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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
You Can Still Register for World Accordion Day May 6!!
AAA Sponsors 2019 Carmen Carrozza Memorial Award Competition
Two World Accordion Day Festival Celebrations in Superior, Wisconsin
Joe Soprani in Italian Musical in Philadelphia
Passing of Eugene DeBellis
32nd NAA 2019 Convention Success!
Not Just OOM-PAH! Accordion Workshop/Concert April 5-7
Grayson Masefield to Appear in Two Free Alabama Concerts
Accordion Mixology: Drink in the Essence of the Accordion! With Dr. Schimmel
57th Annual New England Music Festival April 5-7
Los Angeles Accordionaires Pops Orchestra in Concert on April 28
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Vince Demor's Degree Recital on February 28
AAMS Festival March 15-16 in New Jersey
Hudson Valley Accordion Ensemble Performance Schedule
“Leahys Luck” at Milwaukee Accordion Club
Accordion Program at Frank Carey High School
Cody McSherry St Patricks Day Performance with Rizzetta’s Tones
Murl Sanders Performs for the San Francisco Accordion Club
“Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door" Learning Guide Now Available
Future events |
79th Annual ATG Accordion Festival in Denver July 24-27, 2019
The Accordion Pops Orchestra Concert on May 19, 2019
Join Frank Petrilli at Django Camp this Year: Fun and Social
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration 2019 June 20-23
The Acadia Trad Festival June 23 – 28 in Bar Harbor
Highlights |
Editor’s Noteby Rita Barnea |
  The 2019 April USA news contains amazing information on festivals, concerts, special honors for accordionists, videos, future events and more. Be sure to research the news to help you make future plans for your concert choices and vacation accordion destinations. What are you doing on World Accordion Day on May 6th? You still have time to register. |
You Can Still Register for World Accordion Day May 6!!by Harley Jones |
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 What are you doing for World Accordion Day (WAD) to promote the accordion in your country? World Accordion day is on May 6th, which is the day the accordion was patented in 1829.World Accordion Day was started in 2009 by the CIA and has been very successful, generating a lot of positive publicity for the accordion. A key part of this event is the World Accordion Day website. Every association, group, orchestra, performer and teacher, is asked to actively support this event by encouraging national and local accordion activities to happen in their country on this day or the weekend either side of WAD if that should be more convenient. Everyone can register their World Accordion Day activity on the website and send a report of their event after, for that website. No event is too big or too small. ALL accordion events celebrating World Accordion Day are welcome. This is a CIA promotion for the accordion in which every accordion enthusiast can participate and help bring our accordion world together as well as strongly promote the accordion. |
AAA Sponsors 2019 Carmen Carrozza Memorial Award Competitionby Rita Barnea |
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 The prestigious Carmen Carrozza Memorial Competition rules are now available. There will be $5,250 Prizes funded by the Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund.Download 2019 Carmen Carrozza Memorial rules, regulations and entry form. 2019Carrozza.pdf Entry payable online at AAA Shopping Cart Entry Closing Date: Entries must be postmarked no later than June 1, 2019. Online entries will be accepted until that date. Time and Place: The competition will be held during the AAA Festival on Thursday, July 18, 2019 at the Valley Forge Casino Resort in Valley Forge, (King of Prussia), PA. To further popularize the AAA-Commissioned repertoire, the Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Committee is offering $5,250 in cash prizes to the winners of this competition for all acoustic US accordionists. Winners in all categories may be requested to perform at a future AAA/Carrozza Scholarship event. Carmen Carrozza holds an important place in the history of the accordion. His legacy is ongoing and Carmen Carrozza continues to inspire future generations of accordionists. The Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund was founded in the spring of 2002 at the suggestion of and through a generous donation from the American Accordionist`s Association (AAA) Presidential Advisor, Steve Stolaruk who presented his generous gift at a special AAA Lifetime Achievement Award banquet honoring the world renown Concert Accordionist Carmen Carrozza, which took place in New York on March 17, 2002. This was the first Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the AAA. The purpose of the fund is to grant a music scholarship each year to a deserving young contestant who participates in the Piano Accordion division - Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Solo at the annual AAA competition.. The contestants must play one of any chosen AAA contemporary commissioned works, or any other contemporary composition written for the accordion and receive a score of 95 or above in order to be considered for a Scholarship Award. The first place winner receives a scholarship. Maestro Carrozza is particularly celebrated for his brilliant world premieres of the early AAA commissioned works in the 1950's and 1960's and suggested this policy. Christopher Gorton was the first recipient of this award in 2003. Download Carmen Carrozza Memorial rules, regulations and entry form. 2019Carrozza.pdf |
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Two World Accordion Day Festival Celebrations in Superior, Wisconsinby Christine Johnstone |
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 Two major musical events drawing national and international attention are being held in Superior. Mayor Jim Paine has recognized their importance by dedicatory proclamations he will read to open the first festival. Both of these events will take place at the Harrington Arts Centre hosted by A World of Accordions Museum.Firstly the Museum will host World Accordion Day (WAD) on May 4th with a slate of concert performances that will be featured in international video broadcast under the auspices of Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) Finland. The event will feature Kevin Friedrich as Ambassador for the CIA and as MC. The (UMKC) Community Accordion Chamber Ensemble (picture below) is headliner attraction, under direction of Prof. Joan Cochran Sommers. That concert will be preceded by well known accordionists Mary Tokarski, Murl Allen Sanders, Betty Jo Simon, Henry Doktorski and Joan Sommers in duet with Stas Venglevski. The 2nd event is the 7th annual Dr. Willard Palmer Festival held on May 5th which will honour the genius of this preeminent leader in pedagogy and keyboard performance practice through his nearly 800 published books. His methodology and meticulous scholarship have been lauded by teachers, artists and students worldwide. Palmer’s work will be introduced by his son Willard A Palmer, III, and followed by performances by Dance Attic—Suzi and Jimi, Mike Middleton, Jane Christison, Stas Venglevski and Aydar Salahov. Electronic Accordions—Evolution and Future (panel discussion with demonstrations), Willard A. Palmer, III (Master of Magic, Mirth and Music, from Texas), and Accordion Concertina Music Orchestra: World Accordion Music (30+ instrumentalists conducted by Tracey Gibbens under direction of Helmi Strahl Harrington, Ph.D, from Minnesota). The headliner concert offered by Stas Venglevski (picture above right) will conclude the festival in a varied program sure to please all. For tickets phone: 218 393-0245 or email: aworldofaccordions@gmail.com |
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Joe Soprani in Italian Musical in Philadelphiaby Rita Barnea |
