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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
AAA Festival in West Conshohocken, PA – July 12-14, 2024
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. & The Ils Sont Partis Band and Lost Bayou Ramblers Tie For Best Regional Roots Music Album at GRAMMYS
Special Price Complete Collection of Gary Dahl (1937 to 2017) eBooks (10 Books) - USA
What Are You Doing For May 6th World Accordion Day? - International
Chicagoland Accordion Academy Begins After-School Accordion Program in Chicago Public Schools in April
2024 National Accordion Convention is March 21 - 24 in Texas
ATG Annual Festival. in Kansas City, July 24-27, 2024
Accordionist & Teachers Guild (ATG) Annual Festival. in Kansas City from July 24-27, 2024
“Black Swan” by Dr. William Schimmel to receive World Premier on February 23 in NYC
The Delta Boyz Inducted Into Tejano Hall of Fame
Andre Thierry Presents Creole/Zydeco Shows Celebrating Black History Month
Cory Pesaturo Plays National Anthem Live On USA National Channels
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Eddie Monteiro and Warren Vache Perform at Shanghai Jazz in NJ on February 21
“ A Winter Accordion Wonderland Concert”
Two New eBooks (pdf and epub) Release by Friedrich Lips - Austria
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) Celebrates 21st Anniversary with Guest Artist “Papa Joe” De Clemente
Central Florida Accordion Club Presents: Accordion Fest 2024
Hector Del Curto and Family Perform in New York City
Vancouver Squeezebox Circle Meeting and Vancouver Accordion Events
Future events |
Alex Meixner on Tour
3rd Annual Accordion Extravaganza Preview Show
The 2024 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, Curator
Sam Reider in Upcoming Performances
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, premieres, concerts, videos, 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 if you cannot attend in person. Happy Valentine's Day! Need a special gift? 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! |
AAA Festival in West Conshohocken, PA – July 12-14, 2024by Frank Busso Jnr, AAA President |
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 The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) is excited to announce its 86th anniversary festival will be held in West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, in the Philadelphia area. The event will kick off midday on July 12 and conclude midday on July 14.The festival will include performances and workshops from guest artists, competitions for students of all ages and proficiency levels, performance opportunities, three festival orchestras, vendors, exhibits, and several food functions. Some exciting enhancements at this year’s festival will include extended exhibit room hours, festival orchestra repertoire suitable for a wider array of performance levels, consolidated schedule to reduce the total number of hotel nights needed, performance slots for solo and ensemble enthusiasts, and more food functions to promote camaraderie among festival attendees. Keep your eyes on the AAA website (www.ameraccord.com) for hotel discount code, guest artist releases, and other festival announcements. |
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. & The Ils Sont Partis Band and Lost Bayou Ramblers Tie For Best Regional Roots Music Album at GRAMMYSby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr.
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Buckwheat Zydeco Jr.
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Buckwheat Zydeco Jr.
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Lost Bayou Ramblers
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| Video: Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. & The Ils Sont Partis Band - LIVE @ 2024 Performance at Louisiana Grammy Nominee Celebration - Grammy Museum Downtown Los Angeles Congratulations to Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. and the Lost Bayou Ramblers with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in a tie with the Lost Bayou Ramblers to win the 2024 Best Regional Roots Album Grammy on February 5, 2024. Buckwheat Zydeco (Stanley Dural) and Buckwheat Zydeco Jr.(Reggie Dural) are the first Zydeco musicians/Father and Son duo to win Grammy Awards for their own independent music! It’s a tie and big congratulations to local Grammy winners and friends Buckwheat Zydeco and Lost Bayou Ramblers for Best Regional Roots Album! Buckwheat Zydeco Junior’s newest album “New Beginnings” is the first album Sir Regg has released since his father’s (Stanley Dural) passing in 2016. Buckwheat Zydeco Junior, also known as Sir Regg, Buckwheat Zydeco, his father, and the band won a Grammy back in 2014 for their album “Lay Your Burden Down”. The Lost Bayou Ramblers “LIVE: ORPHEUM THEATER NOLA”, Lost Bayou Rambler’s winning Grammy album in collaboration with Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra is now available for vinyl pre order! Almost a year to the date LBR joined the LPO for a single performance at Orpheum Theater New Orleans. The recording by Esplanade Studios is now being lacquered and pressed to vinyl at New Orleans Record Press and will be available on May 1, 2024. Bands competing in the category included: Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. & The Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band – New Beginnings — was the winner at the 2024 GRAMMY Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers – Live At The 2023 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Lost Bayou Ramblers & Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra – Live: Orpheum Theater Nola — WINNER New Breed Bass Band – Made in New Orleans New Orleans Nightcrawlers – Too Much to Hold The Rumble Feature Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr. – Live at the Maple Leaf Excerpts from Wikipedia: The Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music Album is an award presented at the Grammy Awards, a ceremony that was established in 1958 as the Gramophone Awards, to recording artists for releasing albums in the regionally based traditional American music, including Hawaiian, Native American, polka, zydeco and Cajun music genres. Honors in several categories are presented at the ceremony annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States to "honor artistic achievement, technical proficiency and overall excellence in the recording industry, without regard to album sales or chart position". The category was introduced in 2012 in which the previous Best Hawaiian Music Album, Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album and Best Native American Music Album categories were combined. The change was the result of a major overhaul of Grammy categories, announced in April 2011. The new category also recognizes other American roots forms, such as polka, whose own Grammy category was discontinued in 2009. In 2021, the category added the inclusion of Go-go music. Photo up: Buckwheat Zydeco receives award on February 5, 2024 Photo down: Lost Bayou Ramblers received award. Photo left: New Beginnings Album cover by Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. Photo right: Lost Bayou Ramblers Cover |
Special Price Complete Collection of Gary Dahl (1937 to 2017) eBooks (10 Books) - USAby Harley Jones |
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 Special price for the complete Gary Dahl eBooks Collection of 10 eBook's (value US$335), for only US$200 or the € equivalent. This special price lasts for two weeks only until 8th March. Catalog: DH01-10eBThe home page of Gary Dahl (1937 to 2017) has been updated for the complete collection of Gary Dahl eBooks #1 to #10. The 10 eBooks worth USD $335 with 156 music titles of very popular arrangements by Gary Dahl is emailed to you. DH01-eB Latin Spectacular! US$35.50 DH02-eB Favorite French Standards US$35.50 DH03-eB The American Songbook US$35.50 DH04-eB Favorite Waltzes & Polkas US$46.50 DH05-eB Easy Listening Variety US$35.50 DH06-eB Easy Listening Variety US$57.50 DH07-eB Traditional Polish Carols US$16.50 DH08-eB Italian Collection US$35.50 DH09-eB Traditional Christmas Carols US$18.50 DH10-eB Polka! US$18.50 Total USD$355 For those only looking for one work, there are 215 excellent individual Gary Dahl arrangements of different grades available online that can be emailed to you. All-Dahl-€ or All-Dahl-US$ Click DH01-10eB to purchase the 10 Gary Dahl eBooks for only US$200 (ends 8th March). |
What Are You Doing For May 6th World Accordion Day? - Internationalby Harley Jones |
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 What are you doing for World Accordion Day (WAD) to promote the accordion in your country? World Accordion Day (WAD) is on May 6th, which is the day the accordion was patented in 1829.WAD was started in 2009 by the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) and has been very successful, generating a lot of positive publicity for the accordion. A key part of this event is the WAD website. Every association, group, orchestra, performer and teacher, is asked to actively support WAD by encouraging national and local accordion activities to happen in their country on this day or the weekend either side of WAD if that should be more convenient. Everyone can register their WAD activity on the WAD website and send a report of their event after, for that website. No event is too big or too small. ALL accordion events celebrating WAD are welcome. This is a CIA promotion for the accordion in which every accordion enthusiast can participate and help bring our accordion world together as well as strongly promote the accordion. |
