![Jacques Mornet's [non] Method Book with Video Support](http://www.accordions.com/index/squ/graphics/jmornet-en.jpg)
Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
Danielle Renzi Wins Roland USA National Competition in Orlando
2011 AAA Festival: A Fun, Fantastic and Fabulous Time for All
Benefit Concert Given by Gene Van Accordion Orchestra
21st Annual Cotati Festival: August 20-21st
Peter Soave to Premiere New Accordion Concerto by Max Simoncic
Al Terzo, New Conductor of the Accordion Pops Orchestra
AAA Valtaro Celebration: September 10th
Registration is Still Open for ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Jessica Faltot to Premiere New Composition by Gene Van
15 year old Ignacio Morales Wins the Big Squeeze Contest
American Accordionists' Association Website Updated
The Lucarelli Accordion Family: Fabio & Fabio in Concert
Anita and Bob Siarkowski: A Couple of Accordions!
Future events |
Wallace Accordion Festival: August 11-14 in Idaho
LIAA Accordion Night on August 2nd
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 The summer may be ending soon, but accordion activities continue through the summer and on into the Fall season.In this issue, you will read about summer festivals and the accordion events you will want to plan on going to in the next few months. This summer, I met many adults who came to festivals with the idea of gathering information about the accordion. They want to learn to play the accordion! Remember, you are never too old or too young to learn an instrument. If you ask me..........the best one is the accordion! Not only will you enjoy the instrument, but you will find new friends who share your interest. Some people meet their spouse because they play the accordion! See that special story in this issue. Read the August news to find out more! |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USAby Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
 |
  I am writing this on the plane flying internationally to Las Vegas for the Octoberfest Las Vegas International from 15th to 18th October at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Paul Betken & Jerry Cigler are newly added to a great line up of stars (list below) with lots of great seats still available! Want to hop a plane to come and enjoy this exciting festival? Newsletter (picture right) with full information: 2018LVACnews.pdf Picture left: Event organizer Paul Pasquali The lineup starts with visionary accordionist Cory Pesaturo and bookends with a grand finale starring Grayson Masefield and the International Accordion Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Prof. Joan Sommers. You can register online at www.AccordionStars.com or contact Paul Pasquali, event organizer, by phone at 1-800-472-1695 or (801) 485-5840, email: paul@accordioninfo.com. |
 |
Danielle Renzi Wins Roland USA National Competition in Orlandoby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
 |
  Photos above. Top, Senior Division contestants: Anthony Federici, Svetlana Ivanchenko, Tatiana Semichastnova, Danielle Renzi and Gregory FainshteinMiddle: Junior Division contestants: Kassandra Patterson, Olivia Luey, Rachael Renzi, Brian Aucoin and Daniel Pavlotsky Lower: Jury: Kevin Friedrich, Jeff Lisenby, Danilo Di Paolonicola and Sergio Scappini. Held in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the 71st Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival Competition and Festival, the Roland USA V-Accordion Festival featured 10 of the USA’s top young Roland accordionists. After two extremely close competitions just one mark separated the top three place getters in the USA National Roland V-Accordion Festival Final, with Danielle Renzi from New England narrowly taking the top title from Gregory Fainshtein, who was awarded a special recognition of his performance with an Honored Performance Prize for his second place. Photo right: Roland winners, Daniel Pavlotsky (Junior) and Danielle Renzi (Senior) Danielle’s prize included a new V-Accordion and trip to Rome to compete in the International V-Accordion Festival. The Junior division was also closely contested, with the winner being Daniel Pavlotsky, with second place getter Olivia Luey being awarded an Honored Performance Prize. The event was supported by a star studded cast of Roland Executives including Chris Bristol, President & CEO of Roland Corporation USA, Chris Halon, Roland US Director of Product Management, Yoshi Shibata, Liasison Manager for Roland US and the Japan Headquarters, Virginia Harmon USA Roland Festival Coordinator, Steve Albini Roland US V-Accordion Product Manager, Marco Cinaglia, V-Accordion Product Manager of Roland Europe and numerous others including guest artists Sergio Scappini - Roland V-Accordionist (Italy), Danilo Di Paolonicola - Roland Diatonic Accordionist (Italy), 2010 Roland US V-Accordion Festival winner Christopher Gorton (USA), Alex and Peter Chudolij (USA), 2007 Grammy nominee Alex Meixner (Roland V-Accordion and Diatonic Accordion). Held at the Renaissance Orlando Hotel the competition was held in two categories Senior (age 18 and older) and Junior (age 17 and younger). Danielle won a trip to the International V-Accordion Festival to be held in Rome, Italy later in the year, the contestants who participated in the finals were as follows: Youth Division contestants were Brian Aucoin, Olivia Luey, Kassandra Patterson, Daniel Pavlotsky and Rachael Renzi, and in the Senior Division contestants were Gregory Fainshtein, Anthony Federici, Svetlana Ivanchenko, Danielle Renzi and Tatiana Semichastnova. Adjudicators for this competition were International Roland guest artist Sergio Scappini (Italy), Danilo Di Paolonicola (International Diatonic Artist), renowned Nashville Musician and former US Champion Jeff Lisenby and CIA Ambassador and accordionist Kevin Friedrich. The exciting competition was hosted by Chris Halon, Roland US Director of Product Management, who also interviewed each contestant at the conclusion of their performance allowing the audience to learn a little more about each of the young artists. Both winners were featured on the ATG Gala Concert which was hosted by Roland and featured an exceptional line-up of Roland Artists covering many musical genre For further information: Steven.albini@rolandus.com Photo below, left to right: Chris Halon, Roland US Director of Product Management, Chris Bristol, President & CEO of Roland Corporation USA, Kevin Friedrich (Jury), Jeff Lisenby (Jury), Tatiana Semichastnova, Daniel Pavlotsky (Winner of the Junior Division), Danielle Renzi, Anthony Federici, Brian Aucoin, Olivia Luey, Rachael Renzi, Gregory Fainshtein, Svetlana Ivanchenko, Danilo Di Paolonicola (Jury), Sergio Scappini (Jury) and Steve Albini, Roland US V-Accordion Product Manager. |