 On April 13, 2019 at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, PA. accordionist Joseph Soprani will perform in an Italian Musical called “La Giara” written by Patrica King Haddad a local artist from Lansdowne, PA. Summary of “La Giara”: Based on the eponymous book by Patricia King Haddad, excerpts from the website: “La Giara” is a true Philadelphia story of the composer's family's emigration from Sicily. “La Giara” is about longing for our past and for the cultures from which we originate. What makes “La Giara” a particularly compelling work is that it is both personal and universal. Dramatic and comedic songs express themes relevant to gender oppression and cultural losses that immigrant families transcended while adapting to a new world. Actors include: John Nicholas Peters, Sarah Baumgarten, Tasha Waters, Kimberly Suskind, Steve Carrasco Composer, pianist, vocalist, recording artist and author Patricia King Haddad, from the Brazilian ensemble Minas, draws from her musical worlds where Jazz, Brazilian, and Italian styles merge with compositions that evoke melodies of Puccini, lyrics of Gilbert and Sullivan, the drive of Brazilian rhythms, swing of ragtime, and memorable songs of Musical Theater, creating a compelling and unique musical narrative. “Isn't It Love”, voted Best Love Song by New York's York Theater Competition in 2018, is one of the musical gems from the show, along with the light-hearted “A Little Pinch of This and That”, contrasted by the dark and dramatic aria “I Long For The Sun”, in which Nunzio, the Sicilian patriarch (and composer's grandfather), regrets and apologizes for his erratic and destructive behavior. Story Synopsis: Nunzio thinks he wears the pantaloni in his family until he instigates an incident that prompts his wife and two daughters to disappear suddenly. Leaving behind their family bridal business in Philadelphia, they use aliases and take a cross-country train out west. La Giara originates in Sicily in 1909 with young Nunzio Minissale's imperious cutting in line at the town water fountain. When Nunzio breaks his aunt's heirloom giara, it unleashes a lifetime curse that crosses the Atlantic to the New World. La Giara becomes a symbol of the family's rupture and its eventual reunion, challenging three generations of Minissale women.In this moving story, long-shattered relations are eventually healed by Nunzio's grandchildren, who discover that La Giara, their symbolic container of traditions - some broken, some lost, some retained - has endured the cracks and damage caused by the patriarch of their troubled Sicilian family. The Musicians: “La Giara” is performed with Patricia Haddad on piano, Orlando Haddad on guitar and percussion, Joe Soprani (accordion), Jim Stager (upright bass), Mark Linkins (mandolin). Video projections, designed by Brendan McGeehan and shadow puppets, by Roni DeFalco, will enhance and bring a visual component to the production. In addition to performing in Broadway shows such as "Fiddler on the Roof", "Zorba", "Cabaret" and "Irma la Douce", Joe Soprani has performed in world premieres of "Frida,” a musical that called for a virtuoso accordionist and "Another Kind of Hero,” a musical which featured him on stage for an entire scene. Joe, who appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and won the Arthur Godfrey Show, appeared with TV Star Nell Carter in a "Colors of Freedom" production at the Convention Center in Philadelphia in 1995. He also appeared with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops playing a special arrangement by Nero with Soprano Evelyn de LaRosa. In November of 1997, Soprani performed in "La Traviata" by Verdi presented by the Opera Company of Philadelphia, at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia. Klaus Arp, the opera conductor from Germany, decided to use the accordion in the small ensemble on stage during "La Banda" sections. Joe has also performed with Russell Watson on Good Morning America, and continues to promote the accordion as a serious instrument at various clubs and organizations. His workshops at schools and colleges, where he demonstrates his skills as performer and arranger to young composers and arrangers, have been well received. Quoting one audience attendee at La Giara's premiere in 2014: - "Words cannot describe how you impressed us with your “La Giara”, so vividly told with compassion and honesty. Tears came to my eyes and I felt uplifted and put through a wringer at the same time. What a wonderful, great body of creativity. We were immensely impressed and will not forget this incredible evening. What was a real treat for us was the great variety of storytelling through the lyrics and music. Slow and fast paces, classical and jazzy. We loved it as did everyone in the audience". The musical will take place for one night only at the World Cafe Live, Downstairs, 3025 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104. For tickets call: 215-222-1400 Tickets: $30 plus fees 8:PM with one intermission Doors open at 6:30 PM Books will be available for purchase, $10 only night of show Groups of 10 or more receive 1 free book per ticket Full service bar and dinner served a la carte Parking is free on Saturdays under the Walnut Street Bridge - access via 31st and Chestnut. For further information email: joesoprani@gmail.com  |
Passing of Eugene DeBellisby Rita Barnea |
 Eugene De Bellis passed away on March 16, 2019. He attended St Lucy's Elementary School, Seton Hall Prep H.S., N.Y.U., and graduated from Seton Hall University with a B.A. in Music Education. Gene was an Army Veteran of the Korean War and was the Conductor for the U.S. Infantry Band in 1950, He was the Director, owner and respected educator at De Bellis School of Performing Arts, 1952-2014. He was Conductor of D.M.S. Alumni Band and President of Accordion Teacher's Association of New Jersey. Member of Mid Atlantic Music Teacher's Guild. Performer and Guest Conductor of N.J. Accordion Pops Orchestra. President of Newark Chapter of N.J. Opera. President of Federation of Italian American Society. He was honored by Who’s Who of Italian American Culture, awarded the Keys to the City in New Orleans for Italian cultural preservation, he received the Fine Arts Music achievement award by the A.T.A and MAMTG of New Jersey as well as the De Bellis School of Performing Arts Director's Award 60th Anniversary from Staff and Students. He was Conductor of D.M.S. Alumni Band. He was the Eucharistic Minister and Parish Counsel President of St. Francis Xavier R.C. Church. Eucharistic Minister at St. Philip the Apostle R.C. Church. Member of National Shrine of St. Gerard's Men's Guild. Member of Columbus Hospital Board. President of Accordion Teacher's Association. Member of Mid Atlantic Music Teacher's Guild. Performer and Guest Conductor of N.J. Accordion Pops Orchestra. President of Newark Chapter of N.J. Opera. President of Federation of Italian American Society. Eugene De Bellis was honored by Who’s Who of Italian American Culture, awarded the Keys to the City in New Orleans for Italian cultural preservation, received the Christopher Columbus, Columbus Day Award for community service by the Italian Tribune Newspaper. Awarded Unico's National’s Positive Image Award, Man of the Year of the Federation of Italian American Societies, Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders' Positive Image Award, Gibblin Assoc. Fine Arts Achievement. Music achievement award by the A.T.A and M.A.MTG of New Jersey and DeBellis School of Performing Arts Director's Award 60th Anniversary from Staff and Students. Devoted and loving husband to Lorraine C. De Bellis, co-director of De Bellis School of Performing Arts. Loving and precious father and adored by daughter Cynthia J. De Bellis-Ketay, Father in law to Richard Ketay; Gentle, loving Grandfather to Gina and Michael Ketay; Beloved Brother to the late Vincent De Bellis; nieces Donna, Diane and Mary De Bellis. HIs family, friends, and students will always remember his warm personality and dedication to and love of family and music. |
32nd NAA 2019 Convention Success!by Rita Barnea |
