion at the ‘Giuseppe Verdi Music Academy in Milan and regularly appears at such famous venues as Teatro alla Scala (Milan), Teatro Lirico, Teatro delle Erbe- Foro Bonaparte, Auditorium ‘G. Verdi’, Museo della Scala di Milan, etc. Sergio Scappini has taught master classes in Italy, China, North Korea, Spain, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland. Accompanying Sergio for the tour will be Roland Europe's V-Accordion Product Manager Marco Cinaglia and Roland U.S. V-Accordion Product Specitalist Steve Albini. Performance dates are: September 13, 2010 Seattle Accordion Club, Seattle WA. 7:00p.m. Senior Center of West Seattle 4217 SW Oregon St., Seattle, WA 98116 tel. 206-932-4044 Cost: $10. (includes coffee and dessert) September 14, 2010 Golden State Accordion Club, Vacaville, CA 7:00p.m. Creekside Bar and Grill, 555 Main Street Vacaville, CA tel. 707-864-2359 Dinner and bar available throughout the evening. September 15, 2010 San Francisco Italian Athletic Club, San Francisco, CA 1630 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA 94133-3316 tel. (415) 781-0165 $10. includes pasta dinner beginning at 6:00p.m. Concert begins at 7:00p.m. September 16, 2010 Accordionaires Club, Los Angeles, CA 7:00p.m. Victorio's Ristorante 10901 Victory Blvd., N. Hollywood, CA. 91606 tel. (818) 762-9000 For further information: Steven Albini V-Accordion Product Specialist and Sales Consultant Roland Corporation U.S. 323.890.3700 x 2353 steven.albini@rolandus.com www.rolandus.com |
11th Annual Las Vegas Accordion Convention in Novemberby Rita Barnea |
 |
| THE 11th Annual Las Vegas International Accordion Convention, 2010 The Year of the Accordion, organized by Paul Pasquali, will be held at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino from November 1-4, 2010. The rates have been reduced to $29.00. Weekend rates are slightly higher - $29 rate applies Sunday thru Thursday night stay. After October 1 the rates will increase. There will be four nights and three full days with entertainment, inspiring workshops, special events and much more. Among the featured performers is the legendary Frank Marocco Don't miss hearing Frank in Concert and attend his informative workshops! Additionally, 17 year old Michael Bridge, who recently performed with the Boston Pops Orchestra, will perform as a Featured Headline Artist. Michael’s Boston Pops concert will be broadcast this Fall by the NPR radio show "From The Top!". The following accordionists will present performances: Lidia Kaminska, Alex Sevastian, Anthony Rolando, Michael Bridge, Corky Bennett, Sylvia Marie, Dick Contino, Peter Barbutti, Carl Fortina, Frank Marocco, Peter Soave, Mady Soave, Gina Brannelli, Bruce Gassman, Gordon Kohl and the Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra directed by Joan Sommers. To register: You can call the hotline toll free 1-800-472-1695 or outside the USA +01 801-486-1695 to register by phone. Calls will be taken from Tuesday thru Fridays from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM MDT or you may also leave a message and your call will be returned. You may also down load a registration form and simply fill it out and mail in your form with your registration payment. To make your reservation with the Gold Coast Hotel - please call them directly at 1-888-402-6278 or from outside the USA +01 702-367-7111. Make sure to tell them you are with the "Accordion Convention" and they will extend the special $29 a night room rate on reservations made before October 1, 2010. Come join friends new and old at the Las Vegas Accordion Convention which includes the most top headline artists. Included are SEVEN wonderful meals with intimate dinner and lunch concerts. Also included are over 40 classes and workshops offered by the world's top artists. Come join your accordion friends as we celebrate THE YEAR OF THE ACCORDION. We are proud to have returning the LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL ACCORDION ORCHESTRA under the esteemed direction of Joan Sommers! Register now to play with the orchestra. Registration will be accepted until September 7, 2010 - Or until all slots are filled! The International Orchestra will perform as the Grand Finale of the event and will go on just after 9 PM Thursday November 4, 1020 - To join, follow these simple steps: 1. You play the accordion and can read music 2. Fill out the questionnaire form so Prof. Sommers can assign you the appropriate music to learn. 