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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
"Happy Birthday America" by Joseph Natoli
NEW "AWW App" for Android of the Accordions Weekly News in English
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
AAA Festival in Princeton, NJ From July 12-16
Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) Festival July 19-23
Victoria International Accordion Festival in British Colombia
Canadian Accordionist Michael Bridge
Mark Weston joins Chicago Symphony Orchestra for Italian Gala
Bryant Park's "Accordions Around the World" in NYC
Alicia Baker to Perform for the San Francisco Accordion Club
Emmanuel Trifilio in Concert
Nick Ariondo in Concert
The Vancouver Island Musicfest July 14-16
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Series
Dan Newton in Summer Performances
Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in July Includes Accordion Workshop
Gypsy Kumbia Orchestra in Vancouver
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Cody McSherry Successful At Leavenworth
Jane Christison Entertains At Villagefest 2017
National Accordion Awareness Month Celebrated in June - USA
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration 2017 Report
Gary Dahl Promotion, Any 3 or more eBooks @ 50% off - USA
Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini in "Accordions Around the World"
New England Digital Accordion Orchestra Summer Concerts
Beverly Roberts Curnow Performs for Long Island Accordion Alliance
Accordion Babes Pin Up Calendar, California - USA
Future events |
September 26 Tribute Concert to Tony Rozance
Las Vegas International Accordion Convention Oct. 23-26
CD Reviews |
New and Updated Sites |
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 July is a busy accordion month. If you have not planned your summer vacation, the July USA news encourages you to attend an accordion event. This month features interesting accordion personalities, videos, music festivals, articles on young performers and competition winners and more.Please continue to send your ideas/comments to me at Ritabelll@aol.com Greatly appreciated! Happy July 4th! |
"Happy Birthday America" by Joseph Natoliby Joseph Natoli, ATG President |
| Published on Jul 4, 2017 Video: Happy Birthday America, with love, devotion, admiration, and much respect from one of your biggest fans. "Star Spangled Banner" Arranged & performed by Joseph Natoli on the Roland FR8X virtual accordion! |
NEW "AWW App" for Android of the Accordions Weekly News in Englishby Accordions Worldwide |
| New Android App for the Accordion Weekly News in English. This is designed for Android phones, download free at the Google Play Store. Search for "AWW Accordions" to find. Put it on your phone now. Direct link to get English Weekly News app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.accordions.aww&hl=en App for iPhone users to follow soon. |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USAby Heather Masefield, Secretary, New Zealand Accordion Association |
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  I am writing this on the plane flying internationally to Las Vegas for the Octoberfest Las Vegas International from 15th to 18th October at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Paul Betken & Jerry Cigler are newly added to a great line up of stars (list below) with lots of great seats still available! Want to hop a plane to come and enjoy this exciting festival? Newsletter (picture right) with full information: 2018LVACnews.pdf Picture left: Event organizer Paul Pasquali The lineup starts with visionary accordionist Cory Pesaturo and bookends with a grand finale starring Grayson Masefield and the International Accordion Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Prof. Joan Sommers. You can register online at www.AccordionStars.com or contact Paul Pasquali, event organizer, by phone at 1-800-472-1695 or (801) 485-5840, email: paul@accordioninfo.com. |
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AAA Festival in Princeton, NJ From July 12-16by Rita Barnea |
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 Make plans to attend and participate in the AAA Competition and Festival to be held in Princeton, New Jersey from July 12-16, 2017 at the Westin Hotel at Forrestal Village, 201 Village Boulevard in Princeton, NJ.Reservation Code: call 1-609-452-7900 and mention the American Accordionists’ Association Visit the AAA website for full details: www.ameraccord.com The AAA Accordion Festival features an exciting line up of presenters and performers. The luncheon concert includes: Rachel Quirbach, Will Comer, Mitch Guido, Cody McSherry, Antony and Joseph Klettner. The Accordion Pops Orchestra will be conducted by Al Terzo. Dr. William Morse will conduct the 2017 AAAFestival Orchestra. Junior Festival Orchestra will be conducted by AAA President Mary Tokarski. Mitch Guido will conduct the Youth Track and Youth Involvement Program Jazz Ensemble. The following workshops will be presented during the AAA Festival: 1. Youth Track Workshop: "Chords and Grooves for the Accordion: How to Play with Bass and Drums" – Presenter, Dallas Vietty 2. " The Accordion in Opera, 1898 to the Present" –Presenter, Dr. Robert Young McMahon 3. "Telling Stories without Words: Improving Your Musical Expression and Phrasing" – Presenter, Rachel Quirbach 4. "The Accordion as Citizen of the World: Writing Music for our Eclectic Instrument" – Presenter, Will Holshouser 5. "Getting Around Stradella" – Presenter, Dr. William Morse 6. “What Events Led to the Formation of the American Accordionists’ Association?" – Presenter Joan Grauman, AAA Historian ‘ 7. "From Eisenhower to Flower Power –How to Perform "The Music You Grew Up With"!!! – Presenter, Bruce Gassman Exhibits Information download: 2017Exhibits.pdf Updated Schedule download: 2017Schedule.pdf After Hours Club Each Evening: Bring your instrument and be a part of the entertainment! Everyone is welcome. Wednesday with Guest Host Will Holshouser, Thursday with Guest Host Jamie Maschler, and Saturday with Guest Host, Bruce Gassman. After Hours Club will start at 9:PM or immediately following all other activities. Gala Concert (Ticket required) – Guest Artists: Jamie Maschler, Will Holshouser, Eddie Monteiro, Bruce Gassman, Dallas Vietty and Ron Oswanski, Dr. Robert Young McMahan with Cecylia Barczyk and Emmanuel Borowsky. In addition to excellent performers and workshops there will be many opportunities to play in orchestras or solo. The hotel is in walking distance of shops and restaurants and close to tourist attractions. Download Registration, posters, guest artists & workshop leaders, schedule, competition rules & information at: 2017AAAinfo.pdf |
Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) Festival July 19-23by Rita Barnea |
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 The 77th Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival will be held July 19-23, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in Lisle, Illinois. ATG is advertising an exciting line-up of solo and ensemble concerts, workshops and fun activities and ATG President Amy Jo Sawyer (picture right) invites all to attend. Exciting guest artists include Quartette Gelato, the “Alex Meixner Band” from Florida, Jazz accordionist Paul Betken with Phil Gratteau (drums) and Jim Cox (bass). Workshops, Concerts, New Music for accordion Concert, Luncheons, Banquet, accordion vendors, ATG Festival Accordion Orchestra conducted by Joan Sommers, Meet & Greet Party, CDs & Music for sale and new friendships! Amy Jo Sawyer says: "We all love to play the accordion! so please attend the 2017 ATG festival where you are guaranteed a 'Squeezin’ Good Time." For full details about all the workshops and seminars and the Festival Orchestra, please visit the website: Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) |
Victoria International Accordion Festival in British Colombiaby Rob Howard |
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| The 11th Victoria International Accordion Festival takes place from July 13th to 17th at venues in Victoria, BC. This year’s festival celebrates Canada’s 150th birthday, and Victoria will be filled with accordion music throughout the four days. The festival includes concerts, accordion competitions, workshops, free accordion sessions, an accordion museum, accordion history lectures, a dinner dance, trade show, and free open air performances. Workshop leaders include Michael Bridge, Kornel Wolak, Mary Ross Klektau, Jelena Milojevic, Jesse Mea, and Patricia Bartell. The Gala Opening night concert on July 13th features Canadian digital accordion champion Michael Bridge, jazz duo Jesse Mea and Roland Bougeoos, the Daniel Lapp trio with accordionist Adrian Dolan, and Pierre Shryer trio JUNO winner teamed up with leading Irish accordionist Dermot Bryne. The dinner and dance night on July 14th features Michael Bridge, the Roma Swing Ensemble (Romania), and the accordion groups Bijou de Bayou and the Ensemble Transatlantico de Folk Chilean. The July 15th concert presents Jelena Milojevic (Croatia), the festival competition winners, and the Double-Double duo, whose mixture of comedy, virtuosity, and musical sensitivity with their all original arrangements of classical showpieces, sensitive jazz ballads and fiery folk music from around the globe provides great entertainment. On July 16th the concert features the Victoria Accordion Club Band, the Victoria Youth Accordion Ensemble, and the locally based Bijoux de Bayou. This year’s Victoria International Accordion Competition will have a solo and one ensemble category, with prizes of over $5000 offered. For further information email: contact@bcaccordion.ca |
Canadian Accordionist Michael Bridgeby Rita Barnea |
  Canadian accordionist Michael Bridge said: "Super excited to be graduating from my Master's in Accordion Performance and looking forward to recording a couple albums this summer! I'm very honoured that the University of Toronto has made a little video about what I'm doing... please enjoy!"The University of Toronto proudly announces that Michael Bridge is a Class of 2017 graduate of U of T's Masters of Music Performance program. He's also an accordion virtuoso. As part of their ongoing spotlight on exceptional grads who are convocating this June, they spoke with Michael about how his experience at U of T has "changed his understanding of what the accordion can do.” In the fall, 25-year-old Michael Bridge will start a doctoral program in accordion, becoming the third person at U of T to take it that far. The photo is of Michael and his father at his June 2017 Master's degree convocation. Excerpts from his website: Concert-accordionist Michael Bridge is a captivating young musician, redefining the sound and image of his traditional instrument. Named one of CBC’s “30 Hot Classical Musicians Under 30”, he is internationally renowned for his dynamic stage- presence and unique musical versatility. His repertoire – classical masterworks, baroque, jazz, world music, folk dances, contemporary classical, and digital accordion compositions – smashes all stereotypes concerning the limitations of his instrument. He made his solo orchestral debut with the Boston Pops at 17, and has performed on four continents, now playing over 100 concerts per year. Michael is a founding member of Double-Double Duo, having toured Ecuador, Poland, France and across Canada with his collaborator Dr. Kornel Wolak (clarinet). Their debut album launched in 2015, entitled ‘Rock Bach’. He performs in Ladom Ensemble, an acoustic Iranian-Serbian-classical-tango quartet. An ardent supporter of new music, Michael has over thirty world premieres to his credit, including works by Anna Pigdorna, Airat Ichmouratov and Pouya Hamidi. As a composer, he wrote and recorded two folk albums and is the primary arranger for several of his chamber ensembles. He has gratefully received