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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Breaking News: Grammy Winner Chubby Carrier On Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve
NAMM and the Museum of Making Music's Special Exhibition: Accordion
Review: Ksenija Sidorova Debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City
2019 NAA Convention, "Save the Date" and "Call For Presenters"
Guy Klucevsek in Concert on December 2
American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Election Results - USA
Cory Pesaturo to Perform on December 13 at the Museum of Music Making
Updates on “Accordions Rising” by Roberta Cantow….Great Holiday Gift Idea
Kim and Dan Christian Release New Arrangements and CD’s
Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band in Winter Performances
The Klezmatics in December Concerts
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
New Book: “Accordion Stories from the Heart” by Paul Ramunni
Cody McSherry Performs at the Kennedy Center
Paul Betken Performs at The Nash in Arizona
Joe Soprani's "My Thanksgiving Story"
Harrington Arts Center Present Accordion-Concertina Studio Recital
Joe Natoli’s Arrangement of “O Christmas Tree”
Meet Creosote members Jaimie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodriguez
Gia Ciccone will perform as Guest Artist for “A Candlelight Christmas Concert”
WMAS December Programs of Holiday Music
Brooklyn Accordion Club Holiday Concert on December 2
Silicon Valley Accordion Society Present Joe Domitrowich on December 2
Acme Accordion School Breathes New Life into the Accordion
Dr. William Schimmel’s Upcoming Performances
Future events |
Lionel Reekie to Conduct NAA Accordion Orchestra in March 2019
American Accordion Musicological Society Announces 2019 Festival Honoring Dee Langley
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Series
2019 Events at A World of Accordions Museum
New and Updated Sites |
K Trio New Site Address - USA
Updated Site: SqueezinArt Holiday Special - USA
MusicForAccordion.com Christmas Sheet Music Available Online
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
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 The Group of ACCORDIONS WORLDWIDE wishes all readers from around the world, happy and joyful musical festivities in 2018/19.Welcome to the last USA news publication of 2018! In 2019, you will see an expanded version of the news with even more articles, videos, stories, and information. There is so much happening in the accordion world! It is hard to believe that with this publication, I have completed TEN wonderful, exciting years as National Editor! Over the years I have produced 120 publications and over 3000 articles! Time flies when you are having fun, as the saying goes. And as the years goes by, I enjoy my position even more. I feel it is both a great honor and huge responsibility to serve as National Editor of www.accordionusa.com. I have been very fortunate to work with the AWW Editor and Founder, the amazing Harley Jones! Where in the world is he? Always traveling and participating in accordion events all over the globe but never too busy to assist and guide me with publication questions. I have learned so much from him and continue to learn from him. I also want to thank former National Editor Kevin Friedrich for his encouragement and continuing support. Most importantly I want to thank you, the readers, for helping to make www.accordionusa.com one of the most popular accordion sites (along with the other AWW publications) on this planet! In 2017, this USA news publication had almost 1.2 million page views! So we can conclude there is a HUGE interest in the accordion! I would like to encourage you all to continue participation in the accordion world! What is the accordion world? You know what it is. It is a network, a special bonding, an instant friendship, a musical bonding, a sharing of feelings and ideas about the wonderful world of the accordion. As your National Editor, I enjoy presenting the accordion at all levels of accomplishment from beginner to professional. All are worthy of recognition for the great effort involved in learning the instrument. Additionally, the added great benefit is the wonderful people you can meet that ordinarily you would never encounter. The accordion unites us all bonding us with our love of music and the accordion. Please read the AWW publications especially the USA news. I welcome you all to continue sending me your ideas and comments. I like to present an eclectic, well rounded concept of what the accordion can do. By reading the USA news, you will learn of events, concerts, festivals, performers on the North American continent. With our featured videos, you can actually hear and see the performers. Wishing you all a happy and healthy holiday season. The holidays are quickly approaching! So much shopping to do. But wait, the holidays are much more than frenzied buying sprees! It is time to think about others who are less fortunate. You can be generous with whatever musical talents you possess. What about sharing your holiday songs by playing for a senior center, hospital, or family gathering? As those of us who have played for people already know… everyone enjoys music and marvels at HOW DO YOU DO THAT? on the accordion? The buttons, the keys, the bellows…. adults and children are always fascinated with the accordion. Playing the accordion is both pleasing to the ear and captivating to the eye. It is never boring! So, why not be brave and go out there and play whatever you know for someone who doesn't know the accordion! And…… since you are still going to go shopping anyway…….. please consider supporting the many accordion artists, composers, and writers…… who have created many wonderful musical gifts that you can consider giving as presents. They are inexpensive and you will be giving a gift that is entertaining, educational and, at the same time, supportive of our fellow musicians. Gift ideas include accordion related DVD’s, CD’s, tickets to an accordion event, a new accordion, etc. In this publication, you will notice that many of the articles have photos of the CD covers by accordion artists. In each article, you will see an email address at the end. Contact the musician directly for information about buying their CD, music, DVD, etc. Don't forget that while you are making time for shopping, put aside some time for practicing and sharing your music. Make sure you read the 2019 January USA news for a comprehensive list and description of upcoming festivals, concerts, and more! Wishing Happy And Healthy Holidays to you and your family from everyone at Accordions Worldwide!(AWW) Illustration by California based artist, Noe Valladolid: bigmex1@me.com A very special thank you to my fiancé, Dr. Leslie Strong who continues to encourage my accordion activities and enjoys attending accordion events with me! I greatly appreciate his understanding and enthusiasm! Rita Barnea Ritabelll@aol.com |
Breaking News: Grammy Winner Chubby Carrier On Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eveby Rita Barnea |
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 Video: Zydeco Junkie by Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band.On December 31, 2018, Chubby Carrier and his Bayou Swamp Band will perform on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” on ABC. Seacrest will host the five and a half-hour broadcast for Times Square in New York. Over 10 million people are expected to watch! Excerpts from an article by Herman Fuselier of the Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Actress and singer Lucy Hale heads the Central Time Zone celebration from Jackson Square in New Orleans. Carrier will perform there at the Allstate Fan Fest, along with country stars Florida Georgia Line and Maren Morris. Carrier said tentative plans call for his band to play their hit, “Who Stole the Hot Sauce,” before he and other performers play the New Year’s Eve standard, “Auld Lang Syne,” to bring in 2019. The “Rockin’ Eve” broadcast is another highlight for Carrier, who is celebrating three decades on stage. He and fellow Grammy winner Steve Riley were honored in October at Festivals Acadiens et Creoles. In 1987, Carrier started as a drummer with future Grammy winner Terrance Simien. Carrier formed his Bayou Swamp Band in 1989 and began a rigorous road schedule of more than 275 dates a year. He has recorded 13 CDs, including “Zydeco Junkie,” winner of the 2010 Grammy for Best Zydeco of Cajun Music Album. Carrier credits his Grammy for opening the doors to his ABC appearance.“I can put a little something on the map for zydeco music,” said Carrier. “I’m honored they’re going to bring me on as the band to do the dropping of the ball.“I’m flattered. This is another blessing for me, just being me.They looked bands up and saw I’m the Grammy award winner.” Accordionist Chubby Carrier is part of local Grammy history. Carrier’s “Zydeco Junkie” won the Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album Grammy in 2011, the year the category was retired and merged into Regional Roots. Born on July 1, 1967 in Churchpoint, Louisiana, Chubby is the third generation of zydeco artists with such famous relatives as Roy Carrier (father), Warren Carrier (grandfather), and cousins Bebe and Calvin Carrier who are presently considered legends in zydeco history. Chubby began his musical career at the age of 12 by playing drums with his father's band. He began playing the accordion at the age of 15. By age 17, Chubby had begun to play with Terrance Siemien and toured the world for 2 1/2 years, before forming his own band in 1989. Cubby and his band have traveled all over the world, performing to audiences in all parts of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, Canada. North Africa and Europe. Chubby and the band travel 150-175 days a year, taking his act to big festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz Fest, the Chicago Blues Fest. Summerfest (Milwaukee), Memphis in May, and several festivals in Europe. Chubby has also done guest appearances on recordings for Tab Benoit, 6Was9, and Jimmy Thackery. Ann Wilson of the group Heart encourages Chubby to "continue the great sound that you have. This sound will take you places." 2019 Upcoming performances include: Thursday, January 10th, 2019 Mid City Lanes "Rock 'N' Bowl" 8:30 until 12:AM 4133 S. Carrollton Ave New Orleans, LA 70119 504-482-3133 Price:$10 Saturday, January 12th, 2019 Buck-n-Johnny's 8:30 AM until 11:30 PM Breaux Bridge, LA Price:$5 Friday, January 25th, 2019 Skippers Smoke House 8:PM until 12:AM Tampa, Fl Saturday, January 26th, 2019 Harold's Place Gulf Coast Inn - 7:PM until 11:PM 2555 Tamiami Trail North Naples, FL Sunday, January 27th, 2019 Gumbo Festival at The Shell Factory 3:PMuntil 6:PM N. Ft. Meyers, FL Saturday, February 2nd, 2019 Buck-n- Johnny's 8:30 AM until 11:30 PM Breaux Bridge, LA Price: $5 |
NAMM and the Museum of Making Music's Special Exhibition: Accordionby Rita Barnea |
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 Exhibit: Accordions: Expanding Voices in the USADecember 13, 2018 - August 31, 2019 At the entrance to the Museum, you will notice the acronym “NAMM.” Excerpts from the museum website: Those initials stand for the National Association of Music Merchants, the not-for-profit association that serves and strengthens the global music products industry. Commonly referred to as NAMM (which rhymes with jam), the association and its world-famous trade shows serve as a hub for people seeking out the newest innovations in musical products, recording technology, and sound and lighting equipment. The NAMM museum – the Museum of Making Music – is located on the first floor of the building which also serves as NAMM’s international headquarters. Founded in 1998 and opened to the public in March 2000, the Museum celebrates the music products industry’s rich history from 1900 to today. Through unique exhibitions, vibrant and varied live music performances, and innovative educational programs, the Museum shares the accomplishments and impact of the people who make, sell, and use musical instruments and products. The Museum is a program division of the NAMM Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and receives operational support from NAMM. Additional revenue is raised through donations from businesses and corporations, government and foundation grants, museum and program admissions, Museum Store sales, special fundraising events such as the annual gala, and memberships. Manager of Museum Collections and Exhibitions Jonathan Piper (picture right) said, “The idea for an accordion exhibition came up because of two things: our events manager was exploring the feasibility of an all-accordion concert series, and I was lamenting the fact that we have a number of accordions in our storage facility that don’t really have a place in the museum. All of those accordions were made sometime between 1940 and 1960, and all of them are beautiful, but none of them seemed to be anything “special.” I first toyed with the thought of doing a retrospective on the instrument, really digging into why the accordion became so incredibly popular in the 40s and 50s, how the industry adapted to it (we are the NAMM museum, after all), and then how the industry coped when everyone picked up an electric guitar. But as I started researching that topic and speaking with accordionists, I realized that the story had already been told – over and over and over again – and the players seemed to be pretty tired of it. That’s when I touched base with our events manager and decided to change gears completely to look at what’s happening with the accordion now. Not 50 years ago, not even necessarily the “resurgence” (which people put different dates on, anyway), but right now in 2018. That’s when I came to understand just how many accordionists are out there, just how many genres they’re playing in, and just how little most people know about any of this. Through local accordionist Mark Danisovszky and then Jeffrey Iacono of Maestro Accordions, I was able to connect with Cory Pesaturo, who in turn has connected me to a vast array of performers who have contributed their stories and some of their music (and a few of their accordions). I’ve also collected stories from