Chicagoland Accordion Academy Begins After-School Accordion Program in Chicago Public Schools in Aprilby Mary Ann Covone Director of Chicagoland Accordion Academy |
  The Chicagoland Accordion Academy will begin an after-school accordion program in the Chicago Public Schools in April 2024. Leah Stephens (picture lower left), a student of Mary Ann Covone (picture left top), and an ATG Board Member, is a full-time public school music educator in the Chicago Public School System. Leah is very enthusiastic about teaching accordion to young students, so she presented the idea of an after-school accordion program to her school principal. The principal was thrilled with the idea and sponsored Chicagoland Accordion Academy to become a vendor for the Chicago Public School System. Leah and Mary Ann have already met with several families who are interested in the program and anticipate an initial enrollment of about 8 students. We hope this is the beginning of an accordion movement for children in Chicagoland! A second school has already expressed interest and will likely begin an after-school accordion program in the Fall. Students will be taught by Mayra Martinez (photo right), an accordion student of Mary Ann Covone and a recently retired Chicago Public School music teacher, along with Leah Stephens and Mary Ann Covone. If you know of anyone who might like to donate some twelve bass accordions to the cause, we would be most gratefull. We have already received a donation of 10 Titan 12-bass accordions from an anonymous donor! By the Fall, we hope to need at least twice that many beginner accordions! For further information: Maryann@chicagolandaccordionacademy.com |
2024 National Accordion Convention is March 21 - 24 in Texasby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
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Picture above
2024 Convention Planning Committee: left to right: Norman Seaton, Sharon Seaton, Rick Custer, Gordon Kohl, Elijha Clements, Jim Rommel, and Tom Jordan. Picture right 2024 Presenters: second row, left to right: Mary Ann Covone, Alex Meixner, Lori Brooke, Gordon Kohl, Dick Albreski, Elijah Clements, Randy McPeck, Norman and Sharon Seaton |
2024 Presenters
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| National Accordion Party!!! Warning:We reserved fewer rooms this year, so make your hotel reservation ASAP! http://accordions.com/naa/cRegistration.html 95% of the early-to-register conventioneers reported that they come to the Texas Convention primarily to meet old and new friends and to have a lot of fun! As a result of the above survey results, Norman and Rick have redesigned the 2024 Convention to become a National Accordion Party. Our 2024 workshops and sessions are designed around applying basic music theory to prepare all accordionists to become leaders in our new musical world! Additionally, our new hotel has solid walls, so more conventioneers play their accordions in groups without interrupting other sessions. In other words, we will be conducting a lot of non-threatening jam sessions. Max Frauenthal will be coordinating many traditional accordion tunes. The music is located on the workshop download page. 2024 Presenters (photo down): Dick Albreski, Barbara and Dick, Mary K Archuleta, Bob Basciglia, Lori Brooke, Elijah Clements, Mary Ann Covone, Max Frauenthal, Dr. Ian Fries, Roy Helsing, Gordon Kohl, Alex Meixner, Sharon Seaton, and Mitch White. For more info: NAA |
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ATG Annual Festival. in Kansas City, July 24-27, 2024by Marty McIntyre ATG Executive Director |
ATG Poster
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Gorka Hermosa
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Grayson Masefield
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Mirco Patarini
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Stas Venglevski
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Bridge & Wolak
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Das Kollektiv Duo
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UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble
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Accordionist & Teachers Guild (ATG) Annual Festival. in Kansas City from July 24-27, 2024by Marty McIntyre ATG Executive Director |
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ATG poster featuring Joan Sommers
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Gorka Hermosa
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Grayson Masefield
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Mirco Patarini
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ATG poster featuring Joan Sommers
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Gorka Hermosa
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Grayson Masefield
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Mirco Patarini
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| Accordionists and musicians from across the globe will converge on Kansas City from July 24-27, 2024 to participate in the Accordionist & Teachers Guild (ATG) annual Festival. This year's theme revolves around honoring the legacy and contributions of Joan Sommers, a luminary in the American accordionist community as she turns 90. Visit our website for complete information at www.atgaccordions.com. Celebrating Joan Sommers Joan Sommers, a stalwart in championing the accordion as a serious musical instrument, has dedicated her lifetime to advancing its significance. Her efforts not only paved the way for numerous musicians worldwide but also captivated the hearts and minds of audiences, spanning generations. Join us in celebrating the remarkable life and work of Joan Sommers at this year's festival. One of the festival's highlights will be Professor Sommers leading what is anticipated to be one of the largest accordion orchestras ever assembled at the event, consisting of 90 musicians. They will come together to perform a mix of classic tunes and brand-new compositions created specifically for this occasion, including works written by Gorka Hermosa and Ian Watson dedicated to Professor Sommers. World Cup Competition - https://www.atgaccordions.com/world-cup Also in celebration of remarkable 90 years, ATG is thrilled to unveil a special competition – the ATG 2024 World Cup. This prestigious event offers a chance for accordion virtuosos to showcase their talents and compete for a substantial $5,000 first prize and a commendable $3,000 second prize. The competition is open to accordionists of any nationality. Contestants needing a visa are urged to contact ATG by February 15, and the application process should be initiated promptly. Any costs associated with obtaining the visa must be covered by the entrant. This competition promises to be a celebration of musical artistry, attracting accordion enthusiasts from around the globe. With its prestigious panel of adjudicators and generous cash prizes, it is set to be a highlight of the 2024 Festival in Kansas City. International Line Up The accordion's captivating charm lies in its rich history woven into the fabric of nearly every ethnic musical tradition. Standing the test of time, this versatile instrument has made its mark across the globe, finding a place in an array of musical genres. Its uniqueness lies in the diverse ways it is employed, making it one of the most exceptional instruments with unparalleled versatility. The upcoming festival is set to be a testament to this global influence, as featured artists from around the world converge, harmonizing with other instruments such as the clarinet and guitar, and creating mesmerizing collaborations, including breathtaking performances with tango dancers. • Gorka Hermosa - Spain • Grayson Masefield New Zealand with a tango group led by Beau Bledsoe of Kansas City • Bridge & Wolak – Canada • Nikolay Bine – Russia / Canada • UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble – United States • Mirco Patarini – Italy • Stas Venglevski – United States • Das Kollektiv Duo – Austria and Colombia Attendees of the festival will have the chance to engage with the performers, gaining valuable insights through workshops and mini-courses presented by the artists. Cory Pesaturo, along with musicians from Kansas City, will provide entertainment for the Wednesday evening Meet & Greet. The general public is warmly invited to participate in numerous events throughout the festival. which will commence with a family-friendly "Accordion Petting Zoo," showcasing dozens of accordions available for hands-on exploration and play. This interactive experience is suitable for all ages and is perfect for those curious about trying their hand at the accordion. Additionally, the event will feature Jane Christison, a children's entertainer, singer, and songwriter known for her work as "Janie Next Door." The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International is a non-profit organization of accordion teachers, students, composers, professional musicians, and hobbyists from around the world. Its goal is to foster an appreciation of this remarkable instrument and its music. Since its establishment in 1940 by the late Anthony Galla-Rini and colleagues, the ATG has garnered international prestige and respect for its ongoing pursuit of excellence in music education. The ATG offers scholarships, hosts seminars, workshops, concerts, recitals, and an annual festival -- all of which provide accordion education and performance opportunities for players of all ages and levels. Visit Our Website For More Information: www.atgaccordions.com aaa Article submitted by Marty McIntyre – ATG Executive Director |
