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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
What Are You Doing For World Accordion Day, 6th May?
Joan C. Sommers Will Conduct the 2022 80th Anniversary 80-Piece Festival Orchestra
Online: 2022 AAA Festival Competition Goes Virtual
A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) Events for World Accordion Day
World Premiere of "Tangorium" by Bridge & Wolak on April 3
Mickey Bisilia, Important Teacher, Musician, Accordionist and More!
Mary and Frank Tokarski Musical Arts Fund Offers Scholarships and Grants
C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band at Savannah Music Festival
Joel Guzman to Perform with Austin Symphonic Band
Oktopus Performs Live on April 10
Accordion Lovers! Fifty Years of Love!
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Buy Last Stock before Price Increase from Euro 29 (US$32.50 approx) to Euro 34 (US$38 approx) - Germany
Jamie Maschler Performed in “Indecent” with the Seattle Repertory Theatre
AAA Composers’ Commissioning Committee Information - USA
San Diego Police Officer Plays His Accordion With Local Musicians
Afro-Caribbean Music Presentation by Loïc Cordeone Da Silva
Three Expanded Historical and Analytical Articles by Dr Robert Young McMahan - USA
Silicon Valley Accordion Society Presents Live Accordion Event
Update: Not Just Oompah Workshop Series With Rita Barnea 4/27 and Raif Hyseni...Date Changed to May 19/20
Dan Newton Live Stream and More!
Children's Corner |
Future events |
UMKC Community Chamber Accordion Ensemble To Perform AT 2022 ATG
Connecticut Accordion Association in Concert at Mattatuck Museum
2022 ATG International Festival July 20 - 24
The 2022 Accordion Seminars: July 29 - 31
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration
Cotati Festival 2022
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 We at AWW hope that you, your family and friends are continuing to do well during this world crisis. We are wishing all our readers a Happy Easter, Happy Passover and a peaceful and pleasant time as good as possible, filled with joyful music.We are happy to report that many concerts, festivals, competitions and workshops are now in person and also live stream.. Doesn’t it feel great to be able to perform with or watch our musical friends in person? Please email Editor Rita Barnea at Ritabelll@aol.com with details of your upcoming concerts, CD releases, festivals, competitions, performances etc. We will update any changes as received. Remember that May 6, 2021 is World Accordion Day! Please send info about your WAD events to www.worldaccordionday.org |
What Are You Doing For World Accordion Day, 6th May?by Harley Jones |
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 The Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) is pleased to welcome you to World Accordion Day (WAD) on 6th May or nearby days. With the relaxing in many countries of Covid-19 rules that had been affecting accordion rehearsals, concerts and competitions, there is expected to be more World Accordion Day (WAD) events for 2022. The WAD site will report those events that are able to happen.For groups and individuals around the world: What are you doing for World Accordion Day to promote the accordion in your country? World Accordion day is on May 6th, which is the day the accordion was patented in 1829. Our first World Accordion Day was held on 6th May 2009, marking the 180th birthday of the accordion - 6 May 1829, the date the accordion patent in Vienna, Austria was filed by Cyrill Demian (1772–1849) an organ and piano maker of Armenian origin, accompanied by his two sons Karl and Guido. Consign: No. 1433 listed a new type of instrument consisting of a small box with “feathers of metal plates and bellows fixed to it” making it easy to carry and play. The new instrument was seven to nine inches long, three-and-a-half wide, and two inches high. The bellows were fixed above the box with five claves fixed below. The makers claimed it was possible to perform marches, arias, melodies, even by an amateur of music with little practice, and to play the loveliest and most pleasant chords of three, four and five voices with little practice. The patent was approved a short time later on May 23, 1829. Since 2009, World Accordion Day has been very successful, generating a lot of positive publicity for the accordion. 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 World Accordion Day 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 the website. Every association, group, orchestra, performer and teacher is asked to actively support WAD by encouraging national and local accordion activities to happen in their country on this day or the weekend either side of Accordion Day if that should be more convenient.Register Here Please join us for this annual celebration, as accordionists from around the world pay homage to our wonderful instrument. This global event will serve as an exciting means of bringing us together in our efforts to promote and elevate the awareness and status of the accordion! Every association, group, orchestra, performer and teacher is asked to actively support WAD by encouraging national and local accordion activities to happen in their country on this day or the weekend either side of Accordion Day if that should be more convenient. No event is too big or too small. ALL accordion events celebrating accordion 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. |
Joan C. Sommers Will Conduct the 2022 80th Anniversary 80-Piece Festival Orchestraby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 The ATG Festival takes place from July 20th to 24th, 2022, in Lisle, Illinois at two locations: The Lisle Hyatt Regency and the Wheaton College campus’ Armerding Center for Music and Arts and Barrows Auditorium.Three evening concerts will be at the college campus. Joan C. Sommers will be the conductor for the ATG 80th Anniversary Festival Orchestra and UMKC Orchestra.Conductor Joan C. Sommers is a lifelong ATG Member, past President and ATG Champion. She is founder of the CIA World Accordion Orchestra was awarded the title of Professor Emerita upon her retirement from the University of Missouri – Kansas City Conservatory of Music (USA), where she established and taught the accordion degree program for forty years. She has arranged innumerable works for the accordion orchestra over many years, often for the UMKC Accordion Orchestra, a large symphonic accordion orchestra, which, under her direction, competed in and won more First Prizes in Virtuoso Accordion Orchestra Competitions than any other similar American group. This is a record still unbroken today. In both 1955 and 1956 she earned the right to represent the USA-ATG in the Coupe Mondiale and, although she didn’t win, it was those experiences which opened her eyes to the tremendous opportunities available to accordionists; perhaps it also fixed her life-long interest in worldwide accordion activities. Most recently, she celebrated the 50th Anniversary of her UMKC Accordion Orchestra when they presented their 50th Gala Concert at the University. As the arranger, Joan has had many years of experience as a teacher, a conductor, and an arranger for accordion orchestras at all levels. Many of these arrangements were used by her own orchestras in competitions held throughout the USA and on the many tours made by her groups overseas as well. Joan C. Sommers has held positions in several music organizations, including the Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) and the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA – IMC-UNESCO). Today, Professor Sommers enjoys performing with fellow accordionists in duo, with other instrumentalists and with the UMKC Chamber Accordion Ensemble. In addition to her performing, she continues to adjudicate, coach soloists, prepare accordion orchestra arrangements, and conduct accordion orchestras regularly. After her retirement as CIA Vice President, she was unanimously awarded the status of CIA Honorary Member. Joan looks forward to welcoming you all to participate in this milestone 80 piece, 80th Anniversary Orchestra in Lisle! Hotel information, registrations, schedule of events are all online at: https://www.atgaccordions.com/2022-festival-lisle |
Online: 2022 AAA Festival Competition Goes Virtualby Harley Jones |
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 Download the virtual competition Rules, Categories and Required Composition List at: 2022Rules&Entry.pdfEntry Forms Due Date is August 1, 2022. Video Submissions Due Date is August 15, 2022. For any inquiries, please contact Frank Busso Jr. contest chairperson (picture right) at: frank@bussomusic.com. AAA President Dr. Joseph A. Ciccone writes: "Due to the AAA’s commitment to the health and safety of our many loyal attendees and guest artists, and to help support our nation’s efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19, our AAA Governing Board had to make a difficult decision. The 2022 AAA Festival has been postponed and will be rescheduled, along with the AAA Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner in honor of Frank Busso Sr. for the summer of 2023. Festival 2022 Competition Categories will therefore be virtual this year." |
A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) Events for World Accordion Dayby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 A World of Accordions World Accordion Day (WAD) and Palmer Festivals will take place from May 6-8, 2022 in Superior, Wisconsin at The Harrington ARTS Center, home of the A World Of Accordions Museum (AWAM). On Friday May 6, 2022 World Accordion Day will be celebrated by a variety of lectures, demonstrations, and concerts. The theme for this day will be Cyril Demian Accordion Patent Celebration. The following day, Saturday May 7, 2022 will be the annual Palmer Festival with more exciting lectures and fun accordion concerts and demonstrations. The third day, Sunday May 8, 2022 will include several accordion based polka morning services, and tours of the A World of Accordions Museum in the afternoon. Dr. Helmi Harrington welcomes all, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to A World of Accordions Museum. Located in magnificent upper midwest of the USA, you will find the Museum nestled in the beautiful location of Superior, WI, just minutes away from Duluth, MN. Whether you are in the nearby Minneapolis area, maybe enjoying a shopping expedition at the Mall of America, or heading north of Minneapolis towards the great vistas of upper Minnesota and Wisconsin or neighboring Canada, be sure to include a visit to the Museum as a side trip or a stopover as part of your journey. You won't be disappointed! A World of Accordions Museum is nationally and internationally recognized as holding the world's finest and most comprehensive collection of accordion-family instruments shown in 130 plus displays organized to show chronological evolution, countries of origin, specific usage and quality classifications. “ For In-Person Concerts please register online. Admission includes coffee and lunch for each day. Dinner events include: * Friday Evening - Kurtz Catering - $40 * The meal will include: sweet and sour meatballs, baked ham, roasted turkey breast, potato, and rolls. Cash bar available. * Saturday Evening - Bellisio's Italian Food - $65 * The meal will include: wild rice stuffed chicken mornay, Norwegian salmon, beef tenderloin tips, Italian tossed salad, garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus w/ hollandaise. Dessert presentations will include: chocolate amaretto cheesecake, raspberry white choco torte, and tiramisu. Cash bar available. * Both dinners will be held at the Elks Hall just 1 block from the Museum. Live Stream - Free Will Donation * Streamed on Youtube. You may register online. Donations are accepted at the end of the registration form. * For registration: https://worldofaccordions.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/worldofaccordions/eventRegistration.jsp?event=8 For full schedule of events: 2022AWAMwad.pdf |