makers like Petosa, Hohner, and Accordions International; retailers/repairers like Smythe’s Accordion Center, Accordion Apocalypse, and Liberty Bellows; and pedagogues like Joan Cochran Sommers and several members of the AAA board. While I just don’t have the space to summarize everything that was generously shared with me, I believe this exhibition presents a compelling snapshot of what’s happening with the accordion today. The exhibition opens with a small historical display to get visitors acquainted with the early development of the instrument. This will include a Busson flutina, diatonic and “false piano” instruments from Galleazzi & Sons, a Hohner piano with curved keyboard, and a concertina and bandoneon as relatives of the accordion. Visitors will then see an “exploded” piano accordion, deconstructed and arranged to expose the internal mechanisms. The centerpiece of the exhibition is an array of accordions and contemporary accordionists. Instruments have been provided by Martin, Titano, Petosa, Bugari Armando, Hohner, and Maestro. We’re also displaying personal instruments from C.J. Chenier, Renée de la Prade, Matt Hensley, and Jamie Maschler. Other players in the display include Guy Klucevsek, Alex Meixner, Cory Pesaturo, Michael Bridge, Los Tigres del Norte, and more. Capping this off will be two touchscreen displays that allow visitors to learn more about the players, the accordions, and the makers, and watch video clips of the players in action. There’s also a piece about what will drive the future of the accordion, including stories from pedagogues, builders, retailers, and repairers. And finally, we’ll have three accordions, provided by Hohner, for visitors to play. A short instructional video will guide them in putting the instrument on, making some music, and taking it back off safely and securely. The goal of the exhibition isn’t for people to walk way knowing everything there is to know about the accordion. It’s to make people aware that something is happening with this instrument that’s been off to the side for a generation. It’s to illustrate that this instrument can play in just about any kind of music and sound great doing it. And it’s to bring attention to some of the amazing people who are making their voices heard with a really fascinating instrument.” Just over 60 years ago, accordions were at the forefront of the musical landscape. With annual sales topping a quarter of a million instruments, they were seen and heard on stages, in stores, and in classrooms across the country. But musical tastes shifted dramatically by the end of the 1950s, and, within 10 years of this incredible high, accordion sales and interest plummeted. Today, accordions and accordionists are making their voices heard again! The Museum of Making Music’s special exhibition, “Accordions: Expanding Voices in the USA,” takes a close look and listen at the current state of the accordion across the country, highlighting stories and recordings from some of the players pushing it forward. Find out where the accordion could be headed next and even play one for yourself – you may well become part of the instrument’s future. Check this news website for announcements of special concerts in conjunction with the exhibition with accordion artists; Cory Pesaturo, Jamie Maschler, Gabriel Hall-Rodrigues, and more TBA. You’ll hear a lot of it during your visit to MoMM. From the marches and rags of the early 1900s, through the evolutionary sounds of jazz, folk, rock ‘n roll and pop, to the cross cultural expressions of today’s connected world. It’s the soundtrack of our lives, and it’s also part of a much larger story… the story of how an industry - the music products industry - supplies the world with the instruments, products and gear that we all use to make music. When you step into the galleries (and back in time) you’ll see outstanding examples of musical instruments, many of them displayed in vintage music store settings. You’ll also hear some familiar tunes in audio and video clips, have many hands-on opportunities to pick up and play a variety of instruments, and discover the innovative ways that the music industry has grown over the years. It’s an insider’s view of the world of making music—and it’s all here at the Museum of Making Music! Don’t miss a beat! Visit the Museum of Making Music today and discover a world of music and music making. December events at the Museum include: Metropolitan Klezmer Saturday, December 1, 2018: A collaborative ensemble that presents an eclectic Yiddish repertoire: ethereal trance, rollicking dance, imaginatively-arranged swing, tango, and more. Excerpts from the MoMM: Metropolitan Klezmer brings eclectic exuberance to Yiddish musical genres from all over the map. Formed in 1994 by drummer/leader Eve Sicular, this collaborative adventure of exceptional New York musicians combines the best of downtown, classical and World Music scenes to create inspired neo-traditional interpretations and compositions around a panoply of eclectic Yiddish repertoire: ethereal trance, rollicking dance, imaginatively-arranged Yiddish swing and tango, plus genre-expanding originals such as klezmer cumbia.” Accordions in Concert Thursday, December 13, 2018: Discover the sound of the accordion featuring Cory Pesaturo and Count Guido Roberto Deiro. A visionary thinker and World Champion on Digital, Acoustic, and Jazz Accordion, Cory Pesaturo is changing how the instrument is used, played, and presented to the world and in modern music. He is joined by Count Guido Roberto Deiro, son of the legendary vaudeville star, recording artist, educator, and accordion advocate, the late Count Guido Pietro Deiro. Museum of Making Music 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA Open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Phone: (760) 438-5996 eMail:: museum@museumofmakingmusic.org Don’t miss a beat! Plan to visit the Museum of Making Music today and discover a world of music and music making. Photo of Manager of Museum Collections and Exhibitions Jonathan Piper (right) by Sonny Portacio For further information: Jonathan Piper, Manager of Museum Collections and Exhibitions jonathanp@museumofmakingmusic.org Phone: (760) 304-5824 |
Review: Ksenija Sidorova Debut at Carnegie Hall in New York Cityby Rita Barnea |
 On Saturday evening, November 10, 2018, I had the pleasure to hear accordionist Ksenija Sidorova and mandolinist, Avi Avital, perform with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra to a full house at Carnegie (2,800 seat Stern) Hall, New York. Ksenija made her New York debut at this event where she premiered two new concertos: - the Double concerto “Monomachia” for Mandolin, Accordion and Chamber Orchestra by Golden Globe®, GRAMMY® and Emmy® nominated British composer Benjamin Wallfisch and - J S Bach’s “Concerto for Accordion and Mandolin in C Minor, BWV 1060R” arranged by Paul Chihara. The program included the following selections: - Waxman, “Sinfonietta for Strings and Timpani” - Rota, “Canzona” - Bach, “Double Concerto in C Minor, BWV 1060R” (arr. Paul Chihara) - Wallfisch, “Concerto for Mandolin and Accordion” - Rózsa, “Hungarian Serenade, Op. 25” The first selection performed by Ksenija and Avi was Benjamin Wallfisch’s “Monomachia” Concerto for Mandolin and Accordion. The orchestra accompaniment included flute, oboe, clarinet bassoon, horn, trumpet, percussion and strings. Benjamin Wallfisch has become one of Hollywood’s most in demand composers composing for “It” and “Blade Runner 2049”. Ksenija and Avi performed with great virtuosity, expressiveness and intensity which made the “Double Concerto in C Minor” by Bach, a composition frequently reorchestrated, highly relevant and popular for todays audiences. Accordionist Ksenija Sidorova displays amazing talent and a fiery stage presence. I was mesmerized by her accurate, virtuosic technique and her ability to demonstrate a great range of dynamics and feelings. I happened to be seated next to a seven year old boy and his father. The boy had his eyes on the accordion the entire time and was thoroughly enthralled with her performance. As you may know, not too many seven year olds can quietly sit, as he did, through a long evening concert! After the performance of the final selection, “Hungarian Serenade, Op. 25, Ksenjija and Avital received enthusiastic and continuous applause from the appreciative audience and they returned to the stage performing a duet. The audience and The Orpheus Orchestra, seated behind them, were fascinated by their artistic and virtuosic performance. The audience would not let them leave the stage! Their performance was of such high quality that the audience “demanded” another encore! All would have been happy with even a third selection! Immediately following the concert, Avi Avital and Ksenjija Sidorova were available to sign copies of their most recent CD’s. I was fortunate to meet them both and they were very gracious patiently taking their time to speak and take photos with everyone who wanted to see them. I highly recommend that you attend one of her concerts, and, if this is not possible, to view her performances on Youtube. Other USA tour performances were: - 03 November, Weis Centre for Performing Arts within Bucknell University in Lewisburg; - 06 November, at Mary Patricia Gannon Concerto Hall within DePaul University in Chicago; - 07 November, at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City; - 09 November, at the Staller Center within Stony Brook University; Excerpts from the program: Bach showed time and again that he would gladly substitute instruments to make use of talented performers. I am sure he would have been thrilled to see hear Ksenija and Avi perform his concerto. In that spirit and with assistance from composer and frequent Orpheus contributer, Paul Chihara, this concerto now features the novel yet highlight idiomatic pairing of accordion and mandolin. The plucky mandolin substitutes easily for the bowed violin, and the accordion producing its unique sound similar to the oboe. Ksenija brings the artistry of a classical education to her chosen instrument, the accordion. Encouraged by her grandmother, she began playing folk music in her native, Riga, Latvia before going on to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Dodging war and chasing riches, top European composers like Hungary’s Miklós Rózsa, Italy’s Nino Rota, and Germany’s Franz Waxman immigrated to America and helped to fuel Hollywood’s golden age. Their concert music shows off the evocative tone painting and craftsmanship that made their film scores so indispensible to Hitchcock, Fellini, and Coppola, among others. Soloists Ksenija Sidorova (accordion) and Avi Avital (mandolin) each bring modern glitz and glamor to their old-world instruments, whether playing a reconfigured Bach concerto or debuting the brand-new work written for them by Golden Globe®, GRAMMY® and Emmy® nominated British composer Benjamin Wallfisch (Andy Muschietti’s It, Blade Runner 2049, Hidden Figures). This Orpheus commission is the latest addition to American Notes, a project that explores the landscape of new music from diverse perspectives. Benjamin Wallfisch said, “The impetus for the piece was the idea of a concerto as a form of theatrical drama. In “Monomachia” which translates as “duel” I wanted to crate the musical equivalent of the relationship between the featured actors and the accompanying Greek Chorus. Conflict ad conversation permeate the work as the two soloists play off of one another trading musical thoughts….. all while the chamber orchestra provides its collective thoughts on the action unfolding.” Picture below: Ksenija Sidorova, Rita Barnea and Avi Avital. Concert review, November 14, 2018, Rita Barnea |
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2019 NAA Convention, "Save the Date" and "Call For Presenters"by Norman Seaton, NAA President |
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| 2019 National Accordion Association (NAA) Accordion Convention (Dallas area) & Call for Presenters. Convention dates are: March 6-9, 2019 at the Hyatt Regency, Richardson, Texas. Convention and hotel registration opens Dec. 1, 2018. 2019 "Call for Presenters" Offer closes January 5, 2019. This is an accordion-driven convention. Thus, individuals interested in teaching and/or managing any events during the convention is to fill out the form. The link is on the Home Page of NAA. Interested? Go to the web page and fill out the form. Know someone who should be presenting at the convention? Send them to our web page. All of you, mark that calendar, it will be another fun National Accordion Association (NAA) Convention. Short cut link: Sent by Norman Seaton, NAA President Email: natlaccordion@sbcglobal.net |
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Guy Klucevsek in Concert on December 2by Rita Barnea |