support for his academic work and touring from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council, The Sylva Gelber Music Foundation, the Government of Alberta and the University of Toronto. Future performances include: July 13-16, 2017 - Victoria International Accordion Festival Presented by the B.C. Accordion Society,Performer and Adjudicator July 29, 2017 - Samford University, Birmingham, AL, Solo Recital, Boling Recital Hall August 7, 2017 - Music Mondays, Toronto, Public concert recording by CBC Radio Church of the Holy Trinity, 12 noon August 9, 2017 - Parsborro, N.S., Double-Double Duo Maritime Tour, “The Hall”, 7:PM August 10, 2017 - Barachois Summer Music Festival, Double-Double Duo Maritime Tour September 3, 2017 - Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, “Symphony under the Skies” Bob Bernhardt, conductor, 2:PM outdoor performance at the Heritage Amphitheatre AWW wishes Michael continuing success in his amazing musical career! |
Mark Weston joins Chicago Symphony Orchestra for Italian Galaby Kevin Friedrich |
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 On 23-25 June 2017, Chicago based musician Mark Weston joined the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) under the direction of Riccardo Muti on their concert grand finale spectacular, the Prologue to Mefistofele by Arrigo Boito.Riccardo Muti led a collection of Italian Opera’s greatest masterpieces in the festive finale to the CSO's 2016-17 season. Featuring some of the most well-known works by Giuseppe Verdi including “Va, Pensiero” from Nabucco and the famous Anvil Chorus from Il Trovatore, the concert finished each night with the magnificent Prologue from Boito’s Mefistofele, which tells the story of Faust’s deal with the devil. A long time champion of Italian Opera, in Milan, Muti was Teatro alla Scala's Music Director from 1986 to 2005. The Prologue to Mefistofele is in four connected sections. In the opening scene, brilliant, echoing trumpet calls (sounding from afar) accompany a chorus of angels singing in praise of God; their broad and noble theme, later repeated to great effect, anchors the entire prologue. In the second part a roguish, swaggering scherzo, Mefistofele appears and addresses God directly, wagering that he can win the soul of Faust. Next, speaking through a chorus mysticus, God accepts. Mefistofele vanishes as a chorus of cherubs begins a song of celestial joys. Finally, a grand complex of massed choruses, penitent women, cherubs, the heavenly host resumes the song of praise, rising in waves to a dazzling climax. Mark Weston, accordionist for the performance, holds degrees from the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) and a M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He also completed the coursework for the degree of Ph.D. in the Musicology Department at the University of Chicago with a specialization in Renaissance and 20th Century music. Mark has performed extensively with Guitar and various Keyboard instruments in the theatres of Chicago (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre, Candlelight Dinner Theatre and others) and in its studios and theatrical nightclub stages. He has been featured with performers such as Ross Lehman, Hollis Resnik, Bernadette Peters, Jan Pearce, Dionne Warwick, Carol Channing, Shirley Jones, Angela Lansbury, Patti Page, Nancy Wilson, and others. During his time at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), under the direction of Joan Cochran Sommers, Mark has performed in concert with the renowned UMKC Accordion Orchestra (accordion) and also the UMKC Accordionaires (Guitar) during their 10 week USO tours to the Far East and Europe. Mark describes his experience with the CSO and Muti as a 'dream'. He says the CSO musicians and Maestro Muti were extremely supportive. His accordion part on Boito’s Prologue was played alongside approximately 200 singers (including a Children’s Choir) in addition to the 100 regular musicians of the orchestra. Mark described the concert series as one of the richest musical experiences of his life, with each of their four performances receiving elongated standing ovations. |
Bryant Park's "Accordions Around the World" in NYCby James Molenda, GreenHouse Publicity |
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| Don’t miss Bryant Park Presents' upcoming "Accordions Around the World" series, a four-week series that brings over 100 accordionists, as well as bandoneón, bayan, concertina, and harmonium-players of different musical genres, which begins tonight and lasts until July 21, 2017. Accordion Picnics, each Wednesday between June 28 and July 19, spotlights 24 musicians at each performance and offers audiences the chance to experience the range of this often-overlooked instrument; and, the series culminates on Friday, July 21, with the Accordion Festival, hosted by long-time New York City-based accordionist Rachelle Garniez, and features Bil Afrah Project, Sunnyside Social Club, Felipe Hostins' Osnelda, Zlatni Balkan Zvuk, and a special Colombian Independence Day celebration with Gregorio Uribe. Performers for the Accordion Picnics include father/daughter duo Lena and Charlie Giordano (who occasionally plays with Bruce Springsteen) and Rob Curto from Brazilian bluegrass band Matuto on June 28; the acclaimed Mario Tacca and Lila Downs accordionist George Saenz on July 5; Norwegian group Smörgåsbandet (the first Norwegian performers in the series' history) and former accordionist for Gogol Bordello Yuri Lemeshev on July 12; and, premiere bandoneónista Maestro Tito Castro, Gregory Grene (from the Irish band The Prodigals) and longtime accordionist for Regina Carter, Will Holshouser, on July 19, 2017. The Accordion Festival, hosted by long-time New York City-based accordionist Rachelle Garniez, whose original lyrical and melodic story-songs have been described as "romantic, rhapsodic and casually hilarious" (The New York Times). This special event features Bil