World Premiere of "Tangorium" by Bridge & Wolak on April 3by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: Bridge & Wolak play "Gankino Concerto" Bridge & Wolak created this elaborate fantasia, based on the popular Bulgarian folk tune, “Gankino Horo”.You are invited on April 3, 2022 2:30 PM ET at The Isabel in Kingston, ON to watch the world premiere of "Tangorium", Bridge & Wolak’s new tango-fusion show with full orchestra and video projections! As the name suggests, "Tangorium" is a meeting place fusing tangos and other musical genres, elegantly tied together with a ribbon of spoken word and evocative videography. The above video showcases their extraordinary talents. For instance, can you imagine Bach/Gounod’s “Ave Maria” fused with Astor Piazzolla’s “Libertango?” Bridge & Wolak present it as “Ave Astor.” This celebration of tango coincides with Bridge & Wolak’s 10th anniversary year of being a musical duo. For more information read the article, “Michael Bridge and Kornel Wolak Celebrate 10 Years Concertizing Together” in the March www.accordionusa.com news. Arranged and Orchestrated by Charles Cozens Shadow Puppetry by Clelia Scala Video Design by Jean-Philippe Finkelstein Bridge & Wolak gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, The Dan School of Drama & Music, The Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, and Queen’s University. Program notes: The mystique of tango can only be experienced—not explained. Tangorium's design as an immersive portrait of tango music and culture, as it encounters and collides with the world, makes the experience even more complete. As the name suggests, TANGORIUM is a meeting place, in this case for the fusion of tangos with other musical genres, elegantly tied together with a ribbon of spoken word and evocative videography. This celebration of tango coincides with Bridge & Wolak’s 10th anniversary year of being a musical duo. Our longstanding collaboration with The Isabel and The DAN School of Drama and Music reaches a new apex with the world premiere of TANGORIUM with the Queen’s Symphony under the baton of Wolf Tormann. Our protagonist in this musical story is tango itself — travelling the world, making musical acquaintances, and eventually ‘dancing’ with other forms of music. The tango-fusion of this laboratorium-like experiment brought us the name for this presentation in the most natural way. To decisively break any mould or limitations, the show starts with a total cross-genre fusion of a modern tango-club interpretation of Jenkins’ Palladio with a tango-lounge remix of Beethoven’s Fifth. Staying in the classical ether, we draw on the intrinsic motivic similarities from across centuries to fuse Bach-Gounod’s Ave Maria with Piazzolla’s Libertango into a new work called Ave Astor. The next course is one of Piazzolla’s lesser-known works, Ausencias (Absence), a gentle prayer for all of us who felt isolated during the pandemic. In the Euro-Tango Suite, we visit three poignant Eastern European and Yiddish songs of the Post WWI era of rejuvenated cabaret-style tango. The magnificent Tango de Roxanne, with lyrics by Sting and cabaret-inspired music, crowns the show with fusion of English and Spanish text, classical and tango aesthetics, and a passionate expression of raw human emotion. In response to the first wave of the pandemic that broke out in 2020, Bridge & Wolak felt a strong, reactive drive to create their own artistic commentary on the time—even if only metaphorically through the process of musical fusion: a call for unity with other touring artists who suffered the same fate of the lockdown. Once the idea for TANGORIUM was born, the next step was to create a highly innovative orchestral score for all the fusions. With over 2,000 orchestral arrangements under his belt, Canadian composer-arranger Charles Cozens was a natural choice. He agreed to take up this challenge and started work in March 2020, meeting with Bridge & Wolak every Sunday at 10am on Zoom for a year! Soon after, we began to work on a general storyline with a Brazilian-Canadian dramaturge, Ludmylla Reis—their super innovative approach has had a profound imprint on the overall flow of Tangorium. With the music shaping up and a script in hand, we then turned to visual artists who completed the project. Queen’s’ own Clelia Scala offers touching shadow puppetry, set to the Euro-Tango Suite. Her art has brought a very human element to the project through hand-made shadow-puppetry characters telling a story of love, passion, death and reunion. Finally, Jean-Philippe Finkelstein, a Parisian-Canadian graphic designer in Toronto, created immersive and elegant videos that hit upon the idiosyncrasies of tango with respect to its origin and culture, portrayed in a delicate retro—sometimes even black-and-white—aesthetic. Financed by both the Canada and Ontario Councils for the Arts, Tangorium is the fruit of intense, collaborative work by an extraordinary collective of experienced and highly creative artists who worked tirelessly over the pandemic under the artistic leadership of Bridge & Wolak. One could say that this project is the expression of an unstoppable desire to create high art and entertainment in the times of hardship and isolation—a symbolic triumph of the collaborative spirit over challenging reality. We see it as a true testament to the known fact that creating beauty and working together is the most meaningful expression of care for humanity and its culture. You can buy in person tickets: https://theisabeltickets.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1712&p=1 Watch live stream free: https://www.isabeldigitalconcerthall.queensu.ca/events/queen-s-university-orchestra-tangorium Photo down: Rehearsal for the World Premiere Performance with the Queen’s Symphony Orchestra, April 3, 2022. |
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Mickey Bisilia, Important Teacher, Musician, Accordionist and More!by Joseph Natoli |
 Video: Speed Demon. A novelette composed in the 1970's by Mickey Bisilia, performed by Joseph Natoli. Download the pdf music file kindly donated by Joseph Natoli at: Speed DemonSince March 19, 2022 would have been Mickey Bisilia’s 104th birthday, and it is also my namesake day of St. Joseph in the Catholic religion, I was asked to write this article for this month’s edition of AccordionUSA.com which I am happy to do. So who was Mickey Bisilia you say? Well, that’s exactly why I am writing this article, because Mickey didn’t receive a lot of fame or attention in his life musically, but he was such an important teacher, musician, arranger, composer, and accordionist that many people should know his name and his accomplishments. In that context, I thought I would honor him by posting his bio, one of his own articles from 1957, and an original piece of his called "Speed Demon" which is a really charming and attractive novelette piece he wrote back in the 1970s. Mickey wrote many of those types of pieces which are for sale on my website (inquiries at janpressmusic@yahoo.com). There is a wonderful quote from the German writer Berthold Auerbach. He said "Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." I thought, no quote could be more appropriate when remembering Mickey Bisilia, because music was his entire life. In fact, it was so important to him, that it sustained him throughout many years of poor health. Many times we came close to losing Mickey during his multiplied illnesses, yet each and every time he would return to his music after a bout of illness, and he would bounce back to life almost miraculously. Music was to Mickey like water to a dying plant. It washed away the dust and the worries of his everyday life. With each and every health crisis, it was the one thing that rejuvenated him, kept him fighting, and kept him alive. However, even though music sustained Mickey's life, he was also able to use music as a tool to nurture and touch the lives of each and every one of his students. For he was one of those rare selfless teachers who taught for the sheer joy of watching a student grow and blossom into something special. Mickey would often write spectacular arrangements and compositions for his students, that any studio arranger would charge hundreds or thousands of dollars for, yet these things were always included in the cost of a lesson. In fact, it is a miracle to me that in this day and age when the value of anything is inevitably reduced to dollars and cents, Mickey was always using a different kind of calculator. His calculator had no number keys at all. You see, his calculator keys contained words like "dedication", "selflessness", "excellence", "respect", and "hard work", all multiplied by the "love" key, producing the final output of many many enriched lives. Mind you, Mickey was a "what you see is what you get kind of guy,” and he could sometimes become pretty acerbic if he knew you were getting lazy and not putting in the same time and dedication towards the relationship that he had. If you hadn't practiced a particular week, he would often invite you to go home, take your money with you, and ask you not to come back until you were serious about making some progress. But I know I can speak for all his students that no offense was ever taken. We may have been embarrassed that he exposed us, but once you were "busted" by Mickey, it made you want to go home and never disappoint him again. Because we all knew that these antics were his attempts at polishing his stones into brilliant diamonds. But remember, even though I speak about the importance of music in Mickey's life and in the lives of those he touched, he taught us all even more meaningful values that extend into our everyday lives and have become a critical and integral part of who we are as human beings. Mickey taught us all the ideas of selflessness, the pursuit of excellence, cherishing the important things in life, but most importantly, the refusal to fail and the refusal to give up. Mickey was like that special uncle or grandparent who always understood, never criticized me, and always supported everything and anything I did. And he always, always believed in me. He was my teacher, my mentor, my friend, and my 2nd father. His actions made me understand how much he respected and loved me unconditionally, and I hope he realized how much of those same feelings I felt for him. View further interesting history at Mickey Bisilia |