3. Register for the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention, practice your part and come be a part of history! FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) Do I need to bring my accordion? YES - there will be no loaner accordions available. Who will be a part of the Orchestra? Many of our artists and many players like you from all over the world. So come join the FUN and be a part of this World Premier Event! Will the Orchestra perform on stage? YES!! The Orchestra will be the GRAND FINALE of the 2010 Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra - and will include a stars and normal players alike! Will the Orchestra rehearse? Yes!! Daily each afternoon the orchestra will rehearse. When will I receive my music? We will mail out music no later than September 7 so you will have over a month to learn your part. Must I register for the event? Yes - and you will want to be a part of the 4 day PARTY!. This is a chance of a lifetime to be in what has been described as a Glorious Experience! For further information: paul@accordioninfo.com |
"Angels and Accordions" on October 9thby Rita Barnea |
 On October 9, "Angels and Accordions" will take place for the 7th (and maybe last) time - with a cast of over 30 dancers and 11 accordionists. Performances are at 12:30PM and 4:00PM. This award-winning performance has introduced thousands to the beauty and history of Green-wood Cemetery, and has brought together audiences and performers for some unforgettable experiences.Angels and Accordions is choreographed by Martha Bowers. The music is provided by a traveling accordion ensemble led by Bob Goldberg, performing traditional American tunes as well as original compositions. in the 2005 performance, violinist/composer Todd Reynolds was featured in the opening and closing segments. Guy Klucevsek's music has been featured since 2006.Visual installation by Alexander Heilner. Part walking tour, part performance, part guided meditation through the beautiful and richly historical Green-Wood Cemetery, "Angels and Accordions" is produced annually by Dance Theatre Etcetera. Angels and Accordions takes thousands of visitors through Green-Wood's beautiful rolling hills and inside its otherwise-closed-and-locked mausoleums. Along the way they are confronted by images of "Angels" in stirring tableaux vivant in dialogue with the natural landscape and statuary of the cemetery. A number of largescale choregraphed movement pieces punctuate the performance, accompanied throughout by a chorus of accordions, as visitors explore the permanent resting ground of notables from Leonard Bernstein to Jean-Michel Basquiat to Boss Tweed. Carving a space for reflection in a busy city, Angels and Accordions is a truly unique performance event in the New York City landscape. Green-Wood Cemetery is one of the most beautiful spots in all of NYC, filled with the graves of the famous and not-so-famous, landscaped perfectly for a symbiosis of spiritual somberness and natural beauty. But to see these dancers hanging from the trees, draped over the tombs, and to hear the accordions as you take a two hour walk through the winding lanes is truly the finest way to experience it. As the earthly sound of the accordions melds with the celestial mystique of the dancers, you truly feel transported into a realm beyond. Angels and Accordions is made possible by: Funds from the Green-Wood Historic Fund The Mertz Gilmore Foundation NYC Department of Cultural Affairs The American Music Center openhousenewyork And, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council. For the past five years, audiences have flocked to Green-Wood each October to experience this living magic, as created & choreographed by Martha Bowers. A final farewell performance of this beloved Brooklyn tradition is scheduled this year, October 9th, but without you it may not happen. The recession has had an effect on the viability of the performance. Please attend. Keep innovative art alive in NYC. Bring Angels back, the way it was meant to be seen: with the full cast, new tableaux vivants & choreography, and the full original score by composers Bob Goldberg & "trailblazing virtuoso," Guy Klucevsek (Wall Street Journal). Carving a space for reflection in a busy city, Angels & Accordions is truly a unique cultural event in the New York City landscape. And if 10,000+ audience members couldn't be trusted, how about this?:"Angels" was just honored- this July- with a Municipal Arts Society Award. Time Out Inc. President, Allison Tocci, nominated the event, noting the thousands of events that come across her desk every year and calling the piece her "President's Pick." A National Historic Landmark-Est. 1838, the main entrance is located at 500 25th Street (on 5th Avenue) in Brooklyn. Via subway, take the R to the 25th Street station. For more info, call 718-768.7300 or e mail: famousaccordions@earthlink.net |