 Guy Klucevsek will present a concert of his original music at Las Puertas on December 2, 2018 at 10:30 AM. Admission is $15.The program includes: Satango Pitch-Black Don’t Let the Boogie-Man Get You Ballad of Faithe Oscillation No. 2 Ratatatatouille Roundabout Now Haywire Rag Bar Talk Antonin Dvorak Largo: Variations and Theme arr. Klucevsek Musicians: Guy Klucevsek: accordion Luke Gullickson: piano Carolyn Meyer: poet Picture right: Guy Klucevsek and below his newest CD release titled "Teetering on the Edge of Normalcy". Excerpts from his website: 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. Guy Klucevsek is the recipient of a 2010 United States Artists Collins Fellowship, an unrestricted $50,000 award given annually to "America's finest artists.” Guy and his music are included in two documentaries about the accordion, “Behind the Bellows” and, most recently, “Accordions Rising” by Roberta Cantow. Guy 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. 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. Guy Klucevsek’s new recording, “Carousel of Dreams,” was released on June 18, 2018. The recording features Guy’s solo compositions, including “Three Tributes,” commissioned by the American Accordionists’ Association, and a trio and quartets for Bellows Brigade, where Guy is joined by fellow accordionists Will Holshouser, Nathan Koci (doubling voice) and Kamala Sankaram (doubling voice). The feature piece is a 17-minute suite, “Pauline, Pauline,” dedicated to the memory of Guy’s long-time friend, composer/accordionist Pauline Oliveros. 10:30am Sunday mornings 50 weeks a year: welcoming, invigorating, eccentric. Performances take place at Las Puertas at 1512 1st Street NW in Albuquerque. Arrive before 10am and enjoy the complimentary espresso bar and homemade goodies. The one-hour program of ensemble music begins promptly at 10:30 am. Chatter weaves together traditional and contemporary classical music in often surprising programs that include a reading by our poet/speaker of the morning and a two-minute celebration of silence. Free parking is located on neighborhood streets and in a large lot 1 block from Las Puertas on Kinley Ave NW (between 1st and 2nd Streets). Las Puertas is a beautiful warehouse of red brick, concrete, and steel, rebuilt after a fire in the 1950s. When its useful life as a warehouse came to an end, owner Lee Blaugrund gave it new life as an event center dedicated to supporting nonprofits and the arts. Las Puertas means “the doors", a name echoing the massive old doors and gates from India and other parts of the world which line the walls of the Chatter performance space and the adjoining, larger Milonga de Las Puertas event space. Mr Blaugrund and his staff have upgraded the acoustical properties of Las Puertas for the benefit of Chatter’s unique brand of chamber music. Also newly-constructed is a handsome corner dedicated to Chatter’s all-important, iconic espresso and coffee. In recent years, Chatter has sold out most Sunday mornings. Las Puertas allows for small expansion of the audience while keeping the performances intimate and maintaining the atmosphere of camaraderie and community which are critical components of the Chatter experience. David Felberg, Albuquerque native, violinist and conductor, is Artistic Director and co-founder of Chatter. He is Concertmaster of the Santa Fe Symphony and Associate Concertmaster of the New Mexico Philharmonic, and teaches contemporary music at the University of New Mexico. He maintains a robust conducting and concert soloist career, performing throughout the southwest. As a conductor, he recently made his debut with Santa Fe Pro Musica, and regularly conducts professionally all over New Mexico. He made his New York recital debut in Merkin Hall in spring 2005. David received a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Arizona and a Master of Music in Conducting from the University of New Mexico. He has taken advanced string quartet studies at the University of Colorado with the Takacs Quartet, and received intensive training at the American Academy of Conducting at the Aspen Music Festival. David plays a J.B.Vuillaume 1829 violin. James T Shields, Associate Artistic Director of Chatter, is a dynamic performer who can be heard throughout North America as an active chamber musician, soloist, and orchestral performer. Recently appointed Principal Clarinet of the Oregon Symphony, James has performed in similar positions in orchestras around the globe, including the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Canadian Opera Company, the New Mexico Philharmonic, Santa Fe Pro Musica, and the Malaysian Philharmonic. As an advocate for contemporary music and chamber music, James can be found performing frequently in more intimate venues where he enjoys the opportunity to find an immediate connection with the audience. A graduate of the Juilliard School, James also received a Masters Degree in Composition from the University of New Mexico in 2010, and continues to compose regularly when his performing schedule allows. His CD “Teetering on the Verge of Normalcy” and others are available for purchase. For further information: gklucevsek@mac.com |
American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Election Results - USAby Harley Jones |
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  Voting for AAA Officers by the AAA membership has just taken place and the results were announced at the November Board meeting. The results are as follows: Current 1st Vice-President Dr Joe Ciccone (picture left) stood for President and current AAA President Mary Tokarski (picture right performing at the AAA 80th Anniversary Festival) stood and was elected AAA 1st Vice-President. Terms begin on January 1, 2019 and last for two years. Dr. Joe Ciccone – President Mary Tokarski – 1st Vice President Linda Reed – 2nd Vice President Ray Oreggia – Treasurer Rachel Quirbach – Secretary |
Cory Pesaturo to Perform on December 13 at the Museum of Music Makingby Rita Barnea |
  Video: This performance took place at The Tralf Music Hall in Buffalo, New York on July 8, 2016. It was part of a concert entitled "Evening with the Stars" that was held during the American Accordionists' Association's 2016 Festival.Video by Dan Grauman Published on Jul 12, 2016 Cory Pesaturo will present a concert at the Museum for Music Making on Thursday, December 13, 2018 called “Discover the sound of the accordion featuring Cory Pesaturo and Count Guido Roberto Deiro.” A visionary thinker and World Champion on Digital, Acoustic, and Jazz Accordion, Cory Pesaturo is changing how the instrument is used, played, and presented to the world and in modern music. He is joined by Count Guido Roberto Deiro, son of the legendary vaudeville star, recording artist, educator, and accordion advocate, the late Count Guido Pietro Deiro. Here is how Cory became involved with the MoMM. Cory shares, "I met Jonathan Piper at Cotati after one of my performances, and was Immediately perplexed at what I had heard - A Major Museum was going to have a major accordion exhibit for 9 months!? I took down his number and began talking with him almost every other day about what players to get for what genre, what genres to show, what accordions to exhibit, on and on, etc. It's just so very important and simply, so awesome that this is happening." Cory will be the performer at the First Concert on December 13, 2018, which will show an array of genres as Cory is known for. Adding to this, the Museum will bring in Guido Deiro Jr., son of the first famous accordionist in the USA, Guido Deiro who brought the Piano Accordion to the country in 1909. Deiro Jr. will speak both about his father and what he did for accordion, and connect it with what Cory is doing today. Guido in fact gave Cory his fathers accordion earlier this year at a ceremony in Las Vegas. Cory Pesaturo is an accordion player, who also plays the piano, clarinet, and saxophone. He began playing at the age of nine, and in 2002, became one of the youngest persons to win the National Accordion Championship. He most recently won the 2011 Primus Ikaalinen World Championship and was the first ever American contestant.Additionally, Pesaturo won the Coupe Mondiale World Digital Accordion Championship in Auckland, New Zealand, and became the first American to win a World Accordion Championship since Peter Soave 25 years earlier. In June 2009, he won the Leavenworth International Championship, and International Jazz Championship. Pesaturo performed in 5 different continents during 2009; some countries included Canada, Italy, New Zealand, Tunisia and Japan. Cory is one of only four accordionists in history to win a World Championship on both acoustic and electronic accordion, and is the only person to also win a world championship in jazz. Cory Pesaturo plays a modern electric accordions. This particular accordion has a full vinyl skin, and midi-sequenced LED's in the grill connected to the keys in a symmetric pattern. He was accepted on the accordion at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA where he studied Contemporary Improvisation and a variety of music styles, including Italian and French folk music, Bulgarian and Jewish music, Classical music and Jazz. He became the second person to major in and graduate as an accordionist at the New England Conservatory. Additional Public Performances in December: Salt Lake City Accordion Club, December 10, 2018 4987 S Fairbrook Ln Salt Lake City, UT 84117 JANUARY 2019 Vibrato’s in Los Angeles, CA: January 22nd, 2019 Cory will once again put on a full show at the Vibrato's Jazz Club . NAMM 2019 in Anaheim, CA: January 23rd, 2019 to January 27th, 2019 Cory's 10th NAMM Show, this time he is going for the NAMM Museum. Some of Cory Pesaturo’s amazing accomplishments: - World Digital Accordion Champion (Coupe Mondiale) - World Acoustic Accordion Champion (Primus Ikaalinen) - Guinness World Record Holder - First Person to ever win World Championships on Digital, Acoustic, and Jazz Museum of Making Music is located on: 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA Phone: (760) 438-5996 For further information on the accordion display: Museum of Making Music Jonathan Piper, Manager of Museum Collections and Exhibitions jonathanp@museumofmakingmusic.org Phone: (760) 304-5824 For further information on Cory: cory.pesaturo@gmail.com |
Updates on “Accordions Rising” by Roberta Cantow….Great Holiday Gift Ideaby Rita Barnea |
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 “Accordions Rising”….Looks at the past, presents the present and considers the future. "Accordions Rising" was presented at the First New Orleans Accordion Festival in November. Roberta shares, “The audience loved the film and the disks sold like hotcakes. In fact, they sold out all that I sent.The film is still available from the website : www.accordionsrising.com and the shipping calculator still works. I suggest that people write to me at (rcantow@originaldigital.net) after visiting the website to make their DVD requests. They will receive a Pay Pal money request unless they request to pay by check, in which case, I will provide an address.”Blu Ray copies are available on-line at Barnes and Noble, Amazon and Best Buy. The sites where it is available for streaming are also listed on the website. Roberta Cantow is a recognized filmmaker whose work is valued and being preserved by more than one entity. It has won awards internationally and nationally including two different Awards of Merit in the Documentary Category and one other: 1. Global Accolade Competition – Award of Merit, November, 2015 2. Indie Film Fest, August, 2016 – Award of Merit 3. Bare Bones International Music and Film Festival – Best Movie Poster, April, 2016 There is also a plan for it to stream one day on the Folkstreams website (www.folkstreams.com) -a site concerned with preserving films about American traditional culture and folklore. But that will only occur once its days in distribution have ended. Roberta Cantow was recognized with her first grant from The American Film Institute while still a graduate film student at NYU. Through the years, The New York State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York Foundation for the Arts and others provided grants for the completion of 4 film works. She received a NY Area Emmy for her film, "Clotheslines" about the symbolic and artistic role of laundry in women’s lives, as well as many other awards and presentations. Her films and videos have garnered several Best of Category Citations in film festivals around the country as well as an Award of Excellence for Dreamtime, in 2008 and Awards of Merit for “Not a Still Life”, and “Accordions Rising”, all in the documentary category, from the Accolade Competition. Her work has been exhibited in many of the venues for independents, including a presentation in the Cineprobe Series of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Her four 16mm films were selected for archival preservation by the Donnell Media Center, New York City, in 2001. All of her work will be housed in the Sophia Smith Women’s History Collection of Smith College (in perpetuity). in 2017-2018, she was engaged as Project Coordinator with the Berkeley-based StoryCenter, through a funded initiative to bring digital storytelling to Palomar College where she teaches and to make it a campus wide phenomenon. For further information: rcantow@originaldigital.net www.accordionsrising.com |
Kim and Dan Christian Release New Arrangements and CD’sby Rita Barnea |
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 It has been a fantastic, busy year for Dan and Kim Christian!! Just in time for Christmas, they are excited to have some fantastic duet arrangements available for download from their website. Please go to the digital sheet music page and peruse all the new music. There are several tunes that can be heard on their CD tracks as indicated. They also have a total of 6 CD's available. The CD's can be purchased digitally as entire CD's or as individual songs from each CD, so that people can pick and choose their favorite songs! The CD's include: * Squeeze Play * World Tour * USA Tour * Polka Power * Shakin' It Up * Squeezin' Beyond Boundaries All of which make fantastic Christmas Gifts. Check out all the great music here: www.squeezeplay.biz They are proud to announce by the end of the year, they will have performed 248 gigs in 2018! Woohoo! They certainly have exposed many people to the magic of the accordion. They play in all styles and perform with great energy and enthusiasm. Excerpts from their website: Christian Duo: In 2017 with vibrant energy and passion, Dan and Kim performed, adjudicated and judged at the Leavenworth International Accordion Festival, The Edmonton, Alberta Accordion Extravaganza, and The Las Vegas International Accordion Convention. Both Dan and Kim have taught music lessons for over 35 years, educating hundreds of people in the art of music. Several of their students have received full music scholarships to the Lamont School of Music at Denver University. They have both directed many award winning accordion orchestras, ranging from beginner to virtuoso, including the National Champion Accordion Orchestra. Dan and Kim have performed extensively throughout the US, with engagements in Canada and as far away as Beijing, China at the Beijing Philharmonic Hall. Performances also include a 2 year run of their own production entitled “Music Makes the World Go Round” in Branson, Missouri. While in Branson, Dan and Kim experienced performing on the same stage with Bobby Vinton, Andy Williams and Les Brown, among other great entertainers. They continue to play over 200 gigs a year and thoroughly enjoy each and every performance. Dan Christian at a Glance: Four time Rocky Mountain Accordion Virtuoso Champion Winner, Winner of the Prestigious Anthony Galla-Rini Traveling Trophy, Director of the US National Champion Accordion Orchestra with record of 1st Place wins across the country, Esteemed arranger and transcriber of music for accordion orchestra, duet and solo including works by Tschaikovsky, Dvorak, Saint Saens, Schubert and many others, Spotlighted solo accordionist for the premier run of 'La Curandera", the first opera to highlight the accordion as the principal instrument, Arranger for the music for the Christian duo's original Branson production "Music Makes the World Go Round," Accordion teacher and educator for over 40 years. Kim Christian at a Glance: US National Champion (AAA), Honorary bronze medal winner World Champion (Coupe Mondiale), AFNA Virtuoso Solo Champion, 2 Time RMAS Virtuoso Champion, Accordion Major at Loretto Heights College Denver, CO., Director of many accordion orchestras from beginner to virtuoso with extremely successful winning record, Producer and Manager for "Music Makes the World Go Round," the Christian duo's original Accordion Show based in Branson, Mo., Accordion teacher and educator for over 35 years. They can teach you how to add rhythm patterns, chords, glissando, turns - all kinds of things to spice up even the most basic arrangement. In their workshops you can bring a piece of music with you, and Kim and Dan will show you how. For further information on how to purchase their music: Kim Christian KDCStudios@gmail.com www.accordions.com/christian (719) 597-1984 (719) 459-2061 |
Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band in Winter Performancesby Rita Barnea |
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 Video: Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band (Official Music Video}Cajun Bowl 🎳 will be having it’s first ever LIVE BAND🎵 on Saturday, December 1st. Come out and enjoy some great Cajun Food 🥘, friends 👫, & Zydeco music 🎶They may even offer some drink 🍻specials! Please Share— Your friends are looking for a good time too! Band Members: Chubby Carrier Randy Ellis Ronald Carrier Neal Williams Pandy Perrodin Jamie Dominic Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band are GRAMMY award winning artists that offer Intense, High Energy, Party Music... That's what you'll get when you hear Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band. They have traveled nationally and internationally for the past 21 years bringing their style of swamp funky zydeco party music to the world. The group are Louisiana natives and carry out the true bayou sounds straight from Southwest Louisiana. Not only will you get the best in original swamp funky zydeco, add to that, blues, mardi gras, and some cover tunes and you'll see the versatility of the band. They have also won the 2010 Best of the Beat and Big Easy Awards. Received the key to the cities of Opelousas, Lafayette, and Lake Charles. Chubby was inducted into the Louisiana Hall of Fame in 2012. Chubby was one of the main characters in the IMAX film "Hurricane on the Bayou" in 2006. He has performed at venues such at the Chicago Blues Festival, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Cajun and Zydeco Festival in Ft Lauderdale, FL, and Montreaux Jazz Fest in Switzerland to name a few. We can customize the bands size and instrumentation to meet your entertainment needs. Making Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band the ideal band for your fairs, festivals, corporate, private, wedding, art centers, and educational events. Future Performances: Saturday, December 1, 2018 Cajun Bowl 8 pm until 11 pm New Iberia, LA Saturday, December 1, 2018 Buck-n-Johnny's 8:30 am until 11:30 am 100 Berard St Breaux Bridge, LA Sunday, December 9, 2018 Rock-n-Bowl de Lafayette 5:30 pm until 8:30 pm Lafayette, LA Friday, December 14, 2018 The Grouse Room 9 pm 12 am Lafayette, LA Thursday, December 27, 2018 Feed-n-Seed 7 pm until 10 pm 106 N. Grant St. Lafayette, LA Monday, December 31, 2018 Dick Clark's Rocking New Year 12 am New Orleans, LA Thursday, January 10, 2019 Mid City Lanes "Rock 'N' Bowl" 8:30 until 12 am 4133 S. Carrollton Ave New Orleans, LA 70119 504-482-3133 Press contact: Misty Carrier 337-344-1734 Booking agent: Chubby Carrier 337-288-8893 Email: chubbycarrier@cox.net |
The Klezmatics in December Concertsby Rita Barnea |
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 The Klezmatics continue to carry on the traditions of klezmer music, which has roots in Eastern European Jewish communities, by both honoring the past and completely morphing it for the future. Excerpts from article by John Soltes: They have fun with their unique interpretation of klezmer, and that uniqueness will be on display Sunday, Dec. 2 at their holiday-themed concert entitled Woody Guthrie’s Happy Joyous Hanukkah — A Celebration.The 8:PM show will take place at Murmrrr in Brooklyn, New York, and audience members should expect selections from the band’s Grammy-winning album Wonder Wheel, which features 12 previously unsung Guthrie lyrics, and the Hanukkah album that gives the concert its name. The Klezmatics, who have been going strong for three decades, features original members Lorin Sklamberg (photo on right) on lead vocals, accordion, guitar and piano; Frank London on trumpet, keyboards and vocals; and Paul Morrissett on bass, tsimbl and vocals. Joining them are longtime members Matt Darriau on kaval, clarinet, saxophone and vocals; Lisa Gutkin on violin and vocals; and Richie Barshay on percussion. Irish singer Susan McKeown will accompany the band to enliven the Guthrie songbook. The long résumé for the Klezmatics is impressive. They have collaborated with some prolific musicians, including Itzhak Perlman, and they have worked with a variety of cultural figures, everyone from poet Allen Ginsberg to singer Arlo Guthrie. and Neil Sedaka. December 2018 Performances: The Klezmatics, Woody Guthrie’s Happy Joyous Hanukkah December 1 @ 7:30 PM Troy Music Hall, 30 2nd Street Troy, NY 12180 United States Troy Music Hall The Klezmatics, Woody Guthrie’s Happy Joyous Hanukkah December 2 @ 8:PM Murmrr, 17 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11238 United States Murmrr, Brooklyn, NY The Klezmatics, Woody Guthrie’s Happy Joyous Hanukkah December 6 @ 7:30 PM Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane Mamaroneck, NY 10543 United States Emelin Theatre Excerpts from their website: The Klezmatics are globally-renowned world music superstars — and the only klezmer band to win a Grammy award. The Klezmatics emerged out of the vibrant cultural scene of New York City’s East Village in 1986 with klezmer steeped in Eastern European Jewish tradition and spirituality, while incorporating contemporary themes such as human rights and anti-fundamentalism and eclectic musical influences including Arab, African, Latin and Balkan rhythms, jazz and punk. In the course of over twenty years and nine albums they have stubbornly continued making music that is wild, mystical, provocative, reflective and ecstatically danceable. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
The First Annual IDEAS Symposium in Warren Ohio Nov 7-10, 2018by Joseph Natoli |
 The first annual International Digital Electronic Accordion Symposium (IDEAS), held Nov 7-10, 2018 in Warren Ohio at the beautiful Avalon Inn & Resort has now taken its place in accordion history, and will not be easily forgotten. All attendees and faculty members alike were filled with enthusiasm and excitement about being a part of this foundational event! It attracted participants from all over the world, including New Zealand, Australia, Israel, Italy, Canada, and all over the USA. Faculty members included names you might likely be familiar with in the digital domain, like Joseph Natoli, Michael Soloway, Richard Noel, Cory Pesaturo, Michael Bridge, Don Gerundo, Alex Chudolij, Lenny Feldmann, Dr. Ian Fries, Sam Falcetti (Falcetti Music), and Chris Theis (2-time Grammy award winning sound engineer). Attendees also included accordion manufacturers/distributors like Marco Cignalia (Bugari Armando - Evo Haria division), Alessio Gerundini (CEO ZeroSette), Joe Petosa (CEO Petosa Accordions), Nick Ballarini (Ballarini Accordion), Lillianna Chudolij (MusicMagic USA), and Guenadiy Lazarov (The Accordion Gallery). This Symposium, 18 months in the making by co-directors Joseph Natoli and Michael Soloway, proved (as anticipated) to fill a large void in the digital accordion community. Highly integrated and in-depth training and workshops provided four intense and very full days of art and education. This is not something that many of these musicians would have been able to realize in the past. Furthermore, anyone at any level of playing or understanding on their digital instrument was welcome to be a part of and contribute to this historic event. The result was an unprecedented level of networking, knowledge sharing, camaraderie, musical interactivity, and opportunity that the digital accordion world had not seen before, a sentiment reverberated from all attendees and faculty members alike. Also, there were five concerts presented in all, three at 8:AM and two 8:PM evening concerts. The Saturday 8:AM concert even provided an opportunity for some of the attendees to show their prowess on their digital instruments, which was very well received. Those performers included Beverly Garcia, Kep Protopopov, Richard Noel, Sherry Carr, and Bob Donovan. The evening concerts were well-attended, with the Friday night concert holding a standing room only crowd, and featuring Richard Noel, Joe Natoli, Michael Soloway, Michael Bridge, and Cory Pesaturo, as well as the IDEAS all digital ensemble. The Saturday night concert was also near capacity and was held that one night at the Avalon’s sister location of Squaw Creek Country Club, a stunning venue for another great evening of music that included again Richard Noel, Joe Natoli, Michael Soloway, Michael Bridge, and Cory Pesaturo, in a completely new program along with the IDEAS all digital ensemble. The IDEAS Ensemble performed Tango de Amor (Amy Jo Sawyer) The Prayer (arr. Joseph Natoli) Stack ‘Em (Mike Alongi) Smooth (Joseph Natoli) Some incredible highlights of the evening concerts included Joseph Natoli performing his completely digital composition entitled “Epic Cinematic Soundtrack”, along with a variety of original and orchestrated pieces. The partnership that created this event was beautifully and emotionally represented by Joe and co-director Michael Soloway playing the new duet appropriately entitled “Friendship” – an original composition by Joe. Michael Bridge then followed with his spectacular orchestration of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with canon shots! Cory Pesaturo performed his unique brand of jazz improvisations. Then Michael Bridge and Cory concluded with an improvised duet that had the audience at the edge of their seats. The audience that included many locals in addition to IDEAS attendees were clearly mesmerized by the diversity and scope of the music that these digital instruments are capable of producing in the hands of these performers, and every artist received a rousing standing ovation. With the full support of the Avalon Inn, there were group and solo music impromptu gatherings, virtually around the clock, in the restaurants, bars, lobbies and the Synergistic Suites provided by the Symposium. The atmosphere created was contagious to anyone entering the resort during those four days and many of the Avalon Country Club members attended these gatherings as well as the concerts! Most importantly however, the IDEAS Symposium signifies a new direction in accordion festivals - a paradigm shift in the evolution of these types of events. It serves as an exciting example of what can be accomplished when thinking outside the box (pun intended). In the end, it has provided digital accordionists with a great event they can call their own. They can feel completely comfortable to participate where everything in every aspect is firmly rooted in their own digital accordion world. |
New Book: “Accordion Stories from the Heart” by Paul Ramunniby Rita Barnea |
