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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Join the AAA for Their 85th Anniversary In-Person July 12-16
2023 ATG Festival to Feature Many International Guest Artists
Frank Busso Jr. Elected 2023-2025 AAA President
National Accordion Convention (NAA) March 15-19 in Richardson, Texas
Antonio Spaccarotella, Exciting First for the AAA’s Composers Commissioning Program
Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum Grand Opening on Feb. 18
Hector Del Curto Performs on Soundtrack for “Argentina, 1985”
Rob Reich to Perform with San Francisco Symphony Orchestra
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
“Voices of the Earth,” Accordion Solos Released by Megumi Hada
Now online: Latest Expanded Article About AAA Commissions
Michael Bridge and Ladom Ensemble in Spring Concerts
CNIMA and Jacques Mornet’s Accordion Method Workshops in New Orleans
Mary Mancini and Mario Tacca Present an “Evening of Live Music!”
2023 Valentine’s Day ZOOM Online with the San Antonio Accordion Association
ATG President Mary Ann Covone Performed for SAI National Convention
The Legacy Series with Chubby Carrier, Jeffery Broussard, Cedric Watson
Meet Dr. Jeff Grosser
2023 Seattle Accordion Social on February 5
Accordionist Alison Jenkins Performs in Vancouver, Canada
Chicagoland Accordion Academy/ATG Members Volunteer at A World of Accordions Museum
Future events |
Powell River Academy of Music Presents Accordion Fest
Dr. William Schimmel Presents: "In The Shadow in the ….!"
2023 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 22-25
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Welcome to the February USA news. The news this month features accordion events, personalities, concerts, competitions, festivals, new recordings and more!We are seeing more live events happening around the world. We also have the option of online programs. A special feature of the news is the many videos for you. It is a great way to experience the artistry of the performers. Happy Valentine's Day! How about tickets to a show, online or live. Or maybe a new album. Or maybe a new accordion! Or maybe accordion lessons! What accordion gift will you give your special someone? Enjoy the February news! |
Join the AAA for Their 85th Anniversary In-Person July 12-16by Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
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  Save the date for this special event as the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) celebrates its 85th Anniversary! The festival will be held at the Marriott Philadelphia West in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, July 12-16, 2023.I am sure I speak for all when I say that accordionists cannot wait to get back together, in person, to celebrate our beloved instrument! Speaking of our accordions, make sure you bring yours along to play in the 2023 Festival Orchestra. We are very excited to announce that the delightful, dynamic and brilliant world renowned conductor, Joan C. Sommers **, will be conducting this year’s Festival Orchestra! The AAA Festival committee is busy adding new events constantly, so please check the website regularly: ameraccord.com Registration forms will be online soon as well. Meanwhile, below are just a few of the exciting events we have planned. We are very pleased to announce that New Zealand born Grayson Masefield will be joining us for performances and workshops. Very personable and well-spoken, Grayson has won and been laureate at over a dozen international accordion competitions around the world in classical, virtuoso and digital categories. He is currently the instrumental music teacher for accordion at the University of Auckland, NZ. Please visit Grayson’s website for more info: accordions.com/gmasefield. Another special guest performer will be accordion legend Joey Miskulin **. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2018 for his extraordinary accomplishments with the piano accordion, Joey continues to delight listeners with his “flying fingers” and ability to engage audiences. Conducting our Youth Orchestra for this year’s festival will be Joanna Darrow. Joanna has dedicated her entire life to performing, teaching and promoting the accordion. She has performed several times with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and performed all over Europe, for over 30 years, with her accordion teacher/husband, the late Stanley Darrow. Joanna has accordion students of all ages and has conducted ensembles and orchestras for many years. At our festival’s Saturday banquet, the AAA will award its coveted Lifetime Achievement Award to long-time AAA Board member Frank Busso Sr. ** Frank has been an educator, performer, conductor and all-around ambassador of the accordion for decades. Again, keep checking our AAA website for announcements of additional performers, workshop presenters and events! ** To read more about Joan Cochran Sommers, Frank Busso Sr., Joey Miskulin, and to learn more about the events that led to the formation of the AAA, please see the articles listed below. For many other articles of AAA History, go to www.ameraccord.com, click on “History” then “Articles AAA History”. Article #1 — AAA-Formation.htm What events led to the formation of the AAA? Article #9 — "Spotlight on Frank Busso Sr." Article #18 - Joey Miskulin Article #25 - Prof. Joan Cochran Sommers |
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2023 ATG Festival to Feature Many International Guest Artistsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  The 2023 Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival will be held at the Lisle Hyatt in Lisle, Illinois, USA from July 19th to 22nd, 2023. ATG President Mary Ann Covone welcomes accordion enthusiasts from around the world.Event concerts will be held at the Armerding Center for Performing Arts on the campus of Wheaton College and feature guests Grayson Masefield (New Zealand), the Polyphonia Orchestra (Reunion Island), Das Duo Kollektiv (flute & accordion duo from Austria), Stas Venglevski (USA) with Dr. Brett Jones on marimba and the (UMKC) Community Accordion Chamber Ensemble directed by Joan Cochran Sommers. Further information and link to reserve rooms at: Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) |
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Frank Busso Jr. Elected 2023-2025 AAA Presidentby Harley Jones |
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 From the 1st January 2023, Frank Busso Jr. has been elected President of the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) for the 2023-2025 years.Frank Busso Jr. has served on the AAA board of directors since 2007 and as the organization’s 2nd Vice President since 2021. He is the director of the Ernest Deffner Affiliates, whose brands include Titano, Pancordion, Pigini, Excelsior, Roland, and Hohner. Frank is the accordionist for The United States Air Force Band in Washington, DC and runs the Busso Music School in Alexandria, VA. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Boston University, later serving as an instructor and arranger with the Boston University Athletic Bands. Frank studied accordion with Frank Busso Sr. at the Staten Island Music School in New York, eventually becoming an instructor there, where his students earned many regional and national titles in competition. |
National Accordion Convention (NAA) March 15-19 in Richardson, Texasby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