Afrah Project, which celebrates the legendary Lebanese album, Bil Afrah, by Ziad Rahbani; Zlatni Balkan Zvuk, the debut project from top accordionist Peter Stan that brings Balkan wedding music to the streets of New York City; Osnelda, a group that mixes elements of frontman Felipe Hostins' Southern Brazilian upbringing with forró, the music from Northeastern Brazil; Gregorio Uribe, Colombian accordionist and big band leader; and, Sunnyside Social Club, soulful cabaret/punk blues outfit. The full schedule, at a glance: June 28, 6:PM Accordion Picnic The opening performance of Bryant Park Presents Accordions Around the World series, this accordion-filled evening will include more than twenty accordion-themed performances from artists including father/daughter duo Lena and Charlie Giordano (who occasionally play with Bruce Springsteen) and Rob Curto from Brazilian bluegrass band Matuto. July 5, 6:PM Accordion Picnic The second performance of Bryant Park Presents Accordions Around the World series, this accordion-filled evening will include more than twenty accordion-themed performances from artists including the acclaimed Mario Tacca and Lila Downs accordionist George Saenz. July 12, 6:PM Accordion Picnic The third performance of Bryant Park Presents Accordions Around the World series, this accordion-filled evening will include more than twenty accordion-themed performances from artists including Norwegian group Smörgåsbandet (the first Norwegian performers in the series' history) and former accordionist for Gogol Bordello, Yuri Lemeshev. July 19, 6:PM Accordion Picnic The fourth performance of Bryant Park Presents Accordions Around the World series, this accordion-filled evening will include more than twenty accordion-themed performances from artists including premiere bandoneónista Maestro Tito Castro, Gregory Grene (from the Irish band The Prodigals) and longtime accordionist for Regina Carter, Will Holshouser. July 21, 5:PM- 10:PM Accordion Festival The fifth and final performance from Bryant Park Presents Accordions Around the World series, this accordion extravaganza, hosted by Rachelle Garniez, will feature Bil Afrah Project, Sunnyside Social Club, Felipe Hostins' Osnelda, Zlatni Balkan Zvuk, and a special Colombian Independence Day celebration with Gregorio Uribe. |
Alicia Baker to Perform for the San Francisco Accordion Clubby Rita Barnea |
 The next meeting of the San Francisco Accordion Club is on July 16, 2017 at 2:PM featuring Alicia Baker.Excerpts from the SFAC website: Alicia Baker is a 20 something, self-professed music fanatic from Milwaukie, Oregon. She has been playing the accordion since the age of 6, as well as studying piano and voice. She graduated from Oregon State University in 2014, and holds a triple degree in Music Education, Piano Performance, and Vocal Performance. Alicia has won several International competitions, including the prestigious Happy Hans award at the Kimberley International Old-Time Accordion Championships in 2007, 2010, 2011, and 2012. In addition, she represented the United States at the 2009 Roland International V-Accordion Competition in Rome. This turned out to a relationship that continues to provide opportunities to share her love for the instrument as a Roland product specialist. In 2011, she performed Nikolai Chaikin's Accordion Concerto in B-flat Major with the Corvalis Symphony. Alicia strives to play all genres of music well, and her favorite styles include french musettes, jazz, polkas, opera, pop, and techno. Please note that the SFAC now meets at the Chetcuti Community Room Civic Center Plaza 450 Poplar Aveune Millbrae, CA 94030 The programs are always open to the public. For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com |
Emmanuel Trifilio in Concertby Kevin Friedrich |
 The Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) will feature bandoneon artist Emmanuel Trifilio in concert with his trio at their upcoming meeting on Sunday, July 23, at 4.00 PM A new and international project, Trifilio Tango Trio presents virtuosic performances of original tango music. Led by Argentinian Emmanuel Trifilio (composition, bandoneon) and Devree Lewis (arrangements, cello), TTT celebrates the tango classics while creating new repertoire for today's audiences. The refined group has performed in different environments around the world; from their weekly appearances in D.C.'s small venues to their formal concerts in Buenos Aires, they present an intimate experience from any stage. Emmanuel Trifilio, bandoneon, was born in La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he privately studied bandoneon, eventually joining the Los Immigrantes Tango Orchestra. After winning the annual tango orchestra contest in Buenos Aires, he was invited to tour Chile with Maestro Tato Finocci. He performed for several years at the legendary Café Tortoni in Buenos Aires. In 2009 he came to the United States to perform in the Helen Hayes award-winning show, “Mummy in the Closet” at GALA Hispanic Theatre. After several extended residencies in Europe where he played in many countries such as Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, etc., he returned to the U.S., where he has performed as soloist with the Octavio Brunetti Orchestra, QuinTango, the National Philharmonic Orchestra, Pan American Symphony Orchestra, and Choral Arts Society of Washington. In 2014 he also performed as soloist at Kennedy Center Concert Hall and at Lincoln Center with the Octavio Brunetti Tango Orchestra. In 2015 Emmanuel Trifilio performed as soloist at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium in NYC. He can be heard with French cellist Gautier Capuçon on the soundtrack of the recently released film Le Petit Nuage. Sr. Trifilio recently collaborated as arranger on a recording project with QuinTango, released in 2014. In addition to solo performing and arranging, Sr. Trifilio composes and presents original tangos with various ensembles across the DC and NYC metro areas. The world premiere of his Tango Suite No. 1: Five movements for Bandoneon, Cello, and Guitar, will be featured at the Embassy of Argentina as part of Pan American Symphony Orchestra’s annual Tango Festival in 2015. Also in 2015, Emmanuel Trifilio will perform world premieres of several of his works with New York Tango Sextet in their debut concert performance. WMAS aims to bring together accordionists and promote accordion music in the National Capital region. Everybody welcome! The concert will be held at the Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church, 3435 Sleepy Hollow Road, Falls Church, Virginia 22044. The concert is free and open to the general public. For more information, please visit: www.washingtonaccordions.org and for more information on the Trio, please visit http://trifiliotangotrio.com/ |