“Black Swan” by Dr. William Schimmel to receive World Premier on February 23 in NYCby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  “Black Swan” is a new work by Dr. William Schimmel scored for Accordion and Chamber Orchestra. The instrumentation is for Accordion solo, Flute/Piccolo, Clarinet/Bass Clarinet, Alto Flute, French Horns 1 and 2, Violins 1 and 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass and Vibraphone.The Accordion Solo will be performed by Dr. Denise Koncelik, who has studied extensively with Dr. Schimmel for many years and has been the recipient of the Order of the Shield Diploma under the tutelage of Dr. Schimmel. She holds a Doctorate from The University of Texas. A Black Swan is a symbol of Beauty, Mystery and Transformation. Three descending notes make up the Melodic Principle,The use of the Accordion alone or with the orchestration make up the Sonority Principle, The Rhythmic Principle is rather straightforward but with melodies that overlap the bar lines producing interesting subdivisions to the final surprise, The Reality Principal, a familiar melody in a new context, both Tango and Fado, perhaps depicting the rarely seen Black Swan. The work will be performed by The North South Consonance Orchestra conducted by Max Lifchitz (also the founder). The concert will take place on February 23, 2024 at The DiMenna Center in New York - 450 W 37th St. The piece was written for the 44th Anniversary of North South Consonance. Since 1980, North/South Consonance has garnered widespread praise for its eloquent performances of music by composers of our time. Under the leadership of Max Lifchitz, its founder and director, this adventurous ensemble has brought to the attention of the New York public over 750 different works by composers from every corner of the world. Dr. William Schimmel holds BM, MS and DMA degrees, with a doctorate from the Juilliard School. He performed with virtually every ensemble in New York, from the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, Jazz at Lincoln Center, many contemporary ensembles, and on Broadway as well as on numerous European tours. His Tango Project albums have reached #1 on the Billboard charts along with Stereo Review Album of the Year and Grammy nominations. He has performed in many movie soundtracks, and can be seen and heard in Scent of a Woman starring Al Pacino. His current album, The Theater of the Accordion features trumpeter Wynton Marsalas and has reached #2 on the Amazon charts. Dr. Schimmel resides in Manhattan with his wife, Micki Goodman, a dancer/choreographer and video artist. Together they have produced numerous videos that can be seen and heard on YouTube. Dr. Schimmel’s works are currently being archived at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. Dr. William Schimmel’s versatility is evident by the many musical projects that he is involved in. He has devoted his life to musicianship particularly utilizing the accordion. Conductor Max Lifchitz, a native of Mexico City met Dr. Schimmel in a class at Juilliard taught by Luciano Berio. They have been close colleagues since 1966. Max Lifchitz was awarded first prize in the 1976 International Gaudeamus Competition for Performers of Twentieth Century Music held in Holland. A graduate of The Juilliard School and Harvard University, Mr. Lifchitz has appeared in concert and recital throughout the US, Latin America and Europe. Denise Koncelik, Brooklyn, NY, holds a DMA in Flute Performance, MA in Flute Pedagogy, and a BM in Theory/Composition. She is Co-director of the New York Flute Club Ensemble Program and has performed on Bass Flute with the National Flute Association Professional Flute Choir. Dr. Koncelik taught flute, class piano and woodwind methods at Texas Woman’s University, flute and composition at Midwestern State University, and played piccolo, jazz piano, and 3rd flute in the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra. Her flute choir arrangements have been performed in NY and TX, and she has written arrangements for the Main Squeeze (accordion) Orchestra in NYC and the Accordion Pops Orchestra in New Jersey. She writes arrangements and plays keyboard with Chelsea Musica, has performed in the accordion quartet Bachtopus, and conducted holiday programs for the Brooklyn Accordion Club. She is a member American Federation of Musicians. As an accordionist, Dr. Koncelik has played at Carnegie Hall with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and the American Symphony Orchestra, at Symphony Space, le poisson rouge, Bowery Poetry Club, Joe’s Pub, Brooklyn Bowl, Rockwood Music Hall, Duane Park, Bryant Park, and for Make Music New York. She played in the Off-Broadway productions of “Fiddler on the Roof – in Yiddish” and “The Last Boy” (Broadway production April 2022). She is the recipient of the Order of the Shield from the Neupaurer Conservatory of Music and studies with Dr. William Schimmel. For further information: accordionbill@gmail.com |
The Delta Boyz Inducted Into Tejano Hall of Fameby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video 1: The Delta Boyz "Mi Pobresa" The Delta Boyz of Elsa, Tx, appeared on Domingo Live to perform their song "Mi Pobresa."The Delta Boyz, popular Conjunto band, recently performed on KIII 3NEWS which is the ABC affiliate in Corpus Christi, Texas, operating to serve, inform and improve communities in the Coastal Bend. The station began broadcasting in South Texas on May 4, 1964. Today, KIII 3NEWS dominates one of the fastest-growing markets in Texas. The station’s service to the community and commitment to local news and weather coverage has consistently made it the Coastal Bend's news leader for decades. Video 2: The Delta Boyz of Elsa, Texas discuss their Delta area roots, musical inspiration, and conjunto pride on Domingo Live. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YG6_2U1oP58 The Delta Boyz were inducted into the Conjunto Hall of Fame in 2023 in the category of Conjunto Tradicional. They were celebrated during Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame weekend on January 5 - 6, 2024, in Alice, Texas. The event featured a banquet, a concert, and a ceremony to honor the new members of the hall of fame. The Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame was established in 2000 by the Remembering Our Own Tejano Stars (ROOTS) organization. Its mission is to preserve and promote the legacy and culture of Tejano music. The hall of fame has inducted over 500 individuals and groups since its inception. On November 23, 2023, their high school, Edcouch-Elsa ISD spotlighted The Delta Boyz all of whom attended the school. The Delta Boyz includes talented musicians Javier Gonzalez (Class of 2000), Jaime Gonzalez (Class of 2003), Eddie Gonzalez (Class of 1995), and Arturo “Tury” Alviar III (Class of 1995), The Delta Boyz have garnered widespread recognition for their exceptional musical talent and dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage and music. All members of The Delta Boyz are proud high school graduates of Edcouch-Elsa ISD, showcasing the district's commitment to nurturing and empowering talented individuals. Recently, the group was notified that on January 6, 2024 they would be inducted into the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame for Conjunto Tradicional. Established in 2000, the organization's mission is to preserve and promote the legacy and culture of Tejano music. To date, the hall of fame has celebrated the contributions of over 500 individuals and groups who have made significant impacts on the Tejano music scene. "We are incredibly proud of The Delta Boyz and their remarkable achievement of being inducted into the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame. Their dedication to preserving our cultural heritage through music is truly inspiring. As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, we are honored to showcase their talent and celebrate their well-deserved recognition," said Dr. Jesse Fidelio Garza, Public Relations & Parental Outreach Administrator for Edcouch-Elsa ISD. The Alumni Spotlight Series aims to highlight the outstanding accomplishments of Edcouch-Elsa ISD alumni, showcasing their talents, achievements, and contributions to various fields. The Delta Boyz exemplify the spirit of excellence and creativity that our school district fosters, and their induction into the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame serves as a testament to their exceptional musical talent. |