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 The 2019 32nd National Accordion Association (NAA) Convention ended last Sunday on a high note! The event is always all about people, accordions, connections, camaraderie and fun.For accordion aficionados, there was something to please everyone from beginner to professional. I attended many workshops, concerts, and jam sessions and was inspired by them all. The pervasive feeling was one of joy, great interest, and acceptance of all levels of performance. Everyone was very friendly, willing to share their talents and knowledge, and respectful of time limits which facilitated the easy transition from one event to another. An important musical event took place: The World Premiere of the accordion orchestration of “Two Plus One” composed by Gary Daverne, was performed by the NAA Festival Orchestra and conducted by New Zealand conductor, vocalist and accordionist Lionel Reekie. Lionel’s enthusiasm inspired the orchestra to a lively and musical performance. Additionally, Lionel conducted workshops, sang and entertained during the NAA event. The digital accordion and piano accordion were featured in many excellent informative workshops and presentations given by the following experts: Eddie Monteiro, Joe Natoli, Mike Soloway, Cory Pesaturo, Matthias Matzke, Dr. Mike Middleton, Jerry Cigler, Paul Betken, Gabe Rodriguez, Jamie Maschler, Gordon Kohl, Bill Palmer, Debra Peters, Greg Klugiewicz, Richard Albreski, Mary Wright, Gail Campanella, Elena and Gregory Fainshtein, Markus and Sabine Baggio, Nick Ballarini, Evelyn Castiglioni, Shelia Lee, George Secor, Larry Nickel, Ron Uhlenhopp, Nancy Bernstein, Eli Davidsohn, Sharon Seaton, Jim Rommel, Dr. Ed Casper, Ron Borelli, Tom & Arlyn Visentin, Jessica Faltot, Lou Lebron, Jane Christison plus many student performances. The 2019 NAA presented many concerts/workshops followed with jam sessions in numerous locations during the convention. Musicians, new media, and the general public attended to see the action on all the fascinating days. Over 200 people attended the evening concerts and banquet! Congratulations to the NAA 2019 Association Board and Convention Management Team: Norman Seaton (picture right), Nancy Bernstein, Rebecca Ratcliff, Sharon Seaton, Nick Ballarini, Markus and Sabine Baggio Picture below: Norman Seaton, Rebecca Huck, Jamie Maschler, Gabe Rodriguez |
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Not Just OOM-PAH! Accordion Workshop/Concert April 5-7by Rita Barnea |
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| Shirley Johnson and Laura Jean Niland are offering their 2019 Not Just OOM-PAH! Accordion Workshop and Concert on April 5-7, 2019. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department, with addition support form Texas Folklife and Central Market in Austin, and the San Antonio Accordion Association. The free Concert will be on Friday, April 5, 2019 @ 6:30-9:00 PM at Central Market North, 4001 Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756, featuring accordionists Jamie Maschler & Friends playing Forro and Latin Styles, and Rachel Bell with Karen Axelrod playing French, Celtic and English Folk Dance Music. Nick Ballerini will be at the workshop for all your accordion and accordion accessories needs. A series of 12 workshops plus a Folk Dance Session will be held on Saturday-Sunday, April 6-7, 2019 from 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM at Lamar Senior Activity Center, 2874 Shoal Crest Ave., Austin, TX 78705. Also on Sunday April 7 from 2-4 PM there will be a Folk Dance Session FREE and open to the public @ Lamar Senior Activity Center with music provided by Rachel Bell & Karen Axelrod, and dance instruction by Gaby Thompson. Hotel information is in the Registration Packet, for out of town guests, or call for details. The cost for the workshops for accordionists is $175 to include all materials and lunch on each day, $60 for non-accordionists includes lunch each day. In addition, one scholarship will be offered to a young accordionist under age 18. Scholarship application and Registration and details about the workshops can be found online at www.Vjeverica.com or www.NotJustOompah.org. Additional information: Shirley Johnson, 512-680-0422 , ShirleyJ@Vjeverica.com or accsaj@gmail.com or Laura J Niland 210-651-4359 Email: LJniland@texas.net |
Grayson Masefield to Appear in Two Free Alabama Concertsby Rita Barnea |
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| ATG friend, and seven time world champion, Grayson Masefield, will be appearing in concert on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at the Brookfield Baptist Church in Mountain Brook, Alabama. Show times will be at 1:PM and the concert repeated at 7:PM. Grayson Masefield is a New Zealand born accordionist and is the first person to win World Championships in Classical, Virtuoso and Digital accordion categories. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, he has spent the past decade studying in France with Frederic Deschamps and completing his University education in Lausanne, Switzerland with Stephane Chapuis. He is regularly invited to adjudicate and/or appear as Guest Artist at international competitions he has previously won, CIA in Italy, China & Russia, CMA in USA & Portugal, Primus Ikaalinen in Finland and Roland International in Rome. At the 2010 Coupe Mondiale, Varaždin, Croatia, Grayson was elected to the prestigious CIA Music Committee and is now Vice-Chairman of the CIA Music Committee. Over the years, Grayson has been invited to perform in many countries including France, Spain, Germany, UK, Portugal, Slovakia, Italy, USA, Canada, Russia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Portugal, China, Switzerland, Austria, New Zealand, Australia, Finland. Grayson has available a varied program of serious concert works as well as entertainment music. His extensive repertoire can be heard on his three albums as well as many live performances on youtube. He has worked with several of the world's leading composers such as Franck Angelis (France), Gorka Hermosa (Spain), Petri Makkonen (Finland) and Gary Daverne (New Zealand) to perform and record new original works for the accordion. These two concerts will be free of charge and is courtesy of the Alabama Accordionists Association. For more information, contact Frank Caravella at 256-710-4133 or email at frank_j_c@yahoo.com |
Accordion Mixology: Drink in the Essence of the Accordion! With Dr. Schimmelby Rita Barnea |
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 Presented by The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center: Reeds, keys, bellows or air… A vast universe of music, drawn from an accordion! Dr. William Schimmel kicks off a week-long accordion festival with an evening of eclectic, enchanting, amusing, and enraging accordion creations. From polka to punk; from Schubert to circus, Schimmel and friends will squeeze out every echo of accordion magic. Admission is free.Join them for the opening night a week-long celebration of the Library’s newly acquired William Schimmel archive. The date is April 1, 2019 6-7:30 PM. The late morning afternoon events each day will take place at the Vincent Astor Gallery and the April 1st evening event will take place at The Bruno Walter Auditorium - both at the library. All of the events are free. Reservations are necessary for Monday evening April 1 and the closing day April 6. The theme of each day and the participants are listed below. Day 1: April 1 - The Vincent Astor Gallery- Dr. William Schimmel, Curator, THE BUILT IN IRONIC DUALITY: Hip and Square, Elegant/Vulgar, Beautiful/Ugly, Old/New, Classy/Ain’t got no class. Participants include: 11 Am to 5:PM Nelson and The Wolf - Godfrey Nelson and Lorraine Nelson Wolf, David First, Will Holshouser, Melissa Elledge, Erica Marie Mancini, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Paul Stein and Dr. William Schimmel. 6 to 7:30 PM at the Bruno Walter Auditorium: Classical, Contemporary, Indie and Tango with Dr Hugo Goldenzweig, Corn Mo, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Emanuel Borowsky, Cecylia Barczyk and Dr. William Schimmel Day 2: April 2 - The Vincent Astor Gallery from 2 TO 5:30 PM - Dr. William Schimmel, Curator “ ACCORDION MIXOLOGY” 1. An installation by Dr. William Schimmel containing a collage of Accordion Books past and present,useful and useless, fun and questionable, educational, intellectual,smart and dumb. A Non Historical display of Accordions in the realm of today’s design issues in everyday usage. 