Mary and Frank Tokarski Musical Arts Fund Offers Scholarships and Grantsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Beginning in July of 2022, the Mary & Frank Tokarski Musical Arts Fund (managed by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, Connecticut) will begin presenting Scholarships and Grants to young musicians (up to the age of 26) who are seeking educational advancement and/or extra-curricular programs to improve their musical skills.Special consideration will be given to those who plan to use the accordion as an integral part of their career plans. Questions, clarifications and requests for applications should be sent to Mary Tokarski at mary.tokarski@comcast.net. The deadline for applications is May 15th, 2022, and one (or more) awards of varying amounts will be announced at the July AAA Festival event – whether in person or virtual. Application forms and all required paperwork should be mailed to: The Mary & Frank Tokarski Musical Arts Fund 22 Boyd Farms Drive, #C Jackson, TN 38305 Email: mary.tokarski@comcast.net |
C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band at Savannah Music Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: CJ Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band at the Blues From The Top 6/24/17 CaledoniaThe Zydeco Dance Party will take place at the Savannah Music Festival on Thursday, April 7, 2022 at 8:30 PM at the Metal Building at Trustees' Garden. Creole-born musician C.J. Chenier delivers soulful vocals along with masterful accordion-driven zydeco and blues. Chenier has performed alongside many internationally-recognized artists including his father, Clifton Chenier (“The King of Zydeco”), Paul Simon, Joe Sample and Ray Parker, Jr. In addition to his Grammy Award nomination in the Best Regional Roots Music Album category, C.J. Chenier has received many major awards including the Living Blues Critics’ Poll Award, Indie Award (from AFIM) for Best Zydeco Album, Coups de Coeur (Blows of Heart), Blues Category Award from l’Académie Charles Cros (France) and Best of the Beat Best Zydeco Album (Offbeat Magazine). This is his SMF debut. Creole-born C.J. Chenier was raised in an indigenous American culture with its distinctive language, cuisine and music. He delivers soulful vocals along with masterful accordion-driven Zydeco and Blues. He appeared on the Daily Show, CNN and was featured on VH1 and Entertainment Weekly. He has exhibited his musicianship at many large festivals and venues such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Chicago Blues Festival and Austin’s SXSW Music Conference. The Savannah Music Festival is dedicated to presenting world-class celebrations of the musical arts by creating timeless and adventurous productions that stimulate arts education, foster economic growth, and unite artists and audiences in Savannah. Now in its 33rd season, SMF is Georgia’s largest musical arts event and one of the most distinctive cross-genre music festivals in the world. As a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and growing audiences of all ages through engagement with the musical arts, they advance their vision through an array of musical performances that include dance, film, and narrative programs. The festival operates year-round to produce a music education curriculum and semester-end concerts (Musical Explorers), an annual high school jazz band competition (Swing Central Jazz), a workshop and mentorship program for young acoustic musicians (Acoustic Music Seminar), as well as a weekly radio series (Savannah Music Festival LIVE), and other broadcast and digital initiatives. SMF stages original, one-time only productions, premieres and double-bills, including many commissioned works. For further information: tickets@savannahmusicfestival.org. |
Joel Guzman to Perform with Austin Symphonic Bandby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video 1: Joel Guzman & Sarah Fox "Got Love" from the film "Road To Austin"Video 2: Joel Guzman performs “La Llorona” Accordionist Joel Guzman will perform with the Austin Symphonic Band conducted by Dr. David W. Clemmer on April 3, 2022 at 4:PM. Doors open at 3:00 PM. The program, “Howdy Folks! An evening of Folk Songs, Folklore & Just Plain Nice Folks!” The program includes: “The Twelve Gallon Hat” by Julie Giroux “Shenandoah” arr. by Omar Thomas “Suite of Old American Dances” by Robert Russell Bennett “Sasparilla!” -by John Mackey (featuring Joel Guzmán, accordion) “Simple Gifts” - by Frank Ticheli “The Cowboys” - by John Williams Joel Guzman is a Grammy Award winning Accordionist, Singer and Producer who began playing the accordion at 4 years old. His accordion loving father inspired him to play. Joel said, ““My dad was a good musician and always played records of accordion music from all over – Poland, France, Panama, you name it. He would tell me, ‘They play the same instrument you play. You should appreciate the variety and embrace it.’” Who does he feel are his greatest influences? Joel admires Richard Galliano, a chromatic accordion player from France, Angelo DiPippo, Rhode Island; Tony De La Rosa, Esteban Jordan. Joel and his wife, Sarah, a singer and songwriter have performed together for many years including their talented son, Gabriel, who plays the guitar and the accordion. The ninety-plus members of ASB come from all walks of life and unite in a common passion for making music. The Austin Symphonic Band is nationally recognized as one of the finest ensembles of its type in the country, acclaimed by audiences at prestigious events including The Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra and Music Conference, and the Texas Bandmasters Association Convention. You can hear this cultural treasure right here in Austin! ASB presents three indoor season concerts each year along with four free concerts: Mother's Day, Father's Day, Fourth of July, and Fall. ASB is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department. Tickets are free for students. $12 for adults. $8 for seniors. The concert takes place at: John B Connally High School 13212 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX, 78753 For further information: info@austinsymphonicband.org |
Oktopus Performs Live on April 10by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Just in time for spring and Passover, Montréal’s klezmer/classical/folk band Oktopus will play live in Or Shalom’s sanctuary. There are a limited number of in-person tickets and unlimited live-stream tickets available for this show which takes place at 710 East 10th Ave. (at Fraser) Vancouver, BC, V5T 2A7Oktopus is a major presence on the Canadian world music scene, with over 250 performances to its credit at home and abroad. The group is primarily devoted to klezmer—the musical heritage of Eastern European Jews—distinguished by a novel approach that incorporates various components of classical, Quebecois, and jazz repertoires. The group’s eight virtuoso musicians offer festive, high-energy performances, at once melancholic and profound, sprinkled with humour and spiced with narrative, in which original compositions and finely crafted arrangements combine with improvisation. Its members’ complicity, shared passion, and hard work are what makes each of their performances so memorable—whether on stage, in the street, on a ship, in a hot air balloon or in your living room. The members of Octopus are: Gabriel Paquin-Buke on clarinet and composition, Vanessa Marcous on violin and composition, Marilene Provencher-Leduc on flute, Matthieu Bourget on bass trombone, Madeleine Doyon-Robitaille on tenor trombone, Laurianne Bellevance on trumpet, Mathieu Bourret on piano, accordion, and guitar, and Maxime Philippe on drums. Excerpts from their website: Octopus’ distinctive music is undeniably rooted in the klezmer tradition, reflecting the rich history of a thousand-year-old community, its persecutions and celebrations, tears and laughter, or both at the same time. Musicians of yesteryear incorporated in their repertoire the music they encountered on their journeys, and just like them, the members of Oktopus are inspired by the music they hear throughout their own travels. Thus, the melodies of several classical composers, such as Bartók, Brahms, Prokofiev or Enescu are rearranged by the octet, particularly their works derived from folk themes. Quebec songwriters are also sources of inspiration, with Leclerc and Vigneault being added to the group’s repertoire. Upcoming 2022 performances include: April 9, 2:PM.: Shadbolt Centre For The Arts, Burnaby (BC) – Pacific Contact showcase April 10: Or Shalom Synagogue, 710 10th avenue E, Vancouver (BC) May 29: Pointe-Claire (Qc) * 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 12:30 PM to 1 PM.; 2:30 PM. to 3:PM August 28, 2:30 PM: Globensky Manor Gardens, 235 St-Eustache Street, Saint-Eustache (Qc) September 23, 5:30 PM.: Bromont (Qc) Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Oktopus live in person or online. For further information on their digital albums and the group: info@oktopus.ca |
Accordion Lovers! Fifty Years of Love!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 I have always had great admiration for people who develop life long hobbies, whatever they may be. Of course, I am interested in musicians who have played the accordion for fifty or more years! What made you love the accordion so much that you still play it today. Any kind of accordion: keyboard, button, bayan, diatonic etc.For those of you who are wondering? YES! I am a proud member of the "50 plus Accordion Club"! I am so very grateful to my parents for introducing me to the accordion which has had a lasting positive effect on me for my entire life! I cannot imagine a day without playing or listening to accordion music. I am sure that many of you also feel similarly. Tell me about it!! AWW wants your story!!! No matter what your level of skill is, I am interested. I am working on a project to learn about the thoughts of people with life long commitment to the accordion. I will include an article about my findings in the July www.accordionusa.com news. Would you like to contribute your story to this worthwhile project? Please send your info including photos of you with your accordion over the years. Maximum of 3 photos, please. You may include one or two video links of your performance either solo or in an ensemble. Please send the info to me at: Ritabelll@aol.com Please use these questions as a guideline to write your story of the accordion’s influence in your life: Q. Why do you love playing the accordion and why is it such a great thing in your life? Q. Is there any teacher or artist to whom you would like to pay particular tribute, for their inspirational effect on your musical career. Q How long have you been playing accordion? Q What got you started playing the accordion? Who were your teachers? Q. What role did your parents or family members play in your early music education? Q. What are your earliest memories of performing? Q. When were your first professional concerts (if you had them) ? Q. Or, when do you remember your first public performance? Q. How has your musical career impacted on your personal life? Q. How has your playing the accordion affected people in your life? Q. Who are your favorite musicians and musical groups? Which musicians or musical groups of today or the past do you like and why?" Q. What are your favorite types of music? Q . List some of your most interesting and important performances. Q. Describe your most "unusual" or "humorous" performance situations? Q. What other interests and hobbies besides music do you have? Q. What do you regard as your greatest achievement? What musical achievements are you most proud of? Q. What musical advice do you have for aspiring accordionists/musicians/composers? Q. How does the use of the accordion enhance your compositions (if you compose) or why do you use the accordion? Q. Any accordionist you admire or recommend we listen to? ... no obligation to answer if you are uncomfortable with the question. Q. What kind of creative patterns, routines, or rituals do you have in practicing your instrument/instruments? Q. What's the best advice you received about playing music/accordion? Q. Any thoughts which you would like to share with www.accordionusa.com readers about you, your future aspirations, thoughts on the future of the accordion? Q. Please include your education credentials: College degree, honors, rewards, etc.... Q. Was your family musical and did your parents play an important part in your early music education? Q. Is there any teacher (teachers) or artist to whom you would like to pay particular tribute, for their inspirational effect on your musical career or enjoyment of playing the accordion? Thank you again!! I am looking forward to hearing from you! Deadline is June 1, 2022. Submit all info to: Ritabelll@aol.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