 AWW announces the publication of a fascinating new book about the accordion available is available now. It would be a wonderful holiday gift for accordion lovers. “Accordion Stories from the Heart: A Collection of Accordions from Around the World and Their Stories, Inspired by the Extraordinary People Who Played Them” (Accordion Stories Volume #1) by Angelo Paul Ramunni Author Paul Ramunni shares: “The intention in creating this book was to make it a pleasurable, as well as an educational, viewing experience. But in the collecting of the many pictures, stories and in the production of the work itself, something quite unexpected happened. As you read through the stories and see the various pictures of accordions, a composite mental picture may begin to immerge for you. It is the simple image of an accordionist offering their personal gift of music to the listener(s). This representative picture of how accordion players connected and created lasting relationships with other people is a hallmark of the accordion experience. They offered people their friendship in the form of a musically created greeting card, if you will, one that was personally built and delivered by the player. As a grandparent these days, I am especially touched when my two beautiful grandsons create or build something themselves and offer it as a gift to me. They make that gift just for me and no one else, and so it becomes very special. As it turns out, that is how many accordion players from the past, and even today, create and deliver their musical gifts to people. It has the effect of bringing folks together and helping relationships grow deeper and stronger. In a sense, it can have the effect of building a bridge between people that, under ordinary circumstances, may have never occurred. It offers a starting point from which a mutually reciprocal relationship can develop and grow. As of this writing, this is something our society seems to need in great quantities these days. Our country is deeply divided on many social and governing issues. But then again this is not something so new. This was the case often enough in the last 200 plus years of our American history, which coincidentally is at least how long the accordion has been around. I truly believe that during this period, the accordion helped many people come together through the tough times in their lives. Its musical message brought a sense of healing, happiness and unity. I also believe it can continue to do so as we move deeper into the 21st century. I hope we will let it continue to deliver its magic.” "Accordion Stories from the Heart" can be purchased online on the Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Indie Bound websites. Autographed copies can be purchased from Paul Ramunni by contacting him directly at ramunni@comcast.net. Paul Ramunni grew up on Long Island, New York in the 1950’s and 60’s. He graduated from Fairfield University with a bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1970. He went on to earn a Masters Degree in Economics from Fordham University and eventually a second Masters Degree in Accounting from Long Island University in 1976. In 1978 he became a Certified Public Accountant and started his own public accounting firm in 1982, of which he is still a partner. It was in 2008 when Paul suddenly (and inexplicably) had the urge to start playing the accordion again. He had taken lessons and played in an accordion band from when he was 10 years old to age 17, but had not touched the accordion since those early days. Once the “bug to play” re-entered his life, he started hunting for old and collectible accordions. He contacted the Cleveland Accordion Museum and purchased a large portion of their collection and continued to find more units at tag sales and other locations. He then set up “The New England Accordion Connection and Museum Co.” which is currently attached to his home in Canaan, Conn. Editor Rita Barnea shares: “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fascinating book. Not only is it informative, personal, and interesting, but it also reveals an emotional connection between family, music, and the accordion. It would be a great holiday, birthday, or any occasion gift.” |
Cody McSherry Performs at the Kennedy Centerby Pat McSherry |
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| Video: Complete concert at Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, 20 November 2018 concert by Cody McSherry © 2018 John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Music List 2018ML.jpg Cody McSherry had something extra to be thankful for this Thanksgiving – he had the opportunity to perform on the Kennedy Center’s Millennium stage on November 20,2018. Cody, age 15, relished the opportunity to perform on the national stage, and to show that the accordion is an instrument for all ages. After the performance, he was gratified at the number of people who came forward to talk with him, with one younger audience member even telling him that he was an inspiration, something he did not expect. Cody’s performance included music from many genres, performed on two different types of accordion – piano accordion and diatonic button accordion. The music Cody performed ranged from traditional Balkan folk music such as Boris Karloff’s “Ruchineitsa” to two movements of Guy Klucevsek’s “Three Tributes” to Cody’s own arrangement of Consuelo Velazquez’ “Besame Mucho.” Many pieces were technically challenging. All of the music that he performed had special meaning to Cody, especially those pieces composed by friends, such as Klucevsek, Ron Pivovar and Frank Vidergar. Cody, an avid student of language, also sang in four languages – Macedonian, Slovenian, German and Spanish, backing himself up on the accordion. By all measures, the concert was a great success. Cody performed well as was indicated by the audience, estimated at about 500 people, giving Cody a standing ovation. Almost all seats were taken, with many additional people standing in the rear of the space. As the concert was streamed live over the internet, Cody received favorable comments from across the country and from various countries around the world. During his concert, Cody expressed his sincere thanks to the staff at the Kennedy Center – the stage manager, sound and camera people as well as the ushers. He found that all of these people were excellent to work with and were both friendly and professional. He also thanked his teacher, Mary Tokarski for all of her kind efforts, and friends Dan and Joan Grauman who have been very supportive, with Joan providing Cody’s concert introduction. In addition to the instruments on which he performed for this concert, Cody also performs on harp, theater organ, pipe organ, and chromatic accordion. He has his own band – Polterabend - and performs with the Bavarian Barons. He is also active in musical theater and was most recently seen in Servant Stage’s production of “I’ll Fly Away.” Photo below: Joan Grauman, Cody McSherry, his teacher, Mary Tokarski |
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Paul Betken Performs at The Nash in Arizonaby Rita Barnea |
 Paul Betken had the pleasure to be the first accordionist to perform at a well-known local jazz venue, THE NASH, in Phoenix, Arizona on November 4, 2018. For the fifth consecutive year, DownBeat magazine has named THE NASH as one of the world's top jazz venues. Their annual "International Jazz Venue Guide" is "...a comprehensive look at where great jazz and improvised music is being played globally-from terrific, intimate rooms to the most sophisticated concert halls." THE NASH sponsors weekly jam sessions, clinics taught by top educators, big band performances, new and mainstream jazz concerts, First Friday Art Walks with live jazz, special performances by local and visiting musicians, and a variety of other jazz happenings. Paul, accompanied with the house trio, joined the group of regular performers in an early evening schedule of music and song. Although some of the musicians had previously performed with Paul, the introduction of an accordion in performance was a club first for the regulars. Paul said, “These folks are tried and true jazz aficionados. When I took the stage and strapped on my Petosa, you could hear a pin drop—I could feel the folks in the audience holding their breath so I immediately announced that yes, this is an accordion, and no, I am not playing a polka!” Paul believes that his initiative to introduce the accordion to THE NASH audience was a mission accomplished. Lewis Nash, for whom the center is named, was raised and born in Phoenix. He began playing drums at age 10 and was drawn to jazz by the age of 18 when he performed with local jazz groups. Now an internationally-renowned drummer, Lewis is acclaimed “the most valuable player” in jazz (Modern Drummer Magazine). THE NASH is owned and operated by Jazz in Arizona. It is the heart and soul of Jazz in Arizona. Jazz in Arizona is a nonprofit organization, founded in 1977, with a proud history of encouraging and supporting the performance and appreciation of the great original American art form of jazz. Paul Betken mentored under the legendary blind jazz accordionist, Leon Sash, at age 15 for seven years. Their friendship blossomed into a life long relationship ending with Leon's death in 1979. During that time, Leon blessed him with gifts of his wisdom, music and philosophy. He became a member of "Leon's guys" which was a small group of professional accordionists in Chicago promoted by Leon to the musical artists community. Paul performed for many years (as a soloist, with small groups and larger ensembles) throughout Metro Chicago. His experience is anchored in most all musical genre’s. He has performed in shows, private parties, theatres, corporate functions, country clubs, hotels and lounges etc. He was a former resident accordionist in Chicago for Bobbi Vinton and his concert shows. Residing in Tempe, AZ for the last 12 years, he enjoys casual engagements and jam sessions all around Phoenix. He is a member of the Board Directors, Arizona Accordion Club. In 2017, he published a book on jazz accordion arrangements of select tunes from the Great American Songbook. In the past few years, he has performed concerts and given workshops at the Cotati, CA Festival, the ATG Convention, Chicago, the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention, the National Accordion Association Convention, Dallas and in Rome, Italy. His earlier CD, “Paul’s Turn – Jazz Accordion,” June, 2014 showcases the accordion in a Pop/Jazz mode featuring songs which one would not expect to be performed on the instrument. It was featured on the podcast Sunday-Riff, 21 June, 2015," hosted by Dermott Husey of Sirius XM, Accordions USA.com and Accordions Worldwide.com--the worldwide hallmark internet venue for the accordion. The album has received both national and international recognition including praise from Howard Reich, music critic of the Chicago Tribune, August 12, 2014 and Paolo Picchio, President of Consorzio Music Marche, Castelfidardo, Italy, September 5, 2015. For further information: pdbetken1@msn.com |
Joe Soprani's "My Thanksgiving Story"by Rita Barnea |
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| Accordionist Joseph Soprani shares his amazing adventure and miraculous survival of a plane crash: "My Thanksgiving Story" "The story that I am going to write about is similar to the one I presented at the Kimmel center for Peter Nero and the Philly Pops in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the USO and I might add that my presentation and performance was voted the best program of the 2005 season. As you know the purpose of the USO was to bring a touch of home to our service men and women and it has been written that few events have left a more lasting emotional impression on them than USO shows. The USO has brought top quality entertainment to millions of US military personnel throughout the world since 1944 and i am proud to have been a part of that development. My relationship with USO dates back to the beginning of my career and at age 11 I started doing USO shows for our service men and women. Many of you, I’m sure, remember Jack Steck(Starlite stairway), Stanley Broza of the children's hour, Bailey Goss(Balt. MD), and Paul Whiteman(right after the incident I was invited on his New York radio show to perform with his 50 piece orchestra and tell my story. He then presented me with a gold watch for my services with USO). Over the years many articles have been written about my USO days such as:" The Longest Hour", "Lucky to be Alive", "Songs in the Key of Life", "Accordionist Plays and Lives with Gusto", "Musician 18 Safe After Plane Crash"; and the most recent one called "Not Everything Goes Accordion to Hoyle" appeared in the official publication of Korean war veterans called the Graybeards. This is my story: on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 1953 I survived a plane crash while traveling with the USO. after winning the Arthur Godfrey talent scouts show I was called by the USO organization in New York to headline a USO unit: “Broadway Ballyhoo", made up of ten performers, was formed and I was chosen as band leader and accordion soloist. and at 18 I became the youngest USO entertainer. the tour which was scheduled for Japan, Korea and the Pacific Islands for 17 weeks began quietly and without fanfare. We left from La Guardia airport in New York on August 31, 1953 and arrived in Tokyo, Japan 4 days later. after rehearsing for 3 days we were ready for the 17 weeks that lay ahead. And for the next 70 days we performed 2 and 3 shows a day in different towns and military bases in Korea(30) and Japan(15). We never did get to the Pacific Islands. The Broadway Ballyhoo unit collectively had many years of show business experience with such names as Bob Hope, Woody Herman, Ed Sullivan, the Dorsey Brothers, Xavier Cugat not to mention stage and screen and TV experience. Our show ran two hours and was a top notch variety production from beginning to end. It consisted of a guitar and banjo act(Bill Roberts), a magician(Norma Krieger), a dance act consisting of mother, father, sister, brother(the evans family), and my accordion solos. our trio consisted of accordion(Joe Soprani), trumpet(ed house), and drums(Mel Zelman)… and comedian, Joe Wong…ten people in all. I remember on one occasion when it got so cold(all performances were outside) we wore gloves during the show. but, I managed to play “Flight of the Bumble Bee with gloves. On November 26, 1953, which started out like any other day on the tour was to be a day that I will remember for the rest of my life. We had just completed our first show at Iwakuni Air Base and was scheduled to fly to Miho, Japan, less than an hour away. We were treated to a Thanksgiving Day dinner before departing and were scheduled for two more shows in Miho. The military flight was routine and was scheduled to depart at 1:30 PM. However, because of engine problems our flight(c-47) was canceled. Another plane(c-46) was available for our use. We finally boarded the plane at 4:PM. By that time, however, we picked up 15 more passengers and many bags of US mail. After having performed over 100 shows in 73 days in 15 cities in Japan and 30 cities in Korea for over 200,000 troops and traveling over 15,000 miles, it was not difficult to determine that this plane was overcrowded and overloaded. but, we were assured by the officers in charge that "everything is fine". We were five minutes away from Miho, but it was raining and getting dark, making it difficult for the pilot to find the runway. He circled and tried again. This time he was instructed to come in on GCA(ground control approach). When the pilot realized that he overshot the runway, he tried to gain altitude but couldn't. We sensed trouble. At that moment there was a tremendous jolt. We did not know it at the time but, we were traveling 140 miles an hour when we hit water. We came to a halt approximately 4 miles from shore. Lights inside the plane had gone out and for a moment it looked like the end. There was a pause after impact. No explosion! No fire! There was quiet calm. All of a sudden crewmen came flying by passing over all the mail and baggage that had been strapped in the center of the plane and shouting at us to get out of the plane! Split-second decisions had to be made from this