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 The National Accordion Convention (NAA) takes place at the Hilton Hotel, Richardson, Texas from March 15-19, 2023. You asked and now we are delivering!This conventioneer-driven convention is getting close! Make reservations today (both hotel and convention). The schedule and related items are on the website at www.Accordions.com/NAA As of February 1, 2023 there are only 39 days until the National Accordion Association 2023 Convention! The convention is four days of action-packed events for accordionists and accordion enthusiasts that includes over 30 workshops, two evening concerts, and a Friday high-tempo experience with the popular Brave Combo Band and accordionist Alex Meixner. Two meals are included, including an elegant Saturday night banquet, and opportunities for private lessons by presenters will make the event even more special. An always-popular part of the Convention will be Fun Band directed by Dick Albreski. The music is now available on the NAA website. Our plan is that everyone who wishes to perform will be able to do so at some point during the four days. There will be numerous opportunities to play during meals, jam sessions, and Music in the Air. The Swap Shop will offer musical instruments, and accordion dealers will be onsite to show their instruments for sale. One important aspect of every NAA Convention is the wonderful friendships forged during the event. One conventioneer stated that it’s not just the music that makes the experience so great; when one returns year after year, it becomes a reunion! The convention will feature 2023 versions of American Music that is marketable as today’s music. The music is a combination of contemporary American music originated by USA immigrants who brought their musical values and traditions as they joined the great American melting pot. Our music is a blend of musical styles that include, but are not limited to, popular tunes, folk music, country and western (C&W), ballads that tell a story, rock and roll, polkas and waltzes, European music, Gospel, and jazz. (Results summarized by Dr. Norman Seaton) 2023 National Accordion Convention Higher Learning Opportunities: High on the survey requests include learning opportunities such as creative thinking and applying to music, ear-training, articulation and bellows control, practice techniques, sightreading, musical theory, performing techniques, and performance opportunities. For complete information, visit our website at: http://www.accordions.com/naa |
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Antonio Spaccarotella, Exciting First for the AAA’s Composers Commissioning Programby Robert Young McMahan CCC Chair, Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey Music Department |
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 Video 1: Tango Revenga composed by Antonio Spaccarotella and performed by the OFC Calabrian Philharmonic Orchestra, Italy, conducted by Volodymyr Runchak, soloist: Grayson MasefieldVideo 2: Antonio Spaccarotella (accordion), Alberto La Neve (sax), BHU - Track 5 Album "Non c'è tempo" It is my great pleasure to announce that Antonio Spaccarotella has accepted the first international commission by the AAA Composers Commissioning Committee (CCC). This will be the sixty-third work since the CCC’s founding in 1954. Antonio Spaccarotella is an internationally acclaimed accordionist, also well known for his unique compositions and improvisations that often experiment with jazz elements. In addition, and in quite a different capacity, hea serves as the Artistic Director of the prestigious Castelfidardo Festival. The new work, a solo, will be premiered by another renowned artist, Grayson Masefield, as part of the 2023 AAA Festival, to take place in July 12-16, 2023 in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. Antonio Spaccarotella will be present for this world premiere performance and will also present a workshop about his compositions and his musical appointments. His dynamic personality and interesting musical endeavors will be a very popular addition to the 2023 AAA Festival. Grayson Masefield will also present one of his enthusiastically attended workshops at the AAA Festival. |
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Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum Grand Opening on Feb. 18by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame & Museum invites all to their Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening of the Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum at 402 W Robertson St, San Benito, TX at The Historic Aztec Building one block from The Iconic La Villita Dance Hall. They are excited to continue to promote, preserve, archive, document and display a collection that has been in the making for over 20 years. The Rio Grand Music Company, Ideal Records (recording and live room) Narciso Martinez front porch plus the history of all 70 inductees. There will be Music, Food, Drinks and Door Prizes. The museum located is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Conjunto music.Author Mariaelena Villarreal, freelance photographer and journalist for Conjunto and Norteño/Regional music in San Antonio, Texas and writer for Street Talk Magazines Conjunto & Norteno/Regional columns shares, “After months of anticipation, the grand re-opening of the renowned Texas Conjunto Hall of Fame is set for February 18, 2023. Located in San Benito, Texas, the museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Conjunto music and its creators. The public is invited to celebrate this momentous occasion and remember the impact made by this genre. Within the exhibit space are the accordions of conjunto pioneers: Narciso Martínez, Pedro Ayala, Ricardo Guzmán, Enrique Vela, Mario Montes, and Gilberto Pérez. Also on display is an old bajo sexto donated by Ramiro Cavazos, a leather jacket on loan from the family of Mario Montes, a suit and pair of shoes donated by the family of Ruben Vela, a set of drums donated by Higinio Guzman, and an electric Fender bass on loan from Hector Barron of Los Fantasmas Del Valle. One exhibit is dedicated to accordionist Narciso Martínez and bajo sexto player Santiago Almeida, considered the “Fathers” of regional conjunto music. Ethnomusicologists credit them with fusing European accordion rhythms with Mexican roots musica ranchera (ranch music). Additional donations, artifacts, and memorabilia donated by artists and families such as the family of Ruben Vela, Bobby Pulido, Gilberto Perez Sr, Eva Ybarra, Salome Martinez, Linda Escobar, The Rio Grande Music Company, Ideal Records, The Arhoolie Foundation, McCoy’s Building Supply, and so many more. The Texas Conjunto Hall of Fame and Museum is gearing up for its grand re-opening and the community has been very generous in helping to make it a success. Volunteers from the area have been working hard to renovate different rooms inside the museum, from painting and repairs to the installation of new furniture. Families of late conjunto music legends have also donated musical instruments and artifacts to be put on display. Thanks to these efforts, visitors will be able to experience the history and culture of this beloved music style in an immersive way. With just a couple of weeks before opening, volunteers are still needed to put the finishing touches on everything. In addition to volunteering, the Texas Conunto Hall of Fame and Museum is accepting monetary donations, as well as water or soft drink donations for the labor volunteers. Any amount is appreciated, but a $10 donation will get you a membership. If you’re interested in donating or volunteering, please contact Peter Avila at (956) 241-1444. The museum is set to open on February 18, 2023, at 3:30 PM with food, music, and history, followed by a dance with music by Rodney Rodriguez y Los Cucuys at the legendary La Villita Dance Hall. The address to the museum is 402 W. Robertson Street, San Benito, TX 78586. They will be accepting Donations at the door and only $10.00 gets you a membership. All funds help to preserve, promote, archive and permanently display artifacts of this American genre. Photo up:Facebook/Ray Quiroga. Photos left and right: Courtesy of Facebook/Peter Avila, VP. |