2. A presentation of Videos directed by Micki Goodman - featuring Ms Goodman and Dr. Schimmel in every aspect of music and movement. Day 3: April 3 Vincent Astor Gallery from11 TO 5 PM Dr. William Schimmel, Curator “CAROUSELS. ZOMBIES, TENTACLES AND OTHER GASEOUS MATTERS” An Interactive day for Children and Adults alike.The Main Squeeze Orchestra: Katrina Yaukey, Charita Patamikakorn, Mina Gemini, Rachel Swaner, Elaine Yau, Melissa Elledge, Sarah Starpoli, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Rebekah Allen, Micki Goodman, Erica Marie Mancini, Kathryn Andrews, Bachtopus, Robert Duncan, Mayumi Mayoaka, Peter Flint and Dr. William Schimmel Day 4: April 4 Vincent Astor Gallery from 11 TO 5 PM Dr. William Schimmel, Curator, “THE ACCORDION OF LIBERTY” The Accordion as part of (but not limited to) The Jewish Experience: Dr. Denise Koncelik, Will Holshouser, Bob Goldberg, Lisa Kirchner, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Corn Mo, Paul Stein and Dr. William Schimmel Day 5: April 5 Vincent Astor Gallery from Noon to 5 PM Dr. William Schimmel, Curator, “PUNKORDION”, The Accordion with an edge:Benjamin Ickies, Milica Paranosic, Ted Nash, Carl Riehl, David Stoler, Mary Spencer Knapp, Erica Marie Mancini, The Yorkville Duo, Dan Cooper, Elliott Sharp and Dr. William Schimmel Day 6: April 6 The Vincent Astor Gallery from 11-1:PM Dr. William Schimmel, Curator, “AN ARTSY SING A LONG” Bring an Accordion - or not: Brian Dewan, John Foti, Denise Koncelik and Dr. William Schimmel Dr. Schimmel has performed with most of the major symphony orchestras in America, and many chamber music groups in New York. Pop star colleagues range from Sting to Tom Waits, who has commented, “Bill Schimmel doesn't play the accordion, he is the accordion”. His many accomplishments include founding the ‘Tango Project’, teaching, leading master classes, composing, recording, and performing on movie soundtracks. The Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) has awarded Dr. Schimmel the distinguished merit award for the AAA Master Class and Concert Series as well as his contribution to the international accordion scene. He received the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Distinguished Service Award for Fifty Years of Accordion activity and his work as Lecturer in Residence. He is listed in Who's Who in America and Great Minds of the 21st Century. Dr. Wlliam Schimmel is a virtuoso accordionist, author, philosopher and composer. Excerpts from his website: He is one of the principle architects in the tango revival in America, the resurgence of the accordion and the philosophy of Musical Reality (composition with pre-existing music). He received his diploma from the Neupauer Conservatory of Music and his BM, MS and DMA degrees from the Juilliard School. He has taught at the Juilliard School , Brooklyn College CUNY, Upsala College, New School University, Neupauer Conservatory (dean) and has lectured on accordion related subjects at Princeton , Columbia , Brandeis, University of Missouri , Duke University, Manhattan School of Music, the Graduate Center CUNY, Santa Clara University, The Janacek Conservatory in Ostrava, Czech Republic and at Microsoft. Dr. Schimmel, and his wife, choreographer, director, filmmaker Micki Goodman co-founded and co-direct the Institute for Private Studies, a pluralistic think-tank. They have one son, Michael, an accordionist and visual artist - and a Special Olympics gold medal winner. If you need assistance with online reservations, please visit the welcome desk at the Library for the Performing Arts' Lincoln Center Plaza entrance, where volunteers will make a reservation for you, even if you do not use email. For free events, The Library generally overbooks to ensure a full house. All registered seats are released 15 minutes before start time, so we recommend that you arrive early. ASL interpretation and real-time (CART) captioning available upon request. Please submit your request at least two weeks in advance by emailing accessibility@nypl.org Location: The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, The Bruno Walter Auditorium,111 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10023 General Admission for-Accordion Mixology: Drink in the Essence of the Accordion is Free. Optional donation for the Library for the Performing Arts is appreciated. The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts houses one of the worlds most extensive combination of circulating, reference, and rare archival collections in its field. These materials are available free of charge, along with a wide range of special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, and performances. An essential resource for everyone with an interest in the arts — whether professional or amateur — the Library is known particularly for its prodigious collections of non-book materials such as historic recordings, videotapes, autograph manuscripts, correspondence, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters and photographs. |
57th Annual New England Music Festival April 5-7by Rita Barnea |
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| The 57th Annual New England Music Festival will be held from April 5-7th 2019 at the Boston Marriott Newton, Newton, Ma. The New England Music Festival is an annual musical competition sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts, Inc, (ATAM). The festival averages more than 3000 entries and 800 contestants from all across New England. Starting this year, the ATAM NE Music Festival will be opening a category for adults. All events are free and open to the public, while entry fees for contestants vary by category. During the festival, contestants, ages through 22, take part in accordion, guitar, bass guitar, drum, percussion, piano, violin and voice competitions. Solo, duet and group categories are also offered. Non Competitive Categories include evaluation solos and festival group divisions. Contestants must be students of ATAM teachers. The three-day event takes place Friday through Sunday. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday a “Battle of the Bands” is held in the Grand ballroom. Cash awards are given to the Junior, Intermediate and Senior winners in their divisions. The Accordion, Guitar, Drum, Voice, and Piano Championships are also held Friday evening and Saturday with cash awards given to all competitors. On Saturday and Sunday continuous group competitions are held in the Grand ballroom. Solo and duet competitions are ongoing. An awards banquet is held on Saturday evening with more than 500 in attendance. A $500.00 and a $250 cash scholarship is awarded to a contestant accepted as a Music Major in college. More than $5,000 in cash is awarded to winners throughout the weekend. Contestants are evaluated by judges from all over the country. At the event, students will have an opportunity to participate in workshops, compete in age-level categories, perform for evaluation, and attend concerts. One of the best things about the event-contestants can participate regardless of their experience level or ability. For more information please call: Peggy Falcetti-Chairperson: 1-413-204-1022. |
Los Angeles Accordionaires Pops Orchestra in Concert on April 28by Rita Barnea |
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 The Los Angeles Accordionaires Pops Orchestra will perform in Santa Barbara, CA, on Sunday, April 28, 2019 at 2:30 PM at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Fellowship Hall. The accordion orchestra has 19 members. Under the direction of Janet Hane, dedicated performer, teacher and conductor, the orchestra will perform a program of light-classical, Broadway, big band, and pop. The sound is symphonic and audience members often mention they had no idea “all those accordions could sound so wonderful together”. This group of dedicated musicians consists not only of accordions, digital accordions and bass accordion, but also bass guitar, trombone, timpani and drums. The orchestra, founded in 1996, is based in North Hollywood. The Accordionaires previous engagements include performances at the Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks, CA with Bill Benson and the Conejo Youth Symphony; the Ronald Reagan Library Holiday Concert; the San Diego ALSI Club; the Thousand Oaks, CA Arts Festival; the North Hollywood Accordionaires Club concerts and the annual Swiss Club Fair in Whittier, CA Janet Hane from Westlake Village, CA maintains a continuous schedule of professional solo performing appearances, private lessons and master classes. Janet also serves as resident conductor to the Los Angeles Accordionaires Orchestra. As professional accordionist for over 35 years (playing since the age of 8), Janet has performed and studied with some well known teachers including Peter Sivanich, Carl Hane, and Tony Lovello. At the age of 17, Janet opened and served as the sole proprietor of her own accordion instrument store that catered to budding accordion players. Donations are welcome at the door. Sponsored by: AIMS (Accordion International Society of Santa Barbara) For further information: accordionconnect@sbcglobal.net |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Don Gerundo Performs for LIAA on April 3by Rita Barnea |