 |
2011 AAA Festival: A Fun, Fantastic and Fabulous Time for Allby Rita Barnea |
 |
 Photo above: AAA President Linda Soley Reed, AAA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Joan Sommers and AAA Contest Chairperson Mary Tokarski.Link to 2011_AAAPhotos The very successful 2011 American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Festival held in Charleston, South Carolina, July 13-17, attracted people from all over the USA and Canada. Joan C. Sommers was presented with the AAA Lifetime Achievement Award during the Saturday evening Banquet. The Festival Orchestra, under Joan's skilled direction, gave a superb performance with over sixty accordionists participating, performing selections that included: "The Sound of Music", "Welcome to Venice", "Music of the Night", and "Phantom of the Opera". Frank Busso led the Massed Band in a spirited performance of "The Charleston". Music during the cocktail hour and dinner was provided by Walt Kasprzyk and Randall Martin. The 2011 AAA Festival featured a new idea: Young talented Charleston musicians who play other instruments performing with young accordionists! It was organized by Marilyn O' Neill, Joan Grauman, Manny Bobenrieth, Lenny Feldmann, Rita Davidson and Eddie Monteiro. Led by Eddie, they performed on Saturday afternoon to a delighted audience. The students who participated were: Anna Kroninger (Flute, age 14), Xavier Wright (Tenor Sax, age 14), Kendrick Johnson (Trumpet, age 16), Richard Kroninger (Trombone, age 14), and accordionists: Michael Parziale (18), Andre Fry (16), and Emmanuel Gasser (14). The gifted group, Ocotrillo, with Gabe Hall-Rodriguez (Accordion), Sean Brogan (Bass), and Wes Anderson (Drums) presented an outstanding performance. As a result of its resounding success, the 2nd Annual Youth Program will be an important part of the 2012 AAA Festival in Baltimore. More information to be given in future articles. Joan Grauman, AAA Board member and AAA Historian provided an informative and interesting display of the AAA's history. She organizes this every year for AAA events, constantly updating and adding valuable information. The accordion community is very fortunate that she devotes her time and artistic talents to historically important projects. This year, in order to create and encourage interest in the accordion as an integral part of today's music scene, she organized a fascinating poster display containing photos and information about today's groups which incorporate the accordion. As always, she welcomes any information and photos which you can provide about the AAA especially since the 75th Anniversary of the AAA will be in 2013. Please send information to her email: Joangrauman@verizon.net. She will promptly return all materials. Informative and entertaining workshops were creatively presented by: Dr. Ian Blair Fries, Rita Davidson, Joan Grauman, Gabe Hall-Rodriguez, Karen Malan-Uribe, Randy Martin, Dr. Robert Young McMahan, Joe Natoli, Ray Oreggia, Joan Sommers and Mary Tokarski. Various prestigious competitions were held with the following results: U.S. Virtuoso Solo Champion: 1st - Andre Fry, Annapolis, MD; 2nd - Katrina Cheung, Fullerton, CA; 3rd – Quinn Collins, Tempe, AZ. Quinn Collins, Liam Collins and Rachel Quirbach were each presented with monetary “Incentive Awards” for their presentations in the U.S. Piano Accordion Competition and the Maddalena Belfiore Entertainment Competition for Female Accordionists. Elsie M Bennett Composition Competition: 1st – Andre Fry, Annapolis, MD; 2nd – Peter Di Giovanni, Oakton, VA; 3rd – Emmanuel Gasser, St. Charles, Ontario, Canada. Adult divisions winner Shao Ying of Cheng Du, China, was a hit at the Awards Concert. The International Accordion Orchestra Competition adjudicators (Joan Sommers, Dr. Robert McMahan and Frank Busso Sr.) awarded the Martin Music School Accordion Orchestra 1st place, and cash award for the orchestra’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s 4th Symphony (Finale) as part of the Classical Program and a collection of Southern Melodies arranged by Randy Martin as the Entertainment portion of the program. Featured guest artists and ensembles included: Donna Dee Ray, Walt Kasprzyk, Dr. Robert Young McMahan and soprano, Joy Bechtler, Ocotrillo featuring Frank Petrilli and Gabe Hall-Rodriguez (AAA 2010 US Virtuoso Solo Champion), Joe Natoli, The Connecticut Accordion Orchestra conducted by Linda Soley Reed, The Martin Accordion Orchestra conducted by Randy Martin, Roland USA V-Junior Champion Alicia Baker, Nashville multi-talented Jeff Lisenby, jazz accordion great Eddie Monteiro, Randy Martin, AAA Massed Band conducted by Frank Busso, and the 2011 AAA Festival Orchestra conducted by Joan C. Sommers. The audience was treated to a delightful reunion appearance of world class, The K Trio. The group consists of AAA Virtuoso Champions and siblings, Julie Kasprzyk-Cardona, Walter Kasprzyk, and Mary Kasprzyk Tokarski. Their program included crowd pleaser "Clair De Lune" and their signature piece, "Casey Jones" as well as other beloved selections. The AAA Board invites all accordionists to attend the 2012 AAA Festival July 11-15th at the Sheraton City Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Virtuoso accordionist, Stas Venglevski, will be the Guest Conductor and Guest Artist. Stas Venglevski has a warm and friendly personality that combined with his virtuoso skills as a performer, teacher, and conductor, ensures a wonderful time for all who attend. Do not miss this special event. More details will be provided in future issues. 2011_AAAPhotos For further information: aaa1938@aol.com Photo below: Eddie Monteiro and 2011 Youth Jazz Ensemble. |
 |
Benefit Concert Given by Gene Van Accordion Orchestraby Rita Barnea |
 |