point on. One of the crewmen managed to open the four escape hatches. Two life rafts were tossed out and inflated. Each life raft, we were told, can hold twelve people. Thirty people were aboard the plane. It didn't take much to figure out that some of us would not fit in the raft. 30 people were aboard the plane; 10 USO members, 5 crewmen, and 15 other passengers. Most of the passengers were out of the plane by now, but our trumpet player, our unit manager and I were still on the wing trying to make up our minds what to do next. The plane was sinking fast. Our manager suddenly realizes that he left his briefcase on the plane with our passports and important documents so he decides to go back in to retrieve it. When he came back out he realized what he had just done and almost threw the briefcase back in. Then our trumpet player, who was a camera buff, decides that this was a good time to record these moments for posterity and from the sinking plane he began to grind his camera like mad. It was amazing! I had never experienced anything like it. The three of us finally jumped from the plane into the icy waters. There we were in the very cold sea not knowing what was going to happen next. Were we going to survive? Did we have to worry about shark? in less than 5 minutes we had evacuated the plane which was disappearing before our eyes. We lost all of our possessions; including our wardrobe, music, our instruments and my $1200 accordion which was a gift from my grandfather. Everyone was calm at first but by now, an hour later, some of us began to panic and became hysterical. Shock was beginning to set in. We thought we would freeze to death. Suddenly from a distance we could see a light coming in our direction. It was one rescue boat to bring in the 30 survivors. The Air Force rescue team expected the usual; no survivors. We were all taken to the base hospital and a week later we were making arrangements to get back to the USA. Needless to say after that experience no one wanted to fly. It took us 14 hours by train from Miho to Tokyo, 14 days on the USN general O. Darby military troop ship from Yokahama to Seattle, and from Seattle everyone went their separate ways. It took me 3 days by train to Phila. It was the longest and lonliest 3 days of my life. I arrived home at 30th street station in Phila. on December 27, 1953 to the waiting arms of my loving family. After the crash I promised myself that I would never fly again as long as I lived. Two years later I auditioned and was accepted into the United States Air Force as accordion soloist with the United States Air Force band in Washington, DC for 4 years and traveled the globe. How you asked? By plane, of course. * * * * * * * This story has been reported many times over the years and has appeared in many newspapers and magazines, but, I am still asked about it. even after all this time, especially around this time of year, I relive every minute of that Thanksgiving Day of 1953. ……………………………………………………………………………………… In addition to performing in Broadway shows such as "Fiddler on the Roof", "Zorba", "Cabaret" and "Irma la Douce", Joe has performed in world premieres of "Frida,” a musical that called for a virtuoso accordionist and "Another Kind of Hero,” a musical which featured him on stage for an entire scene. Joe, who appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and won the Arthur Godfrey Show, appeared with TV Star Nell Carter in a "Colors of Freedom" production at the Convention Center in Philadelphia in 1995. He also appeared with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops playing a special arrangement by Nero with Soprano Evelyn de LaRosa. In November of 1997, Soprani became the first accordionist to perform in "La Traviata" by Verdi presented by the Opera Company of Philadelphia, at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia. Klaus Arp, the opera conductor from Germany, decided to use the accordion in the small ensemble on stage during "La Banda" sections. Joe has also performed with Russell Watson on Good Morning America, and continues to promote the accordion as a serious instrument at various clubs and organizations. His workshops at schools and colleges, where he demonstrates his skills as performer and arranger to young composers and arrangers, have been well received. For further information: Email: joesoprani@gmail.com |
Harrington Arts Center Present Accordion-Concertina Studio Recitalby Helmi Harrington |
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 A marathon of music-making on November 11, 2018 marked the “Students and Friends” recital presented at Harrington ARTS Center (Superior, WI) by the dual studios of Accordion Concertina Music located in Burnsville, MN, and Superior, WI. The day began at 10:00 AM with a final rehearsal of nine orchestral pieces that joined bands from each studio--united only through parallel practices and director/instructor Helmi Harrington. Over 30 students, ranging in age from 7 to 80+ years came from distances as much as five hours away to play in the 5 ½-hour concert beginning at 1:00 PM. In addition to the focal orchestral works, the acoustically ideal Hanni Strahl Concert Hall resounded with ensembles, duos, and solos ranging from medieval to contemporary periods and a few year-end holiday melodies. The music was enhanced by instruments of the A World of Accordions Museum collection, including variously enhanced piano accordions, assorted diatonic and chromatic button accordions with standard-bass and free-bass left-hand sections. Special effects were contributed by our unique bells-controlled piano accordion, four Titano Tigers, musette-, cello-, basso-accordions, English concertina, djembe, glockenspiel, marimbaphone and guitar. Renowned conductor Tracey Gibbens (Duluth, MN) admirably led the students, symphony bass-violist Jim Waechter, symphony violinist Carolyn Carver and volunteers through complex interpretations. As an aspiring accordionist himself, Tracey also played in solo, duet, ensemble and orchestra. Paul Vargason (Superior, WI) was featured performer during the program. Paul, an artist on piano-, chromatic button-, and diatonic accordions, presented an entertaining, virtually perfect and fully memorized 30-min. program heavily flavored by Pecon-Trolli music. He performed on his Helmi-designed Slovenian four-row button diatonic accordion. In recognition of Slovenian pro Shelby Setnikar and Helmi, his mentor of 26 years, he invited their participation in several numbers. Open to the public, over 100 people were treated to a wonderful assortment of refreshments including lunch and supper dishes donated by members of the band as organized by Marian Syrjamaki-Kuchta, Shelby Setnikar and Robin Floyd. Many toured the museum displays and expressed awe at the combined offerings of the day—all without admission charge. The performances were recorded and may be made available at a later date. Performers included Henry and Lucy Jennissen, Royal Miller, Aiden Gort, John Blumenfeld, Ruth Maciejeski, Cecilia and Roger Schmitz in addition to others. For more information: accordion@sprynet.com  |
Joe Natoli’s Arrangement of “O Christmas Tree”by Rita Barnea |
 Video: "O, Christmas Tree"Joe Natoli shares, “As we approach Christmas and the holiday season, I would like to post some of my arrangements and orchestrations on well known holiday tunes. Here is one of my many favorites.“O Christmas Tree” a forever popular Christmas carol, has always been one of my favorites." . Good tidings to all accordionists and digital accordion enthusiasts! For further information and more music: josephnatoli@ymail.com |
Meet Creosote members Jaimie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodriguezby Rita Barnea |
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| Creosote is an accordion duo featuring Jamie Maschler (2017 AAA Guest Artist) and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues (2010 AAA US Champion and 2011 AAA Guest Artist with Ocotrillo). They play a dynamic array of original and world music. Maschler and Rodrigues are seasoned musicians. Expect to hear virtuosic and elegant arrangements of new Brazilian and World music classics. The instrumental duo announce the availability of their new release, “Creosote”. You can hear excerpts on Apple Music. Gabe said, “For a while now Jamie Maschler and I have been working together on something special. Our project Creosote comes from our shared love of Brazilian music as well as the accordion. I am so happy and excited to say that it’s now available on iTunes. I’d really appreciate if you gave it a listen. This is just the beginning.” Excerpts from his website: “Gabe's most recent projects are an accordion duo, Creosote with renowned Seattle accordionist Jamie Maschler. The music they create is are a mixture of original music and arrangements from Brazilian groups and composers. Gabe is also currently a member of Seattle's premier forro ensemble, En Canto. Gabe has been teaching privately for over 10 years as an in-home instructor and at Arizona Piano Lessons. In 2016, he became Music Director for Gateway Academy after working as a music teacher and therapist since 2006. He developed a rock band and music technology curriculum with fellow music therapist Mike Plunkett. Gateway Academy is a private school in Scottsdale, Arizona for K-12 students on the autism spectrum. Gabe has presented workshops at the American Accordionists’ Association and the Frank Marocco Accordion Event highlighting the use of the accordion in music therapy as well as elements of jazz language and harmony for accordionists. He is a Petosa artist and was featured in 2014 in their monthly newsletter. Gabe also currently works at the Petosa shop at their new location in Lynwood, WA. Gabe Hall-Rodrigues is an Arizona-native accordionist, pianist and vocalist currently residing in Seattle, WA. He began playing the piano at age 7 and quickly realized his love for music and performing. In 2010, after only studying the accordion for a year, Gabe won the American Accordionists’ Association’s Virtuoso Solo Competition. In 2011 he graduated from Arizona State University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Therapy. In 2013, Gabe graduated from ASU with a Master of Music in Jazz Piano Performance under the award winning pianist, composer and professor, Mike Kocour. During his time at ASU, Gabe received the Special Talent Award and Jazz Bird scholarships. He was a frequent guest vocalist with the ASU Concert Jazz Band and Jazz Repertory Band. Gabe was also fortunate to study with world-renowned professor and tubist Sam Pilafian during his time on accordion with the traditional jazz ensemble, the ASU Dixie Devils. Carving her name in the music scene as Sanfoneira or accordionist, Jamie Maschler is among Seattle’s few female lead instrumentalists. Jaimie said, “Hello friends, Gabe and I are releasing an album which is now available on iTunes. This project has been dreamy to say the least and captures the shared love we have for the accordion. Take a listen, I bet you’ll like it” Maschler, accordionist for the forró band En Canto in Seattle, WA., has played in venues all over the world including St. Lucia, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico. She has played with the Seattle Symphony, Port Angeles Symphony, Lake Union Orchestra, and the Pueblo Symphony. In December, Maschler took a nine city tour of Alaska with the performance group Letters Aloud. 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, Accordion Teachers Guild (ATG), American Accordion Association (AAA), Port Townsend Accordion Festival, Seattle Flute Society and the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in AK. For further information: gabehallrod@gmail.com |
Gia Ciccone will perform as Guest Artist for “A Candlelight Christmas Concert”by Dr. Joseph Ciccone, AAA President |
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| Gia Ciccone, 11-year-old Accordionist is keeping busy with her Titano Accordion. She is pictured with her teacher, Mario Tacca, having fun during her Saturday morning lesson preparing for the 2018 Christmas Concert program. Mario Tacca and Mary Mancicni’s “A Candlelight Christmas Concert” is held annually at the Church of the Assumption, 131 Union Avenue, Peekskill NY, 10566. The concert will take place Friday December 14, 2018 at 7pm. In Addition to guest artist Gia Ciccone, the concert will also feature the Victor Lionti String Quartet and the Assumption Youth Spirit Singers. If you would like to attend the Christmas concert, please contact Church of the Assumption Rectory 914-737-2071 or Gioia Productions 914-737-8872. Remember to Support the American Accordionist’s Association’s “Youth Outreach Program” and The Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund, “For the advancement of young promising Accordionist.” For further information: drjciccone@aol.com |
WMAS December Programs of Holiday Musicby Rita Barnea |
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  \On Saturday December 1, 2018 from 1-3:PM, the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society directed by Joan Grauman, presents their 9th Annual Program of Holiday Music at Dublin Roasters Coffee, 1780 N. Market St, Frederick, Maryland. Bring your family and friends to enjoy delicious hot drinks, and more. Members of the WMAS will perform traditional holiday music and please sing along!The mission of WMAS is to bring together accordionists and promote accordion music in the national capital region. The Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) meets on one Sunday afternoon each month at the Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church, 3435 Sleepy Hollow Road, Falls Church, Virginia 22044. Excerpts from SqueezinArt website: A Maryland resident all of her life, Joan studied piano and dance in her youth. By the age of 22, she had a degree in piano performance and music education, and was the director of the Columbia International Folk Dancers. At the age of 23, Joan taught herself to play the accordion to accompany the Bulgarian and Macedonian dances she was teaching and performing. She was the accordionist for the Balkan/Gypsy band, BAMCO for 18 years, and also performed in Klezmer and Bavarian groups during those years. Joan was the Vice-President of the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) from 2004 to 2016 and its Musical Director since 2004. She is also the director of its performing group, the Potomac Accordion Ensemble. She is on the Governing Board of the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) and is its historian. Joan and her husband,Dan, own the mail-order business, “SqueezinArt”, which features Joan’s artwork on “all things accordion.” The Graumans also founded and directed an annual accordion orchestra camp, the Frank Marocco/Mesa Accordion Event, from 2007 to 2014. Joan released her first solo CD, Accordion Potpourri, in November 2015. Joan Grauman said, “Come out and sing along with a few of the members of the (former) Potomac Accordion Ensemble! Always a fun and festive event in a beautiful, warm setting!!” For further information: Joangrauman@verizon.net |