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 La Villini Restaurant of East Northport, NY sponsors the next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at 6:PM. The featured guest artist will be accordionist Don Gerundo Duo.Don starting playing the accordion at age 10 and studied with Tony Mecca (a native from Waterbury CT) in his teen years. Tony introduced him to popular and Jazz music working with him on harmony, theory, chords and improvisation. During this time he started to perform club dates with some of the local leaders in the New York metropolitan area as well as working at resorts in the New York Catskill area . This “On the job” training helped hone his jazz skills as well as build his repertoire. Later he also studied with Adolph Sandole one of the well-known Sandole brothers, was a music educator and jazz artists from Philadelphia. The Adolph’s brother, Dennis, was recognized as the mentor and teacher for famous jazz artists such as John Coltrane and Pat Martino James Moody, Michael Brecker, as well as guitarists Jim Hall and Pat Martino. Don continued to perform during his college years attending Ithaca College where he joined the national music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha as the first accordionist to be offered an invitation in that chapter. For the last several years Don has focused on the Free Bass Accordion and exploring its use in the Pop and Jazz Idioms by utilizing its flexibility in chord voicings, bass lines and general accompaniment. Don is also an experienced user of Finale (music notation software) and has used it since 1992 almost from its inception. He uses it to create arrangements, generate materials for students, create transcriptions as well as composition.Many colleagues consult with Don as a resource to seek guidance using Finale as well as troubleshooting technical issues. The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) meets the first Wednesday of the month at La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731 (631.261.6344) and is in its eighth year of bringing accordion music to the Long Island community. On Wednesday, May 1, 2019 the guest accordionists will be Manny Corallo and Frank Toscano. Place: La Villini Restaurant 288 Larkfield Road. East Northport, NY 11731 631 – 261 – 6344 For further information: Dgerundo@verizon.net |
Vince Demor's Degree Recital on February 28by Linda Soley Reed, AAA Second Vice President |
 Several local accordionists and some out of town guests as well attended St. Petersburg’s Gibbs College of Music degree recital of Vince Demor. The Concert Hall is magnificent and Nina Wegmann, Vince’s teacher, stated that degree recitals usually attract only 2 or 3 people, so it was very good that today’s audience had already grown to 70 plus. Joan Grauman and I had got the word out to our accordion pals, and several members of area Accordion Clubs attended in addition to some of the music department and Vince’s family and friends including Dario and Maria Ebbri from Westchester County (NY). The music school auditorium is spectacular... any musician would be honored to perform on that magnificent stage. Vince’s performance was excellent! Performing Bach “Prelude in C minor” on his Giulietti free bass accordion that had recently been donated to Vince. This instrument originally belonged to the late William F. Cosby. The remaining program by Vince consisted of “Whatever You Do,” by Karen Fremar, “Jealosy” - Tango, “Dark Eyes,” “Love Smiles” and a trio with Nina and Bob Wegmann performing “La Comparsita” Nina and husband, Bob on Bass (and/or Guitar) complimented the remainder of the program with French Music. |
AAMS Festival March 15-16 in New Jerseyby Rita Barnea |
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| Video 1: Dallas Vietty and Bryce Milano perform “Um a Zero” Video 2: Dee Langley performs her transcription of “Cadaneasca Dreapta - Rumanian Folk" Joanna Arnold Darrow and the American Accordion Musicological Society presented the 2019 AAMS Festival held on Friday March 15 and 16, 2019 at the Westmont United Methodist Church, Recreation Hall, 200 Emerald Ave, Westmont-Haddon Township, NJ. Each day included fascinating and relevant workshops plus Festival Orchestras conducted by Dr Fawzi Habboushe, Dee Langley, and Joanna Darrow. Soloists included Dee Langley, Dallas Vietty, Joanna Darrow, and Suzy Andrews. Photo of AAA President Dr.Joseph Ciccone, Dee Langley, AAMS President Joanna Darrow The guest of honor/guest artist this year was Dee Langley. Dee delighted all with a solo performance and also played a duet with Joanna Darrow. Dee Langley specializes in both solo and ensemble works for the accordion having appeared with the Minnesota Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Duluth Symphony Orchestra, Ancia Quartet, Minnesota Sinfonia, Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra, Nautilus Music Theater, Ethnic Dance Theatre and Flying Foot Forum. Ms. Langley is winner of the 2012 Minnesota Emerging Composer Award (Orkestar Bez Ime - World Music), the 2011-2012 McKnight Fellowship for Performing Musicians. Founder and coordinator for the NE Accordion Festival, she is also a former president of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, currently on the Advisory Board of World of Accordions Museum and teaches accordion for Minneapolis Community and Technical College as well privately at her home in NE Minneapolis. Several workshops were presented including: Rachel Quirbach -“Wellness for Accordionists” Dallas Vietty - “Experiencing Rhythms” Rick Kaplan - “Applying Button Box Techniques to Piano Accordion” Charles M. Nunzio - “ The Life of Charles Nunzio, Messenger of Music” Dee Langley - “Releasing Performance Anxiety” Bachtopus - “Music for Ensembles” with Robert Duncan, Mayumi Miyaoka, Jeanne Velonis On Saturday, March 16, 2019 the Honoree Banquet recognized Dee Langley. Joanna Darrow presented Dee with a Lifetime Achievement Award from AAMS. Dr. Joseph Ciccone, President of AAA, presented Dee with an award from the AAA. Dr.Lou Persic provided delightful music for the dinner. The Gala Concert featured the Festival Orchestra conducted by Dr. Fawzi Habboushe. Dallas Vietty and Bryan Milano performed. The Festival Orchestra was conducted by Dee Langley. The Westmont Accordion Club was conducted by Joanna Darrow. It was a pleasure to see camaraderie, warm feelings, and well deserved acknowledgment during the AAMS event. Most touching during the concert was Joanna playing a recording of a virtuosic performance by her late husband, Stanley Darrow. It was an emotional moment as Joanna also announced that the AAMS event was on the first anniversary of the passing of Stanley Darrow. We could all feel his presence in the room and marveled at his amazing, sensitive performance. He will never be forgotten. For further information: acmeaccordion@gmail.com |
Hudson Valley Accordion Ensemble Performance Scheduleby Rita Barnea |
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| Mario Tacca – Music Director and Mary Mancini Tacca – Artistic Director/Manager invite all to their Spring Events.Their mission statement is: To have fun and gather with friends! To make great music together! To bring the melodic and unique sounds of the Accordion to people of all ages! To bring joy to others! In an interview in WAG Magazine conducted by Jena Butterfield, Mary and Mario provided insight into the background of the Hudson Valley Ensemble. “We’re keeping true to our total commitment to live music,” Mancini says. “And with accordion, there’s just no end to what you can do. I hear different styles of music coming from every student. Mario emphasizes each student individually, ex- posing them to all styles.” And the styles are vast. There is always something new to learn, even among professionals. “The Hudson Valley Ensemble will get together once a month,” Mancini says. Tacca envisions it as a combination workshop. “I al- ways input some musical knowledge added to what they’re play- ing,” he adds. Plans now are for about a dozen players in the group. “When we started out there were three or four,” Mancini says. “Now there’s a dozen and I know it’s going to grow.” Future performances include: The Hudson Valley Accordion Ensemble with Mary Mancini and Mario Tacca, will perform at Taormina Restaurant, 59 Hudson Avenue, Peekskill, NY, 10566. *PRIX FIX 4 Course Dinner!* - $33.00 pp + Tax & Gratuities. Reservations are a must. Call early to reserve: 914-739-4007 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at 6:30 PM Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 6:30 PM Thursday, June 13, 2019 at 6:30 PM **Questions and inquiries can be made to marytmancini@msn.com or by calling 914-737-8872. **Go to manciniandtacca.com for all up to date information! Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an evening of fine food and great music while supporting a local restaurant and local artists, performing live music, here in our community! |