Hector Del Curto Performs on Soundtrack for “Argentina, 1985”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Invierno Porteño - A. Piazzolla - Héctor Del Curto Tango QuintetHector Del Curto shares, “Very happy to have participated in this historic film by playing bandoneon on the soundtrack. Congratulations to everyone and specially to Pedro Osuna for writing the music!” “Argentina, 1985” won a Golden Globe which puts the movie in Oscar sights. The movie won the best non-English language feature honor. Héctor del Curto is an Argentine tango bandoneon player. Excerpts from Wickepedia: Born in Buenos Aires, he began to study tango music at a young age, winning the Best Bandoneon under 25 when only 17 years old. Following that honor, he played with the late tango giants Ástor Piazzolla and Osvaldo Pugliese among many others. During this time, he played at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. In 2018 he won the Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album for the album Jazz Tango as a member of the Pablo Ziegler Trio. Pedro Osuna is a composer of concert music and film and TV scores based in Los Angeles. He became the youngest Berklee student to ever write music for an Academy Award-nominated film and later became the youngest person to ever work as orchestrator on a James Bond film. A composer from Spain based in Los Angeles, Pedro Osuna’s career has been described as “meteoric.” His recent projects include Argentina, 1985 (composer) and Simon West's blockbuster The Legend Hunters (co-composer), and he has collaborated with some of the most important composers of our time on projects like Marvel's Thor: Love and Thunder and Pixar's Lightyear (M. Giacchino), 007: No Time To Die (H. Zimmer), and the 2021 Expo (A. R. Rahman). Pedro Asuno started singing and playing violin at 5 and piano at 7. At 15, he began assisting composers in Spain to learn the craft while finishing his studies at the Granada Conservatory. He went to Berklee College of Music in Boston on a scholarship, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude after receiving a fugue writing award and the Film Scoring Department's most prestigious award –the George Delerue Award. At 21, he became the youngest Berklee student to write music for an Academy Award-Nominated motion picture and the youngest person to ever work as an orchestrator on a James Bond film. After studying with Nadia Boulanger’s student Isaiah Jackson and Bernstein’s disciple Richard Danielpour, he quickly found his style and started to get commissioned by some of the most interesting artists and conductors of our time, including collaborations with multi-Grammy-winning Hila Plitmann, Sophia Bacelar, Pablo Sainz Villegas, Francisco Fullana, the JACK, Carpe Diem, Mivos, and Diotima Quartets, and maestro Mauricio Linari. Praised by the New York Times as a “splendid player,” Grammy-winning musician, composer, recording artist and educator Héctor Del Curto is one of the world’s most sought after bandoneonists. Excerpts from his website: He has performed with many renowned artists across musical genres, and appeared with the world’s leading orchestras, including the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, National Symphony Orchestra, Saint Louis Symphony, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Hector Del Curto’s recent engagements include a recorded performance of Piazzolla’s bandoneon concerto “Aconcagua” with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Thomas Wilkins, a performance of Piazzolla’s Four Seasons of Buenos Aires with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, and a performance with the Portland Symphony Orchestra, which included Del Curto’s composition, Paris to Cannes. Buenos Aires-born Del Curto is a fourth-generation bandoneonist who won the title “Best Bandoneon Player Under 25” in Argentina at age 17, and was subsequently invited to join the orchestra of the legendary Osvaldo Pugliese, the “Last Giant of Tango”. In 1998, Mr. Del Curto became music director of “Forever Tango”, a Broadway hit that continues to tour the world. Soon after, he founded the Eternal Tango Orchestra, a ten–piece ensemble that debuted at New York’s Lincoln Center, as well as the Hector Del Curto Tango Quintet. Both are featured on his self- produced albums, “Eternal Piazzolla” and “Eternal Tango”, which were produced by BBC News and Public Radio International. Hector Del Curto has appeared on recordings with such artists as Osvaldo Pugliese, Astor Piazzolla, Paquito D’Rivera, Tito Puente, and Plácido Domingo. As part of the Pablo Ziegler Trio, he received a 2018 Grammy award for Jazz Tango. Dedicated to the education, outreach, and the preservation of tango, Hector co-founded the Stowe Tango Music Festival in 2014, and continues to serve as its artistic director. The premier tango music festival in the United States, it draws the most talented tango musicians and dancers, as well as fans, from all over the globe. He also produced the festival’s awarding-winning album: “Live at the 2016 Stowe Tango Music Festival”. Héctor Del Curto´s recordings include performances with Osvaldo Pugliese and his orchestra and Astor Piazzolla and the New Tango Sextet on "Finally Together" (Lucho Records), Pablo Ziegler on the albums "Asphalt" and "Quintet for the New Tango" (BMG), "Tango Magic" (Sony MusicUSA) on video and DVD and "Tango and All That Jazz" (Kind of Blue Records), Fernando Otero X Tango on the album "Plan" and Luis Borda Cuarteto on "Linea de Tango" (Jazz and Fusion Records). Hector was a guest artist in numerous recordings such as Latin music legend, Tito Puente and Eddie Palmieri´s Grammy Awardwinning collaboration "Masterpiece" (RMM), renowned mezzo-soprano, Denyce Graves´ "The Lost Days" (BMG), Paquito D´Rivera´s "Funk Tango", Manhattan Transfer´s "Vibrate" (Telarc), Roy Nathanson´s "Fire at the Keaton´s Bar and Grill" (featuring Elvis Costello, Cyrus Chestnut and Deborah Harry, on the label Six Degrees), Ricardo Arjona´s "Santo Pecado" (Sony International), and Shakira´s "Laundry Services" (BMG) For further information: hectordelcurto@gmail.com |
Rob Reich to Perform with San Francisco Symphony Orchestraby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video 1: "Reflections" by Rob Reich (accordion) feat. Elizabeth Goodfellow (drums) Rob shares, "I released a pandemic-era EP, "Cloisters". I've been hoping to make music videos for all 4 songs from that collection. I'm happy to present the first video from that series: "Reflections", featuring Elizabeth Goodfellow. Elizabeth was visiting recently from LA and we got together in my living room for our first post-vaccination jam. It was an exhilarating and cathartic experience to play together again! Listening back now, I am amazed by the fluid way she moves between various sonic textures. Enjoy!" Video 2: “Sleigh Ride” composed by Leroy Anderson, performed by Rob Reich with special guest - Andrew Stephens as "The Horse" Rob shares, “Being stuck at home these days has meant I've had a lot of time to mess around with one of my favorite holiday songs, Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride". Luckily, I was able to get my hands on orchestral sleigh bells, a woodblock tree, and a musical whip - three of the essential ingredients in this holiday classic. And this video also features a very special appearance by trumpeter Andrew Stephens as "The Horse". Enjoy!” Accordionist Rob Reich says, “I’m excited to announce I’ll be returning to the stage of Davies Symphony Hall to play accordion with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra on February 2 and 3, 2023 for the premiere performance of Gabriel Kahane’s “emergency shelter intake form”. Davies Symphony Hall is located at 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102.