| On Friday evening, August 5, 2011, the Gene Van Accordion Orchestra, conducted by Gene Van, will perform a benefit concert in South Bend, Indiana, entitled “Accordions Extraordinaire.” Michiana Performing Arts Association is sponsoring the concert. Members of the orchestra reside in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Texas, Florida and South Carolina, and are primarily former students of Gene Van. Joseph Natoli, 1972 American Accordionists' Association (AAA) U.S. Virtuoso Champion and Coupe Mondiale first runner-up and 2008 Grand Prize winner of the first Roland V-Accordion festival, from Delaware, Ohio, will once again be a guest performer with the group. Jessica Faltot, former student of Gene Van, will present the world premiere of his new composition for solo accordion, "Time is Once Again". Kenn Baert, 1983 Indiana Accordionists' Association Virtuoso Solo Champion and 2009 Roland V-Accordion Grand Prize winner from Barrington Hills, Illinois, will also be a featured soloist. Kenn is employed by AT& T Services as a software specialist and is married with three children. Kenn is a former student of Gene Van. All three soloists, Joe, Jessica and Kenn, will also perform with the orchestra The purpose of this concert is to raise funds to benefit two very worthy causes. The Climb Project, a group of volunteers consisting of parents and family members of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ADS), is affiliated with the Sonya Ansari Center for Autism at LOGAN and is dedicated to promoting awareness of this disorder and assisting in fund raising efforts to provide specialized training for local parents and educators facing the challenges of helping individuals with autism. This effort is spearheaded by Mr. Van’s daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Vince DelPrete, whose 11-year-old son, Mateo, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. Additionally funds raised will be used to support the Mennonite Disaster Service, a volunteer network of Anabaptist churches that responds to those affected by disasters in the United States and Canada by assisting with cleanup, repair and rebuilding of houses and helps to restore lives. With the numerous weather-related disasters in recent months, this organization has been extremely busy. The Gene Van Accordion Orchestra has performed many benefit concerts in the past supporting various not-for-profit organizations and plans to continue this effort in the future. The free concert will be held at the Kern Road Mennonite Church located at 18211 Kern Road in South Bend, Indiana, and will start at 7:00 PM. If you would like to assist one or both of these organizations by making a donation, please make payments to: The Sonya Ansari Center for Autism ‘Climb Project’ or to the Mennonite Disaster Service and mail to the address below: Mrs. Joyce Schultz, Treasurer, Michiana Performing Arts Association 2809 Northwood, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545 The concert will be recorded and made available for purchase on DVD and CD at a later date. Proceeds from the sales will be directed to the Sonya Ansari Center for Autism ‘Climb Project’ and to the Mennonite Disaster Service. If you would like to place an order, or have any questions about the concert: Phone Gene Van:(574) 262-0212 Email: Genevanmusic@yahoo.com |
21st Annual Cotati Festival: August 20-21stby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The 21st Annual Cotati Accordion Festival will be held Friday, August 20-21st in Cotati, California. The Cotati Accordion Festival is a non-profit organization established in 1991 to promote the love of the accordion and donates all monies earned to a number of youth groups in the community.To date they have contributed over $320,000 to the youth of their community. The CAF provides funds for Performing Arts Programs in the local schools. With all the budget cuts constantly eliminating school programs, the organization recognizes the need for outside sources to keep these programs alive. They believe that discontinuing the Performing Arts (music, drama & art) is detrimental to the education of future generations. The Cotati Accordion Festival Event started in 1991, through selfless dedication of many volunteers who donated time and money. There has been a tremendous support of individuals and businesses working together to create this two-day multi-cultural, multi-generational, musical extravaganza for both residents and tourists. The last 20 years of events have been wonderful community building affairs. Now the CAF is in their 21st year, generating positive public relations and giving credibility for the community, Cotati, and the accordion.The Cotati Accordion Festival has had a very positive effect on the resurgence of the accordion and community spirit and more opportunity and fun for accordion players. The 2011 CAF PERFORMERS SCHEDULE: SATURDAY AUGUST 20, 2011 9:45:10:15 The Golden State Accordion Club Band 10:20-10:50 Tangonero 10:55-11:25 Ramon Trujillo & Mariachi Los Caporales 11:30-12:00 Amber Lee & the Anomalies 12:05-12:35 Alicia Baker (sponsored by Roland) 12:45-1:00 The Great Morgani 1:05-1:45 Limpopo 1:50-2:15 Lady of Spain-A-Ring Audience Participation 2:15-2:55 Guy Klucevsek 3:00-3:40 The Georges Lammam Ensemble 3:45-4:00 The Great Morgan 4:05-4:45 Ginny Mac BIO 4:50-5:10 Cory Pesaturo BIO 5:15-5:55 The Mad Maggies BIO 6:00-6:15 Nada Lewis BIO 6:20-7:20 Polkacide BIO 12:00-5:00 Saturday Cajun/Zydeco Dance Party Friar Tucks, 8201 Redwood Hwy. Dance Lessons 12:00-1:00 by Ted Sherrod Mark St. Mary 1:00-5:00 9:30-5:00 Both Days Polka Dance Party in the Polka Tent on site 9:30-11:00 Jim Gilman 11:00-12:00 Chuck Berger 1:00-5:00 Steve Balich Sr. Polka Band 5:05-6:30 Saturday Zydeco Dance Party in the Polka Tent on site The Creole Belles SUNDAY AUGUST 21, 2011 9:45-10:15 The Golden State Accordion Club Band BIO 10:20-10:50 Sweet Penny Royals BIO 10:55-11:25 The Accordion Babes Pagent 11:30-12:10 Cory Pesaturo 12:15-12:45 Simka 12:50-1:05 The Great Morgani 1:10-1:45 Bella Ciao 1:50-2:15 Lady of Spain-A-Ring Audience Participation 2:20-3:00 Mary Tokarski 3:05-3:50 Murl Allen Sanders 3:55-4:10 The Great Morgani 4:15-4:55 Limpopo 5:00-5:15 Amber Lee Baker 5:20-5:55 Culann's Hounds 6:00-6:10 to be announced 6:15-7:00 Those Darn Accordions 12:00-5:00 Sunday Cajun/Zydeco Dance Party Friar Tucks, 8201 Redwood Hwy. Dance Lessons 12:00-1:00 by Ted Sherrod MotorDude Zydeco 1:00-5:00 9:30-5:00 Both Days Polka Dance Party in the Polka Tent on site 9:30-11:00 Jim Gilman 11:00-12:00 Chuck Berger 1:00-5:00 Steve Balich Sr. Polka Band 5:00-6:30 Saturday Zydeco Dance Party in the Polka Tent on site Courtableau For further information: Phone: 707-664-0444 Email: info@cotatifest.com |
Peter Soave to Premiere New Accordion Concerto by Max Simoncicby Rita Barnea |
 |