“Leahys Luck” at Milwaukee Accordion Clubby Christine Johnstone |
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| Popular band “Leahys Luck” performed at the Milwaukee Accordion Club on March 25th followed by 2 x concerts at the Regency Senior Community in Brookfield and New Berlin on March 26th and 28, 2019.. The band includes accordionist Stas Venglevski, past President of the International Accordionists and Teachers Guild (ATG), brothers Brian and Tom Leahy (guitars, bass and vocals), and Tom’s son (drummer). “Leahys Luck” performs a variety of Irish folk music and has five recordings to their credit and a Wisconsin Area Music Industry's World/Ethnic Group of the Year Award. |
Accordion Program at Frank Carey High Schoolby Dominic Karcic |
 On Tuesday, March 5, 2019 accordionist Dominic Karcic and vocalist Ron Morton (aka Rinaldo Toglia) made a “getting to know the accordion presentation” to the Italian language students at H. Frank Carey High School in Franklin Square, NY. This was the third time that the presentation was made at that school. The Italian language teacher, Ms. JoAnn Radoslovich Molina, was the event coordinator. About five eleventh and twelfth grade Italian language classes attended the session.The program consisted of some history of the accordion, a discussion of its various parts, a look at and presentation on accordions of various sizes (a 12 bass accordion, a student model 120 bass instrument and a profession electronic Roland accordion). Dominic played various selections for the students that were aimed at giving the students a good idea of the capacity, timbres and capabilities of the instrument. Selections included a My Fair Lady Medley, Tarantella Medley, Accordion Boogie (Charles Magnante arrangement) plus he also accompanied vocalist Ron Morton in great vocal renditions of La Donna Mobile, Funiculi - Funicula, Chella La, Reginella Campagnola and Time to Say Goodbye. A fun part of the event was having all the students and teachers participate in the singing of well known Italian melodies that included That's Amore and Volare. Also attending the event were two members of the Italian Genealogical Society, authors Mario Toglia and Dr. Marilyn Verna who informed the audience about their on going efforts to preserve Italian history and culture. Photo: left to right) author Mario Toglia, accordionist Dominic Karcic, Vocalist Rinaldo Toglia, Ms. JoAnn Radoslovich Molina (event coordinator), author Dr. Marilyn Verna and H. Frank Carey High School principal Mr. Christopher Fiore For further information: dkarcic10@gmail.com |
Cody McSherry St Patricks Day Performance with Rizzetta’s Tonesby Pat McSherry |
 With a name as Irish as Cody McSherry, of course he had to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. What better way to celebrate than for the 15 year-old to share the stage with one of his favorite bands. The band, “Rizzetta’s Tones,” consisting of four multi-talented musicians and vocalists, had asked McSherry to join them in their annual St. Patrick’s Day concert at the Eicher Arts Center in Ephrata, Pennsylvania. The concert hall filled quickly leaving standing room only for late-comers. The band has a strong, well-deserved following. The band is known for its Celtic and folk sound played on a pair hammered dulcimers, flute, guitar, tin whistle, and a variety of other instruments, with haunting vocals and harmonies. Rizzetta’s Tones includes Bill Stine, Amanda Wells, Linda Lohr and Randy Kochel. In one of those cases where you never know what impact you may have others, the band members revealed that Stine, a former music teacher had taught both Lohr and Kochel in his eighth grade music class in years past. Bill met Amanda when she was performing as a background singer at his recording studio. All of the band members met Cody after one of the band’s performances where Cody and Randy had a long conversation about playing the hammered dulcimer. During the performance Cody, looking very Irish in his tweed vest and Irish flat cap, joined the band to perform for an appropriately-titled Irish medley entitled “McGillicuddy Rocks.” At the band’s request, he kicked off the band’s second set with a solo performance of “Ballad of Faithe,” the second piece in Guy Klucevsek’s “Three Tributes.” Also in the second set, Cody joined band member Randy Kochel in performing an accordion duet of “La Partida,” a Venezuelan waltz. Concert was the starting concert for Eicher Arts Center’s annual concert season. |
Murl Sanders Performs for the San Francisco Accordion Clubby Rita Barnea |
 Video: Murl Allen Sanders performs his Accordion Concerto #2 with the Orchestra Seattle under conductor George Shangrow.Murl Allen Sanders was the March guest artist in March for the San Francisco Accordion Club {SFAC). Murl is a musician, composer, teacher and recording artist who is active in the Seattle area music scene and across the United States, Canada, England, Brazil and Japan. Excerpts from his website: Murl has worked with such diverse artists as as Chuck Berry, Etta James, Il Divo, Glenn Yarbrough, Seattle Symphony, Brazilian accordion virtuoso Chico Chagas, virtuosos Stas Venglevski and Gary Blair, Leroy Bell, Peter Duchin, Alarm Will Sound, Seattle Modern Orchestra, Cascade Symphony, Everett Philharmonic, Orchestra Seattle/Seattle Chamber Singers, The Von Trapp Children, Theodore Bikel, Leslie Gore, Barbara Lamb, Susan Pascal, Warren Rand, Pearl Django, Michael Tomlinson and Kelly Harland, among many others. Murl teaches piano and accordion privately and is also adjunct faculty at Cornish College of the Arts and Shoreline Community College in Seattle. He has received two grants from The Seattle Mayor’s Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs to compose She Blows Hot and Cold for chorus and symphony orchestra which premiered May 2, 2010, and a grant to compose his "Accordion Concerto No. 2" which premiered in 2007 with Orchestra Seattle/Seattle Chamber Singers. His Accordion Concerto No. 1, a commission from Orchestra Seattle/Seattle Chamber Singers, premiered in 2003. Murl received a 2010 and 2009 ASCAP plus award for his concert compositions from The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. Recent performances: 2016 Seattle Symphony 2015 Seattle Modern Orchestra 2015 Chicago Accordion Club 2015 Golden State Accordion Clubs, Vacaville and Escalon California 2015 International Pinot Noir Festival McMinnville, Oregon 2015 Silver Falls Accordion Camp 2012 Earshot Jazz Festival 2012 National Accordion Convention, Dallas, Texas Photo by Daniel Sheehan Photography Murl is also an inventor, designing the Murlstrap - Accordion Back Strap to help move the weight of the accordion and alleviate some of the neck and shoulder strain many accordionists endure. You can find out more about Murl Allen Sanders' many accomplishments and the Murlstrap: murl@murlallensanders.com |
“Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door" Learning Guide Now Availableby Rita Barnea |