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Andre Thierry Presents Creole/Zydeco Shows Celebrating Black History Monthby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: “California Creole” A walk through Richmond, CA with Andre Thierry, Grammy nominated Zydeco and Soul artist. Andre talks about his family migration from Louisiana to the Bay Area, and how Zydeco shaped his life in California.This short documentary was produced for the Roots of Fire project, an exploration of modern Cajun and Creole music and the artists shaping those genres. Accordionist Andre Thierry presented a special children's event celebrating Black History Month which explored the vibrant Creole culture and Zydeco music of Southwest Louisiana with Grammy-nominated Andre Thierry leading the "Are You Ready to Learn" youth music program on Saturday, February 3, 2024 This free and interactive experience introduced kids and families to a mix of African and Native American Blues and French Creole dance melodies with elements of Afro-Caribbean music. Everyone enjoyed the time to sing, dance, and discover popular Zydeco instruments like the vest rub boards, drums, and accordion. The city held the event at the Margaret Todd Senior Center as part of its Black History Month program. The music, which originated among Black players in southern Louisiana, involves instruments such as accordions, guitars and washboards. Photos: Grammy-nominated musician Andre Thierry of Richmond plays accordion. Although born and raised in Richmond, California, Andre's French-Kreole heritage is deeply rooted in Louisiana. He embarked on a path with specific knowledge and extraordinary talents at a very young age. True to his culture and love of music, he has crafted a career well beyond his years as an artist. Andre grew up experiencing the French Creole (La-La) dances his grandparents held at their church parish, St. Mark's Catholic Church. Excerpts fromm his bio. The best Zydeco musicians Louisiana had to offer traveled to California to play at these dances. The exposure allowed him to develop his love for traditional French Creole music. Andre regularly played with visiting bands, such as the late John Delafose and many local Zydeco and Cajun bands, including the late Danny Poullard (California Cajun Orchestra). By age twelve, Andre formed his own band, "Zydeco Magic." Andre is self-taught and constantly increases his repertoire. In his 30's, he had already been deemed a legend. There is widespread agreement that he is an exceptional, multi-dimensional musician with a finely honed ability to merge his accordions with musical mastery. The Washington Post called Andre "A master at pumping out fast, funky rhythms on an instrument not usually associated with earthy syncopation. A versatile student of the music, Thierry can't be lumped into Zydeco's old-school R&B-influenced camp or its nouveau, rap-inspired one: He and his band lay down both soulful, traditional slow-dances and bottom-end-booming kinetic groovers." Upcoming 2024 Shows: 07 Feb • 4pm “Are you ready to learn” Zydeco & Creole music history, Richmond, CA 10 Feb • 12pm “Are you ready to learn music program for children & families”, Richmond, CA 11 Feb • 2pm “Are you ready to learn?”San Mateo Main library, San Mateo, CA 12 Feb • 4:30pm “Are you ready to learn art & soul for children”, Oakland, CA 13 Feb • 7pm Mardi Gras Night, Murphy, CA 17 Feb • 8pm The Iron Gate, Belmont, CA 18 Feb • 3pm East Brother's Anniversary Party, Richmond, CA 21 Feb • 2:30pm “Are you ready to learn” Garfield Park Branch Library, Santa Cruz, CA 28 Feb • 11Am “Are you ready to learn” Sjpl - Tully Library, San Jose, CA 09 Mar • 8pm San Mateo Elks Crab Feed, San Mateo, CA For further information: andre@andrethierry.com |
Cory Pesaturo Plays National Anthem Live On USA National Channelsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| On January 23 2024 , Cory Pesaturo had the once in a lifetime opportunity to play the US National Anthem to open voting in the United States as he played just 1 minute before the First Voting in the Nation began at Midnight in Dixville Notch, NH, as it has since 1960. His performance of the National Anthem was broadcast live on at least three national channels. 71 Media outlets from around the World from CNN & Fox News to Japanese TV, Singapore TV And newspapers from Norway carried the event. Outlets such as the Boston Globe even ran the cover with the picture of Cory playing in front of the 6 voters who were about to begin the Democratic Process for Decision 2024. Cory used a 4/4 time to play the Anthem vs. the usual 3/4 time to give it a special flare. Cory immediately flew back to LA to have many performances at the NAMM show and then he attended the Grammys for the 7th time. This is great publicity for the accordion! For further information: Cory.pesaturo@gmail.com |
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Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Latest Article of AAA Commissioned Series, Paul Creston’s Embryo Suite, Plus an Appreciation of the Composerby Dr. Robert Young McMahan Chair, AAA Composers Commissioning Committee |
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 Interestingly, the two composers who accepted and fulfilled the largest number of AAA commissioned works to date--four each--are Paul Creston and his once private composition student, the eminent New York accordionist/composer William Schimmel. Regarding Creston, I have at this point in my efforts to discuss the history and analysis of his invaluable contributions to the modern contemporary repertoire for our instrument via the AAA examined his first three such commisions, the solo Prelude and Dance, in the 1998 issue of the AAA Festival Journal, but which has already been available for some time in its new, expanded html version in the AAA website; Concerto for accordion and orchestra or band, originally in the 1999 issue of the AAA Festival Journal, but coming very soon in its expanded html version on the AAA website; Fantasy, for accordion and orchestra, or accordion solo, in the 2012 AAA Festival Journal, similarly to be expanded soon; and, for this latest expanded article, the original shorter form of which appeared in the 2017 issue of the AAA Festival Journal, the three-movement solo Embryo Suite. http://www.ameraccord.com/aaacommissions20.php Embryo Suite was one of several solos to be written at the intermediate level of difficulty that Bennett assigned in the mid 1960s to previously AAA-commissioned composers of note in addition to Creston, namely David Diamond, William Grant Still, and Carlos Surinach, plus a first-time commissionee, José Serebrier, all discussed in the 2015 article (soon to be available in html form). The purpose of the project was to introduce twentieth century, idiomatically accordionistic concert music to younger, less technically advanced students. They also often served as test pieces in the intermediate divisions of the burgeoning AAA competitions of the 1960s and later. |
Eddie Monteiro and Warren Vache Perform at Shanghai Jazz in NJ on February 21by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Accordionist Eddie Monteiro will perform with trumpet player, Warren Vache on February 21, 2024 at 7:PM at Shanghai Restaurant and Jazz Club , 24 Main Street, Madison. NJ, 07940. They will be joined by joined by Earl Sauls on bass.About Warren Vache: ”In Vaché, jazz has found a creator whose prodigious, hard-earned skills enable him to craft swinging performances of beauty, emotion and surprise." Warren is a tremendous trumpet and cornet player and, with his acerbic wit between songs he keeps the entertainment rolling. Eddie Monteiro is an internationally recognized musician and educator with 30 years of musical performance in classical, jazz, dance, theater, cabaret and choral ensembles. He is well known for his harmonic skills and talent. He won several accordion championships as a youth and was also the youngest honoree elected to the American Accordionist’s Hall of Fame. He was a member of Bobb Rosengarden, Skitch Henderson, Peter Duchin, Ray Bloch, Michael Lanin and Marty Ames orchestras. Eddie performs in the New York Metropolitan area and worldwide. Monteiro shares that the instrument itself has often been misrepresented. “The accordion has been maligned far too often in the numerous jokes and cartoons,” he said. “The Lawrence Welk image with Myron Floren showed the accordion but in a somewhat 'corny' musical idiom. In addition, I think there are many accordionists who have continued to play at less than professional level. Others are just so outlandish in their presentations that people take note and think they're great. The accordion, far too often, isn't played for the public in a very positive way.” Eddie Monteiro was a featured member of the pit orchestra on stage in Broadway revival