Nick Ariondo in Concertby Rita Barnea |
 Renowned accordionist, Nick Ariondo, will perform on July 14, 2017 from noon to 4:PM to commemorate Bastille Day at Nicole’s Gourmet Foods Market and Café, 921 Meridian Avenue – Unit B, South Pasadena, CA 91030.Nick Ariondo composed his "Musette a la Russe” (arranged also for violin and accordion) in 1990 in homage to the great French Musette accordionists of the early 1920s and 30s -- a new form of dance music that attracted the working class in nightclubs throughout France. The accordionists who performed this music were highly skilled craftsman with specialized technique and fast finger action -- joyful and energetic moods with fleeting/lilting melodies and rhythms that included various dance styles [Valse, Valse Musette, Paso-Doble, Java, Polka Musette, and more]. Musette accordion usually refers to a specific type of tuning where two unison reeds are tuned slightly apart from one another to create a vibration or chorus-like effect. This vibrant music has a sound and character that typically defines the music of Paris a la Francaise. Ariondo's "Musette a la Russe" is musette in the Russian/French style. http://www.NickAriondo.com Excerpts from his website: Nick Ariondo, a recipient of many awards, is recognized as a concert artist and composer of international prominence. His performances and compositions contribute immeasurably to raising the status of the accordion through the promotion and presentation of chamber concerts, solo recitals, and orchestra appearances. ally proficient in musical styles ranging from the great classics to modern contemporary, ethnic and jazz, Mr. Ariondo has won accolades from noted composers, conductors, and musicians alike. Ariondo, a member of several composers' organizations and director of The Nick Ariondo Chamber Ensemble, has received grants from various funding sources including: Patroness Mrs. Betty Freeman The National Endowment for the Arts The California Arts Council The White Light Foundation ASCAP The Beyond Baroque Foundation Numbered among Ariondo's professional appearances, are many performances for radio and television. His versatility also includes technical expertise on piano and electronic keyboards. Mr. Ariondo received his Master of Arts degree in performance and composition from CSULA. A pioneer in his field, Nick Ariondo continues to inspire audiences while exploring new avenues and innovative techniques through his music. For contact/reservations: 626-403-5751 For further information on Nick Ariondo: accomusic@nickariondo.com |
The Vancouver Island Musicfest July 14-16by Rita Barnea |
 The Vancouver Island Musicfest will be held from July 14-16, 2017 at the Comox Valley Fairgrounds.The VI MusicFest has been bringing great music to the Island since 1995. Produced by the Comox Valley Folk Society, the organization is a not-for-profit, largely volunteer driven event. DakhaBrakha will perform on Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 7:PM on the Concert Bowl Stage. Excerpts from the Vancouver Island Music Fest Website: "DakhaBrakha was created in 2004 at the Kyiv Center of Contemporary Art “DAKH” by the avant-garde theatre director – Vladyslav Troitskyi – and given the name that means “give/take” in the old Ukrainian language. Theatre work has left its mark on the band performances – their shows are always staged with a strong visual element. After experimenting with Ukrainian folk music, the band has added rhythms of the surrounding world into their music, thus creating the bright, unique and unforgettable sound of DakhaBrakha. They strive to help open up the potential of Ukrainian melodies and to bring it to the hearts and consciousness of the younger generation in Ukraine and the rest of the world as well. Accompanied by Indian, Arabic, African, Russian and Australian traditional instrumentation, the quartet’s astonishingly powerful and uncompromising vocal range creates a trans-national sound rooted in Ukrainian culture. At the crossroads of Ukrainian folklore and theatre, their musical spectrum is at first intimate then riotous, plumbing the depths of contemporary roots and rhythms, inspiring “cultural and artistic liberation”. |
American Accordionists’ Association Master Class and Concert Seriesby Rita Barnea |