 Accordionist Peter Soave will present the World Premiere of a new accordion concerto by Max Simoncic with the Stockton Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Peter Jaffe on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 8:00 PM and Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 6:00 PM at the Atherton Auditorium, San Joaquin Delta College. The Commission Sponsor and Guest Artist Sponsor: Thomas & Virginia Chen. "Meet the Maestro” pre-concert talks begin 45 minutes prior to each performance.Recognized worldwide as the foremost master of the bandoneon and concert accordion, Peter Soave has established himself as the leading soloist of his generation. The hallmark of his performances is his unique combination of commanding stage presence and the excitement of his vibrant virtuosity. Of Italian descent, Peter Soave's earliest memories are of music played on an accordion. By age three, he was certain of his life's work. He began music studies at five, and quickly gravitated towards classical music. At sixteen, he entered international competitions and swept first place four times, confirming his reputation as a virtuoso of the highest order: Grand Prix in Neu Isenberg, West Germany; Klingenthal Wettbewerb in East Germany; Coupe Mondiale in Folkstone, England; and the Trophée Mondiale in Arrezano, Italy. In 1987, Peter Soave was the inaugural recipient of "Voce d'Oro," the international award honoring those who have given prominence to the accordion in the world of modern music. Deeply inspired by the music of Argentinean composer Astor Piazzolla, Mr. Soave's impassioned musicianship motivated him to include the characteristic bandoneon in his performances. Peter's engagements include performances as a soloist and with orchestras and chamber ensembles throughout North and South America, Asia, Middle East, Europe, and Russia. He has appeared with the San Francisco Symphony, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, Phoenix Symphony, Brooklyn Philharmonic, Zagreb Philharmonic, Windsor Symphony, Flint Symphony, San Salvador Philharmonic, Belgrade Philharmonic, Lubbock Symphony, Bellevue Philharmonic, Walla Walla Symphony, Orquesta Sinfónica de Puerto Rico, Williamsport Symphony, Orquesta Sinfónica Gran Mariscal de Ayacucho and The Zagreb Soloists. He collaborated with conductors such as James Levine, Neeme Jarvi, Thomas Wilkins, Robert Spano, Leone Mageira, Hermann Michael, Duilio Dobrin, and Guillermo Figueroa. For the only North America appearance in 1999 of the "Three Tenors," Soave performed as the featured bandoneonist. He has also appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America." In 2007, Peter premiered Astor Piazzolla's oratorio "El Pueblo Joven", written for symphony orchestra, voice recitative, soprano, bandoneon, choir, and percussion, with the Radio Romania Chamber Orchestra, Romania. Numerous compositions have been written for him by the Venezuela's foremost composer, Aldemaro Romero: "Piazzollana-Homage à Piazzolla" for bandoneon and full orchestra; "Suite de Castelfidardo" for bandoneon and string orchestra; "Soavecito" for accordion and string orchestra; and "Tango Furioso" for bandoneon and string quartet. Romero's "Five Paleontological Mysteries," for accordion and string quartet, received its American premiere in Detroit in February 2008 and its European premiere in Italy in July 2008. Peter's recordings include a solo album "Pride and Passion," "Five Tango Sensations" with The Rucner String Quartet, a double CD "Undertango 2," and "Peter Soave & Symphony Orchestra," featuring the music of Astor Piazzolla and Carmine Coppola. His recording awards include the Detroit Music Award for Best Classical Recording in 2001 and Best Classical Instrumentalist in 2003. Eager to harmonize nature and music, Peter founded the Peter Soave Music Academy (www.petersoavemusicacademy.com -- coming soon) in the Dolomite Mountains in Italy in 2010, welcoming music lovers to convene and share. Slovenian-born and Stockton-based, Max Simoncic has had compositions commissioned, performed, and recorded by orchestras and ensembles across the globe. As in past Symphony milestone years, he helps celebrate the anniversary with a magnificent premiere. The Stockton Symphony is the third oldest, continuously performing orchestra in California, surpassed in longevity only by the San Francisco Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The Stockton Symphony, celebrating its 85th season, is currently conducted by Maestro Peter Jaffe, now in his sixteenth season. Under his tenure the orchestra has continued sustained growth in artistic excellence, introduced and developed several vibrant educational programs, and gained national recognition through composer residencies, the release of a commercial recording, and world premieres. For further information about Peter Soave: info@petersoave.com |
Al Terzo, New Conductor of the Accordion Pops Orchestraby Rita Barnea |
 The Accordion Pops Orchestra under the baton of new conductor, Al Terzo, will begin rehearsals for the orchestra's 42nd concert season on September 18th at 1:00 PM at the IMperial Music Center Concert Hall in South River, New JerseyAl Terzo, teacher, arranger, and conductor, has been associated with the APO since its beginning in 1970. Al is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, NJ Music Teachers Association, National Association of Music Educators, member of the Governing Board of the American Accordionists' Association. (AAA), and founding member of the Mid Atlantic Music Teacher's Guild. His past performances include the Garden State Arts Center and Newark's Symphony Hall. Presently, he teachers accordion and piano in New Jersey. The 30 plus members from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Delaware have 3 concerts scheduled for 2012. Many of the members are professional musicians or teachers. and soloists in their own right, The orchestra performs a repertoire of light classical, Broadway, big band, and popular music. The Accordion Pops Orchestra’s roots can be traced to 1970's, 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, who retired in 2011, 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. 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. If you are interested in joining the orchestra or finding out more about the concert season call or email: 732-762-6769 732-257-8198 accordionpops@hotmail.com |
AAA Valtaro Celebration: September 10thby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) invites you to attend "A Valtaro Celebration Honoring Pete Spagnoli" on Saturday, September 10, 2011 from 12 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Magnanini Farm Winery in Wallkill, New York. Print reservation form: 2011Valtaro The event will feature traditional "Valtaro Musette Music" with guest artists: Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini, Frank Toscano, Emilio Magnotta, Frank Carozza, The Lucarelli's- Fabio & Fabio, Dominic Karcic and Ray Oreggia, Bruce Reed and Vicki Atwater, Charlie Sauss, Dano Bartoli, Anita and Bob Siarkowski, and the Connecticut Accordion Orchestra conducted by AAA President Linda Soley Reed. Reserve now! A donation of $69.00/person includes wine tasting, complete dinner and entertainment. Please reserve before September 1st. Print reservation form: 2011Valtaro For reservations and further information: Email: aaa1938@aol.com Phone: 201-378-1120 |
Registration is Still Open for ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011by Rita Barnea |