Brooklyn Accordion Club Holiday Concert on December 2by Rita Barnea |
 If you are looking for a unique and jolly way to celebrate the season, then join the BAC at Berg’n in Brooklyn on December 2, 2018 to drink brews, sing holiday tunes and enjoy the accordion. The concert will feature accordion soloists and a “Mega Ensemble” of accordions and other instrumentalists directed by Dr. Denis KoncelikSunday, December 2, 2018 Berg'n (899 Bergen St between Classon and Franklin) 5:30-8:PM (4:30-5:30 PM (ensemble rehearsal/call time) Admission: $10.00 [Kids under 18 are free!] Hope you all can participate in what will likely be a very unique and jolly event. For further information: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com |
Silicon Valley Accordion Society Present Joe Domitrowich on December 2by Rita Barnea |
 SVAS President Bill Taponga invites all to hear Joe Domitrowich in concert on December 2, 2018. Joe Domitrowich began playing the accordion at the age of 8 in eastern PA where he grew up steeped in the music of Austria, Hungary, and Slovenia. Excerpts from the SVAS website: In California, Joe became best known for his premiere SFO Bay Area Alpiners USA Oktoberfest Band which has performed with vocalist, Margot Turrell, as headline act at major festivals throughout the country. In the off-season, Joe’s Capriccio Dance Band, plays ballroom, rock, and Euro-ethnic music for dinner-dance events throughout the SFO Bay Area. In the 1990s, after a 12-year hiatus in playing music, Joe’s interest in accordion was rekindled and further unleashed by the potential he saw in the modern digital accordion. Today, as a self-described “technician” of the accordion, Joe continually strives for excellence in his mission to arrange, record, and perform live on the accordion, diverse genres of music from classical to standards, novelty and pop - in short, from Strauss to Santana - sometimes reminiscent of a band or full orchestra. His solo act, Capricious Accordion, has been enthusiastically received by audiences at the Cotati Accordion festival, the Dallas National Accordion Assoc. Convention, and the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention. Most recently, Joe’s efforts have materialized through two ensembles as Duo Internationale, formed together with professional opera and pop vocalist, Liana Braunova, from Prague, and, adding concert violinist Dave Dally, as Café Vienna Trio. In 2015, the latter had the honor to perform a concert for 400 attendees, the largest ever for the Los Gatos Community Concert Association series. Joe particularly enjoys playing in intimate settings for audiences who appreciate Italian, Hungarian, Bavarian, Swiss, Slovenian and other Euro-ethnic music. He has performed live on KQED TV in San Francisco, KKUP Radio in Santa Clara and on cable TV and commercial radio elsewhere. Sunday December 2, 2018 Format: Meeting : Doors open at 1:00 pm 1:00-1:30 pm Scheduled open play. 1:30-2:30 PM Christmas-themed Jam Session lead by Ken Caple. Music books provided. 3:00—3:30 PMBreak & Raffle Drawing Master of Ceremonies Remarks 3:30—4:30 pm Joe Domitrowich Performs Location of SVAS: Harry's Hofbrau 390 Saratoga Avenue San Jose, CA 95129 Corner of Kiely Blvd. 2019 Schedule of the Silicon Valley Accordion Society January 7: Roberto Rosa February 3: Ron Borelli Trio March 3: Reno Di Bono Trio April 7: May 5: SVAS Players, bring your accordion and play with us! June 2: Gail Campanella July 7: Gordon Kohl For further information: pamk@svasociety.org |
Acme Accordion School Breathes New Life into the Accordionby Rob Howard |
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| The following article was published in the New Jersey Monthly magazine: For Joanna Darrow (picture above), the accordion is more than an instrument. She describes it as “an extension of your soul and your whole being.” Darrow teaches accordionists of all ages at the Acme Accordion School, a 70-year-old institution in Haddon Township. Darrow’s late husband, Stanley, opened the school in 1948, at a time when interest in the accordion seemed to be at an all-time high. “It was the rage,” says Darrow. “Even bigger than when the guitar came through.” The accordion was squeezed out of fashion in the 1970s, but Stanley was undeterred. “He believed in the accordion,” Darrow says. “As other accordion studios around us closed up, we ended up getting the overflow of the people they could no longer take care of.” Joanna Darrow, 63, began taking lessons with Stanley at the school in 1963. From 1971 to 2000, she and Stanley performed all over Europe as an accordion duo. In 2002, they married. Today, the Acme Accordion School is decorated with old photos of Stanley and his students and ensembles. There are several practice rooms and a large rehearsal space in the back. Vintage accordions are on display, including one made by the now defunct Acme Accordion Company, for which the school is named. Darrow and two other teachers lead ensembles, orchestras and group lessons every week. Lessons for beginners run $30 per half-hour session. As they progress, beginner students can play in a group for no additional charge. Darrow, who has performed several times with the Philadelphia Orchestra, is looking forward to National Accordion Month in November. To celebrate, her school plans an annual all-day festival of concerts on the first Sunday in November and concerts throughout the month. The accordion is, perhaps, somewhat misunderstood, but Darrow has a wonderful way of explaining the instrument, which dates to the early 19th Century. “It breathes,” she says. “It works on an air-production system. So you’re controlling the sound by controlling the air the same way a singer would. Though you’re not singing, you’re developing it through your hands, arms and your whole body. And it vibrates.”  |
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Dr. William Schimmel’s Upcoming Performancesby Rita Barnea |
 Dr. William Schimmel has a busy winter season performing in many prestigious venues in New York and in Europe.His 2018-2019 performances include: December 9th - Carnegie hall, New York with Cristina Fontanelli - Christmas in Italy December 13, 14, 15 and 16 - Bonn Germany and surrounding areas - Port Bou - an Opera by Elliott Sharp December 31 - New York Philharmonic - New Years Eve Concert with Rene Fleming at Geffen Hall in Lincoln Center, New York January 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12 - Lehman College, New York - 4.48 Psychosis by Philip Venables - an Opera in 1 Act - U.S. premiere - part of the Prototype Festival More details in future publications. For further information: accordionbill@gmail.com |
Future events |
Stas Venglevski: New Concerts and Compositionsby Rita Barnea |
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  Two accordion concerts are scheduled for 2019 starring Stas Venglevski. He will be performing with the Houston Accordion Orchestra and the Houston Balalaika Society Orchestra on January 19, 2019 starting at 6:30 P.M. The concert takes place at the Performing Art Center Theatre, Houston Community College, Spring Branch Campus. Tickets are $10 in advance. $15 at the door. Stas will give a second concert on Sunday January 20, 2019 at 6:30 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Houston with an accordion ensemble and domra guest performers Misha Litvin and Olga Douglas. Tickets are $10 in advance. $15 at the door. Ensemble includes: Beverley Fess, Gail Campanella, Heidi Spendlove, John Neu, John Simkus, Judy Ridenour, Lynn Ewing, Madalynn Neu. Two new Stas Venglevski compositions are now available. Catalog: vstas055 Octobler Rondo (solo) with music page sample and sound sample. Catalog: vstas056 Summer Sunshine (solo) with music page sample and sound sample. Recent Stas Venglevski compositions released. Catalog: vstas051 Meg Tango (solo) with music page sample and sound sample. Catalog: vstas052 Maurisa (solo) with music page sample and sound sample. Catalog: vstas053 A Song (solo) with music page sample and sound sample. Catalog: vstas054 Stas' Tune (solo) with music page sample and sound sample. Excerpts from his website: His artistry, dazzling technical command, and sensitivity have brought Stanislav, "Stas," Venglevski, a native of the Republic of Moldova, part of the former Soviet Union, increasing acclaim as a virtuoso of the Bayan. A two-time first prize winner of Bayan competition in the Republic of Moldova, Stas is a graduate of the Russian Academy of Music in Moscow where he received his Masters Degree in Music under the tutelage of the famed Russian Bayanist, Friedrich Lips. In 1992 he immigrated to the United States. Stas is an Accordionist, a Musician, an Arranger, an Entertainer and a Teacher. Stas' repertoire includes his original compositions, a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as a soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe, and the United States, including numerous performances with Doc Severinsen, Steve Allen and with Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion Show. Additionally, he has performed with symphony orchestras throughout the United States. He performed the world premiere of Concerto No. 2 by Anthony Galla-Rini and also the world premiere of Bayan and Beyond, composed for Stas by Dan Lawitts. He is also former president of the ATG. Stas has many wonderful CD’s and musical compositions including solos, duets, and ensembles available for purchase. A great holiday gift for accordion aficionados. For further information: meghada33@gmail.com |
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Lionel Reekie to Conduct NAA Accordion Orchestra in March 2019by Rita Barnea |
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 The NAA Board of Directors announces that New Zealand accordionist/educator/entertainer Lionel Reekie will direct the NAA symphonic orchestra in 2019. The NAA Convention takes place March 7-9, 2019 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Richardson,Texas. See article in this publication.Lionel Reekie was born in Rotorua, New Zealand. He began accordion lessons at the age of 9, and very quickly started to combine these skills with his love of singing. As an accordion entertainer, Lionel performed extensively around New Zealand from an early age, eventually being selected as a player in the Air New Zealand Accordion Orchestra for six of their international concert tours through Europe, USA and Asia. On these concert tours, Lionel was also a vocalist, performing a repertoire ranging from Light Opera to Rock and Roll. Lionel continues to perform regularly on accordion, as well as conducting accordion orchestras and teaching accordion at one of New Zealand’s largest music schools - the Music Education Centre. The Auckland Symphony Orchestra asked Lionel to appear as a solo vocalist for their “Last Night of the Proms” and this inspired Lionel to record an album of songs from Stage and Screen with an orchestra. After having travelled to Novosibirsk, Russia, with his family on several occasions, Lionel was so impressed by the excellent quality of Siberian musicians, that he chose to record his CD “From Russia With Love” in Novosibirsk in 2011. Released throughout New Zealand, and on iTunes, Lionel has been interviewed and featured on radio throughout the country. Lionel's most recent trips to Russia were to perform in concert to a full house at the prestigious Novosibirsk Philharmonia in January 2013 and in September last year to featuring in the opening concert of the World Accordion Championships in Rostov on Don. In August 2013, Lionel also performed as an invited soloist at the American Accordionists Association 75th Anniversary celebration in New York City and then sang with the World Accordion Orchestra at the world championships being held in Victoria, B.C. Canada. Closer to home, his appearance at the Vector Arena for the Silver Scrolls also received a great deal of media publicity. Lionel was guest artist for the Australian Accordion Teachers Association Festival in Sydney in 2017 where he has also been a regular adjudicator and appeared in the USA at the American Accordionists Association Festival in Washington DC in July 2018. Lionel was also a member of the international jury at the Harbin International Accordion Art week competition in China in August of the same year. Plan to participate in the NAA Convention in 2019 where you can play in the NAA Orchestra led by Lionel Reekie. It is an excellent opportunity for you to network, learn, and participate with accordionists from around the world. For further information: natlaccordion@sbcglobal.net |
American Accordion Musicological Society Announces 2019 Festival Honoring Dee Langleyby Rita Barnea |