The "Big Squeeze" Returns on October 10, 2010by Rita Barnea |
 “The Big Squeeze"-the 2nd Annual Orange County Accordion Festival returns to the Orange County Market Place in Costa Mesa on Sunday, October 10, 2010. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 PM in conjunction with all of the swap meet activities at the O.C. Fair & Event Center. Main stage acts will include three Southern California based bands. They include Slugger O’Toole, a traditional Irish quintet featuring Johnny McKenna on button accordion at 11 a.m. to 12: 15 p.m.; Conjunto Los Pochos with Otono Lujan on diatonic button accordion performing traditional and original Texas and Mexico conjunto music styles from 12:45 p.m. to 2 p.m. and Grammy nominated zydeco and cajun music band, Lisa Haley and the Zydekats from 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. featuring L.A. Accordion Diva Gee Rabe on piano accordion. Four other stages of accordion music will squeeze out a variety of music genres. On stage will include performances by 2009 World Champion Roland-V Digital Accordionist Cory Pesaturo presented by Roland US, Polka Squeeze featuring the “Return of the Chicken Dance,” a Bavarian concert by Bobby Diestch and Latin and folkloric tunes from Roberto Rosa. “The Squeezinator” Jim Gilman will perform a variety of styles and serve as host for a stage which also includes Acid Jazz Standards of Mile 24 band and Old Style Creole music by Fontenot and Pappion Band. Solo accordion showcase stage will feature Mr. Squeeze Phil Parlapiano performing classic blues, zydeco and original music ; rock and roll oldies with Bryan J Olgin and Linda Herman’s One Woman Dance Band and special tribute in memory of Ron Lankford, a beloved musician and friend in the accordion world and its representative for Roland US. Accordionists from the main stage bands will have solo presentations and workshops on other venues including a Button Accordion Workshop by Otono Lujan, Celtic button accordion music solo by Johnny McKenna and a Free Piano Accordion Class with Gee Rabe. The public can bring their accordions to these sessions as well as participate in open jam sessions. Free storage is available. Ukulady and her toy accordion Squeezaly will entertain and conduct toy accordion jam sessions in the Imagination Station children’s area. Various accordion and music companies will demo their latest models including Borsini and Roland US . All stages include dance floors and plenty of seating. Admission is $2 and free for children 12 and under. Receive free admission with a canned food item for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. Free parking or preferred parking for $5. The Orange County Market Place, in its 41st year, features nearly 1,000 vendors including artisans and crafters, fresh produce, gourmet foods to go, a variety of products and services, used luxury car sales area, kid’s play area and numerous food concessions. Swap meet hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information email: jillannlloyd@yahoo.com |
CD Reviews |
Frank Marocco’s New CD: Frank Marocco Turns Up The Flameby Joan and Dan Grauman |
 |
| We just listened to Frank Marocco's newest CD, "Frank Marocco Turns Up the Flame". "WOW" does not adequately describe this CD. The sound of all the instruments made us feel as though the musicians were performing live in front of us. Frank claims (in the liner notes) that this is "the best accordion sound I have ever gotten". Frank is backed up by world class jazz artists, Aage Tanggaard (drums), Mads Vinding (bass), and Jacob Fischer (guitar). This same rhythm section has previously backed up jazz legend Art Van Damme and the great Norwegian player, Kjell Harald Langhaug. The 13 tracks on this CD include "Nuages" (Django Reinhardt), "But Beautiful" (Jimmy van Heusen), "So in Love" (Cole Porter), "Someday My Prince Will Come" (Frank Churchil), "Nature Boy" (Eden Ahbez), "Estamos Ai" (Einhorn-Ferreira-Wernick), "My Old Flame" (Johnson-Coslow), "Mr. Lucky" (Henry Mancini", and 5 of Frank Marocco's own compositions: "Best Things", "Lisa", "So Nice", "I Always Knew", and "In a Minor Mood". Like a good Italian wine, Frank Marocco, who will turn 80 this coming January, just keeps getting better and better with age! This CD was produced in Norway, and at this time, a limited number of copies is only available directly from Frank (see http://frankmarocco.com/contact.html for contact information). This CD is a MUST for your collection! Happy listening! |