National Accordion Convention 2022 – A Special Anniversaryby Markus Baggio |
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 Less than two weeks ago the National Accordion Convention ended. It was a special anniversary: 35 + 1 year of the NAA. Yes, 2021 would have been the 35th anniversary, but we all know what came in the way. So, we celebrated this year the 35 + 1 anniversary. Norman Seaton (President) and Sharon Seaton (Board member) have been recognized on stage during the Saturday evening concert with an engraved plaque for their work and dedication. This was not the only thing “special” about the Convention. Due to ongoing pandemic we had to make a few changes to the setup. Photo Up: Youth Orchestra Photo Down: Friday evening - Shelia Lee Memorial Dance Band Photo Right: Saturday evening: Fun Band Breakfast and lunch was paid and served buffet style in the main Ballroom. We also opted for some healthier options for lunch with a changing soup and salad bar. We had setup all sessions with double space to allow for social distancing. Different to previous years we gave our youth a dominant spot with their performance during lunch on Saturday to give them a bigger exposure. They were great. Thanks to Dick Albreski who managed and conducted the youth orchestra and Elena Fainshtein for sending in so many talented students. We had scheduled 4 evening events which had been a full success. From the welcome reception on Wednesday, where Markus Baggio played a game of “Roast the Host”. The audience spun a wheel and whatever genre showed, Markus had to play this. Thursday was mainly an open mike session, but with a spin: We had three rooms dedicated to different regions of the world, so conventioneers could play anything from French Musette, Vienna Waltzes, Balkan Polkas to Country and Latin Music. The Friday Dance Party was opened by the Sheila Lee Memorial Dance Band, conducted by Dee Langley, followed by Jim Rommel, Gordon Kohl, and Mike Middleton. The dance floor was packed. Saturday evening, we had our traditional banquet, but instead of having a conga line as in previous years, we organized an Accordion Flash Mob in the Hotel Lobby. What a blast! Finally, the culmination was our Saturday evening concert. The Fun Band opened with some good tunes, followed by Michael Soloway. His performance was a homage to the movies from Doctor Zhivago to Schindler’s list. Everybody was touched and he got standing ovations. There was much more: Tris Gour and John Simkiss played several duets with Tris singing with his smooth voice. A surprise guest was Elijah Clements, this fine young man took the audience by storm. Richard Noel followed with some swinging songs, getting even dancers on the floor. Jim Rommel played some Rock & Roll tunes. The concerted ended with Paul Betken playing some good old-fashioned swing and jazz songs. The last performer of the night was Eddie Monteiro, closing out with a French Musette, some jazz tunes and the ‘One-note-Samba’. On a personal note: Norman Seaton, my wife Sabine and I spend months on planning and scheduling, emails, phone calls. Between Wednesday and Sunday, I walked more than 35 miles, just in the hotel. Did everything run smoothly? Well, most of the time, there were some hiccups, but we managed, improvised, and got it resolved. In total we had more than 40 sessions and more than a hundred conventioneers joining us. We also like to thank all attendees to make this a success. Thanks to all presenters, vendors and helpers: Dick Albreski, Bob Donovan, Tris Gour, Mike Middleton, Eddie Monteiro, Gene Neyer, Richard Noel, Paul Betken, Jim Rommel, Sharon Seaton, Michael Soloway, Hank Thunander, Dee Langley, Gordon Kohl, Jerry Jacoby, Craig Funderberg, Nick Ballarini Sr and Jr., Joe Petosa, Randy McPeck, Clara Trahan. Thanks also to the Hilton Hotel staff for all their hard work. If you haven’t done it join the NAA Facebook group to see tons of photos and videos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/645075339257586 See you in 2023. We are schedule for March 15 - 19, 2023. So save the date! |
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Buy Last Stock before Price Increase from Euro 29 (US$32.50 approx) to Euro 34 (US$38 approx) - Germanyby Harley Jones |
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 The price from publisher is being increased from Euro 29 (US$32.50 approx) to Euro 34 (US$38 approx) on 1st April. We have books in stock so as long as our shopping basket shows the price Euro 29 you can still purchase at the old price. We expect to run out of stock within a few days so order now to get the special price.Catalog: kslips00 This high quality reprint "must have" book that every teacher, enthusiast and student will cherish is now released. The Art of Accordion Playing by Prof. Friedrich Lips is one of the most popular educational books for accordion with its focus being: Technique, Interpretation and Performance of Playing the Accordion Artistically. The high-quality content now corresponds to the outward appearance of the book: four color printing on high quality hard cover in exclusive design with lamination and paper binding with long lasting thread-stitching. Printed on chlorine-free, bleached, acid-free, stable and age resistant, high quality, matte, non-reflective paper for fatigue-free reading uses a high quality paper made in Germany. The major technical difference of the new print run comparing to the old one is the cover, paper quality and the binding: high quality hard cover with lamination now instead of plain softcover previously and thread-stitching instead of simple glueing. The book is great value at Euro 29, Catalog kslips00 the same price as the older lower quality print version. |
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Jamie Maschler Performed in “Indecent” with the Seattle Repertory Theatreby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Accordionist Jamie Maschler recently appeared at the University of Puget Sound in “Indecent” a play written by Paula Vogel and scored by Lisa Gutkin and accordionist Aaron Halva about another play called "The God of Vengence" written by the Yiddish playwright Sholem Asch. The story recounts the controversy surrounding the play when the show was on Broadway in 1923. The producer and cast were arrested and convicted on the grounds of obscenity. Jamie shares, “This was my second time performing as Nelly Friedman in this production. (The musicians names can be changed according to gender). My first time with the show was in 2018 at Seattle Repertoiry Theater and this run was a student production through the University of Puget Sound. I was also the music director this time around. Although it's not considered a musical there is a lot of music and the musicians are integrated into the cast and are on stage the entire performance. It was a really fullfilling experience. The more I run the show the more I fall in love with it. ”. In her review for Newsday, Linda Winer asked "Has there ever been anything quite like Indecent, a play that touches — I mean deeply touches — so much rich emotion about history and the theater, anti-Semitism, homophobia, censorship, world wars, red-baiting and, oh, yes, joyful human passion?... It’s a gripping and entertaining show with laughter and tears and a real rainstorm in which two women from the marvelous 10-member cast re-enact what, in 1921, had been the first lesbian kiss on an American stage." “Jamie Maschler knows the versatility of the accordion better than most. She has played the instrument since she was four and spent years perfecting and competing…. Talents like her seem to be increasingly valuable.“ -The Atlantic Jamie is based in Seattle, WA where she studied accordion under three-time Latin Grammy Nominee, Jovino Santos Neto at Cornish College of the Arts. Her main projects are Seattle’s only Brazilian forró band- En Canto and Accordion duo- Creosote with Gabe Hall-Rodrigues. Jamie began to play the accordion at age four, thanks to a door to door salesman. Jamie happily says, “The accordion chose me!” Although this may be true, she was instantly enamored with her new instrument and began to study privately with the renowned accordionists and teachers, Dan and Kim Christian, in Colorado Springs. She studied with them throughout her youth. Kim Christian said: “As young as she was, Jamie took to the music right away. She pretty much grew up with our daughters competing and playing together in bands. Jamie always loved music and always loved performing. She won many, many trophies over the 12 years she took lessons with us!” The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) featured Jamie in their Museum of Making Music exhibit titled “Accordions: Expanding Voices in the USA”. She also accompanied the Seattle Symphony’s live scoring of “Lord of the Rings”, and played the accordion part in “Tchaikovsky's Suite No.2” with the Seattle Philharmonic. In October 2019, Jamie was "Nellie Friedman" in Seattle Repertory Theater’s run of Paula Vogel’s Tony award winning play, Indecent. Jamie is a frequent guest performer and presenter of stylized Brazilian and Tango music at numerous festivals. She works for accordion manufacturer Petosa Accordions, where she is able to share her passion and actively participate in the reinvention and face of the traditional Instrument. Jamie’s original music has been aired on the Radio in Seattle, Austin, Salvador BR, and Canada. Jamie has been featured performer and presented workshops on stylized Brazilian and Tango music for the Leavenworth Accordion Convention, National Accordion Association (NAA), Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG), American Accordionists' Association (AAA), Port Townsend Accordion Festival, Seattle Flute Society and the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in AK. For further information: Email: jamie.maschler@gmail.com Photo: Jamie Maschler, Kate Olson, and Alexander Sovronsky in “Indecent” at Seattle Rep. Photo by Bronwen Houck. |