(415) 864-6000 Excerpts from San Francisco Symphony Orchestra website: Led by conductor Edwin Outwater and featuring mezzo-soprano Alicia Hall Moran, Gabriel Kahane’s emergency shelter intake form is an unflinching narration of the fear, humiliation, and insurmountable obstacles associated with being unhoused in America. The oratorio’s rich libretto highlights the humanity behind a crisis that affects us all. Conrad Tao opens the program with “George Gershwin’s Piano Concerto”, a follow-up to “Rhapsody in Blue” that weaves jazz with classical form and suggests America’s endless capacity for invention and change. Prior to the concert, three local nonprofits will be in the Davies Symphony Hall lobby to share information about their activities in the homeless services and housing insecurity space: Compass Family Services, HomeRise, and San Francisco SafeHouse. Arrive early to learn more about and support these incredible organizations. A pre-concert Q&A with composer Gabriel Kahane will be presented from the stage one hour before the concert on February 3 from 6:30–7:00pm. Free to all ticketholders. Rob Reich is an accordionist, pianist, composer, educator who has performed in concert halls, circus tents, dance clubs, and chapels. His broad experience has made him a foremost performer and composer in the San Francisco bay area. Rob is a graduate of Oberlin Conservatory with a degree in Composition. He is best known for his work with Tin Hat, Gaucho, and Circus Bella. Rob Reich has over 15 years experience providing unique, memorable music for events of all kinds: weddings, corporate parties, house concerts, backyard barbecues, etc. Rob can provide everything from solo piano or accordion, to small jazz combos, to large dance bands, and everything in between. Rob works closely with the musicians to ensure the music is of the highest quality. He is based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Rob’s future 2023 performances incude: FEB 1: Rob Reich (solo piano & accordion); Zuni Café, SF 6:00 PM FEB 2, 3: with the SF Symphony: Gabriel Kahane’s “emergency shelter intake form” 7:30 PM FEB 4: Rob Reich (solo piano & accordion) Zuni Café, SF NOON FEB 5: Rob Reich duo The Page 298 Divisadero St San Francisco CA 3:00 PM FEB 5: Rob Reich (solo piano & accordion) Zuni Café, SF 6:00 PM FEB 12, 19, 26: Rob Reich duo The Page 298 Divisadero St San Francisco CA 3:00 PM MAR 5, 12, 19, 26: Rob Reich duo The Page 298 Divisadero St San Francisco CA 3:00 PM APR 2, 9: Rob Reich duo The Page 298 Divisadero St San Francisco CA 3:00 PM For further information: rob@robreich.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
AAA Executive Board Elected 2023-2025by Harley Jones |
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  With the election of a new AAA President, Frank Busso Jr. a new AAA Executive Board for 2023-2025 was also elected. The AAA Executive Board members are: Frank Busso Sr. - AAA 1st Vice President Sam Falcetti - AAA 2nd Vice President Rita Davidson Barnea - AAA Secretary Ray Oreggia - AAA Treasurer Frank Busso Sr. and Sam Falcetti are two of the longest serving AAA Board members and both are past AAA Presidents. Rita Davidson has also been has been a member of the AAA board for many years and for over 14 years, has served as the editor of this Accordions USA news. Ray Oreggia continuing as AAA Treasurer completes the Executive Board. This is a very experienced Executive Board supporting new AAA President Frank Busso Jnr. for what promises to be a very busy year of activities. View further details of the AAA Executive Board at: http://www.ameraccord.com/news.php |
“Voices of the Earth,” Accordion Solos Released by Megumi Hadaby Pamela Tom |
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 “Voices of the Earth,” Accordion Solos Released by Megumi Hada By Pamela Tom Megumi Hada, PhD., accordion music composer, poet and student scholarship sponsor has released her fifth volume of compositions for accordion, “Voices of the Earth.” “Voices of the Earth” contains 13 original compositions written for solo and duet accordion with an accompanying CD. An added bonus are Megumi’s thoughtfully penned poems attributed to each composition and conveying the mood of the music. Stas Venglevski, world renowned accordionist, interprets and performs the melodic compositions on the CD. “Winter Sky” from the CD is a beautiful example of Megumi’s music and poetry posted on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iwLZQKpCoDA . Full length audio recordings (MP3) of the compositions can be heard, and individual purchases of sheet music are available through sheetmusicplus.com. Proceeds from the sales of Megumi’s music are entirely donated to support student scholarships for young accordionists participating at the annual Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat. The 13 nature-based tunes debuted at the Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat mini-concert last month by duo Gabrielle Peck (cellist) and Stas Venglevski (bayan) accompanied by a touching 40-minute slide and poetry presentation by Ms. Hada. “Voices of the Earth” combined as a spiral-bound book with CD is a good deal for the accordion enthusiast and can be ordered directly from Megumi: meghada33@gmail.com . Titles from “Voices of the Earth, Original Compositions For Accordion” CD by Megumi Hada |
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Now online: Latest Expanded Article About AAA Commissionsby Robert Young McMahan CCC Chair, Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey Music Department |
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  The (AAA) website has newly published an Expanded Article featuring the Robert Russell Bennett composition: Quintet for Accordion and String Quartet.Robert Russell Bennett was most famous for his brilliant orchestrations of Broadway musicals and operas but was also a wonderfully prolific composer in his own right. Elsie Bennett (not related), was the first Chair of the AAA Composers Commissioning Committee and she persuaded him to write two works for the AAA. The first was a highly romantic though at times jazzy solo titled Four Nocturnes (1959), and later a delightfully intricate, highly crafted, and stylistically varied quintet for accordion and string quartet (1961), the subject of this article. Subtitling the quintet "Psychiatry", Bennett took playful musical jabs at a science for which he apparently held some skepticism. New in this updated revision of the original 2004 article are 11 print music excerpts (example right) that are accompanied by electronic sound samples. Come visit, listen and enjoy a fresh look at this exciting AAA Commission work: http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions10.php which is part of an expanding AAA website featuring many aspects of AAA Commissions, AAA history, news and upcoming events. http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions.php |
Michael Bridge and Ladom Ensemble in Spring Concertsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video 1: Johannes Brahms - Hungarian Dance No. 5 arranged and performed by Ladom Ensemble Video by Thom Varey Recorded at Canterbury Music Company in Toronto Audio mixed by: Pouya Hamidi Michael Bridge, accordion Beth Silver, cello Adam Campbell, hand percussions Pouya Hamidi, piano The Ladom Ensemble is looking forward to their Spring 2023 concerts in Ontario and British Columbia. Excerpts from their website: The Ladom Ensemble combines piano, cello, accordion, and percussion in a unique blend of acoustic chamber and world music that is passionate, sophisticated, and wild. The group met and formed in 2007 while studying music at the University of Toronto. Individual members hail from Alberta (Michael Bridge - accordion), Toronto (Beth Silver - cello), Prince Edward Island (Adam Campbell - percussion), and Ontario by way of Tehran, Iran (Pouya Hamidi - piano). Pouya, the in-house composer, writes original music for the group inspired by Persian and classical fusion but the Canadian spread of the group also reaches across the world and genres as their all-original repertoire incorporates inspirations from Argentinean tango, Serbian folk and dance traditions, Persian classical repertoire, as well as music from the Classical (Bach, Prokofiev) and progressive rock worlds (Radiohead). Ladom doesn’t pretend to represent any one tradition, but rather expresses an authentically Canadian experience. Ladom’s musical identity is combined from many sources and reflects a beautiful new world with a Western classical toolset. They also commission original music by local, Canadian composers such as Elisha Denburg, Igor Correia, Maziar Heidari, Keyan Emami, Saman Shahi, and Afarin Mansouri. Accordionist Dr. Michael Bridge who recently earned his doctorate in accordion at University of Toronto, brings his whole heart and ballooning talent to the Ensemble, despite being extremely active performing around the world, from orchestras to solo recitals. He has been named one of CBC’s “30 Hot Classical Musicians Under 30” and does over 100 concerts per year. Sock-foot on stage, Adam Campbell (MMus) passes around a twinkle-in-the-eye during performances, and always brings the bottles... as part of his hand percussion toolkit! Cellist Beth Silver (MMus) starts spontaneous jams in between takes, with playful sounds that can only be called ‘fiddling around’. Pouya