 The 4th Annual Music Festival, ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011, will be held Friday-Saturday, August 12-13 at the Nashua Courtyard Marriott, Nashua, New Hampshire, their beautiful, new location.ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 has a schedule packed full with talent. Here is the Festival LIneup, in alphabetical order: Concert Artists & Workshop Presenters: ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival Orchestra, Rita Davidson, Stephen Dominko, Fabio & Fabio, Sam Falcetti, Lynda Fish, Evan Harlan, Tony Lovello, Gary Morin, Donna Maria Regis, Jerry Tramontozzi, Carmen Vitanza, Arthur Welch, and a surprise or two. The Festival Schedule features concerts, workshops, lecture-demonstrations, open mike night, casual jam sessions, vendor exhibits, door prize drawings, festive lunch buffet, cocktail reception with entertainment, gala plated banquet, and more. The ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 Festival Orchestra will be conducted by Donna Maria Regis in "A Musical Tribute of Thanks to Tony Lovello". Come see and hear for yourself why Tony Lovello is called "The Entertainers' Entertainer," "The King of the Bellow Shake," and, as the National Accordion Association has anointed him, "The Living Legend of the Accordion World." You will read more about Tony in the July USA news. How can one man any age -- much less one 78 years old! -- possess such enormous physical energy and such prodigious musical talent --all tied up with a bow of irrepressible humor? Tony Lovello is truly one of a kind! The ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 Festival Orchestra [AN!FO] offers a musical tribute to cherished friend and mentor, Tony Lovello. The idea for a New England accordion festival was inspired by Tony's performance at the first concert ever to be co-sponsored by the New Hampshire Accordion Association and Accordion Connection LLC. You can still register for this special event. The final day to register for ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 is Friday, August 5th. That is also the deadline to inform organizers of food allergies and vegetarian choices. The special hotel rate of $89 plus tax/room is available until August 1st. Sign up today! For more information: Suzanne Welch accman@accordionconnection.com Donna Maria Regis regisdonna@yahoo.com Co-Founders ACCORDIONS NOW! Music Festival Call Marriott Worldwide Reservations 1.800.321.2211. Mention ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival at Courtyard Nashua. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Dr. Robert Young McMahan and Dr. Paul Cohen Present World Premiereby Rita Barnea |
 |
| Dr. Robert Young McMahan (accordion) and Dr. Paul Cohen (Soprano Saxophone) presented the World Premier of Dr. McMahan's composition, "Romp II" at the Tenri Cultural Center. The premiere was held during the 17th Annual 2011 AAA Master Class and Workshop Series organized and hosted by AAA Board member, Dr. William Schimmel. The composition was very enthusiastically received by the audience. This unique composition for accordion and saxophone clearly displayed the virtuosic skills of classical saxophonist, Dr. Paul Cohen in addition to the great technique of Dr. McMahan on accordion. During the performance, the audience was dazzled by interwoven melodies of the saxophone and accordion. The saxophone remained in the forefront during the performance as the accordion also had prominent moments and accompanied, at times, with passages of intricate development. The contemporary sound was exciting yet lyrical at times. This composition is a new and valuable addition to both the accordion and saxophone repertoire. Another performance will be presented at TCNJ (The College of New Jersey) in the near future. Dr. Paul Cohen is one of America's most sought-after saxophonists for orchestral and chamber concerts and solo recitals. He has appeared as soloist with the San Francisco Symphony, Richmond Symphony, New Jersey Symphony, Charleston Symphony and Philharmonia Virtuosi. His many solo orchestra performances include works by Debussy, Creston, Ibert, Glazunov, Martin, Loeffler, Husa, Dahl, Still, Villa-Lobos, Tomasi, and Cowell. He has also performed with a broad range of orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Santa Fe Opera, New Jersey Symphony, Oregon Symphony, Long Island Philharmonic, Group for Contemporary Music, Greenwich Symphony, Charleston Symphony, New York Solisti, and the Manhattan Chamber Orchestra. He has recorded three albums with the Cleveland Symphonic Winds under the direction of Frederick Fennell and a compact disk of the music of Villa-Lobos with the Quintet of the Americas as well as recordings with the Saxophone Sinfonia, Philharmonia Virtuosi, New York Solisti, Paul Winter Consort, North-South Consonance, and the New Sousa Band. His most recent recordings include an environmental-jazz CD of solo improvisations, the newly discovered classical saxophone concerto of the 19th-century American composer Caryl Florio, and his solo CD, Vintage Saxophones Revisited, featuring the premiere recording of Cowell's Hymn and Fuguing Tune #18. Recent recordings include works for saxophone and orchestra by Bernhard Heiden, Maurice Whitney, Alfred Reed, and Sabine Pautza and a solo work by Robert Martin. A specialist on the soprano saxophone, Dr. Paul Cohen is the founder and leader of the New Hudson Quartet, which has performed concertos of Calvin Hampton and Nicolas Flagello, and recently released two CDs of American music: "Breathing Lessons" and "Quartet at the Crossroads". Dr. Cohen is currently on the faculties of Manhattan School of Music, Rutgers University, New York University, Montclair State University and the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College. He holds M.M and DMA degrees from Manhattan School of Music. His teachers have included Galan Kral, Joe Allard, and Sigurd Rascher. He has published more than 100 articles on the history and literature of the saxophone in music journals such as the Saxophone Journal, Instrumentalist, CBDNA Notes, Clarinet and Saxophone Society Magazine of Great Britain, The Grainger Society Journal, and the Saxophone Symposium, and since 1985 a feature column, “Vintage Saxophones Revisited,” for the Saxophone Journal. Secretary-Treasurer of the AAA, Dr.Robert Young McMahan has long promoted classical music for the accordion through his extensive performance, recording, composing, teaching and writing. McMahan teaches Theory and Composition at the College of New Jersey and offers the major in accordion there as well Dr. McMahan is Professor of Music at The College of New