 The American Accordion Musicological Society announces their 2019 Festival which takes place on March 15 & 16, 2019. Their Guest of Honor will be Dee Langley of Minneapolis, MN. The event features workshops, concerts, and Honoree Banquet. Workshop presenters so far are Mike Dellapenna and Dee Langley who will direct the Festival Orchestra.All events will take place in the social hall of the Westmont United Methodist Church, 200 Emerald Ave., Westmont, (Haddon Township) NJ 08108. More info to be released in future publications. Dee Langley specializes in both solo and ensemble works for the accordion having appeared with the Minnesota Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Duluth Symphony Orchestra, Ancia Quartet, Minnesota Sinfonia, Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra, Nautilus Music Theater, Ethnic Dance Theatre and Flying Foot Forum. Ms. Langley is winner of the 2012 Minnesota Emerging Composer Award (Orkestar Bez Ime - World Music), the 2011-2012 McKnight Fellowship for Performing Musicians. Founder and coordinator for the NE Accordion Festival, she is also a former president of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, currently on the Advisory Board of World of Accordions Museum and teaches accordion for Minneapolis Community and Technical College as well privately at her home in NE Minneapolis. Upcoming public performances: December 9, 2018 - With Violinist Lisa Gutkin – “The Music and Musicians of Indecent” at 7:30 PM at the Cedar Cultural Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Grammy Award Winning fiddler/singer/composer Lisa Gutkin took Broadway and then the Guthrie Theater by storm last year with her exquisite co-score and performance in Indecent (Paula Vogel’s Tony award-winning play with music). With guest artists Dee Langley (accordion). January 26, 2018 - Accordion-o-rama at 7:30 PM at the Crossings at Carnegie, Zumbrota, Minnesota Excerpts from the website: An event that never fails to delight audiences, Accordion-O-Rama has been around since 2004 when Dan Newton, a.k.a. Daddy Squeeze, and Marie Marvin, who runs Crossings at Carnegie, organized the first event. According to a 2010 MinnPost article by Pamela Espeland, “The idea was to hold a miniature accordion festival, showcasing different musicians and musical styles, in a town where people were likely to show up, a stronghold of Polish and German heritage and polka.” There continues to be cookies at the intermission. This season’s performers are Dee Langley, Eric Ray and Patrick Harison. Email address: dlangley@airaccordion.com |
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Seriesby Dr. William Schimmel |
 The Concert Series “That Means What!” with Dr. William Schimmel, Moderator and Curator celebrates our 25th anniversary year from July 26, 27 and 28, 2019 at the Tenri Cultural Institute, 43 A West 13th St - between 5 and 6 AvesMaster classes at 3:PM - Concerts at 7:PM Topics will include: the diy method - do it yourself, for god’s sake that means what!? - finally we will answer the burning question the orchestral solo accordion - can you handle playing handel in the background? baroque organ? if that’s the classical accordion, i’d rather play the organ enhancing the orchestra - show up and you will - but show up selling your soul to make history? try making better art and see what happens the loaded statement - forgot what that means - i’ll remember later learning from lawrence welk - the ultimate business model ettore - dean of accordion composers carrozza - desiderio - ampco - back to the future this means that (berio) - looking back into the future strolling revisited - our biggest seminar hit! Participants will include: Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Will Holshouser, Doug Makofka, Brian Dewan, Gene Pritsker, Melissa Elledge, Mark Nathanson, Benjamin Ickies, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dragica Banic Curcic, Erica Maire Mancini, Dave Soldier, Mayumi Miyaoka, Dan Cooper, The Yorkvillians, Max Maples, Michiyo Suzuki, Rachel Swaner, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Milica Paranosic, Peter Jarvis, David Stoler, Lauren Flanigan, David First, Mary Spencer Knapp, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Lee Mc Clure, Ken Laufer, John Foti, Kathleen Tipton, Marni Rice, Bob Goldberg, The Famous Accordion Orchestra, Corn Mo, Rachid Eladlouni, Carl Riehl, Linda Reed, Rita Barnea, Dr Denise Koncelik, Alicia Svigals, Jeanne Velonis, Devon Tipp, Sydknee, Michiyo Suzuki, Miwa Gemini, Jenny Cho, Elliott Sharp, Jennie Muiio, Elaine Yau, Carita Patamikakam, Kathryn Andrews and many others and a few surprise guests - and Dr. Schimmel Master class: $30 Concert: $35 Full day: $60 Entire series:$150 For reservations and info: 917-498-6823 Email: accordionbill.com |
2019 Events at A World of Accordions Museumby Rita Barnea |
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 Please mark these dates on your 2019 calendar for A World of Accordions Museum, 1401 Belknap St., Superior, WI:May 4, 2019 World Accordion Day: Joan Sommer, Stas Venglevski Mary Tokarski, Betty Jo Simon Murl Allen Sanders UMKC Chamber Orchestra May 5, 2019 Willard Palmer Festival: Dee Langley, Aydar Salahof, Stas Venglevski Mike Middleton, Paul Vargason, ACM Band World Accordion Music More artists are pending and will be announced in future USA news articles. The emcee for the events will be Kevin Friedrich. Additionally there will be a CIA live stream webcast, Major Donors recognition and more. Excerpts from the museum website: Dr. Helmi Harrington founded A World of Accordions Museum and Harrington ARTS Center. She has researched and compiled their holdings. She also founded, established the curriculum for, and teaches Accordion-concertina Repair and Technicians’ School (ARTS) in Duluth, MN. She has been recognized in various Who’s Who listings, through regional awards, and by the prestigious Confederation des Accordeonistes Internationale (CIA) (2006). Helmi is a writer of accordion-related articles for Groves New Dictionary of Music (London, 2000 Edition), the American Accordionists’ Association Newsletter and various scholarly journals, compiled and edited Charles Magnante: America’s Great Accordionist, and has ca. 60 music books and recordings available through Harrington ARTS Center Publications. Her Accordion Concertina Music Studios, located in Superior, WI, and Burnsville, MN, are among the nation’s foremost, often participating in national competitions and festivals. Harrington completed a Ph.D. dissertation in Musicology on composer Hugo Herrmann under Dr. John Grubbs of the University of Texas, a double Master of Music degree from the University of Houston in Music Literature and Applied Piano under Dr. Elmer Schoettle, a Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Piano and Performer’s Certificate from the University of Houston under Prof. Albert Hirsh. She studied with Dr. Armin Fett of the Staedtische Musikschule Trossingen, from which she received an honorary degree, and Dr. Albert Feil of the Universität Stuttgart. Her many awards include a Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst scholarship. She holds certificates as Master teacher in accordion and piano from the National Music Teachers’ Association and the Minnesota Music Teachers’ Association. Scheduled opening hours are:Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 10:00 AM until 2:PM. Other times are certainly possible by appointment. The museum is usually closed from Tuesday through Friday. The easiest way to avoid missing them is to call ahead as you plan your visit, to make sure the staff are ready and waiting for you upon your arrival. Please call: (218) 393-0245. A World of Accordions Museum is located at 1401 Belknap, Superior, WI, 54880, (Former church at intersection of Belknap & Hammond). E-mail: accordion@sprynet.com |
New and Updated Sites |
Robaccord Publications by Rob Howard - UK:by Harley Jones |
  UK accordionist and author Rob Howard has written several books, most of which are about the accordion, and would make ideal presents for accordion enthusiasts. The 4 volumes of ‘An A to Z of the Accordion’ contain a combined total of about one thousand varied articles and biographies. These are now offered at a reduced price. The more recently published ‘Accordion Anthology’ catalog robaccord07 is a large page sized hardback that picks up where the earlier series left off, presenting numerous more articles and biographies of interest to the accordion. The book is aimed at accordion enthusiasts, including those who are new to the instrument – many articles and biographies, hardback, 330 colour photographs. 17 Euro (or the US$ equivalent) plus postage. ‘Vintage Accordions’ and ‘Accordion: A Pictorial History’ are now out of print, but are still available for half price in printable PDF format sent to you by email. Accordion: A Pictorial History, catalog robaccord06 by Rob Howard is fully illustrated throughout with over 300 colour photographs of many types and models of accordions, each with information, plus interesting articles. Now available only as a pdf; only 6 Euro (or the US$ equivalent). Vintage Accordions - Vintage Accordions catalog robaccord05 is a unique and very popular book - a beautifully illustrated all-colour history of the accordion, in its various forms, with over 300 pictures of instruments. Now available only as a PDF; only 6 Euro (or the US$ equivalent). An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments by Rob Howard, contains 300 articles and biographies; hardback, now only 11 Euro (or the US$ equivalent) plus postage. catalog robaccord01 An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments Volume 2, now only 11 Euro (or the US$ equivalent) plus postage, catalog robaccord02 An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments Volume 3, now only 11 Euro (or the US$ equivalent) plus postage, catalog robaccord03 An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments Volume 4, now only 11 Euro (or the US$ equivalent) plus postage, catalog robaccord04 |
K Trio New Site Address - USAby Harley Jones |
 K Trio New Site Address. The K Trio of Mary Kasprzyk Tokarski, Julie Kasprzyk Cardona and Walter Kasprzyk have performed extensively nationally and internationally. The K Trio has also released three CD's which are available online: The K-Trio - Classically The K-Trio - Images The K-Trio - Take 2 |
Updated Site: SqueezinArt Holiday Special - USAby Harley Jones |
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| SqueezinArt, Unique Gifts for Accordionists and Accordion Lovers, is offering 25% off all items sitewide. This special sale is available from December 1 to December 12 only! No holiday orders will be accepted after December 12. Please contact SqueezinArt to be sure that all items you order are available. |
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MusicForAccordion.com Christmas Sheet Music Available Onlineby Harley Jones |
 Christmas musicWant to learn some Christmas music for the Christmas season? There is a lot of different titles below and FREE with every order is a copy of the Gary Dahl arrangement of 'Angels We Have Heard on High'. eSheet Music Christmas Books and Collections (sent by email) Gary Dahl - Traditional Christmas Carols eBook, Collection #9 of 21 Christmas arrangements (Solo). View samples Catalog: DH09-eB Gary Dahl - Xmas Special Package (4 pieces) (Solo) Catalog: DHxmaspac James O'Brien Christmas choice of 12 pieces 50% discount (Solo) Catalog: obriensxmas12p James O'Brien Christmas grade 4-5 pieces 40% discount (Solo) Catalog: obriensxmas5gr James O'Brien Christmas grade 6 pieces 40% discount (Solo) Catalog: obriensxmas6gr James O'Brien Christmas grade 7 pieces 40% discount (Solo) Catalog: obriensxmas7gr James O'Brien Christmas pieces 50% discount (Duet) Catalog: obriensxmas-duo James O'Brien All Christmas solos 50% discount (Solo) Catalog: obriensxmas-solos Charnwood Publishing Printed Sheet Music (sent by post) 10 Christmas Carols (Solo) Catalog: M015A Titles are: Good King Wenceslas, Holy Night, Silent Night, While Shepherds Watched, I saw Three Ships, O Come, all ye Faithful, Away in a Manger, Hark, The Herald Angels Sing, The First Nowell, Once in Royal David’s City, The Holly and the Ivy. Busking as an Art Vol 5 Xmas Carol (Solo) Catalog: M305 Titles are: Good King Wenceslas, The First Nowell, I saw Three Ships, Once in Royal David’s City, Hark, The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, Holy Night, The Holly and the Ivy, We Three Kings, While Shepherds Watched, Away in a Manger, Good Christian Men Rejoice, O Come, all ye Faithful. Christmas Bells (Solo) Catalog: M662 Jingle Bells (Variations) (Solo) Catalog: M332 Ten Christmas Carols (Solo) Catalog: M015 eSheet Music Individual Christmas titles (Solo or Duet) - sent by email Angels From the Realms of Glory (Orchestra) jay4401 Angels We Have Heard On High (Duet) obriensxmas196 As Lately We Watched (Duet) obriensxmas197 Away in a Manger (Duet) obriensxmas198 Carol of the Bells (Duet) obriensxmas199 Christmas (Solo) hs241 Christmas Medley (Joulusikerma) from Finland (Duet) faies5005 Christmas Song (Solo) DH0123a Christmas Tree (Solo) hs176 Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus obriensxmas200 Deck The Halls (Duet) obriensxmas189 Ding Dong! Merrily On High (Duet) obriensxmas190 Frosty The Snowman (Solo) DH0213 Go, Tell It On the Mountain (Solo and Duet) obriensxmas191 God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen (Duet) obriensxmas192 Good Christian Men, Rejoice (Duet) obriensxmas193 Good King Wenceslas (Duet) obriensxmas194 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Solo) mfa7080 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Duet) obriensxmas201 Here We Come A-Caroling (Duet) obriensxmas202 Heard the Bells on Christmas Day (Duet) obriensxmas203 I Saw Three Ships (Duet) obriensxmas204 I Wonder As I Wander (Duet) obriensxmas205 It Came Upon The Midnight Clear (Duet) obriensxmas206 Jingle Bells (Solo) hs169 Jingle Bells (Duet) obriensxmas207 Little Christmas Tree (Solo) hs125 Lo, How a Rose E're Blooming (Duet) obriensxmas208 O Christmas Tree (Duet) obriensxmas209 O Come, All Ye Faithful (Duet) obriensxmas210 O Come, All Ye Faithful (Solo) mfa7057 O Come, O Come Immanuel (Duet) obriensxmas212 O Little Town of Bethlehem (Duet) obriensxmas212 Olde Tyme Christmas (Solo) gm10 Once in Royal David's City (Duet) obriensxmas213 Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer (Solo) DH0223 Silent Night (Solo) mfa7079 Silent Night (Duet) obriensxmas214 Silent Night (Solo) DH0183 Silent Night (Solo) OY604 Silver Bells (Solo) DH0044 Silver Bells (Solo) naa160 The Boar's Head (Duet) obriensxmas215 The Christmas Song (Solo) DH0123 The First Noel (Duet) obriensxmas216 The First Noel (Easy Version) (Solo) naa175 The Friendly Beasts (Duet) obriensxmas217 The Holly and the Ivy (Duet) obriensxmas218 Vilia (Solo) mfa7002 White Christmas Song (Solo) DH0121 |