Hamidi (MMus) usually emerges from rehearsals declaring, “They’re such sweethearts!” In performance and composition, the pianist has a deep love for the music, and a profound humbleness that makes bragging impossible, although warranted. All are active, professional musicians in various contexts. To date, Ladom has toured and enthralled audiences across the provinces of Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. They have completed four major tours in Canada alone: completed a 38-day tour of Ontario and Quebec with Jeunesses Musicales Canada (Fall of 2017), a 3 week tour with Debut Atlantic (Spring 2018), a 3 week tour with Prairie Debut (Winter 2019) and finally another 35-day tour with Jeunesses Musicales Canada (March-April 2019). They have also been presented by Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival. CBC, Radio-Canada, the Whole-Note magazine, and the BBC have featured Ladom in print and video media. Ladom has been selected to showcase at multiple arts conferences including CAPACOA, OSAC, Ontario Contact, and Arts Northwest. The words of Ladom’s reviewers couldn’t be clearer. CBC’s Errol Nazareth gave a glowing review of Ladom’s first, self-titled album: “I can honestly say that this is the first time I have heard such a fascinating mix and it really works well. The music can be very elegant and contemplative and it can also be rocking and fiery... there is no denying the passion of the four musicians investing in their playing.” Grant agencies are in agreement with the press! Both Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts have awarded Ladom Ensemble multiple grants. Future 2023 performances include: FEB 5: The Welland-Port Colborne Concert Association Presents Ladom Ensemble @ 2:00pm Welland, ON, Canada FEB 11: Xenia Concerts presents in Partnership with TO Live: LADOM Ensemble @ 11:00am Toronto, ON, Canada FEB 11: Xenia Concerts & Alzheimer Society of Toronto Present: Ladom Ensemble @ 2:00pm Toronto, ON, Canada APR 12: ArtSpring Presents Ladom Ensemble @ 7:30pm Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada APR 14: South Okanagan Concert Society Presents Ladom Ensemble @ 7:30pm Oliver, BC, Canada APR 16: Whistler Chamber Music Society Presents Ladom Ensemble @ 4:30pm Whistler, BC, Canada For further information: Ladomensemble@gmail.com |
CNIMA and Jacques Mornet’s Accordion Method Workshops in New Orleansby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: The CNIMA and Jacques Mornet's accordion method CNIMA (Centre National et International de Musique et d'Accordéon) is an internationally renowned French based accordion school founded by esteemed professor Jacques Mornet and his award-winning accordionist, teacher and co-director, Nathalie Boucheix. Following their successful teaching and concert tour of 2022, CNIMA is thrilled to announce their return to the USA with Two Accordion Workshops in New Orlean, Louisiana on May 22 2023 and June 3, 2023 CNIMA directors Jacques Mornet and Nathalie Boucheix look forward to sharing their revered accordion technique with amateurs and professionals of all ages and styles. For piano and chromatic button accordion you can transform your playing with the renowned French Accordion School which includes all levels, all ages, all styles from beginner-intermediate-advanced to professionals. Enter a learning environment that transports you to a world of beauty and passion. A workshop in which each participant’s individual expression is encouraged through a rigorous approach to discovering one’s own musicality. Educators Jacques Mornet and Nathalie Boucheix provide unique and inspiring instruction on accordion. With over 60 years of teaching hundreds of professionals, world champions and avid amateurs of all ages, the CNIMA legacy has evolved as the destination for accordionists who are committed to improving the heart and soul of their playing. This year CNIMA USA is offering two consecutive weeklong workshops in one of the world’s great music cities: New Orleans, Louisiana. The format of the workshops is almost identical to the successful workshops CNIMA holds throughout the year at their school in Saint Sauves d’Auvergne, France. Accordionists attending the New Orleans workshops can expect: -Intensive one-on-one instruction with master teachers. -Group classes learning the Mornet Method with other attendees. -Personalized instruction on music of your choice. -Performance preparation. -Local lunches catered by New Orleans chefs. Here are just a few ways of how you’ll benefit from your week with Jacques and Nathalie: -Unlock your emotional expression. -Fine tune your ear to listen more musically. -Learn the secrets of bellows phrasing to produce a rich sound. -Playing on the surface, and creating dynamics and a variety of articulations. The workshop schedule includes: • Monday afternoon: Brief orientation, then a short video is made of the song you’ll be working on during the week. After, our first group class, followed by private classes. • Tuesday through Friday: Attendees get two group classes and two private classes per day, and lunches (from Tuesday until Friday) are included in the workshop price. • Friday afternoon: a final group class, then the “after” videos are made of each student. • Friday night: an end-of-workshop recital in which everyone will present the music they worked on during the week, followed by a professional performance by Nathalie Boucheix. (Attendees are strongly encouraged, but not required, to perform in the recital.) • Saturday: The final morning of the workshop, in which before-and-after videos of your progress are reviewed, along with a detailed analysis of your strengths, and areas which can be focused on in your post-workshop practices and performances. Tuition: 1.Early bird registration is $575 and ends on March 13, 2023. After that date, full tuition of the workshop is $675. 2. Pre-registration: You can hold your workshop place with a non-refundable pre-registration deposit of $200. You can pre-register up until March 13, 2023, and the balance is due any time before April 7, 2023. 3.Full registration: You can register and pay the full amount at any time. For further information on registration, payment etc.: cnimausa@gmail.com |
Mary Mancini and Mario Tacca Present an “Evening of Live Music!”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Mary and Mario share, “We are delighted to let you know that we will be back at Rini’s on Friday, February 17 and Friday, March 31, 2023 from 7 - 10:PM. Don’t forget to make your reservations early! Rini’s Restaurant and Wine Bar, 12 W. Main Street, Elmsford, NY. 914-592-6799. We would also like to share a recently published article (below) written about our lives and careers by journalist Thomas Staudter. This appeared in the January 19-25, 2023 edition of the Croton Gazette. Hope to see you at a show real soon!”Spending the evening with them will provide you with a night of fabulous live music and delicious food. They are a unique duo, entertaining with an eclectic repertoire sure to please everyone. I have heard them perform many times. Each program is always entertaining, educational, emotional and lots of fun! Put one of their performances on your calendar and you will be happy you attended! New York State Senator Pete Harckham commemorated Italian American Heritage Month recently by honoring three musical artists from the 40th Senate District—accordionist-composer Mario Tacca and vocalist Mary Mancini and pianist-composer-educator Pete Malinverni—during a special ceremony and luncheon held at Little Sorrento in Yorktown Heights, NY.. Mario Tacca was born in Italy. During his childhood, his family moved to the Alsace Lorraine region of France where he began his musical studies. This is where his love and intense desire to play the accordion began. He loved the sound! He would pick up the accordion and imitate some of the songs his mother used to sing. The desire and love never diminished, despite having to walk three miles weekly to his teacher with his instrument strapped to his back! While in France, he was the winner of many regional and national accordion competitions. He went on to become a world champion, winning the World Cup of Italy, the Grand Prix of Paris, the