Jersey where he is also Area Coordinator of Music Theory, Composition, Ear Training, and Classical Accordion. Prior to his appointment at TCNJ, Dr. McMahan taught Music Theory and related subjects at Towson University, Morgan State University, College of Notre Dame, Essex Community College, and the Peabody Preparatory School (of the Peabody Institute) where he was Head of the Theory Department and developed its curriculum. He also taught Classical Accordion at the Peabody Preparatory School and at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Dr. McMahan studied composition with Robert Hall Lewis, Jean Eichelberger Ivey, and Stefan Grove at the Peabody Institute. He received honors in composition there and awards in composition from the Annapolis Fine Arts Composers’ Competition and Contemporary Recording Society. In addition, he has received a number of Meet the Composer grants since 1996. Dr. McMahan is a recognized authority on the American composer, Carl Ruggles, and has published articles in American Music, Sonneck Society Bulletin, New Grove Dictionary of Opera, and New Grove Dictionary of Music. He is presently working on a book on the life and works of Ruggles. Dr. McMahan’s primary instrument is classical accordion, and he has tirelessly promoted the instrument in serious contemporary music throughout his career. He has been commissioned to write works for the accordion by various individuals and organizations, including the American Accordionists’ Association and the New York State Council on the Arts. He has recorded on the CRS and Orion labels and is published by Ernest Deffner Music. During his years in the Baltimore area, Dr. McMahan was accordionist for the Baltimore Symphony, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Washington Ballet and American Ballet Orchestras (at the Kennedy Center), and for other cultural and performing organizations. He has performed under such notable conductors as Julius Rudel, Rob Fisher, Sarah Caldwell, Sergiu Comissiona, Gunther Schuller, Frederik Prausnitz, Murry Sidlin, bandleader Les Elgart, Leon Botstein, Leon Fleisher, and Peter Schickele, and with Sting, Georgia Brown, Maureen McGovern, Alvin Epstein, Boyd Gaines, and Theodore Bikel. Besides his numerous published articles, Dr. McMahan has been featured in articles by others in Keyboard Magazine, The Music Connoisseur, High Fidelity, Who’s Who in American Composers: Classical, and several other highly regarded publications. Dr. McMahan serves as a reader and table leader at the annual examinations readings of the College Board’s Advanced Placement Program for Music Theory and had been a reader for the Graduate Record Examination in Music Theory prior to its discontinuance. For more information about Dr. Robert Young McMahan: mcmahan@tcnj.edu For more information about Dr. Paul Cohen : paulcohen.saxo@gmail.com |
Jessica Faltot to Premiere New Composition by Gene Vanby Rita Barnea |
 Accordionist Jessica Faltot will present the world premiere of "Time is Once Again" by her former teacher, Gene Van, on Friday evening, August 5, 2011, at a benefit concert in South Bend, Indiana, entitled “Accordions Extraordinaire.” The Gene Van Accordion Orchestra will perform on this concert.Jessica began playing the accordion at the age of nine. Her mother played the accordion which peaked her interest. Having moved to South Bend, Indiana, her parents signed her up for lessons with Gene Van. At the time Gene owned an accordion studio that had a large group of students who played in ensembles, bands and aspired to be a part of the accordion symphony. Gene was also very active in building the Indiana Accordion Association where at one point there were over 1,000 children competing and playing together in bands and ensembles. J Jessica's summers were spent working towards the American Accordion Association national contests. Jessica said, " I am still delighted at the versatility and range of music that can be played on the accordion. Due in part to the IAA and AAA /ATG contests, I was taught and learned how to play a great deal of classical music. As a member of the Gene Van Accordion Symphony we were playing P. I. Tchaikovsky: Symphony n.6 "Pathétique", Night On Bald Mountain by Modest Mussorgsky and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov - Russian Easter Festival Overture when we were teenagers. The benefits of learning how to play with a group and under a conductor have proven valuable today as I’ve had the privilege of playing with the Dallas Wind Symphony, Jerry Junkins conductor and several other orchestras’s and bands." "I’ve enjoyed having great opportunities due in part to my association with the National Accordion Association. It was through the NAA that I was given the opportunity to work and play with John Mackey, the Texas A&M Commerce Wind Symphony playing John’s piece “Sasparilla” in addition to playing at the Mort Meyerson concert hall with the Dallas Wind Symphony. The yearly festival held by the NAA is always a pleasure to participate in as well as attend and listen to the other artists and accordion aficionados" Jessica did not play her accordion for 30 years except for a few occasions. Seven years ago, she rekindled her interest in performing, contacted Gene, and now feels privileged to have the opportunity to introduce his new and valuable addition to the accordion repertoire, "Time is Once Again". Over the years,Jessica has participated in many competitions and prestigious concerts including the Indiana Accordionist Association State Virtuoso Champion – 1st Runner-up & 2nd Runner-up; 2 time Indiana representative at the American Accordionist Association U.S. Virtuoso competition (highest level of competition in U.S.); Member of the Gene Van Accordion Symphony & Ensemble which won various U.S. Championships; Guest musician with Rebecca Ratliff / 2 Accordions featured in concert at The CrossRoads, Winnsboro Texas, Mt. Vernon Music and Arts Association, Trails County Center for the Arts; Guest artist various local symphony concerts including featured artist with the Lewisville Lake Symphony (classical accordion) Texas A&M Commerce Wind Symphony, Wood County Orchestra and Dallas Wind Symphony; Invited member of the first World Accordion Orchestra under the direction of Joan Cochran Sommers. Presently, Jessica is the owner of Top SEO Marketing, an online search marketing company that increases the visibility and businesses of companies online- in the rankings and local market places. The concert will be recorded and made available for purchase on DVD and CD at a later date. Proceeds from the sales will be directed to the Sonya Ansari Center for Autism ‘Climb Project’ and to the Mennonite Disaster Service. For further information: Genevanmusic@yahoo.com jfaltot@topseomarketing.com |