AAA Composers’ Commissioning Committee Information - USAby Dr. Robert Young McMahan Chair, AAA Composers Commissioning Committee; Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey, Music Department |
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 AAA Composers’ Commissioning Committee continues to expand its information on the AAA website at: http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions.php1. Information about the 2022 Elsie Bennett Composition Competition for Aspiring Composers is now online. Information, Awards, Regulations and Entry Form at: 2022Bennett.pdf 2. The AAA Composers’ Commissioning History has been updated and expanded. 3. The Composers Guide for Accordion has been updated and is a free download to assist all accordionists to work with composers. Download at: http://www.ameraccord.com/commissions/ComposersGuide.pdf 4. The historical and analytical series of articles about the AAA commissioned works was originally appearing every year from 1997 through 2019 in the AAA Festival Journal. These Journal articles are now all available to download at: http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions2.php 5. The articles are also being expanded with additional musical examples and historic photographs and then added to the AAA website in html format. |
San Diego Police Officer Plays His Accordion With Local Musiciansby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Officer Gary Gonzales plays on the beach.The San Diego Police Department shares, “Sometimes, we never know where our shift will take us. Officer Gonzales was patrolling Fiesta Island when he saw a group with a large bonfire that was unsafe. He saw they were playing music and singing when he approached the group. Officer Gonzales took a couple of minutes out of his day to bond with the group and show off his accordion skills. After some smiles and memories made, the group agreed to control the bonfire.” A police officer took a break from his patrol to join a music session, as seen in footage released by the San Diego Police Department on March 19, 2022. Officer Gary Gonzales was on patrol on Fiesta Island early in March when he encountered a group of people gathered around a bonfire that he felt was unsafe. The group agreed to control the bonfire, police said, but also gave Gonzales a chance to show off his accordion skills. Video of the impromptu performance has proven a hit on TikTok. In a comment to local media, Gonzales said: “It was one of the best experiences I’ve had working here with the San Diego Police Department." Credit: San Diego Police Department via Storyful. The video shows a man singing “Gaviota” (Seagull) by Mexican music legend Ramón Ayala while another man plays the guitar and the officer plays the accordion. The now-viral moment happened around 8:PM on March 2, police said. In a recent interview Sunday, Officer Gary Gonzales said he approached the group because he noticed their bonfire seemed unsafe, with flames that appeared taller than 12 inches, a violation of the city’s fire pit regulations. Gary shares, “It was one of the best experiences I’ve had working here with the San Diego Police Department,” Gonzales said, adding that he believes the department “does a very good job about talking about how we should not only do our job as police officers but be relatable to the community.” Gonzales, who has been on the police force for almost three years, said he didn’t expect the clip to go viral. He said he noticed the video reached social media users in other states, including Texas and Georgia. Gary was happy he not only bonded with the group on Fiesta Island but also reached others beyond San Diego. He hopes the moment shows that officers can not only enforce regulations but also create positive interactions with community members. Gonzales said he learned to play the accordion 10 years ago when he was 15 . He owns three accordions and plays regularly at home. “For me it’s therapeutic,” he said. “It’s just something I truly do enjoy.” On Sunday, Gonzales reconnected with one of the musicians, Gustavo Ozuna, at Fiesta Island. “We were all amazed — first of all of his talent, and how nice he was when he pulled up,” Ozuna said in an interview. “If he could stay longer, we would’ve had him there all night.” Officer Gary Gonzales is a 27 year veteran of law enforcement: 2 yrs LAPD and 25 years SDPD. Assignments as a Patrol Officer, Community Relations Officer, Police Detective, and Police Sergeant. Previous investigative units includes Central Investigations, Domestic Violence Unit, Elder Abuse Unit, Sex Crimes Unit, Homicide Unit, Southern Division Investigation Unit, Internal Affairs Unit, and Neighborhood Policing Investigations. I am currently assigned as a Sergeant in the Neighborhood Policing Unit; Central Division. An adjunct professor with 15 yrs experience at various colleges in San Diego and is recognized as a passionate, dedicated, and well spoken educator among his colleagues. Possess a unique flare of personal interaction and leadership based training to influence students grasp of the course curriculum and to inspire them to look beyond their own expectations with the forethought of becoming leaders in their own family, community, and career. He teaches at the San Diego Regional Public Safety Training Institute at Mira Mar Community College. Job performance includes academic training to officers and police recruits in law enforcement philosophy and specializes in subject matter of neighborhood policing, diversity, tactical communication, intelligent led policing, domestic violence, elder abuse, and sex crimes.He also teaches with Custom Training to probation officers with the Los Angeles Probation Department on job enhancement skills in the area of Court Room Testimony, Emotional and Psychological Health & Survival on the Job, and Mental Preparedness Skills for Dangerous Situations and Minors in the Institution. Playing the accordion is definitely soothing and great therapy. |
Afro-Caribbean Music Presentation by Loïc Cordeone Da Silvaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Cordeone Loïc Da Silva performing at Small's Jam Session!Accordionist Loïc Cordeone Da Silva Afro-Caribbean will perform for the Brooklyn Accordion Club on Saturday, April 9, 2022 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM EDT. Loïc began his journey playing Portuguese Balls at nine years old. He is a multi-instrumentalist who, starting with the accordion, taught himself to play piano, classic guitar, Portuguese guitar, Brazilian percussions, drums, and the bass. At the age of 18, he embarked on a professional career in music. Cordeone’s musical odyssey has allowed him the pleasure of working and collaborating with amazing artists from all walks of life, such as Jah Mason, Turbulence, Big Joe Turner, Michael Pipoquinha, Ben l'Oncle Soul, Mario Canonge, Samson Schmidt and many more. The Brooklyn Accordion Club will host in person meetings this year. Brooklyn Accordion Club (BAC) was founded in 2013, and is a community of accordionists and accordion enthusiasts in Brooklyn. All are welcome! Volunteer organizers plan open-mic, concerts, and workshops throughout the year. The Brooklyn Accordion Club is sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development Fund of Cultural Affairs, administered by Brooklyn Arts Council (BAC). Photo of Gabriel Bou and Loïc Cordeone. . For further information: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com |
Three Expanded Historical and Analytical Articles by Dr Robert Young McMahan - USAby Robert Young McMahan CCC Chair, Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey Music Department |
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 Dr Robert Young McMahan, Chair of the AAA Composers’ Commission Committee, has written historical and analytical articles about AAA commissioned works from 1997 to 2019.The original version of each article published annually in the AAA Journal is listed in pdf format for historical purposes at: http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions2.php Dr McMahan is pleased to announce that three of the twenty-two articles he wrote have been updated and expanded by the author to include additional information, commentary, and musical examples. These are: - AAFJ1998 Prelude and Dance, by Paul Creston; - AAFJ2010 Sonata-Fantasia, by Normand Lockwood; - AAFJ2011 Introduction and Scherzo, by Nicholas Flagello. Future revisions of the remaining articles will be announced as they are completed. |
Silicon Valley Accordion Society Presents Live Accordion Eventby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Silicon Valley Accordion Society is please present their first Live accordion event in two years on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at 1:30 PM PDT. Doors will open at 1:00 pm PDT, The meeting will start at 1:30 pm PDT. Please note church services are still taking place until 1:PM, therefore, kindly come at 1:00 pm PDT or after. The in person takes place at: Christ Episcopal Church 1040 Border Rd. Los Altos, Ca. The meeting will begin begin with a Jam Band Session for which Bob will be bringing the Band books for all who would like to play, so please bring your accordions and play. There will be a raffle and the featured performer will begin at 3:15 pm PDT. Bob Stansfield and Bill Likens will play Norwegian music. COVID rules: Everyone must have completed at least two vaccines, and everyone must wear a mask. Chairs will be spaced out 6ft for everyone. Be sure to dress in layers as a few doors will beopen to help with ventilation. There will also be a Zoom meeting set up for those who live far away or cannot attend our in person meeting. RSVP: Colette.ogata@gmail.com in order to receive the Zoom link. Zoom Performances are free for members and a donation is requested for nonmembers to help keep the club healthy and able to hire future performers. Please note, Zoom will only be on during the featured performers, which begins at 3:15 PM PDT. To donate or become a member: colette.ogata@gmail. The Silicon Valley Accordion Society welcomes you all. |
Update: Not Just Oompah Workshop Series With Rita Barnea 4/27 and Raif Hyseni...Date Changed to May 19/20by Shirley Johnson and Laura J. Niland, Co-founders of NJO |