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 The AAA Master Class and Concert Series will be held on July 28, 29, 30, 2017 at The Tenri Cultural Institute, 43A West 13thSt between 5 and 6 Ave.Master Classes from 3:PM to 5:PM. Concerts at 7:PM to 9:PM.$25/ Master Class $30/Concert $50/day - Includes Master Class and Concert $135 for the entire weekend Dr. William Schimmel - Moderator and Curator The Red Lantern Accordionist….. Our 23rd Smash Year Accordion Culture is based on Contests. Championship Contests - much like sports. Who comes in First of course is the Champion - whether its the World Champion, The U.S. Champion or the Whatever Champion. Sometimes the term, Champeen, is used. There are those who come in Second and Third - they get trophies - but they are not Champions - or Champeens. What about the person who comes in last place? Ever watch a marathon? - and the final runner still running while practically every one has gone home or partying? He or She just wants to make it to the end - to run the course - personal best and proud to be a part of it - as St. Paul says - “I fought the good fight. I have kept the Faith”. That’s the Red Lantern Winner - Last place - a last place winnerWe have Red Lantern Accordionists - The backbone of the industry - in it for the long haul - signed up for the whole ride - putting other’s interests first - working for the betterment of the culture We dedicate this weekend to The Red Lantern Accordionist - May his or her light shine bright! Are you crying yet? Ok - We got the maudlin stuff out of the way - now let’s get down to the real deal of it. The Red Lantern Accordionist doesn’t think too much about making a difference. He or She already has - by constantly showing up and working. The Red Lantern Accordionist doesn’t think too much about His or Her relevance. Too busy helping others - including those who think they are. The Red Lantern Accordionist is not concerned about making history every time He or She takes a breath or makes an excrement - much too busy in the mere doing of their art, and trying to improve it - and yours as well. The Red Lantern Accordionist can be a bit cynical at times - He or She knows a little too much - been around a bit - knows that their days are numbered and wants to make the most of them - some quietly - some with a vengeance. Red Lantern Accordionists never quite know whether they have won or lost the good fight - even at the end - and neither did St. Paul - or Don Quixote - or any warrior worth mentioning. He or She has totally obliterated themselves - understands the value of the Third Banana - is tempered like steel - has been through the fire - and came out it wounded, vulnerable and stronger than an ox - a work horse - a mule. Red Lantern Accordionists are kind - happy and a bit sad - and not to be fooled with. There is no logical reason to become a Red Lantern Accordionist Red Lantern Accordionists are called By whom? Don’t quite know But They feel the call Of a different winning Of heard labor Of a different winning For no other reason other than to do it As best as they can Because they can If you are one of them This is your time You’re welcome Others are welcome too But the focus will be Red Lantern! Participants will include: Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Will Holshouser, Doug Makofka, Brian Dewan, Yoichi Fukui, Gene Pritsker, Melissa Elledge, Mark Nathanson, Benjamin Ickies, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dragica Banic Curcic, Peter Flint, Erica Maire Mancini,Dave Soldier, Mayumi Miyaoka, Dan Cooper, The Yorkvillians, Rachel Swaner, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Bachtopus, Milica Paranosic, Michael Dames, Peter Jarvis, David Stoler, David First, Mary Spencer Knapp, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Lee Mc Clure, Ken Laufer, John Foti, Kathleen Tipton, Marni Rice, Bob Goldberg, The Famous Accordion Orchestra, Corn Mo, Rachid Eladlouni, Carl Reihl, Linda Reed, Dr Denise Koncelik, Alicia Svigals, Elizabeth Brown, Ted Nash, Jeanne Velonis, Cecylia Barczk, Devon Tipp, Sydknee, Michiyo Suzuki, Robert Duncan, Miwa Gemini, Jenny Cho, Elliott Sharp, Jennie Muiio, Elaine Yau, Carita Patamikakam, Uri Sharlin and many others and a few surprise guests - and Dr. Schimmel. Reservations and Information: Phone 212 876 0827 Email: accordionbill@gmail.com |
Dan Newton in Summer Performancesby Rita Barnea |
 Video: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra plays Bohemien @ Northrop Plaza , U of M, Minneapolis Dan Newton performs as soloist and with several bands. "Daddy Squeeze" has been playing offbeat accordion music since 1987, when he won the Nebraska State Accordion Contest at the Czech Festival in Wilber, Nebraska. He has used the squeeze box for playing all kinds of music not normally associated with free-reed instruments, as well as standard accordion material. Daddy Squeeze also enjoys mixing up styles and genres that don't generally seem compatible. "Music out of context", or "Ethno-clectic Bop" is the result of his genre-bending experiments with Celtic, Tex-Mex, Creole, Blues, Jazz, Scandinavian, Polka and pop music. July 4, Tuesday 6-9pm: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra will NOT be at Loring Pasta Bar. The Loring Pasta Bar is closed for the 4th. Happy 4th of July! July 5, Wednesday 6-7:30pm Daddy Squeeze and Elizabeth @ Vieux Carre, St. Paul Dan and E play a dinner set in this cool New Orleans-themed club. The entrance for Vieux Carre is in the Hamm Building on 20 W 7th Place Mall, between St. Peter and Wabasha, St Paul, MN. 651-291-2715 July 8, Saturday 2:15pm Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Driftless Festival, Viroqua, WI. CAO is thrilled to be a part of this great, free summer festival! Viroqua lies in the beautiful Driftless Region of Wisconsin. July 9, Sunday 1-3pm Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Landmark Center, St. Paul. CAO is proud to be a part of Alliance Francaise Bastille Day Gala! For more details call 612 332 0436 Additional performances include: Tuesday, July 11: 6 -9:00 pm : Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Loring Pasta Bar Wednesday, July 12: Hula Peppers @ Schooner Tavern 7:30-10pm Friday, July 14: CAO @ Sommerfest, Orchestra Hall, Mpls 10-11pm Monday, July 17: 7-8:00 pm : Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Como Dockside Pavilion Tuesday, July 18: 6 -9:00 pm : Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Loring Pasta Bar Wednesday, July 19: 6:30 pm -8:30 pm : Pat Donohue & Prairie All Stars @ the Village, Mendota, MN Friday, July 21: Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Hiawatha Music Festival Marquette MI Saturday, July 22: Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Hiawatha Music Festival, Marquette MI Tuesday, July 25: 6-9:00 pm: Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ Loring Pasta Bar Friday, July 28: Daddy Squeeze @ Lark in the Morning Music Gathering, Mendocino, CA Saturday, July 29: Daddy Squeeze @ Lark in the Morning Music Gathering, Mendocino, CA Sunday, July 30: Daddy Squeeze @ Lark in the Morning Music Gathering, Mendocino, CA Monday, July 31 Daddy Squeeze @ Lark in the Morning Music Gathering, Mendocino, CA For more information on any of Dan's music: Daddysqueeze@daddysqueeze.com |
Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in July Includes Accordion Workshopby Rita Barnea |
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 The FSAF will be held from July 16 to July 30, 2017. The Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival is a music festival that takes place at multiple locations in Fairbanks, Alaska.Accordionist Jamie Maschler will present several workshops at the FSAF this July. From the website: Jamie Maschler is carving her name in the music scene as a virtuoso accordionist. She has accompanied multiple symphonies, starting at age 15 with a premiere performance with the Pueblo Symphony. Most recently she accompanied The Seattle Symphony during the live scoring of Lord of the Rings film and opened Seattle Opera’s Hansel and Gretel. Maschler teaches at the Jazz Night School in Seattle and is a music festival favorite performing and presenting workshops on stylized Brazilian & Tango music all around the country. Maschler is a lead accordionist for the band En Canto, Seattle’s only Brazilian forró group. Maschler has played in venues all over the world including St. Lucia, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico. Her original music has been aired on the Radio in Seattle, Austin, Salvador BR, and Canada. In 2017, her accordion playing will be featured in PopCap mobile games. Jamie will present four workshops: Accordion Workshop Price: $150 Days: TWThF/MTWThF, July 18–28 Times: 10:30–11:50am Instructor: Jamie Maschler Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church Designed to help the accordionist become a better musician, this class will be performance based. You will learn the basics of playing from a lead sheet and tricks to help you play more authentically in multiple music genres including: french, tango, zydeco, jazz, brazilian and more. We will look at creative ideas for warm-ups and theory that will help you learn how to play better faster. The class is crafted to accommodate beginning to advanced students. Brazilian Music Ensemble: Forró Price: $100 Days: MTWThF (week 2), July 24–28 Times: 5:00–6:30 PM Instructor: Jamie Maschler Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church In this ensemble we will be working with music from Northeast Brazil. Traditional instrumentation includes accordion, zabumba (drum), triangle, and voice but in a more modern tradition has several instrumental variations. We will play works by Luiz Gonzaga, Gilberto Gil, Sivuca, Hermeto Pascoal, Marcelo Caldi, Toninho Ferragutti and more. We will learn from charts as well as by ear — focusing on how to comp, solo, and play specific to the genre. Intermediate Tango Ensemble Price: $50 Days: TW (week 2), July 25 & 26 Times: 3:00–4:30pm Instructor: Jamie Maschler Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church We will explore tango in its most traditional roots in Buenos Aries, Argentina and it’s evolution to popular culture as Tango Nuevo. We will read through a tango, milonga and vals in order to learn comping patterns, performance practices, and specific articulations used in the style. Music will be provided. Open to the following: Piano, Guitar, Bass, Accordion, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet/Trombone/Sax, Violin. Beginning Tango Ensemble Price: $50 Days: TW (week 1), July 18 & 19 Times: 3:00–4:30pm Instructor: Jamie Maschler Location: Fairbanks Lutheran Church We will explore tango in its most traditional roots in Buenos Aries, Argentina and its evolution to popular culture as Tango Nuevo. We will read through a tango, milonga and vals in order to learn comping patterns, performance practices, and specific articulations used in the style. Music will be provided. Open to the following: Piano, Guitar, Bass, Accordion, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet/Trombone/Sax, Violin. About The Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival Core Purpose: To Awaken Everyone's Inner Artist The Festival's mission is to provide highly qualified guest artists who offer multidisciplinary study and performance opportunities that increase both personal growth and arts appreciation to all participants. Our philosophy is to enrich the lives of all with whom we associate—through study and performances—by engaging their spirit, intellect and energy in an empowering way. The Festival gives people who are enthusiastic about the fine arts an outlet to release their passions. We offer classes and workshops at various ability levels, so beginners will find plenty to do. Given the multi-disciplinary nature of our course offerings, a participant with one main area of study has the opportunity to branch out and the explore other arts: a violinist can take ballroom dance before their orchestra rehearsals, or a painter can play in a steel drum band after spending all day in watercolor classes. Think of the Festival as summer camp for adults. You get to make new friends, hone your artistic talents, and just plain have fun. There are concerts nearly every day, so keeping busy is not a problem. The Festival takes place in Fairbanks, which often has beautiful weather at that time of year, so you can enjoy some extremely long days, and maybe take a weekend trip to Denali to see nature at its best. If spending your whole days for two weeks with the Festival is not a possibility due to work or travel commitments, you may be pleased to see the number of evening classes and one-day mini workshops available. For further information on the workshops: Coordinator Louise Kowalski (louisek@acsalaska.net) For more information on the FSAF: Call the Festival office 907-474-8869 or email info@fsaf.org |