15 year old Ignacio Morales Wins the Big Squeeze Contestby Rita Barnea |
 |
| Ignacio Morales, 15, of Dallas, won the June 2011 Big Squeeze Accordion Contest. A student at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, he first began learning the accordion at the age of 3. His father gave him his own accordion when he 10 after he learned 10 songs! Ignacio said, “I can’t believe that I’m the winner,” after winning the Big Squeeze in Houston, part of the Accordion Kings & Queens Festival. The Big Squeeze Contest, organized by Texas Folklife, is open to Texas accordionists, 21 years of age and younger, and open to all genres of accordion-based music, including Cajun; German, Czech, Polish, Tejano, Conjunto, and Norteño, Western, and Zydeco. As the Big Squeeze 2011 Grand Prize winner, Ignacio received a prize package valued at $4500, including a $1,000 cash prize, a brand new Hohner accordion and recording time at the historic Hacienda Records in Corpus Christi, as well as promotional support from SugarHill Records, Hohner, Inc., Hacienda Records and Texas Folklife, and other professional opportunities. The Accordion Kings & Queens Festival and The Big Squeeze contest are funded in part by the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, Hohner Inc., Houston Endowment, SugarHill Recording Studios, The Raven Grill, Flashbang and Sign Effects. Additional support for the contest is provided by Embassy Suites Hotel Downtown Austin, Botticelli’s and Güero’s Taco Bar, the Still Water Foundation and the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division and by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art. Texas Folklife is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and preserving the diverse cultures and living heritage of the Lone Star State. Celebrating its 26th anniversary in 2011, Texas Folklife has honored the authentic cultural traditions passed down within communities and explored their importance in contemporary society and has been called “one of the state’s true cultural treasures” by the Austin American-Statesman for the accessible, joyful arts experiences we provide. For further information: Cristina Balli, Program Director: cballi@texasfolklife.org |
American Accordionists' Association Website Updatedby Linda Soley Reed, AAA Second Vice President |
 The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) website has been updated with a new look and style including new information. You can find out about both past and future AAA events, concerts, meetings, and reports. The next AAA event is the Valtaro Celebration honoring Peter Spagnoli on September 10, 2011 at the Magnanini Farm Winery in Walkill, New York. (Article in this issue) For further information: aaa1938@aol.com |
The Lucarelli Accordion Family: Fabio & Fabio in Concertby Rita Barnea |
 |
| In the Lucarelli family, there are four generations of accordionists, all with the same name! The first Fabio began performing on the accordion professionally during the days of Vaudeville. Fabio, Sr. was a self taught musician and entertained with the clarinet and accordion. He founded Fabio's Accordion School in Derby, CT. Many years later, his son, Fabio Jr.,used his lunch box to pretend he was playing an accordion. At the age of 7 his father began to teach him. Later, they became known as Fabio & Fabio and he also gave accordion lessons. With his accordion, Fabio was sent to the front lines in Korea, where it saved his life. Fabio performed for the troops and officer clubs with Eddie Fisher. After the service, Fabio Jr. continued playing with Bob Kay’s Orchestra and formed the Fabio Trio in the early 60’s touring from Florida to Greenland. The accordion was always an integral part of the Lucarelli family life. Fabio 3rd at the age of 3, was given the accordion by his grandfather in 1957. Those days were known as the Golden Age of Accordion. Fabio practiced while his father was on the road, joining him when the Trio was on their East Coast tour. They continued performing as a Father/Son duet calling themselves Fabio & Fabio. Fabio 3rd continued his accordion career performing in many venues and became a regular on the WICC Italian House Party in Bridgeport, CT. Fabio 4th was inspired by the recordings of his grandfather taking lessons from the great jazz artist, Dominic Mecca, of Waterbury, CT. During elementary school, he was the first and only accordionist in the Salem School Band! Eventually he was introduced by his father on WICC radio and they continue to this day as the 3rd generation of Fabio & Fabio, performing many of the arrangements passed down to them by their grandfather. They have also recorded CD's which are available. Fabio & Fabio will perform at the 2011 ACCORDIONS NOW! in New Hampshire on Saturday, August 12, at the 1 PM Concert.They will also be featured performers on Saturday, September 12, at the AAA Valtaro Celebration in Walkill, NY. For further information about their CD's and performances: accordionman3@comcast.net |
Anita and Bob Siarkowski: A Couple of Accordions!by Rita Barnea |
 |
| Have you ever thought that you might meet the love of your life because you play the accordion? Anita and Bob Siarkowski did! They met 53 years ago because they play the accordion! Accordion duo, Anita and Bob Siarkowski of Plantsville, CT, will again be featured guest artists at the 23rd Annual Carrefour Mondial de l'Accordeon in Montmagny, Quebec, Canada on Labor Day weekend. During this international accordion festival, the husband and wife team will be performing in area restaurants and on stage in the park. Amongst the countries represented in 2011 will be Canada, U.S.A., Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, England, and Tunisia. The Siarkowskis met during accordion orchestra rehearsal at the Mecca School of Music in Waterbury, CT, where both had studied with Domenic Mecca. Anita had already been practicing with the orchestra for several weeks, so all the students knew each other. Then Bob appeared on the scene, and sat front row center! “Who does he think he is?”, Anita wondered! The mystery was solved once Anita heard Bob play his solo! He was already a 14 year accordion veteran - traveling from CT to NY to study advanced jazz accordion with Tony Mecca (Dom Mecca's brother) and classical accordion with Joe Biviano – practicing 4 hours a day! By the age of 16, Bob began his accordion teaching career, and by '18"- right out of high school - had already established his own music school! What did Anita know?!? So, she cordially asked this ‘intruder….“You’re new around here aren’t you?”