performance of "Carnival" and "Evita" and recording of radio and television jingles for Sesame Street, General Foods, Colgate Palmolive, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Bennigan’s Restaurants, Pontiac and more. Lead artist of innumerable society bands performing throughout the world at social events, political gatherings and corporation conventions. Eddie recently retired as the Music Teacher, Choral Director, Vocal and Instrumental Music Director for the Ann Street Elementary School. Eddie Monteiro has performed at Jazz Festivals throughout the world. National performances include the JVC Jazz Festival and the Toyota Jazz Festival in New York City, Salishan Jazz Festival and the Centrum Jazz Festival both in Washington. Internationally Eddie was a guest at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland, the Jakarta Jazz Festival in Indonesia, Sea Jazz Festival in Helsinki, the Norwegian National Accordion Competition, Sweden's Annual Accordion Festival in Ransatter and in January of 2000 Eddie closed the Jazz In El Tambo Festival in Punta del Esta, Uruguay performing with Paquito D'Rivera, Leny Andrade, John Patitucci and Benny Golson. He has conducted workshops and seminars at the Manhattan School of Music, Kansas City Jazz Workshop, Artists in Jazz at Pace University, Topeka Jazz Workshop and a Harmony & Improvisation Clinic in Norway. His numerous recordings include Double Standards, The Real Thing, A Perfect Match (with Nancy Marano featuring Gerry Mulligan, Roger Kellaway and Claudio Roditi), Under Paris Skies (with Karen Akers), A Walk on the Wilde Side (with Ronny Whyte), Jazz Influence and Arkadia Jazz All Stars: Thank You John! (a tribute to John Coltrane) and was featured on the album with the vocal group ‘String Of Pearls’. His work has also included numerous jingles for Colgate-Palmolive, Budweiser, General Motors, Folonari Wines, General Foods a soundtrack recording with Marvin Hamlisch and an appearance on film ‘Mortal Thoughts’ with Bruce Willis. A graduate of NYU with a B.S. in Music Education, Eddie studied accordion with Charles Nunzio, (one of the founding members of the American Accordionists’ Association), piano with Madame Olga Van Till and advanced harmony studies with Marty Holmes. Eddie is a Certified Teacher Member of AAA as well as a member of Music Educators' National Conference, National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Technology Institute for Music Educators, National Education Association, Jazz Educators Association the Sommelier Institute and is an Amateur Radio General Class Operator. National performances include the JVC Jazz Festival and the Toyota Jazz Festival in New York City, Salishan Jazz Festival and the Centrum Jazz Festival both in Washington. Internationally Eddie was a guest at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland, the Jakarta Jazz Festival in Indonesia, Sea Jazz Festival in Helsinki, the Norwegian National Accordion Competition, Sweden's Annual Accordion Festival in Ransatter and in January of 2000 Eddie closed the Jazz In El Tambo Festival in Punta del Esta, Uruguay performing with Paquito D'Rivera, Leny Andrade, John Patitucci and Benny Golson. The Shanghai Jazz is a jazz club/restaurant with an Oriental influence. The focus here is mainly on three things, namely, the food, music and lovely atmosphere. It serves excellent Asian varieties, the chefs also include seasonal menu with flavors and veggies as per the season; every dish is prepared with utmost care and served in huge portions. Shanghai Jazz also has a bar that features wines, beers and cool cocktails. As far as music is concerned, the restaurant hosts live music concerts without any extra cover charge. You can also hire this establishment for private events and celebrations; off-site catering services are also offered. I have been there many times. The entertainment, food, and service is always consistently superior. No music charge, $25 food and drink minimum, performance begins at 7 - 9:30 PM. Reservations are strongly recommended. Phone: (973) 822-2899 For further information about Eddie Monteiro: Chordean.changes@gmail.com |
“ A Winter Accordion Wonderland Concert”by Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association |
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  Video 2: Fainshtein Accordion Ensemble - KAWAI Hall - Plano, TexasVideo 1: Maria Telesheva, Elena Fainshtein, Sergei Teleshev perform “Finish Polka” Video 3: Maria and Sergei perform “Libertango” Innovative Accordion Music Productions, a TX-based non-profit, presented the Winter Accordion Wonderland Concert in Plano, TX at the beautiful Kawai Piano Gallery on Saturday, January 27, 2024. There were many accolades for the master accordion performers Sergei and Maria Teleshev, Elena Fainshtein, the Fainshtein Accordion Ensemble, and guest accordionist Martina Li. A full house of nearly 130 attended the concert from across Texas which included many young attendees. The program began with the Fainshtein Accordion Ensemble conducted by Elena Fainshtein with students from Elena’s accordion school, Musical Expressions in Plano, TX. Members of the ensemble include: Martina Li (guest accordionist), Elayne Doggett, Grant Shepard, Timur Didych, Sonya Bandouil, Charles Dwight, Emily Nguyen, Peter Gresser, Logan Sharpe, Elijah Clements, and Mick Fridman. Their performance pieces included: Accordionist Playing Jazz by Y. Derbenko, Musical Moment by F. Schubert, Radetsky March by J. Strauss and The Yankee Doodle Boy by G. Cohan. There were 10 young accordionists plus a bass guitar player. Elena has been a superb mentor for these young musicians and their flawless performance was rewarded with resounding applause from the audience. Congratulations to Elena Fainshtein and to all the members of the Fainshtein Accordion Ensemble for their outstanding, inspirational performance. The second portion the program was presented by Maria and Sergei Teleshev who took the stage to perform a variety of music which included: "Firedance" by Bill Whelan, "Berceuse" by Armas Jarnefelt, "Prelude in C Minor" by J.S. Bach, "Tango": "La Cumparsita" & "Por Una Cabeza", "Libertango", "Ukranian Song" "Nese Galya" "Vodu" and other pieces. Maria Telesheva played duets on the bayan with her father, Sergei, and also provided vocals & percussion for many pieces throughout the two hour performance. Her artistry is masterful, unique and modern. The father/daughter duo were dynamic in their musical style and presented a variety of musical genres that appealedl to a wide audience. Maria and Sergei showcased the versatility of the accordion by presenting music that touched the hearts of all who attended. Part III of the program was presented by accordion duo Elena Fainshtein and Martina Li playing: "Waltz #2" by Shostakovich and "Indiference" by J. Colombo & T. Murena. Both pieces were arranged by Elena’s husband, Gregory Fainshtein. This was followed by additional repertoire from Maria and Segei Teleshev including: "Gogol Suite" by Alfred Schnittke in 3 parts "Tchtichikov’s Childhood", "Overcoat", Bereaucrats", "Thunderstruck by AC/DC", "Karlekswaltz (Love Waltz)" by Ulrik Neumann, "Besame Mucho" by Consuelo Velazquez, "Movie Suite" by Sergei Teleshev in 3 parts: "Trip to Vegas", "Vegas Strip", "Ruby’s Song", "Black Orpheus" by Luiz Bonfa, and "Lullaby of Birdland" by George Shearing. The variety of music in the program was eclectic and modern, and featured the Teleshev’s mastery of improvisational jazz styles. Maria showcased her versatility as both an accordionist and vocalist, with an uplifting ending performance of Leonard Cohen’s "Hallelujah". Standing ovation from the audience followed the performance, which was followed by a final surprise, an accordion trio performance of "Finnish Polka" played by Sergei Teleshev, Maria Telesheva and Elena Fainshtein. Bravo to all! Many thanks to Maria and Sergei Teleshev, Elena Fainshtein, Martina Li and the members of the Fainshtein Accordion Ensemble for a delightful afternoon of wonderful accordion music. Stay tuned for more “accordion music entertains, educates and inspires every audience”. Innovative Accordion Music Productions (IAMP), is a Texas-based 501(c)3 non-profit. www.InnovativeAccordion.org Photo at top of page: Timur Didych, Grant Shepard, Elena Fainshtein, Emily Nguyen, Charlie Dwight, Sergei Teleshev, Maria Telesheva, Elayne Doggett, Logan Sharpe, Peter Gresser, Martina Li, Sonya Bandouil, Elijah Clements, Mick Fridman Below Photo up: Maria Teleshev, Elijah Clements, Elayne Dogged, Elena Fainshtein, Emily Nguyen, Sergei Teleshev Below Photo down: Grant Shepard, Timur Didych, Elayne Doggett, Elijah Clements, Martina Li, Charlie Dwight, Peter Gresser, Elena Fainshtein, Emily Nguyen, Logan Sharpe, Sonya Bandouil, Mick Fridman For further information: elena.fainshtein@gmail.com |
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Two New eBooks (pdf and epub) Release by Friedrich Lips - Austriaby Harley Jones |