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 Online: Shirley Johnson and Laura Niland are proud to announce the first workshop series of an exciting lineup for the 2022 Not Just Oompah Workshop and Concert Series. First, the "Music of Albania" will be presented by Raif Hyseni, followed by the "Music of Eugene Ettore " presented by Rita Davidson Barnea. Cost for attending both of the workshops is $75 for accordionists and both presentations will be held on ZOOM with workshop materials delivered in PDF form to registered participants. Download flyer: 2022FlyerBarnea.pdf Payment and registration information is on the website at www.notjustoompah.org Please note that we have changed the dates for the Not Just Oompah Workshop and Concert with Raif Hyseni to these new dates: Raif Hyseni Workshop : May 19, 2022 @ 7-9:30 PM Central Time on Zoom Raif Hyseni Concert: May 20, 2022 @ 7:30-8:30 PM Central Time on Zoom Rita Barnea Workshop: April 27, 2022 @ 7:00-9:30 PM Rita Davidson Barnea remains the same date and time. We will be extended enrollment for these workshops until May 17, 2022. Price remains the same: $75 for whole package. All workshops and concerts are recorded for later viewing. check the website for registration/payment : www.NotJustOompah.org Raif Hyseni hails from The Republic of Kosova, which has a large Albanian majority. He grew up in the town of Mitrovicë, where he studied accordion at the music school. During high school he performed in amateur ensembles, folk bands, and orchestras, and even toured in Germany, Austria and throughout the Former Yugoslavia. Before moving to Tiranë in 1992, Raif was a well-known radio and television performer in Kosova’s capital city, Prishtinë, performing with well-known singers, and where he performed with the legendary violinist Isak Mucolli. While attending college during the evenings in Prishtinë he worked as a high school music teacher in the afternoons. Rita Davidson Barnea filled glasses of water to create a musical scale and tapped out little songs with a spoon at the age of 4!! Her parents took her to Major Music in Irvington, New Jersey where Eugene Ettore became her accordion teacher at the age of 9. Rita loved the minute she was given her first little red accordion, and to this day, not a day goes by that she is either playing, listening to, writing about the accordion. After years of instruction and playing in bands, she performed in many venues with the Sano Symphony conducted by Eugene Ettore. Rita also learned to play the piano and the violin. Auditioning on the accordion for the University of Connecticut music department, she was a piano major in music education. For over 30 years she taught Pre-K to Grade 5 vocal and special education music in the West Orange, NJ public schools using the accordion every day to accompany her students. On beautiful, warm days, she took her classes and accordion outside to teach lessons. Ms. Barnea is an AAA Governing Board member. For 14 years she has been and still is the National Editor of www.accordionusa.com covering accordion events, artists, concerts, etc. which take place on the North American continent. Rita welcomes accordion news, photos, and information for the USA News. Email her at: ritabelll@aol.com She presents workshops and concerts on Klezmer music as well as on the "Life and Music of Eugene Ettore", ”The Use of the Accordion in the Teaching of Music in School”, and "How to Organize a Children's Birthday Party" centered around the use of the accordion. She has performed in recitals, concerts, workshops, and at accordion festivals throughout the US. Rita is the creator and curator of the Eugene Ettore Memorial Website, which contains photos, articles, and other valuable information at: Eugene Ettore. Free Download the "Music of Eugene Ettore " mp3 album at: http://www.musicforaccordion.com/eTracks/inform/davidson/index.htm Eugene Ettore began to study the accordion at age 5 with his father, Antonio, a Vaudeville accordionist. Truly a Renaissance man with varied interests, Eugene always excelled in any subject that he devoted himself to. He specialized in composing original accordion compositions, as well as arranging music for concert solo and ensemble accordion groups, organ, and guitar (pop and standard tunes.) Mr. Ettore has to his credit over 300 published and unpublished copyrighted works of all types. He was the author of method books for the accordion, French horn, recorder, and melodica, and the Chief Editor and Arranger for Pietro Deiro Publications from 1955 to 1965. Eugene was President and Vice President of the American Accordionists Association (AAA), and awarded as an “Outstanding Composer and Arranger” of that organization, as well as Vice President of the Accordion Teachers Association of New Jersey. He was recipient of ASCAP Standard Pane Awards for 1964 and 1965 and listed in 1955 in "Who's Who in the East". For more information about Eugene Ettore’s vast achievements and accomplished life and career, please visit http://www.accordions.com/memorials/mem/ettore_eugene/ We look forward to seeing you at the ZOOM presentations from both Raif Hyseni and Rita Barnea. Join us for an exciting new year with Not Just Oompah. Download flyer: 2022FlyerBarnea.pdf For more information and workshop Payment/ Registration check the website www.notjustoompah.org |
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Dan Newton Live Stream and More!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: “Fourth Street Mess Around” - Cafe Accordion Orchestra from their album “La Zinger”Daddy Squeeze and Elizabeth entertain on live stream, Monday, April 4, 2022 noon CT. This week's theme is “Down Home”. Send your requests to daddysqueeze@yahoo.com. Then watch live or later. Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton has been dazzling audiences with his creative accordion style for over 40 years. His fresh approach to the much-maligned squeezebox and his mind-boggling repertoire of both original and traditional material will change the mind of the most hardened accordion skeptic. Dan draws influences for songs and tunes from such sources as French Musette, Swing, Cajun, Jug band blues, Celtic and Scandinavian music. Daddy Squeeze entertains and also enlightens his audiences with stories and colorful anecdotes about the accordion and his experiences making a living playing the instrument he loves. Dan has produced more than 25 albums for himself and has appeared on recordings by other artists such as Garrison Keillor, Son Volt, The Proclaimers, Peter Ostroushko, Prudence Johnson and Pat Donohue. He has performed at The Lincoln Center, NY, The Kennedy Center, Washington DC, accordion festivals in Vienna, Austria, Kaustinen, Finnland, Winnepeg, Canada, San Antonio, Milwaukee and Cotati,CA. Dan was a frequent guest on A Prairie Home Companion and spent much of his time playing accordion with his group Café Accordion Orchestra You also have two chances to see Cafe Accordion Orchestra's "April In Paris". Wednesday, April 20, 2022 in the Main Room and Thursday, April 21, 2022 in the Dunsmore Room at Crooners Lounge in Fridley, MN. 6:30 Get tickets early! Cafe Accordion Orchestra offers a way retro mix of Parisian bistro backdrops, Brazilian bossa, Argentine tangos, fun foxtrots, catchy cumbia and a touch of old-school swing. Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestra (CAO) performs an eclectic mix full of French flare, Latin heat and Bohemian attitude. The heart of the CAO repertoire is the romantic, gypsy-influenced valse-musette. The group complements the musettes with swing, ballads, tangos, cha chas, rumbas, and cumbias to create a wonderfully varied show. They inject their music with good humor and expressive abandon. Their high level of musicianship and passion for performance makes them an entertaining concert act as well as a great dance band. Upcoming performances include: Date Event Location Monday, April 4 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM: Daddy Squeeze; Live Stream Facebook Monday, April 11 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM:Daddy Squeeze; Live Stream Facebook Thursday, April 14 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PM:Daddy Squeeze; Waldmann Brewery, St. Paul, MN Monday, April 18 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM: Daddy Squeeze; Live Stream Facebook Wednesday, April 20 @ 6:30PM — 8:PM: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra; Crooners Lounge & Supper Club, Minneapolis, MN Thursday, April 21 @ 6:30PM — 8:30PM: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra; Crooners Lounge & Supper Club, Minneapolis, MN Saturday, April 23 @ 7:PM: Honky Tonk Jump; The Zephyr Theater, Stillwater Monday, April 25 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM: Daddy Squeeze; Live Stream Facebook Sunday, May 1 @ 4:PM: Honky Tonk Jump; Crooners Lounge & Supper Club; Minneapolis, MN Monday, May 2 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM: Daddy Squeeze; Live Stream Facebook Thursday, May 5 @ 6:00PM — 7:PM: The McNordiques; The American Swedish Inst, Minneapolis, MN Sunday, May 8 @ 2:00PM — 3:30PM: Daddy Squeeze; Waldmann Brewery, St. Paul, MN Monday, May 9 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM: Daddy Squeeze Live Stream Facebook Thursday, May 12 @ 7:PM: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra; Crooners Lounge & Supper Club, Minneapolis, MN Friday, May 13 @ 6:00PM — 8:PM: Daddy Squeeze and Elizabeth; City House, Saint Paul Monday, May 16 @ 12:00PM — 1:PM: Daddy Squeeze; Live Stream Facebook Friday, June 3 @ 6:30PM — 8:PM: Pat Donohue & the Prairie All Stars; Music On the Overlook, St Croix Falls, WI Saturday, June 4 @ 7:PM: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra; Wide Spot Performing Arts Center, Stockholm WI Thursday, June 9 @ 7:PM: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra; Crooners Lounge & Supper Club, Minneapolis, MN Sunday, June 12 @ 2:00PM — 3:30PM: Daddy Squeeze; Waldmann Brewery, St. Paul, MN For further information: daddysqueeze@yahoo.com |
Children's Corner |
Nathan Troxell is the Newest Accordionist in the Euro Express Bandby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Nathan Troxell, 15 years old, is the newest member of the Euro Express Band. Please join them Sunday, May 1, 2022 in Lake Villa, when Nate makes his debut with them. Band members include John Gunther on drums, lead vocals & yodeling and Martin Bappert on 6 and 12 string guitars and vocals.Nathan is an accordionist from a suburb of Chicago. He has been playing the accordion since he was 4 years old. When Nate isn’t playing the accordion he enjoys baseball, biking, and playing video games. Nate has won several awards at the Accordion Teacher’s Guild (ATG) competitions. Nate has performed several solo gigs, but this is the first time he has performed in a band. He also plays the tuba in his high school band, marching band and pep band. Nate’s favorite German song to perform is “Im Gamsgebirg”. Nathan's dad, Jim, shares,“We dance at a German community club. Nathan was exposed to accordions there at an early age. At a young age he started dancing. He would go onstage and play his button box accordion. He also performed as a dancer. At age 3, we moved to Chicago area. We did some research and found Kenn Baert who lives 15 minutes from us. The lead person John Gunther, is our friend and he reached out to us because the band needed an accordion player to replace the one who retired. Nate agreed to help out and after practicing with the group. joined the group. We are very proud of him” Nate shares his thoughts about the accordion: 1.What do you like about the accordion? I enjoy the bass on the accordion, because I think of it as the foundation of the accordion, without it the accordion is just a piano with reeds. I couldn’t possibly imagine an accordion without the bass. Before I sight read I go through the bass cleft and play it before I look at the treble cleft. 