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 The “Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door™ LEARNING GUIDE” takes Jane Christison’s award-winning children’s CD and turns its 18 original, upbeat songs into attention-grabbing lessons that classroom teachers, music educators and homeschoolers will love teaching to their preschool through early elementary students. Using classroom-tested techniques by music educator Debbie Gray, this book comes with two CD’s – the original version with Janie singing, and one without vocals that can be used for student performances – plus 90 coloring pages*, puzzles*, word searches* and other extension activities* to connect MUSIC with: * Art, math, science and language arts * Reading fluency and comprehension * Physical education and * FUN! Students will want to do these songs and activities again and again! *The 90 workbook exercises may be copied or reproduced for classroom use. These same workbook exercises may also be found in the student workbook version, the “Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door™ Activities Book For more information and to order: http://www.janienextdoor.com/janiesstore/ Jane Christison, also known as children’s musician, Janie Next Door®, has developed a whole menu of live musical programs for kids, using an instrument they don’t get to see very often – an accordion. Janie invites the audience to sing along, march, clap hands, dance and be part of the show as she celebrates holidays visits other countries, and plays music for lots of fun themes. * Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door® - A program with Janie’s engaging, original songs from her award-winning children’s CD! * Janie Next Door® Plays Patriotic Songs for Presidents’ Day – Any day is a great day to sing patriotic songs, march and salute our country! * Sing and Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Janie Next Door® - Jigs, sing-along songs, and a four-leaf clover for a wee bit o’ luck make for a fun musical performance. Be sure to wear some green! * Janie Next Door’s Jelly Beans and Easter Eggs Show – Songs to celebrate Easter and hop into springtime! * Janie Next Door® Fourth of July Salute – Patriotic songs, marches and more for some star-spangled musical fun! * Janie Next Door’s Jolly Janie Jingle Bell Christmas Show – Sing along to your favorite Christmas songs! * Janie Next Door® Visits Germany – Polka, clap and even learn to speak a little bit of German during Oktoberfest - or any time of the year. Ja! * Janie Next Door® Visits Mexico – Dance, clap and learn to speak a little bit of Spanish as we pay a musical visit to our neighbor to the south! * Janie Next Door® Visits the Barnyard – Join Janie to sing songs about farmers and barnyard animals! * Janie Next Door® Campfire Favorites – Let’s go camping and sing campfire songs around the fire. This program is lots of fun even if the fire is only pretend! Janie’s next performance takes place at the Children’s Corner, Tomahawk Ridge Community Center on April 3, 2019 at 10:AM. The event is family friendly and free. The address is 11902 Lowell Ave., Overland Park, KS 66213-1100 For more information on booking for your school, library, festival or other special event: (913) 492-3883 Email: janec@musicwithasmile.com |
Future events |
AAA Festival 2019, July 17 - 21, Pennsylvaniaby Harley Jones |
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| The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) presents Festival 2019 from July 17 - 21 at the Valley Forge Casino Resort (Radisson Hotel) in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Guest artists include: Petar Maric, Michael Bridge, Sam Reider, Mario Tacca & Mary Mancini, Vesna Mihonovic (guest conductor), Joseph A. Natoli, Rachel Quirbach, Dr Robert Young McMahan, sure to make the AAA Festival 2019 an exciting musical event. Other activities include: Workshops, Junior and Senior Festival Orchestras, Carrozza Scholarship, Youth involvement Jazz Ensemble. For additional information, visit online at: 2019AAAFestival Also on the site is the website link to Hotel Reservations including discount promotional code. Just added to the AAA site is the download of the 2019 Competition Rules, 2019 Competition Entry & Competition Registration, all of which can be paid online on the AAA site at: 2019AAAFestival |
79th Annual ATG Accordion Festival in Denver July 24-27, 2019by Rita Barnea |
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 Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) President Joe Natoli (picture right) invites all to the 79th Annual ATG Accordion Festival in Denver July 24-27, 2019.The event will feature concerts, workshops, competitions, exhibits, the ATG Festival Orchestra, Banquet and more! The 2019 Festival is the "Year of the Duos”. This year the ATG Festival will feature some of the best accordion duos around to provide double the fun, double the musicianship and double the entertainment. The 2019 festival will include the following featured : Jamie Maschler & Gabriel Rodrigues (Washington, USA); Augustinas Raukauskas & Greta Staponkutė (Lithuania); Kim and Dan Christian (Colorado, USA); John & Madalynn Neu with The Voice of the Wood Chamber Players (Colorado, USA). All accordionists attending the festival in Denver are invited to participate in the 2019 ATG Festival Orchestra. No matter what age or ability, there is a part for you! Renowned conductor and former ATG President Joan C. Sommers (picture right), Professor Emeritus at the University of Missouri-Kansas City will be directing the 2018 ATG Festival Orchestra. The Festival Orchestra will perform on the Saturday evening Gala Concert. Rehearsals will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday to prepare for the concert performance. There will be several parts for the pieces being performed and most accordionists will find a part suitable for them. During the festival registration process, you will be able to sign up for the orchestra and provide your playing level. Contact Joan Sommers at joansommers@kc.rr.com if you have any questions. Additional information will be included in future publications. For further information view the website: ATG |
The Accordion Pops Orchestra Concert on May 19, 2019by Rita Barnea |
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 The Accordion Pops Orchestra conducted by Al Terzo (picture right) is celebrating its 49th concert season presenting “Impressions in the Spring” on Sunday, May 19, 2019 at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ 08816. Soloists include John Andrews, Gia Ciccone, Andrea Maurer, and Suzana Beites.The Accordion Pops Orchestras’ roots can be traced to 1970, when it was organized by the Accordion Teachers' Association of New Jersey. Over the next ten years it performed at various community functions throughout the state under the direction of its first conductor, Dr. Jacob Neupauer of Philadelphia. In 1980 the orchestra members took a leave of absence, but four years later the membership was reorganized under the direction of the late Eugene Ettore of Livingston, New Jersey. In 1985, Daniel Desiderio was invited to act as a guest conductor of the orchestra and a few years later the A.T.A. of NJ appointed him as conductor in residence. The name of the orchestra was formally changed to the Accordion Pops Orchestra and its membership was expanded beyond the original members from New Jersey to include performers from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Maryland, and Rhode Island. Maestro Desiderio retired as conductor in May 2011 and turned over the baton to Al Terzo. The largest professional accordion orchestra of its kind on the East Coast, the group consists entirely of accordions plus percussion instruments. In addition, the orchestra often accompanies guest soloists including pianists and vocal artists. Al Terzo, APO Conductor 2011-Present, is a teacher, arranger, and conductor who has been with the orchestra since its inception in 1970. He is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, New Jersey Music Teachers Association, and National Association of Music Educators. Mr.Terzo serves on the governing board of the American Accordionists Association and is a founding member of the Mid Atlantic Music Teachers Guild. He is an accomplished accordionist who has performed at the Garden State Arts Center and Newark's Symphony Hall. Currently Mr. Terzo teaches accordion and piano in New Jersey. Current Members of the Orchestra include: Juliette Amerman (4th accordion), John Andrews (4th accordion), Diane Ashenfalder (2nd accordion), Jennifer Bednar (3rd accordion), Suzana Beites (3rd accordion), Erika Brito Perez (3rd accordion), Rosemarie Cavanaugh (3rd accordion; public relations), Klajdi Cerriku (1st accordion), Ines Csulak (3rd accordion; treasurer), Phyllis Edamatsu (1st accordion), Anne Marie Egan (2nd accordion), Lenny Feldmann (guest artist/announcer), Joyce Gandenberger (1st accordion), Rachel Gasataya (2nd accordion), Dante Giammarco (3rd accordion), Kelly Grove (3rd accordion), Raymond Haines (2nd accordion), Anna René Jeremiah (keyboard/percussion)Paul Koslowski (1st accordion), Mike Marchese (4th accordion), Andrea Maurer (Flute), Cody McSherry (guest artist), John Modrowsky (2nd accordion) Tatiana Mozgovaya (1st accordion), John Papietro (announcer), Robert Patterson (webmaster; repairs; midi accordion), Phyllis Pepler (4th accordion), Brenda Poston (4th accordion), Dean Ratzin (video), Henry Ray (3rd accordion), Teresa Rehberg (3rd accordion), Josephine Sarica (bass accordion), Mike Soloway (bass accordion), Diane Squillace (1st accordion; concert master), Denise Szabo (4th accordion), Al Terzo (Conductor), Mary Thomas (4th accordion) For further information: webmaster@accordionpops.com |