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  Dr Herbert Scheibenreif, Manager of Friedrich Lips Productions has now released two pdf eBooks (or epub format), author Friedrich Lips, able to be emailed to the client.It Seems Like Yesterday Cat: 9951-3-7 for €22 emailed to the client. Als wäre es gestern gewesen (German edition) Cat: 9951-2-0 for €22 emailed to the client. The two printed books, author Friedrich Lips, were released 24 November 2023. It Seems Like Yesterday Cat: 9951-1-3 €35 or USD plus postage Als wäre es gestern gewesen Cat (German edition): 9951-0-6 €35 or USD plus postage Herbert Scheibenreif is the publisher and translator of the two new Friedrich Lips books 'It Seems Like Yesterday' English edition and 'Als wäre es gestern gewesen' German edition. These two books are the latest Friedrich Lips publications that include an incredible 50 CDs, 6 previous books in 3 languages and numerous educational papers. Author of 'It Seems Like Yesterday' Friedrich Lips tells about wonderful musicians - teachers, composers, conductors, performers, with whom fate brought him together. Possessing a bright literary gift, the author in detailed analytical articles, memoirs, small sketches creates living creative portraits of his contemporaries, who are now living, as well as those who have passed away in the last decade, talks about the events that made the artist's life so rich. The book will be of great help to everyone who studies and performs contemporary music for accordion. Of undoubted interest for class work will be the annotations to the numerous CDs of the author. |
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) Celebrates 21st Anniversary with Guest Artist “Papa Joe” De Clementeby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  WMAS 21st Anniversary Celebration with Guest Artist “Papa Joe” De Clemente takes place Sunday on February 25,2024 at 2:PM.Join them for a Concert + workshop + cake. $8 for nonmembers. Greeter: Robert Ford Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church 3435 Sleepy Hollow Road Falls Church, Virginia Joe is one of the most upbeat, positive, musical, and friendly people I have ever met. He exudes positivity and caring toward everyone who meets him.“Papa Joe” De Clemente volunteers once a week early in the morning to assist the music teacher, Linda Holcomb, at an elementary school music program at Public-school 203Q, in Bayside, Queens which may be one of the only elementary schools in the five boroughs of New York City that has a student accordion band. The school started their accordion band fifteen years ago. They meet once a week, at the beginning of the school day to practice various songs that they will perform throughout the year. Papa Joe volunteers his time to join the students for rehearsals and he inspires them to be better accordionists. Among the many things he does for them, he also fixes their accordions! Hopefully, these activities will resume very soon. Joe shares his love for the accordion, “To me, music has been a language that crosses all barriers, speaking to all people and bringing joy to those who listen. The box has been my pal for over 60 years and I am glad the Lord gave me this special gift” Joe has been married to his wife, Janet, for 50 years and is the father of 4 kids and has 11 grandchildren. Over the years, he has shared his love of the accordion with many people all over the world who developed a love and appreciation of the instrument because of his enthusiasm. “Papa Joe” De Clemente, who lives in Queens, New York, was brought up in an Italian family environment and started playing the accordion at the young age of nine years old in 1956. He was interested in playing because he used to visit his relatives, the IORIO’s, who manufactured accordions in NYC, as far back as 1907. Joe has performed in numerous venues and loves to entertain people. He is also a member of the Long Island Accordion Alliance. He performs all over the tri-state area. For information on Papa Joe: joedeclemente@yahoo.com Much has changed for the WMAS in 21 years, but so much has remained the same. WMAS was the brainchild of Karen Malan-Uribe, who learned to play the accordion as a child in Michigan—where her father ran a music school—and had recently taken her instrument out of the closet after many years. In early 2003, she mentioned the idea to two new friends, Mara Cherkasky and Anne Johnson, both of whom had been playing only a couple of years. They were in! Karen found free space in her church, Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church, in Falls Church, Virginia, and the three ran an announcement in the Falls Church paper and posted flyers in area music stores and on bulletin boards. To their shock, 25 people showed up at that first meeting a few weeks later! It was magical. The following excerpts from Karen’s summary of the second meeting, on March 11, 2003, are evidence that the club got off to a roaring start: The group voted to accept the slate of officers presented by the executive committee: Karen Denice Malan-Uribe as president; Mara Cherkasky as secretary-treasurer (she hopes to relinquish the treasurer post to someone else); Paul Przedpelski as membership chairman, and Anne Johnson and Janice Lavoie as events co-chairs. Then, several newcomers demonstrated their squeezeboxes. Dottie Beck talked about concertinas and played her own vintage model with its beautiful harmonic sound. Next, Sylvia Eberly sang and played her button accordion. Originally from Austria, Sylvia also plays piano accordion and teaches. Jim Briley and Michael Boicourt demonstrated their Louisiana-made Cajun button boxes (accompanied by a triangle) and explained how the instruments work. The final performance was by Mort Herald, who had recently moved to this area from Chicago, where he led a 20-piece accordion band. This was a wonderful demonstration of some classic pieces played on a professional piano accordion. Following the individual performances, we broke up into our groups of various levels and played the songs that we were comfortable with. Twenty one years on, Karen remains active but stepped down as president in 2010, Mara is still secretary-treasurer, and Anne and others have moved on. Janice Lavoie is back with the club after years away due to a demanding work schedule. Silvia has relocated to Charlottesville, Virginia, but returns occasionally. A lot has happened in between. Mara’s mother came up with the club’s name, and Mara worked with a friend to design the logo. A high school-age member designed the club’s first website. Mara, Karen, Joan Grauman, and Lee Paulson created a banner. Lee made name tags. Dale Wise promoted the club to his students and members or former members of his orchestra, and he conducted the first WMAS Holiday Concert in December 2003. It was a huge success, drawing an enthusiastic audience of about 130 people—who also enjoyed the overflowing post-concert potluck table and more music. Joan Grauman, a long-time accordionist who had joined the club a few months after it started, played in that first concert and took over as conductor and music director in 2004. (Dale remained as emcee for a few years before Ken Kunec took on the role.) The Potomac Ensemble, which Joan had formed with several other WMAS members earlier in 2004, debuted at the second Holiday Concert and went on to play gigs around the area and at festivals through 2018. [photos of 2006 Holiday Concert and Potomac Ensemble] Peter DiGiovanni, too, had learned of the club through Dale and joined in 2003, as he had just started playing the accordion himself. He became president in 2010 and began conducting the orchestra (and arranging most of the music) in 2019, after Joan moved out of the area. Many dedicated members have kept the club going for 20 years: making and keeping track of name tags, handling the hospitality aspects (and carrying huge bins of coffee-making and other supplies back and forth every month, not to mention storing the bins), decorating for special occasions, setting up and breaking down the room each month, and of course contributing music and good humor. Given the age of much of the WMAS membership, the club has also had to sadly say goodbye to many good friends. WMAS has hosted dozens of virtuoso musicians in a guest-artist series launched by Joan in 2004. Rita Davidson Barnea kicked off the series in November of that year. In March 2020, Stas Venglevski had already arrived in town to perform for the club when everything abruptly shut down due to Covid. When the series finally resumed last September, Stas became the first guest artist. Vladimir Mollov will be the next, on March 19, 2023. WMAS is lucky to still be meeting at the same church, and in the same room, after 21 years! Of course, the club had to give up in-person meetings during the shutdown, but it barely missed a beat, gathering instead via Zoom until the coast was clear again. In 2020, Peter created an amazing virtual Holiday Concert using video-editing software. WMAS was back in person in 2021 and played its 20th Holiday Concert in December 2022. Here’s a sample from that performance. https://youtu.be/7vLpOuo2r7w Their mission is to bring together accordionists and promote accordion music in the National Capital region. Everybody is welcome! If you don't play, come listen or dance! AWW congratulates WMAS and wishes them many more years of encouraging love for the accordion! For further information on WMAS: peter@musicisforever.com mcherkasky@verizon.net |