2. Do you have a favorite piece/pieces to play on the accordion and if so, what is the title and why? My favorite piece always varies, because I play a song and enjoy it, but then I start learning a new song and get completely wowed on how amazing the piece is. It’s a never ending circle of receiving new music and falling in love. Currently my favorite song is Rhapsody in C Minor which is a competition piece I am going to be playing at the ATG., I enjoy it because it is an up and down roller coaster of emotions with quiet, fast, loud, and slow parts within, I guess I enjoy it because it keeps me on my toes. 3. Do you have a favorite accordionist? My favorite accordionist is probably Weird Al Yankovic, he brought fun to the accordion during a struggling time for the instrument in the light 90s and early 2000s. He exclaimed that the accordion doesn’t have to be used for certain Genres. A close second would be Alex Meixner for his ability to transfer any rock song into a polka. 4. What kinds of music do you like to listen to? Any favorite type or bands etc? German music from Bavaria, I love listening to waltzes and polkas. Since I was born in the Bavarian community I have always had a spot in my heart to that fun music, not just because its fun to dance, but its amazing to play the music on the accordion and watch members of the community enjoy and embrace it. 5. What would you like to do in the future If you have some ideas now? What I would do in the future is to practice and keep my fingers spry. I still don’t know what to do with my life, but the accordion I still intend to keep playing regardless of what happens to me. Even if it is going to be the end on the world I would continue with the accordion strapped to my back. 6. How do you feel when you play the accordion? While I play the accordion I feel a million emotions ranging from joy, to sadness, and to rage. It depends on the piece and what I feel in the moment before I play. I use the accordion to convey my feelings, to provide enjoyment, and of course to have fun. Kenn Baert, Nathan's teacher, began his accordion studies in the second grade through a music program at St. Bavo School in Mishawaka, IN. conducted by Gene Van. Kenn enrolled in private lessons, studying with Laura Van, and progressed very quickly winning numerous state and national awards. In 1983, he won the Indiana Virtuoso Solo Championship. Kenn performed at Carnegie Hall in New York as a member of the Gene Van Virtuoso Ensemble, after the group won the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) U.S. Virtuoso Championship. In 1984, Kenn was first runner-up in the AAA Midwest Cup Regional Championship and second runner-up in the 1984 AAA United States Virtuoso Championship. In 2009, Kenn won the United States Roland V-Accordion Championship in Los Angeles, CA. Kenn is a 1989 graduate of Marquette University, in Milwaukee, WI, where he received a BS degree in Computer Science. In 2014, Kenn retired from his Principal Technical Architect position in Information Technology at AT&T. Kenn is also a former Vice President of the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) and has a small number of accordion students that he teaches from his home in Barrington Hills, IL. AWW wishes Nathan continuing successes with his accordion! Photo right: Gene Van and Nate at ATG when he was five years old Photo: Nathan in the Euro Express Band Photo: Nathan at age three |
Future events |
Guy Klucevsek’s 75th Birthday Concert on May 14 in Brooklynby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video 1: “String of Garlands” By Guy KlucevsekBachtopus is excited to release their fourth commission from their 2020 Composers Commissioning Fund, “String of Garlands,” which was originally written by composer and accordionist Guy Klucevsek for accordion orchestra and then arranged for Bachtopus. This composition was written in memory of Anne Garland for her husband David and son Kenji. With a recording catalog spanning four decades, Guy Klucevsek remains one of the most accomplished and respected accordionists in the world. Visuals by Robert Duncan. The Bachtopus Accordion Ensemble’s 2020 Composer Commissioning Fund is sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development Fund of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, administered by Brooklyn Arts Council (BAC). Contributors: Video 2: “Hope Dies Last” Guy shares, “I recorded this work-in-progress solo version 2 years ago. At Roulette, it will be performed in its now-completed form, as a duo for violin and accordion. (in memory of Ann Snitow). This is a piece I have been working on, compositionally, for over a month now, editing, tweaking, polishing, nipping, tucking. This is a work-in-progress performance video--by that I mean I will play it better, given time. But I want to share it with you in its current state for the time being, because I feel I need to. Hopefully, I will someday have a chance to make a more polished and professional-quality video of it, at which time I will post that instead, or in addition. Ann Snitow, along with her partner, Daniel Goode, was one of the first friends I made in New York, in the late 70s/early 80s, when I moved here. She was a dear, dear soul, and delightful person, and is sorely missed.” Roulette Presents Guy Klucevsek 75th Birthday Celebration on May 14, 2022 at 8:PM. “Music of Guy Klucevsek” will be performed by The Bachtopus Accordion Ensemble (Robert Duncan, Peter Flint, Mayumi Miyaoka, Jeanne Velonis) Alan Bern: accordion and piano; Will Holshouser: accordion; Nathan Koci, accordion; Jenny Lin, piano; Todd Reynolds, violin. The event will feature solos, duos and ensemble pieces written between 1980 and 2021, including five premieres. Roulette is located on 509 Atlantic Ave. Brooklyn, NY. Having retired from the concert stage in 2019, Klucevsek is proud to hand over the performances in this program of solos, duets and quartets to a distinguished cast of musicians he has worked with over many years and, in some cases, decades: Todd Reynolds, violin, Jenny Lin, piano, and accordionists the Bachtopus ensemble (Robert Duncan, Peter Flint, Mayumi Miyaoka, Jeanne Velonis), Alan Bern (doubling piano), Will Holshouser and Nathan Koci. The pieces Klucevsek has selected represent 40+ years of his composing, from “Oscillation No. 2 for piano” (1980), through “The Grass”, “It Is Blue (Ain’t Nothin’ But a Polka)” (1986), “Flying Vegetables of the Apocalypse” (1988), “Eleven Large Lobsters Loose in the Lobby “(1991) and “Bar Talk” (1998) (in memory of Béla Bartók), up to pieces from the 21st century, including Seven World Premieres: “Seesaw Song”, Will Holshouser, accordion “Feel the Bern”, Alan Bern, accordion “String of Garlands” and “Slango”, Bachtopus accordion ensemble “Winter is an Etching”, Jenny Lin, piano, and Todd Reynolds, violin “A Certain Slant of Light”, Jenny Lin, piano “Hope Dies Last”, Todd Reynolds, violin and Nathan Koci, accordion Guy Klucevsek is one of the world’s most versatile and highly-respected accordionists. He has performed and/or recorded with Laurie Anderson, Bang On a Can, Brave Combo, Anthony Braxton, Anthony Coleman, Dave Douglas, Bill Frisell, Rahim al Haj, Robin Holcomb, Kepa Junkera, the Kronos Quartet, Natalie Merchant, Present Music, Relâche, Zeitgeist, and John Zorn. He is the recipient of a 2010 United States Artists Collins Fellowship, an unrestricted $50,000 award given annually to “America’s finest artists.” He has premiered over 50 solo accordion pieces, including his own, as well as those he has commissioned from Mary Ellen Childs, William Duckworth, Fred Frith, Aaron Jay Kernis, Jerome Kitzke, Stephen Montague, Somei Satoh, Lois V Vierk, and John Zorn. His performances include the Ten Days on the Island Festival (Tasmania), the Adelaide Festival (Australia), the Berlin Jazz Festival, Lincoln Center, Spoleto Festival/USA, BAM Next Wave Festival, Cotati Accordion Festival, San Antonio International Accordion Festival, Vienna International Accordion Festival, and the children’s television show “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.” His 1987 project, Polka From the Fringe, a collection of commissioned polkas by Fred Frith, Elliott Sharp, Bobby Previte, Carl Finch, et. al., toured around the world and was released on 2 cds on the eva label, and were named “best recordings 1992” on WNYC-FM’s “New Sounds” program. In 1996, he founded Accordion Tribe, an international ensemble of composer/accordionists Otto Lechner (Austria), Maria Kalanemi (Finland), Lars Hollmer (Sweden), Bratko Bibic (Slovenia) and himself. They toured internationally from 1996-2009, are the subjects of Stefan Schwietert’s award-winning documentary film, Accordion Tribe: Music Travels, and released 3 cds on the Intuition (Germany) label. His music theatre scores include “Chinoiserie” and “Obon” with Ping Chong and Company, “Hard Coal,” with the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, “Industrious Angels” for Laurie McCants, “Cirque Lili” for French circus artist Jérôme Thomas, which has been performed over 250 times world wide, always with live music, and his own piece, “Squeeze Play,” an evening of collaborations with Dan Hurlin, David Dorfman and Dan Froot, Claire Porter, and Mary Ellen Childs. He and Dan Hurlin were awarded, jointly, a BESSIE for, “The Heart of the Andes,” which has played the Henson International Puppetry Festival, The Barbican Center in London, and the Ten Days on the Island Festival, Tasmania. Klucevsek has released over 20 recordings as soloist/leader on Tzadik, Winter & Winter, innova, Starkland, Review, Intuition, CRI, and XI. Stereo Review cited his Starkland recording, Transylvanian Software, as a recording of special merit” (1995). He can also be heard on John Williams’s orchestral scores for the Steven Spielberg films, “The Terminal,” “Munich,” “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” and “The Adventures of Tin-Tin,” and on A. R. Rahman’s score for “People Like Us.” Tickets: $20 Online/ $25 Door. Doors open at 7:PM. * A live stream will be available free of charge at 8:PM on the day of the performance and archived for future viewing. * Please support Roulette this season. Donate. For further information: gklucevsek@mac.com |