Join Frank Petrilli at Django Camp this Year: Fun and Socialby Dallas Vietty |
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| Consider joining Frank Petrilli and two more amazing accordion teachers at Django camp this June 10th-16, 2019. Petrilli, a student and protege of the late Frank Marocco, will be presenting classes on his trademark jazz chords, playing with others in a gypsy jazz setting, and the unique rhythms for Gypsy Jazz playing. Frank Petrilli isn't the only accordion teacher at Django in June this year. There are two more teachers! Erwan Mellec, from France, a Musette specialist on chromatic button accordion, and Alicia Baker on piano accordion returns after rave reviews from students last year. Django in June is held on the historic Smith College Campus in Northampton, MA. The camp is organized half as classes and half as informal jamming that can go on as late into the night as students wish. In the jams you will make friends from all over, listen, apply what you've been learning, and also potentially catch the other world class faculty jamming tens of feet away from you. If you're at all interested in Swing Accordion music or Gypsy Jazz, Django Reinhardt's music, Musette Waltzes, you should definitely attend Django in June: June 10th-16th. Registration, student materials, and registration available at: http://djangoinjune.com |
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration 2019 June 20-23by Rita Barnea |
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| The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration (LIAC) takes place from June 20-23, 2019. Excerpts from the website: The Northwest Accordion Society has been hosting accordion events in the Northwest for over 25 years. Included in it's accomplishments are monthly accordion socials, the annual "Day of the Accordion" at the Seattle Center, accordion scholarships, and it's elegant quarterly publication "The Northwest Accordion News". Leavenworth is Washington’s “Bavarian Village” and a perfect setting for this celebration. Nestled in a cozy narrow valley at elevation of 1100 feet surrounded by wilderness of rugged, majestic mountain ranges, over 2 million visitors per year from all over the world come to experience magical Leavenworth. With the Northwest Accordion Society as your host and Leavenworth as the setting, why not plan to join us and enjoy four wonderful days of everything accordion. Whether you are a competitor, participant or just love great accordion music, there is enjoyment and participation for everyone. Here is a partial list of what is happening: * Accordion Competitions/Accordion Aristry * Workshops * Concerts with World Class Performers * Free Performances at the gazebo, grange, and restaurants * Free Accordion lessons * Accordion Parade on Saturday * Accordion Vendors * Opportunity for all accordion players to play * Jam sessions and much more! This is a celebration of the accordion’s versatility and its presence in many cultures. Accordion music is what this event is all about. See Doris Osgood’s link to “It’s Time to Prepare for Leavenworth” The 26th anniversary of the Leavenworth Accordion Celebration looks to be one of the best events ever. Note the outstanding line up of professional performers.The variety of music will showcase the versatility of the accordion. Link: 2019LeavenworthArticle.pdf |
The Acadia Trad Festival June 23 – 28 in Bar Harborby Rita Barnea |
 The Acadia Trad Festival takes place from June 23-28, 2019 in Bar Harbor, Maine.A week of world-class traditional music and dance on the beautiful coast of Maine? What’s not to love? With almost 20 courses of study, workshops, jam sessions, concerts and dances, The Acadia Trad Festival offers something for everyone. Held on the beautiful campus of the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, the Acadia Trad Festival summer music school is a jam-packed week of classes, workshops, jam sessions, concerts and dances. Focusing on the Irish, Scottish, Québecois, Acadian, Cajun, Old-Time and Cape Breton styles, our world-class teaching staff have offered programs for fiddle, guitar, mandolin, bouzouki, cello, piano, piano accordion, banjo, pipes, whistle, bodhran, dance, song and more. Faculty, class offerings and genres vary each year, so you’ll be sure to get a lot of variety if you come back Festival after Festival. The accordion classes will be taught by Jeremiah McLane (picture right) who shares, “This class will focus on accordion technique (bellows, LH chord combinations, RH ornamentation, etc), ear training, repertoire, and Rhythm, Rhythm, Rhythm, and more Rhythm! I will cover a variety of genres in the class, including dance music from France, Quebec, the Northeast US, and Cajun country. The French Connection – from the King’s court to the Cajun kitchen: French and North American traditional musics have a long history of connection and overlapping influences: peasant dances popularized by the Court of Louis XIV, leading many centuries later to recognizable forms of dance associated with New England contra; turn of the century Parisien Bals musette incorporating the new sounds of jazz emanating from the United States, which helped usher in the era of so called Gyspy Jazz of 1930s and 40s; the mixture of Celtic and other world music danced to by thousands at Fest-Noz throughout Brittany; the Bal Folk scene in Central and Northern France, vibrant today; the enormous commercial appeal of Quebecois and Cajun music not only in the US but world wide. These are a few examples of the musical connections between the United States and France. This class will focus primarily on repertoire from Northwestern, Central, and Southeastern France, but will also include tunes from Quebec, New England and Louisiana. It will also involve discussion and listening to different groups, old and new, that highlight the connections between the USA and France. Dance Music from the North: Quebec & New England are home to many great dance tunes, and we’ll learn chording as well as melodies from old sources as well as newly composed tunes. Jeremiah has a Master’s Degree in Contemporary Improvisation from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. He teaches at the State University of New York in Plattsuburgh, NY and at the Floating Bridge School of Music in Sharon, VT. He also teaches at dance workshops and music camps around the country, including Pinewoods, Augusta, Ashokan, Lady of the Lake, the America Festival of Fiddle Tunes, and the Maine Fiddle Camp. Jeremiah also teaches private students in both accordion and piano, as well as improvisation and jazz theory. To reach him: (802) 765-9904 Jeremiah commented on the experience: “The program: the teaching staff, of which I am a part, is one the best I’ve ever encountered (and I’ve been teaching at music camps for over 30 years). There are over 21 cream of the crop players on staff, offering many different styles of music, dance and song. This staff stays up seeming half the night jamming and hanging out with everyone. Its not a staff that separates itself from the students, who are motivated, talented, creative and lots of fun. Last year was my first time at Acadia Trad and I really felt the camaraderie and connection between everyone.The location: Bar Harbor is beyond beautiful, a sweet little town on Mount Desert Island, surrounded by a National Park. In June the massive crowds have not yet arrived, and you can really see the island. The campus of COA is perfect for teaching, jamming concerts, etc, within walking distance of town, right on the water’s edge.” Whether you are registered for the full week, a single day, or you just wish to drop in for an afternoon workshop, over 200 educational opportunities that will appeal to almost everyone are offered. Morning classes focus on student’s chosen major, and are open to registered students only. Classes are progressive throughout the week. All instrument majors (except for those note as specifically for Beginners) are intended for students at the Intermediate, Advanced or Master levels. In addition to major classes, afternoon workshops and jam sessions are offered for all levels (including beginner) in all instruments and dance. All workshops and sessions are included in full-time and daily tuition rates. Workshops and sessions are also open to the public for a small fee. For further information: info@acadiatradschool.org |