Central Florida Accordion Club Presents: Accordion Fest 2024by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Central Florida Accordion Club Presents their Accordion Fest 2024 which includes Jimmy Horzen and Friends: Marty Gross, Skrzynski, Papa Joe De Celemente, Ty Baden, Bratislava Manasijevic, John Lobosco and Shuhplattler Gruppe Alpensoe on Saturday February 17, 2024, from 11:AM to 6:PM. at the German American Society of Central Florida, 381 Orange Lane, Casselberry, Florida. Admission is $10 per person. Children under 10 are free. CFAC is a not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to promote the accordion, encourage accordion players, and maintain public interest in accordion music. We have members who play music in all genres, and with various levels of skill from beginner to highly accomplished. Membership is open to students, hobby players, professionals, instructors–also to enthusiasts even if they don’t play. Members from any county in the state of Florida are invited to join and participate. CFAC presents social programs at two locations every month – once in Casselberry and once in Cocoa– where members play individually as well as in jam sessions. Guests are invited to play, as time permits. These programs are free and are open to the public. CFAC has an outreach program, where members volunteer to play for events sponsored by various charitable organizations and not-for profit groups. CFAC also maintains a scholarship program available to students from the age of 7 through high school; a scholarship provides ten accordion lessons and an accordion to use during the lessons. Bring your musical instruments for a Jam Session. Food will be available for purchase. No outside food or beverages will be allowed. Please respond ASAP: 407-616-5344 For further information: corkykh@bellsouth.net |
Hector Del Curto and Family Perform in New York Cityby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Hector Del Curto, family and friends performed for Voice of América, one of the largest News Network in the US on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at the Red Pavillion in Brooklyn, NY. Musicians included: Santiago Del Curto, his son, on clarinet Jason Ok, his wife, on cello Gutovo Casenave on piano Hector Del Curto on bandoneon. 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 profiled by BBC News and Public Radio International. Mr. 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. |
Vancouver Squeezebox Circle Meeting and Vancouver Accordion Eventsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  The Vancouver Squeezebox Circle accordion song-sharing drop-in happens each month on the first Wednesday, February 7. 2024 From 7-9:PM at the Longhouse Church, 2595 Franklin (corner of Penticton), East Vancouver - with free parking. Bring your bearing accordion or other squeezable instrument, or some other instrument, or no instrument at all - all are welcome! New this month - a list of songs that might get played, chosen by folks who've taken part at recent Circles. You can find the list at the Squeezebox Circle website's Music page which also includes an events calendar.The Vancouver Squeezebox Circle was started by Bruce Triggs and Rowan Lipkovits, co-hosts of Vancouver Coop Radio (CFRO)'s Accordion Noir radio show (every Wednesday, 10 - 11 pm on CFRO 100.5 FM and are now hosted by Alan Zisman of Vancouver folk band The Gram Partisans. There are many fun accordion happenings in the Vancouver area in February! February 2024 Vancouver Accordion Events Include: * Feb 3 - Mar 3: Chelsea Hotel - the songs of Leonard Cohen - Firehall Theatre, 280 E Cordova * Feb 7 (now the 1st Wed of the month) 7-. 9 pm: Vancouver Squeezebox Circle, Longhouse Church, 2595 Franklin (corner of Penticton), East Vancouver - lots of free parking!, donations requested * Feb 9, 7 pm: Nuvo Zydeco Mardi Gras - Crescent Beach Legion, 2643 128th Street, Surrey, $25 * Feb 9, 8-11 pm: Nuvo Zydeco Mardi Gras pt 2 w. New Orleans Brass, The Beer Shack 15193 Russell Ave, White Rock * Feb 9, 8 pm - 12 am: Greenhorn benefit Mardi Gras Party w. Balkan Shmalkan and more. 2205 Commercial Drive, tix $10-20 * Feb 10, 8 pm: Collage Trad - local supergroup w Allan Dionne on accordion - St James Hall, 3214 W 10 - Live and live-streamed. * Feb 13, Mardi Gras party w. Nuvo Zydeco , Gary Comeau and more - Admiral Pub, 4125 Hastings, Burnaby * Feb 14, 8-11 pm: 3 sets for Valentine's Day w The Royal Cajun Band - Princeton Pub, 1901 Powell * Feb 16, 1.30-3.30 - Valentine's Party w. The Gram Partisans - Britannia Community Centre, Over 55 Centre * Feb 18, 8 pm - Le Vent Du Nord - St James Hall $30 |
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CNIMA Workshops in New Orleans - USAby Nathalie Boucheix |
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 The CNIMA (France) will run two workshops for piano accordion and chromatic button accordion at the Salon de la Bonne Fete, Maison St. Charles, in New Orleans, USA this year.Dates: May 20th to 25th, 2024 May 27th to June 1st, 2024 The workshops are for all levels, ages and styles from beginner to intermediate to advanced to professional. Discover the secrets of the accordion and how the proper use of air flow, combined with the appropriate touch of the keys or buttons, frees musicality and transforms one’s playing. Further information on the poster. With over 60 years of experience Jacques Mornet and Nathalie Boucheix have trained hundreds of professionals, world champions and passionate amateurs of all ages. For details email: cnimausa@gmail.com |
Alex Meixner on Tourby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: Alex Meixner "Crazy Train Medley" Alex Meixner is one of the most dynamic accordionists on the scene today. Meixner has performed around the world, notably at American festivals like The National Folk Festival and Central Park SummerStage, as well as at uncountable community celebrations and accordion-centric events. He has worked with Jack Black on the Sundance-screened, Netflix movie "The Polka King", with Post Modern Jukebox, and as an on-screen spokesperson for Hormel Pepperoni. Alex will perform for the Alabama Accordion Association in Mountain Brook, AL on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 1:PM and 7:PM. at Brookwood Baptist Church, 3449 Overton Road, Mountain Brook, Alabama. Admission is free. Alex shares, “I’m really excited to play a varied program of ethnic folk, jazz, and classical-influenced repertoire in addition to some polkas, waltzes, and romance too!” The Alabama Accordion Association meets quarterly at Brookwood Baptist Church, 3449 Overton Road, Mountain Brook, AL. The Club has been hosting free Accordion Concerts to showcase the power and versatility of the Accordion and to attract new students. Alex is a formally trained performer and educator with degrees from Ithaca College (Magna Cum Laude) and Pennsylvania State University. Alex is formally trained in classical, jazz, and ethnic music and is a nationally acclaimed musician, performer, and bandleader. Alex is a 3rd generation band leader whose roots hail from Austria. In 2016, Jack Black starred in the motion picture, “The Polka King” with Alex dubbing the soundtrack. At age 3, Alex began formal study on the piano, and within year he picked up the accordion resulting in his debut onstage at age 6. If playing the accordion were not enough, Alex also plays the drums, bass, keyboard, piano accordion, button accordion and trumpet. Alex began touring by age11 and by the time he was in high school,he was performing with the London Symphony Orchestra. Alex leads the Alex Meixner Band which performs approximately 180 times a year across the country for venues ranging from intimate events and clubs to massive festivals. The Alex Meixner Band is a regular headliner at Wurstfest (New Braunfels, TX), German Fest (Milwaukee, WI), Musikfest (Bethlehem, PA), Plattduetsche Park (Franklin Square, NY), Creative Alliance (Baltimore, MD). Future 2024 performances include: Feb.10… Alabama Accordion Association Brookwood Baptist Church, 3449 Overton Road, Mountain Brook, AL March 1… Halfway to Oktoberfest Season Party; Walworth County Food and Diaper Bank Fundraiser, Celebration on Wells, 422 Wells St., Lake Geneva, Wisconsin March 2…Rockfest; West Bend 2024[ Alex Meixner Band, 3:30 to 5:PM Tickets are limited. Regner Park, 800 N. Main Street, West Bend, WI; Rockin & Rollin’ Polka Palooze Evenin- Theater show with the Squeezettes The Bend Theater, 125 N. Main Street, West Bend, WI 53095 March 3…German American Heritage Center with Ed Wagner’s Brass Band German American Heritage Center, 25249 S Center Road, Frankfort, Illinois 60423 March 22, 23, 24…Tomball German Heritage Festival , 3 days! Old Town Tomball, near 201 S. Elm St., Main St. (FM 2920) and Market St., Tomball, Texas For further information on Alex’s Alabama concert: csfunder@gmail.com For further information on Alex Meixner: info@alexmeixner.com Photo up: Jennifer Kopp Photography |