US National Competition and the International Accordion competition held at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Mario Tacca dazzles audiences across the US and around the world with his unmatched virtuosity on the accordion and his exciting interpretations of international music, the classics and pop. Mario has recently been seen on MTV in a commercial for a pilot Italian Food program. Also, he was seen on the Food Network in a commercial for “Throwdown with Bobby Flay.” His latest recording, “Journey Through the Classics” features great melodies from the Classic Repertoire. Also, he and Mary Mancini have just released their latest duet CD, “Ricordi.” It is a collection of Italian melodies, featuring Mary and Mario together, and, Mario performing solo. Internationally acclaimed vocal artist Mary Mancini has been featured in the New York Times, the Forth Worth Star-Telegram, and the Journal News and has performed in a variety of venues around the world. Able to sing in eight different languages, Mary draws from a deep repertory reservoir. She is adept at pop, show tunes, operatic arias, and sacred music and has received worldwide acclaim. Le Republicain Lorrain, in Alsace-Lorraine, France, writes that the “purity of her voice, the ease with which she interpreted the most difficult pieces showed that she is a great artist.” The Spring City Evening News in Kunming, China, writes that “audiences were greatly impressed by Mary Mancini’s singing ability…Through her music, we see her heart is smiling.” Mary has headlined numerous concert halls and festivals in North America, Europe, and China. She has performed at the Garden State Arts Center, Resorts International Casino Hotel, Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, and Mohegan Sun Resort Casino in CT. Mary, with Mario Tacca, has completed two concert tours of China. As guests of the China Ministry of Culture, they toured five cities in three weeks and performed with three symphony orchestras. Joining them on their tour was highly acclaimed Chinese tenor, Douglas Song. In addition to performing with the symphony orchestras, some of the most memorable moments included a performance held at the 1600 seat True Color Jazz Supper Club in the booming city of Shenzhen and in the 3500 seat Golden Opera House. In addition to a busy concert schedule, which keeps her on the road for over 200 days a year, Mary also maintains an active recording career. On “Canzoni dal Cuore,” her CD of Italian Love Songs & Arias, Mary sings with passion many of the classic songs from the Italian repertoire. The album also includes her own composition, “Preghiera, Ninna-Nanna” set to the music of Pietro Mascagni. Together, Mary and Mario have just released their latest duet CD, “Ricordi.” It is a collection of Italian melodies, featuring Mary and Mario together, and, Mario performing solo. The Red Cross selected Mary’s original composition, “With Open Arms,” to accompany its video tribute to the September 11 victims. Mary was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Order of the Sons of Italy in America for her ongoing outstanding musical contribution to the arts. Mary Mancini and Mario Tacca are available for: concert and show performances, church weddings, piano and accordion lessons, wedding receptions, special events, corporate events and In-home/private performances. For further information: Manciniandtacca@gmail.com Cell: 914.737.8872 |
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2023 Valentine’s Day ZOOM Online with the San Antonio Accordion Associationby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 It is time to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your favorite solos! San Antonio Accordion Association President Laura Niland invites everyone to attend ZOOM Online with the San Antonio Accordion Association on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 @ 7-8:30 PM Central Time. Please check in at 6:45 PM Central Time.. 1. Rules for Group Play on Zoom: Only one person leads. The rest of us follow the Leader and play along silently. We will need volunteers to lead us with play along. 2. Enable Original Sound is important. Do this under the Audio portion of zoom, otherwise your sound will be terrible. Having an audio interface and condenser microphone is best for music. 3. Have your solo song(s) Two at most, Ready to perform. If you are playing a solo, let Laura know at the beginning of the meeting so i won’t miss you! Group songs will be selected from the list below in the box. Have a third song ready in case we have time! 4. Keep your video on , and your ZOOM sound feature on mute. Please stay on mute during the performances. 5. The zoom meeting will begin at 6:45 PM with everyone being checked in by Laura. We start promptly! President Laura shares, “Please put your music in a notebook in order so that we can all be together when the time comes for our ZOOM meeting. I am counting on you to do your best and Practice Practice Practice ! Let’s have fun ! Music for Group Play is listed Below! Get your two solos ready! For information on how to get the music: laurajniland@outlook.com or call 210-651-4359 1. All My Loving 2. Auf Wiedersehen, Sweetheart 3. Hey Good Lookin 4. Let Me Call You Sweetheat 5.. Bye Bye Love 6. Somewhere My Love 7. Those Were the Days Soloists should play what they love to play… accordion music! Whatever you choose is ok! San Antonio Accordion Association Zoom Sessions are now held on the second Tuesday of the month! Live meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month (Except Nov Dec & May) at Chesters Hamburgers on NE Loop 410 between Nacogdoches & Broadway in San Antonio, Texas. Photo: SAAA President Laura Niland For further information: laurajniland@outlook.com 210-651-4359 |
ATG President Mary Ann Covone Performed for SAI National Conventionby Mary Ann Covone, ATG President |
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 Picture above, link to large photo: 2022SAI.jpg Audience attending the performance.On July 29, 2022, immediately following the 2022 ATG Festival, ATG President Mary Ann Covone, was off to Greensboro, North Carolina to perform for the Sigma Alpha Iota (SAI) Triennial National Convention. Sigma Alpha Iota is a professional sorority for women in the field of music (https://www.sai-national.org). Most members are initiated in college by invitation only; however, there is a membership category for patronesses who did not study music in college. In addition to being ATG president, Mary Ann Covone is an active alumnae member of the Oak Park Alumnae Chapter of SAI. The audience of 650 fellow professional musicians, professors and college students was most enthusiastic about the performance, and for many of the younger students in the audience, this was their first exposure to classical/concert accordion performance. |
The Legacy Series with Chubby Carrier, Jeffery Broussard, Cedric Watsonby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Join us for a Legacy Series event this Thursday! This free monthly series celebrates local legends who have made and continue to make an impact on the cultural community. This edition of "The Legacy Series" will be on the The Legacy of Carrière and the Broussard families. Guest artists joining this month's event include Chubby Carrier, Jeffrey Broussard and Cedric Watson! Thursday, February 2, 2023 from 7 - 9:M at the Feed N Seed, 106 N Grant St, Lafayette, LA, United States, Louisiana . For further information: info@feednseedlafayette.com FREE to the Public! |