…End of the conversation….Dom Mecca walked in. Time for rehearsal! Dom noticed Bob and Anita talking together, so after practice, Dom - knowing Anita was “on foot” in mid-January, dressed for church with spike heels like any “17” year old in those days - had to brave the cold, carry her accordion down 2 flights from the studio, carry it 3 city block to her 3rd floor apartment - with no elevators in either place…..informed Anita, “Bob will take you home!”(Come to find out later, Bob was just as surprised at Dom’s offer as Anita was!)) Anita explained to Dom, “I don’t know him! I was just trying to be sociable!” Dom assured her, “Bob’s a nice guy!”Anita warned Dom, “If anything happens, I’m going to hold you responsible!” Dom’s response?“I want to be the “Compare”! (Italian for Godfather!) Anita forfeited Mecca’s offer for an accordion teaching position for a nursing career, and graduated as a R.N. from St. Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury, CT. She took her accordion along to nursing school to keep in practice, then Bob and Anita “tied the knot”!. Dom Mecca and his wife were at Anita and Bob’s wedding! A.k.a. “The Accordion Chameleon”, Anita’s claims to fame are her theme oriented repertoires and costumes...Cupid, Leprechaun, Spring Chicken, Patriotic, Old Fashioned Bathing Suit, German Dirndl, Polish Folk Costume, French Maid, Elf, Angel, Cowgirl, Train Engineer, Mrs, Santa, Angel, Mrs. Pilgrim, “Thera Peutic” (humorous nurse), etc. The Siarkowskis have performed in several states plus Canada. They entertain at private parties, birthdays, church functions, organizations, and assisted living facilities. Co-ordinated outfits and theme oriented repertoires are their specialty – catering to the crowd, occasion, ethnic group, or holiday. Anita and Bob will again be providing accordion background music for wine tasting for the AAA sponsored event, “Valtaro” at Magnanini Winery in Wallkill, NY on September 10, 2011. This wonderful heart warming story is a lesson to all of us. You never know when you will meet the most significant person in your life…….It could happen because you play the accordion! |
Future events |
2011 Las Vegas Accordion Conventionby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The 12th Annual Las Vegas Accordion Convention will be held from October 31st to November 3rd. This year's event opens with a Masquerade Party on Halloween, October, 31st. Returning again will be the Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra under the esteemed direction of Joan Sommers who received the AAA 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award in July at the AAA Festival in Charleston. You are welcome to join the orchestra which will perform in the grand finale. There will be rehearsals every day. Music is available as of September 7th. Email for further instructions. The Las Vegas Accordion Convention stars Frank Marocco, Alex Sevastian, Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini, Mary Tokarski, and Angelo Di Pippo with the Accordion Kings. Also featured will be Peter and Mady Soave, The Soundscape Trio, Bruce Gassman, Gina Brannelli, Gordon Kohl, and Pete Barbutti. There are many benefits to attending the convention. You will make new friends from all over the world. You will see the latest in new accordions with factory exhibits. Hotel accommodations are very inexpensive. You will be inspired by hearing the finest accordionists and you will learn so much from them. Seven meals, seven concerts, all special events and classes are included. The Special Room Rate is $34 per night! The HOT LINE is a 24/7 messaging center that provides the latest up-to-date news and allows you to leave a message: TOLL FREE 1-800-472-1695 INTERNATIONAL +01 801-486-1695 For further information: paul@accordioninfo.com |
Wallace Accordion Festival: August 11-14 in Idahoby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The Historic Wallace Accordion Festival will be held in Wallace, Idaho on August 11-14, 2011. This will be the first accordion event ever held in Wallace but certainly not the last! Some of the well known featured performers will be: Cory Pesaturo, Recent winner of the 2011 International VII Primus Ikaalinen Accordion Competition in Finland Big Lou The King of Rock 'n Roll Accordion Bruce Gassman Andy Mirkovich There will be a parade, workshops with the above performers, open stage playing, concerts, parties and a pancake breakfast! What do the action movie “Dante’s Peak” and the Historic Wallace Accordion Festival have in common? They both featured Wallace, Idaho.... and dramatically changed this Idaho mining town. Now the Accordion Festival will change Wallace again, and make it a summer destination for accordion music lovers everywhere. Those attending the Historic Wallace Accordion Festival are invited to learn about these events by signing up for the “Hollywood meets Wallace” walking tour.The one-hour tour will begin at 4 PMFriday, August 12, from the registration area downtown. Cost is $5 per person. Local history buff, Mike Feiler,will lead participants on an easy walk through the downtown, pointing out surviving reminders of the devastating forest fire that burned more than half of the city over a century ago. He will also talk about the two movies “Heaven’s Gate” and “Dante’s Peak” that were filmed in Wallace.Feiler will point out major filming sites including the “mine shaft” where Linda Hamilton and Pierce Brosnan survived the exploding Volcano, the church that collapsed, the fake Interstate and more. One lucky tour participant will win an authentic "Dante’s Peak" lobby poster. Enjoy Hollywood history and the accordion festival in Wallace ,Idaho. Aug 12-13th. Contact Diane at 208-753-7151 for info about the walking tour. For more information contact: Historic Chamber of Commerce 10 River Street Wallace, Idaho 83873 Phone/Fax: 208-753-7151 or griffbz@roadrunner.com |
LIAA Accordion Night on August 2ndby Rita Barnea |
 |
| The Long Island Accordion Alliance will sponsor "Accordion Night at La Villini" on August 2nd, at 7 PM at La Villini, 288 Larkfield Rd., East Northport, NY. Each month the group grows larger as the Long Island Accordion Alliance becomes increasingly accepted as a friendly, entertaining and educational accordion association. As always, there will be great food, wonderful accordion friends and enthusiasts, and fun times for all. The group meets once a month. You are encouraged to perform no matter your level. Reservations are recommended. For dinner reservations: 631-261-6344 In the photo:Back row (left to right) Bob LaBua, John Custie, Dominic Karcic, Peter Campo, Joe Campo Front row (left to right) Phil Franzese, Charlie Fontana, John Stampfel, For further information on LIAA: DKarcic10@optonline.net |