3rd Annual Accordion Extravaganza Preview Showby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 On February 25, 2024, join Walter Martella, Karina Inkster, and Terry Martyniuk who will be performing a "preview" show, called “Accordion Extravaganza”. Here they will officially announce their plans for the qathet Accordion Fest which is on May 10 1and 11, 2024. Karina shares, “Side note: qathet is the Indigenous name of our geographic region and is always spelled with a lowercase “q”.Join them for an hour of classical, jazz, and tango music on accordion, piano, and percussion. Walter and Karina and Terry will perform a few new selections, as well as older favorites in new arrangements. When: Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 2:PM Where: James Hall at the Powell River Academy of Music Tickets: At the door by donation (suggested $20) All donations go directly to the qathet Accordion Fest! The event will be held The Powell River Academy of Music, a not-for-profit community music school offering excellence in arts education to students of all ages. The community is enriched by the Academy Concert Series and the Academy's international festivals. The event will be held at 7280 Kemano Street, Powell River, BC, Canada, British Columbia See future USA news publications for more information about the May 10 and 11 3rd Annual Accordion Fest. For further information: info@powellriveracademy.org |
The 2024 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, Curatorby Dr. William Schimmel |
 Our 30th Anniversary Year, More is Better This has been our Philosophy for 30 years - and we’re proud of it: Staggering Variety, Overflowing Ideas, Developed Ideas, Ideas in process, Success, Failure, Encouragement, Styles, Brands - and we’re still working to improve our art in every way. We cover everything including all of the ISMS around - yes, even (would you believe) outdated Minimalism (ironic statement of course). We’ve build a culture. We’ve built a community. Some call it a non culture - some call it a non community. Some call us Weird - Some say it’s all been said and done. We do still do weird - and we do new takes on old stuff ( most of them new to the Music Community - Non Accordionists at large - therefore new to them ), which still raises the question: “What is this thing called “New Music ?” There are a few points to ponder: The great director Peter Brook talked greatly about “The Empty Space”. Accordionists start with a “Full Space” and add more and more s - - t. Great artists start practicing slowly until they are ready to play at tempo. Great Accordionists start faster and eventually slow down due to tangled fingers. We think they all lead to the same place. We’re not a Fringe Group - We never were. We put on our lab coats and get to work and so can you - virtually. Topics will include: The Art ofAudience Participation/The Sing - a - Long; Embracing the Maximallst Dimension (The Art of Clutter); Faking/Improvising - are they the same?; Working In the Video Dimension; The Varieties of The Mexican Hat Dance and The Hokey Pokey; Classical or Classic; Cassettes are back - giving “Ye Olde Accordion Sound” a return; The Artificial Intelligence of the Accordion before Artificial Intelligence; the Pot of Gold at the end of The Rainbow; Practicing by Real Time Continuity; The Five Minute Ear Training Course; Klezmer from a Non - Jewish perspective and more to follow. and much more to follow - with participants, in future articles to follow, Our team will include Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Will Holshouser, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Corn Mo, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Bachtopus, Carl Riehl, Mary Spencer Knapp, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Melissa Elledge, Doug Makofka, Rita Davidson, Erica Marie Mancini, Benjamin Ickes, Dan Cooper, Dr. Thomas Maccussi, Gene Pritsker, Peter Flint, Mayumi Miyaoka, Robert Duncan, Jeanne Velonis, Bob Goldberg, David Stoler, David First, William Komaiko, Sari Karin, Jack Di Bennidetto, John Foti, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Brian Dewan, Lee Mc Clure, Peter Jarvis, Elliott Sharp, Hanzhi Wang, Milica Paranosic and others to follow. July 26, 27, 28, 2024 - virtually $165. Entire weekend Master classes from 3 to 4:PM Concerts from 4 to 5:PM A link will be sent to you prior to each event. For registration info: Accordionbill@gmail.com This event is sponsored by the Accordion Global Association Dr Schimmel’s Upcoming 2024 Performances include: Saturday Feb 3 - 5:30 pm - Mannes College of Music - New York “Opportunity” - for Narrator, Melodica and Piano - based on a poem by Edward Roland Sill - Dr. Schimmel, Melodica and Narration, Dr.Hugo Goldenzweig, Piano Feb 22, 23, 24 - The Pittsburgh Symphony - performances in “Fiddler on the Roof” (John Williams Arrangement }. February 23 - The Di Menna Center - New York World Premiere of “Black Swan for Accordion and Chamber Orchestra” Dr. Denise Koncelik, Accordion - The North South Consonance Orchestra - Max Lifchitz, conducting March 10 - Scandinavia House - New York - Music from Japan: “Figless III” by Kaji Fukumaru - and “Dashing out Kid” by Chiharu Wakabayashi |
Sam Reider in Upcoming Performancesby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: Sam Reider composed - “Quintet for Accordion and Strings, Movement 1”Premiered by Sam Reider and Del Sol Quartet at Center for New Music, SF on May 15, 2022. Video and audio recorded by Jacob Blumberg Sam Reider is a very versatile musician, excellent on both accordion and piano. In this article, you will read about his upcoming performances all over the USA. About the NPR program: It’s a very special thing when two musical cultures come together to create something that didn’t exist before. That is what happened in this performance from Venezuelan cuatro master Jorge Glem and extraordinary accordionist Sam Reider, as they set up behind the Desk for a set of highly creative, original music from their project Brooklyn Cumaná. Sam Reider is an accordionist, pianist, composer and singer from Brooklyn. A jazz pianist turned folk musician, Sam has spent the last eight years redefining American roots music on the accordion. His original music draws inspiration from sources ranging from Woody Guthrie to George Gershwin to Ennio Morricone. Sam has been featured on Marian McPartland’s “Piano Jazz” on NPR, the Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, toured in seven countries overseas, and appears regularly at Jazz at Lincoln Center and major festivals nationwide. Glem’s dexterity on the small, traditional guitar-like instrument is evident from the very first notes of “Skeleton Rag,” as he plucks out a percussive, staccato pattern that is more Brazilian than the sweeping strums of Venezuelan folk music, as Reider leans into a melody that could easily be folkloric if it wasn’t something he dreamed up. Even as they end the tune at a breakneck speed, it’s only the beginning of the fireworks. “Sábana Blanca y Fuga con Estribillo” which follows, is based on a traditional Venezuelan folk tune and eventually erupts into a rustic exhibition of Glem’s vocals. After a brief explanation in Spanish about the traditional song forms they work from, the duo eases into “Malagueña Cumanesa,” a lament based on a memory from Glem’s childhood.“Coroticos” is a fiery exercise in an odd time meter that is actually part of Venezuelan tradition and it’s a showcase for how these two virtuoso musicians test the limits of their instruments while they expand our expectations of the accordion and cuatro. The magic of this music is watching both artists completely enjoy each other’s playing, with knowing glances and spontaneous vocal encouragement. See their NPR Tiny Desk concert on YouTube. Spaghetti is a new electric band featuring guitarist Jim Campilongo, drummer Scott Amendola, accordionist Sam Reider and bassist Mat Muntz. 2.8 - Albany, CA.- The Ivy Room (w/ Spaghetti ft. Jim Campilongo, Scott Amendola & Mat Muntz). 2.9 - San Francisco, CA- Lakehouse Jazz (w/ SpaghettiI ft. Jim Campilongo, Scott Amendola & Mat Muntz) 2.10 - San Francisco, CA- Mellow Sessions (w/ Spaghetti ft. Jim Campilongo, Scott Amendola & Mat Muntz) Folk Alliance International Conference: Sam will be showcasing at the annual Folk Alliance International Conference, February 23-24th, in Kansas City with Jorge Glem. Friday Feb. 23: 6 PM - Official Showcase, Washington Place 3 12 AM - Porch and Park Music Fest, Room 728 1 AM - Heartland Song Network, Room 742 Saturday Feb. 24: 11:30 PM - Parlor Room, Room 753 12 AM - Blissfest, Room TBD 12:30 AM - FLi Artists, Room 718 1:30 AM - Hen House Prowlers, Room 617 The Human Hands in Aiken and Nashville: Sam will travel with the Human Hands in March. They are returning to Joye in Aiken, one of their favorite festivals. They are also making their first ever appearance in Nashville, for an intimate showcase. March 7 - Aiken, SC - Joye in Aiken (w/ The Human Hands) March 9 - Nashville, - The Fiddle Shop (w/ The Human Hands) Many exciting things are coming up including a big announcement regarding the release of the Human Hand’s new record. Stay tuned! For further information: sam@samreidermusic.com |