Meet Dr. Jeff Grosserby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 AAA 2nd Vice President Sam Falcetti met Dr. Grosser a few years ago when he bought his Roland accordion from Sam. Sam shares, “He’s from Portland Maine, and is an amazing guy and plays a lot all over the country bringing his accordion playing to many people.”Dr Jeff Grosser has a wonderful career as a dental surgeon and professional musician. Growing up in New York City provided him with many opportunities to learn and perform music of many genres, from classical, jazz, and ethnic styles with formal training from Kleon Rapatikis who made it possible for Jeff to open many doors for his music. He now lives in Wiscasset ME. He has presented performances at Carnegie Hall three times, working with may “big time” famous entertainers, playing at Radio City, doing TV, radio, theater, club, convention, festival, and private party performances, guest artist appearances at The Chicago, Phoenix, New Hampshire, Maine Accordion Clubs, The Augusta Symphony Orchestra and other musical events around the USA are all a small part of his musical resume, as well as performing his music in Europe. Although he has a stable of many Excelsior accordions, including one that was Art Van Damme's and another that was Charles Magnante's, he enjoys using a Roland FR-8x digital accordion for many of his performances and dabbling and experimenting with the variety of possibilities the instrument offers for performances, especially since it provides the ability to be a one man band. He had the opportunity recently to visit Aldo Mencaccini (102 yrs old) of Bell Accordion fame and play his Roland which is truly the modern version and expansion of what his Duovox accordions were in their time, much like the Cordovox was, with sounds many accordionists loved. Jeff is now looking forward to a new year of music making, inspired by everything music offers, and the wonderful availability of instruments upon which to perform. He will be one of the guest artists for the Phoenix Accordion Club in March and is expecting to do an accordion tribute to Fat's Waller with the Augusta Symphony Orchestra in May. He will be going to Europe in April, and looks forward to many booking engagements when he returns. Grosser, whose musical career started in his native New York City and includes three appearances at Carnegie Hall, promises an enjoyable experience featuring lively music played by talented musicians who are also great entertainers. Born and raised in New York City, Grosser’s first instrument was the accordion, at least partly because a piano wouldn’t fit in his parents’ apartment. After beginning his musical career as an accordionist – he played that instrument during his first appearance at Carnegie Hall – Grosser switched to the plectrum (four string) banjo in 1968. At the time, banjo music was popular but there weren’t a lot of good banjo players around, so the switch offered the prospect of steady work. For the next 13 years, he was the leader of the Rush Street band, a regular banjoist at the famed Red Onion and also played at the Banjo Inn, Chester’s, the Golden Banjo, The Bourbon Barrel and Calamity Jane’s. In the 70’s, he worked with notables Ed Sullivan, Jerry Lewis and Sammy Davis Jr. A busy dental career pulled him away from the music scene for about 15 years, but his love of music brought him back and he has been playing with New England groups ever since. Most recently, Grosser has enjoyed playing the violin as part of the Augusta Symphony Orchestra. For further information: samfalcetti@gmail.com |
2023 Seattle Accordion Social on February 5by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The first 2023 Seattle Accordion Social will be held at their new venue, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Seattle, Washington, USA on February 5th, 2023 from 1.30 to 3:30 PM at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 6020 Beacon Ave S, Seattle, WA.The program features, Rouge, Olga Kargopoltseva, David Lange! Admission donation at the door is $5. All accordionists are invited to play at a future social open mike. To sign up, contact John Giuliani at 425-255-2121 or Bonnie Birch 206-622-4786 Day of the Accordion is February 24 - 26, 2023. The next Seattle Accordion Social is on March 3, 2023. For further information: Seattle Accordion Social on Facebook. |
Accordionist Alison Jenkins Performs in Vancouver, Canadaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Accordionist Alison Jenkins will perform with the East Van Country Band at The Heatley in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada on February 1, 2023. The group will perform selections from the Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner’s classic album “Always, Always”.Alison is a versatile accordion player and multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and composer of music for theatre from Vancouver, BC, Canada. She is a vocalist who plays accordion, clarinet, harmonica, and piano. She performs with Buried Heart Project, Something About Reptiles, The Flying Folk Army and Zeellia. Vancouver’s Zeellia has been at the forefront of a global Ukrainian cultural Renaissance for more than 20 years. |
Chicagoland Accordion Academy/ATG Members Volunteer at A World of Accordions Museumby Mary Ann Covone, ATG President |
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 Chicagoland Accordion Academy and ATG Members, led by ATG President, Mary Ann Covone, and ATG Board Member, Beatrice Makdah, recently traveled up to Superior, Wisconsin to help out at The World of Accordions Museum, and while they were there, Dr. Helmi Harrington, Curator of the Museum, provided several hours of practical accordion repair instruction along with a tour of the museum and lecture on the history of the accordion. The group was able to assist with filing and sorting new collections of music donated to the museum by the Castiglione Estate. Helmi said it was extremely helpful to have the many boxes of donated music divided into various categories. Photo: CAA/ATG Members Mayra Martinez, Nikola Stojkovic, Leandra Ward, Kelly Smith, Alicia Rachael and other local volunteers, Nina Ford and Tom Klein. Photo: After learning some important lessons about accordion repair, the group members put on some smocks and starting working on cleaning and repairing a few Museum instruments. Photo: Daiva Kiselius is cleaning a grate on a 100 year old instrument while Mayra Martinez worked on cleaning up the keys. |
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Scythian March 2023 Tourby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: Scythian - :Cubicles and Tylenol" (Quaranstream Best of) (Oct. 2020)Scythian shares, “This song goes out to everyone with a 9 to 5 who lives in a lil box. Actually, nowadays this song goes out to everyone with a 9 to 5 who wakes up, rolls out of bed, gets on their laptop and tries not to look unshowered on their ZOOM meetings.” “Scythian” which includes accordionist Dan Fedoryka will tour the USA in March this year. Scythian is a Celtic/Celtic rock band based in the DC Metro Area that formed in 2002.The band's name, according to the members of Scythian, means “a bunch of pre-Mesopotamian barbarians who did not use forks or phonics," to describe a varying sound that encompasses everything from traditional jigs and reels to contemporary covers. The UB Post describes their sound as a mix of Celtic, Klezmer, Gaelic, Gypsy and Rock. The band was named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythians, due to the Ukrainian ancestry of Alexander, and Danylo Fedoryka.The band comprises brothers Alexander Fedoryka (Violin/Mandolin/Harmonica/Bass/Vocals) and Danylo Fedoryka (Rhythm Guitar/Accordion/Vocals), as well as band members Ethan Dean (Bass/Percussion/Vocals) and Johnny Rees (Percussion/Drums/Vocals). Since its inception, Scythian developed from a group of street performers in Alexandria, VA,to the 2009 winner of Washington City Paper's Best of DC 'Best Local Band' competition. They found that their brand of high-energy folk music found a resonance that led The Washington Post to state: “Scythian’s enthusiasm is contagious, and shows seem to end with everyone dancing, jumping around or hoisting glasses.” For over 12 years they have found success as an independent band and have played over 1,300 shows all over the United States, Europe, Canada and as far away as Australia. Scythian’s accordionist is Dan Fedoryka. Dan and his brother, Alex, are the founding members of the band, which hosts annual fan trips to Ireland and the Labor Day weekend “Appaloosa “festival in Front Royal, Virginia. “Danylo Fedoryka (Rhythm Guitar/Accordion/Vocals) was initially trained as a classical pianist, Danylo made the switch to rhythm guitar in order to make music with his brother Alexander. Having performed at the Kennedy Center and Wolf Trap as a classical musician, Danylo enjoys the free and somewhat loose spirit of Celtic music. Putting his keyboard skills to use, Danylo also picked up the accordion, which he plays during the band's Gypsy and Klezmer pieces. Scythian’s Performance Schedule: • March 2nd at 6:PM: Brightside Music & Events Centre in Daytona, Ohio. • March 3rd at 7.30 PM: Irish Cultural & Heritage Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. • March 4th at 4:PM: Shamrock the Dock Festival (poster above) in Annapolis, Maryland. Skerryvore (which includes brothers Daniel on accordion and Martin Gillespie on pipes, whistles and accordion) are also playing at this festival. • March 5th at 6:PM: The Athenaeum in Chicago, Illinois. • March 7th at 7.30 PM: The Midtown GR in Grand Rapids, Michigan. • March 10th at 8:PM: The Reeve’s Theater in Elkin, North Carolina. • March 11th at 8:PM: The Lucknow Music Festival (see poster below) in Downtown Dunn, North Carolina. For further details: scythianmail@gmail.com |