UMKC Community Chamber Accordion Ensemble To Perform AT 2022 ATGby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC) Chamber Accordion Ensemble are preparing for an upcoming performance in Lisle, IL (Chicago) as part of the upcoming 80th Anniversary Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival. The ATG Festival is July 20-24, 2022 in Lisle, Chicago. Excerpts from the ATG website: All players are alumni of the University of Missouri - Kansas City, and former members of the renowned UMKC Accordion Orchestra with guest member Joanna Arnold-Darrow joining the group for the 2022 performances. The players make their living in various careers, but each have remained devoted to promoting the accordion and its varied repertoire, which includes transcriptions, commissions and other original works. The UMKC Accordion Ensemble directed by Joan Cochran Sommers include: Seated L to R: Betty Jo Simon (former ATG President), Samantha Jarquio Wagner, Joan Cochran Sommers (Director, former ATG President), Christine Jarquio Nichols, Jane Christison. Standing back row L to R: Mary Ann Covone, (current ATG President), Ron Dake, Ron Barrow, Kevin Friedrich (former ATG President), Cathy Sue Weiss. They recently performed in Chicago, San Francisco, Kansas City, the 80th Anniversary of the AAA in Alexandria, VA. and in Superior, WI at the World of Accordions Museum. In addition, they have participated in the USA contributions to previous World Accordion Day events, when videos of their performances were broadcast during the live presentations. Joan C. Sommers has held numerous positions in several music organizations, including the Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) and the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA – IMC-UNESCO) where she was recently awarded lifetime Honorary Membership. The UMKC Chamber Accordion Ensemble performs under the direction of Joan C. Sommers who also plays as a member of the ensemble. Joan C. Sommers was awarded the title of Professor Emerita upon her retirement from the University of Missouri – Kansas City Conservatory of Music (USA), where she established and taught the accordion degree program for forty years. She has arranged innumerable works for both Accordion Orchestra and Chamber Ensemble over many years, works that have been performed around the globe. Today she enjoys performing with fellow accordionists in duo, with other instrumentalists, with the UMKC Chamber Accordion Ensemble and as guest Conductor with various orchestras around the world including leading the magnificent World Accordion Orchestra XI in Shenzhen, China on August 18, 2019. The 2022 University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC) Chamber Accordion Ensemble pictured are: Standing: Mary Ann Covone, Ron Dake, Ron Barrow, Kevin Friedrich, Cathy Sue Weiss. Sitting: Betty Jo Simon, Samantha Wagner, Joan C. Sommers (Director), Christine Jarquio Nichols and Jane Christison (not pictured: Joanna Arnold Darrow.) The UMKC concert takes place on Thursday, July 21, 2022, 7:30 PM concert at Wheaton College. Plan to attend the 80th Anniversary of the ATG. |
Connecticut Accordion Association in Concert at Mattatuck Museumby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Connecticut Accordion Association and The Mattatuck Museum present: “The Accordion Lives On! The Mattatuck Celebrates Waterbury's Musical History”. The Connecticut Accordion Association's Orchestra will perform in concert on a beautiful outdoor rooftop veranda at the newly renovated Mattatuck Museum on June 12, 2022 from 2:00 to 4:00! The Mattatuck Museum is located on 63 Propset St, Waterbury, CT, across from the Waterbury Green. If the weather doesn't allow an outdoor performance then the concert will be indoors at the Mattatuck's Performing Arts Center. If held indoors, covid related requirements will be followed. Under the direction of Peter Peluso, the Connecticut Accordion Orchestra will perform a variety of pieces from classical to jazz and light rock, ethnic to show tunes...and some patriotic pieces added for good measure. Come join them on the rooftop of the museum and hear the accordion in all its glory! Mr. Peluso's extensive career as a certified music teacher in Connecticut and New York includes teaching positions in Edwards, New York, as well as Farmington, and Plainville, CT. The last 25 years of his formal teaching career were spent in Hartford, CT at the Greater Hartford, CT Academy for the Arts, where he taught musical theater with high school students. Peter is an accomplished accordionist, pianist, vocal teacher and conductor of community bands, choruses and youth theater groups. He directed The Plainville, CT Choral Society's Youth theater production of the Broadway musical “Starmites.” His career includes working with local bands as an accordionist. He acts as conductor for the CAA orchestra upon request. His many accomplishments include working with composers to premier new works. Vocal students and colleagues of Peter's have graced the CAA orchestra's performances. His musical colleagues performed at the AAA Festival in Tarrytown in 2014. The Connecticut Acccordion Association began in 2004, the brainchild of Marilyn O'Neil and her accordion teacher, Mary Tokarski. The CAA is dedicated to the promotion of the accordion through all music genres and all variations of accordion instruments! They welcome musicians who play all types of accordions....piano accordion, diatonic, chromatic button and more. Accordionists at all levels are invited including people who may not play the accordion, but love to listen. CAA Membership is open to all accordionists and accordion enthusiasts. A yearly membership fee of $30.00 will provide you with information about all planned CAA events. CAA members have access to most CAA events at a discounted rate. Membership will also provide you with an opportunity to play with the CAA orchestra. Accordion professionals for hire can post their availability on the website. CAA membership will provide you with access to information about accordion manufacturer and/or repair resources. General Admission: $15.00 Mattatuck Museum Members: $10.00 Age 12 and under: $5.00 Note: Any Covid Protocols established by the Museum will apply. The CAA is an affiliate of the American Accordionists’ Association, A 501c3 corporation founded in 1938. www.ameraccord.com For further information: Marilyn: caa@ctaccordion.com (203) 272-1202 |
2022 ATG International Festival July 20 - 24by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) led by President Mary Ann Covone invites everyone to join in its 2022 Festival on July 20 to 24, 2022. Come and celebrate the accordion and ATG’s 80+ years as an important organization for accordion teachers, professional accordionists, and other accordionists and students.The Festival includes four separate concerts; a unique “Petting Zoo” open without charge to the general public, giving the curious and youngsters a hands on experience with an accordion; the opportunity to play in an 80 musician orchestra on a magnificent concert stage; Exhibitors; Competitions with prize money and trophies; proficiency examinations; Workshops; a Gala Banquet, and, most importantly, the renewed opportunity to meet with and enjoy the company of fellow accordionists from across the county. The Festival takes place from July 20th to 24th, 2022, in Lisle, Illinois at two locations: The Lisle Hyatt Regency and the Wheaton College campus’ Armerding Center for Music and Arts and Barrows Auditorium. Three evening concerts will be at the college campus. The evening concert at Barrows Auditorium features the UMKC Accordion Ensemble directed by Joan Cochran Sommers. The event competition will include a variety of age group categories for soloists, duos, ensembles, groups and orchestras. Closing date for entries is June 15th, 2022. Download competition rules here: 2022ATGRules.pdf Hotel information, registrations, schedule of events are all online at: https://www.atgaccordions.com/2022-festival-lisle |
The 2022 Accordion Seminars: July 29 - 31by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The 2022 Accordion Seminars curated by Dr. William Schimmel is scheduled for July 29, 30 and 31, 2022. This will be the 28th year. Like the last two years, they will be virtual. The Theme is: “Too much information, too little time, but we do it anyway”.The Seminars will be presented by a new organization, The Accordion Global Association. The Master Classes will be from 3 to 4:PM. The concerts from 4 to 5:PM. The distinguished list of participants include: Micki Goodman, Rita Barnea, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young McMahan, Will Holshouser, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dr. Denise Koncelik, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Doug Makofka, Jeanne Velonis, Sari Kalin, Brian Dewan, Erica Marie Mancini, Mary Spencer Knapp, Benjamin Ickies, Dan Cooper, Peter Flint, William Komaiko, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Gene Pritske, Peter Jarvis, Bachtopus, Mayumi Mayoaka, Robert Duncan, David First, Bob Goldberg, Carl Riehl, Rachel Quirbach, Melissa Allege, Dave Soldie and more to follow....And more to follow... Seminar topics include: In your face Out of your face The New Professional The Vague Panther - dealing with navigation of rough waters The technique of ideas The technique of chops Ideas and chops The Accordion as Homing Pigeon Accordi yoga Zen Phrasing revisited Accordio meditation De stressing with your accordion Fun with a purpose Fun with a porpose Hard work - with payoff (instant gratification) Hard work with delayed payoff (the art of patience) Contraction and release Aught Culture and Reverse Irony New works Old works - new angles Nothing new, but how we look at it The Accordion as Smile - La - Phone Morality and the Accordion $150 - entire weekend $25 per Master Class $25 per Concert Payment methods will appear in the April issue Dr. Schimmel’s Recent Projects include Free E-Books, 2 New Books, Upcoming Performances. His 7 E - Books that can be downloaded for free on his website: 1.That means What?! 2.The Cosmic Accordion 3.The Accordion Players’ Perspective 4.Accordion Clarifications 5.Red Lantern Accordion Seminars 6.The 2018 e - book 7.The 2016 Accordion Seminars “54 Ways to go Oompah” - a 12 minute piece that takes you through various styles that can be played using a simple bass/chord approach. “Zen of the Quint” - a short book containing short exercises for the left hand Quint Convertor from simple to quirky. It deals more with right brain activity than left brain. “Performance, a Counterpoint of Dimensions” - a paper For further information and payment method: Contact Dr. Schimmel: 212-876-0827 accordionbill@gmail.com |
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebrationby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration will be held in Leavenworth, Washington, USA from June 16th to 19th, 2022. The festival will include a variety of performances, workshops, lessons, jam sessions, an accordion parade, dancing with dance music provided by the Northwest Accordionaires as well as a celebration of the 100th year anniversary of Petosa accordions. Tickets will be available from April 2022. See poster for details. Download event schedule here: 2022Leavenworth.pdf |
Cotati Festival 2022by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Tickets are now on sale for the 31st annual, multicultural, nonprofit, Cotati accordion Festival taking place August 20 & 21, 2022 in La Plaza Park in downtown Cotati, Ca. Music at the festival will range from Conjunto, folk, jazz, Irish, Venezuelan, rock, classical, zydeco, western & more. The event will include a Jam Tent, a Zydeco Dance Party, a Student Stage, the Ray's Deli Stage, and two main stages, along with over 60 vendors including crafts, accordions, food, wine and beer. Headliners include: Alex Meixner, Tracey Collins (from New Zealand), Stas Venglevski Cory Pesaturo, Ginny Mac, Sourdough Slim, Hernandez Hideaway, the Mad Maggies, Erica Mancini and many more. All the proceeds go to local nonprofit youth organizations, funding their music programs and outdoor education. Sign up as a volunteer and receive a weekend pass to the festival, along with a ticket to the hospitality tent. Tickets will be available online: $19.00for one day ticket purchased in advance. $28.00for two day ticket purchased in advance. $23.00for a one day ticket at the gate. $32.00for a two day ticket at the gate. $17.00 for one day senior discounted ticket purchased in advance. $21.00 for one day senior discounted ticket purchased at the gate. Kids 15 and under FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. |