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Powell River Academy of Music Presents Accordion Festby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Video: Piazzolla’s “Libertango” performed by Nikolay Bine, Karina Inkster, Walter MartellaFrom Accordion Fest 2022 As a preview of their concert on March 5, 2023, Karina Inkster and Walter Martella are presenting a short show on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023 at 2:PM Pacific, live-streamed on Facebook (you don't need an account to view it). This will be a casual living room concert featuring two accordions, piano, and another surprise instrument at the end. You may also attend in person at James Hall (Powell River Academy of Music) for a taste of what Accordion Fest 2023 has to offer. The program will include pieces by Richard Galliano, Astor Piazzolla, and Yann Tiersen. This concert will be live on Karen Inskster’s personal Facebook page. Additionally the Accordion Fest planning team along with the Powell River Academy of Music, is planning an incredible 2023 event. Walter Martella and Karina Inkster are excited to bring you Powell River's Second Annual Accordion Fest! Including a concert performance, workshops for beginners and advanced players alike and a wide range of musical genres for their audiences to enjoy, mark your calendars for Friday and Saturday, May 5-6, 2023! Check out their full schedule of events. Joint them for two days of diverse events celebrating the accordion! Fun fact: May 6th is World Accordion Day, marking the anniversary of the day its patent was filed on May 6, 1829. Some highlights of this year's Fest include: 9 special guest musicians Opening night concert: tango, jazz, classical, and more (featuring at least 6 accordions!) Workshop: introduction to klezmer music Masterclass for intermediate/advanced students Accordion 101 for complete beginners General merriment Squeezebox Night closing party On March 5, 2023 there will be a preview concert. Tickets are by donation at the door. Accordion Fest tickets will be on sale soon -- stay tuned! Walter Martella is a musician, conductor, instructor, Music Director of the Powell River Academy of Music (PRAM). He has recorded 6 studio albums. Bench presses your body weight and makes a mean apple cider. He is also conductor and Music Director of the Powell River Academy of Music (PRAM), Walter is an accomplished pianist, accordionist, and trumpeter. He earned a Diploma in Jazz Trumpet from Malaspina College (VIU), a Bachelor of Music Degree from UVic, and attended the Banff School of Fine Arts. Karen Inkster is a recreational accordionist, author, podcast host, vegan fitness and nutrition coach. She is the author of 5 books, magazine writer, and host of the No-B.S. Vegan podcast. Founder of K.I. Health & Fitness, she and her online coaching team work with vegan clients all over the world. Karina holds a Master's degree in Gerontology, specializing in health and aging. Karina and Walter share, “Our First Annual Accordion Fest was a success! We thank our performers, special guests, and audience members for making Accordion Fest 2022 a huge success! Virtuoso accordionist Nikolay Bine performed to a full house, our various afternoon events were well-attended, and we sold out our kitchen party to close the Fest. We hope to see you at our second fest on May 5 and 6, 2023!" Check the March USA news for more information about the 2023 Festival including performers and more! For further information: karina@karinainkster.com |
Dr. William Schimmel Presents: "In The Shadow in the ….!"by Dr. William Schimmel |
 The 2023 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, curatorOur 29th smash year sponsored by the Accordion Global Association. - AGA We go in a global direction - a global synthesis in a single instrument anywhere or anyplace. Welcome to the ominous side of the accordion - shadowed - mysterious - intimate - subdued - gorgeous - in the background - highlighting - classical - - out front and center - and also can be: (like new york) too surreal to love. but ….. What about the baroque aspect - or baroqueness - finding oneself in the fertile reality of some really bon merde. There is so much to explore - and even more! There is so much to digest - and to jest! There is …….. yes, the built in ironic duality as Dr. Schimmel states: “Hip/square, beautiful/ugly, elegant/vulgar, old/new, classy/ain’t got no class” - never one without the other and two new ones - “terribly sad/ wonderfully hilarious” Tune into the seminars this year - with accordion philosopher, Dr. William Schimmel - and the seminar team. We will give you some really cool presentations and some wonderful hot new pieces - all premiers and some remakes - they will be great fun and make for some really good discussions We”ll explore the visual arts, dance, video, music theatre and concept art in the midst of this - what is the goal? as always, content on the highest level And like the last three years - they will be virtual. The Seminars, they never bore. our favorite words are : “more more more” July 28 29 30 2023 - Master Class 3 to 4 - Concert 4 to 5. Lnks will be provided prior to each day. Participants will include - in no separate order: Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Will Holshouser, Dr. Robert Young Mc mahan, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Doug Makofka, Carl Riehl, Erica Marie Mancini, Robert Duncan, Jeanne Velonis, Sydknee, Rita Davidson, Hanzhi Wang, Dr. marina li, Dr. Thomas Massucci, Bob Goldberg, Brian Dewan, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Peter Flint, Mayumi Mayaoka, Bachtopus, Benjamin Ickies,John Foti, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, William Komaiko, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Dan Cooper, Elliott Sharp, Gene Pritsker, Mark Kostabi, Mary Spencer Knapp, Sari Kalin, Milica Paranosic, Dave Soldier, David First, David Stoler, Jack Di Bennidetto, Peter Jarvis, Corn Mo - and Dr. Schimmel. $165. entire weekend: Checks can be made to William Schimmel 345 E 85th St 4re New York, NY 10028 paypal - accordionbill@gmail.com For reservations and information: accordionbill@gmail.com 212 - 876 0827 917 - 498 6823 The Seminars were created in 1994 by Dr. Schimmel to present the accordion to the New York artistic community, to explore, inform and share the unlimited global fertility, musically and artistically. our purpose now in 2023, as always, is he accordion in permanent transition and how single accordion is multidimensional,yes, global. it is a different kind of experience. |
2023 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration June 22-25by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The 2023 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration, sponsored by the Northwest Accordion Society will be held in Leavenworth, Washington, USA from June 22nd to 25th, 2023.The event will include a variety of performances, competitions, workshops, lessons, jam sessions and a parade. Festhalle 2023 performers include Joey Miskulin, Alicia Jo Straka, Andy Mirkovich, Andy Gonzalez & Juan Barco, Max Kyllonen and the Toby & Lyle Duo (Frank Yankovic Tribute). For further information: Bonnie Birch – Chairman - bonniebirch@msn.com See poster for details: 2023LeavenworthPoster.pdf |