Gypsy Kumbia Orchestra in Vancouverby Rita Barnea |
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| The Gypsy Kumbia Orchestra will appear Live in Vancouver, July 16, 2017. Come to the Afro-Colombian & Balkan Music & Dance Fiesta! Montreal's Gypsy Kumbia Orchestra is an explosion of music and dance, circus and imagination. Excerpts from their website: The band is a creative chaos that fuses Afro-Colombian percussion with the brass and violin melodies of the Roma peoples of Eastern Europe. Created In 2012 by GIROVAGO productions, the band has already performed over 140 shows, including many festivals across Canada, Colombia, France, Austria, Chec Republic. GKO was voted Montréal's best world music group in 2015 (CAMUZ survey), and earned a 2016 JUNO and ADISQ Nominations for their first album, Revuelta Danza Party. With an ever growing following, the group has arrived as one of Canada's leading new big bands. DJ Kubanito will keep the party going with his mix of worldbeat and latin dance music.Co-presented with Julio Montero Productions Members of the Orchestra are: Carmen Ruiz: Co- Artistic Director and Production Manager Juan Sebastian Mejia AKA Perditi: Artistic Director,Percussion,Voice Anit Ghosh: Music Director- Violin Blaise Margail: Technical Director, Trombone- Beat Boxing Sonia Bustos: Financing Researcher and Dance Andrea Nino: Dance Zillien Biret: Clarinet- Voice Aurelien Tomasi: Clarinet Chantale Urbain – Accordion Ivan Banford: Percussion (Tambora) Maxime Ethier: Percussion (Alegre) Sergio Barrenechea: Percussion (Llamador)- Voice Guillaume Garant:Trompette Bertrand Margelidon: Trompette Etienne Lebel: Trombone Christian Leclerc: Tuba DATE: Sunday, July 16, 2017 TIME: 8:PM VENUE:Red Room Ultrabar 398 Richards St. TICKETS: $20 Advance. $25 at the Door. Tickets in person at Highlife, Red Cat & Zulu as of June 21. Sorry, No Minors. Additional performances include: Thursday 20 July 2017 Denman Island Community Hall, Denman Island, BC, Canada Thursday 03 August 2017 Repentigny, QC, Canada Sunday 06 August 2017 Carleton-sur-Mer, QC, Canada Wednesday 09 August 2017 Ville Saint Laurent, QC, Canada |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Elementary School Accordion Programby Brian Berlin |
 A Brief History of the Carleston Elementary School Accordion Program:As an elementary school music teacher, I find the accordion particularly well-suited for accompanying children singing. On hearing this, a colleague remarked how wonderful it would be if the students had accordions too. Although it had never crossed my mind, I realized how well the instrument facilitates quality music-making from the first encounter and what a benefit this would be for young students’ early experiences with melodic instruments. So, in the fall of 2012, I decided to teach accordion as a regular part of my in-school music class. My principal approved the concept but added, regretfully, that there were no additional school funds available for it. I had a few personal instruments stored in a closet at the time. Feeling that it was better to have instruments in the hands of students rather than gathering dust, I sold my trumpet and my viola to purchase the first batch of 12-bass accordions. I was introduced at the local accordion club where I shared the concept, and four families donated money and instruments to the cause. A month after first deciding to teach accordion, I had thirteen new and like new accordions! That fall, I chose a small fourth grade class to be my test case. Those students were so patient. Together we discovered what worked and didn’t work for group instruction. By the end of the semester, we had established a working procedure for each step of the process including: how to line up, which instrument to select, how to remove it from the shelf, how to carry it back to their seat, what path to take, how to untangle the straps, rotating the keyboard to the right, donning the instrument, adjusting the straps (I do this), unsnapping the bellows, finding the air button, finding the right hand position, and then doing it all in reverse at the conclusion of class. The hand-written music (melody only) was projected onto the classroom screen. The students were elated to be playing real instruments. I was amazed at how quickly and naturally they took to the accordions. That spring, I rolled out the program to all third and fourth grade students. For the larger classes, the thirteen accordions were enough for half of a class. While one half of the class was learning by doing, the other half of the class was learning by watching. After 15-20 minutes of instruction, the instruments would go to the other half of the students who consistently demonstrated that learning by watching has its merits! The following year, we received a few more accordions from DonorsChoose.org and the P.T.A. We supplemented the accordions with inexpensive melodicas (mouth-blown keyboard instruments). Washing the mouthpieces three or four times a day was tedious, but every child had an instrument! By year three, we had a full class set of accordions thanks to a grant from the district’s education foundation. As the program grew, people all around became very excited and enthusiastic to support it. The program just completed its fifth year and more closely resembles a beginning band or orchestra ensemble than a typical elementary group. At the recent fourth grade spring concert we had 45 accordions, 35 melodicas, 25 electronic keyboards, and 150 voices! Parents were amazed at their children – many of them didn’t realize their child was learning the accordion until that night. In the five years since the program was started, nearly 1000 students have learned to play the accordion! While it is not always easy teaching every student, I am glad that I chose to do an in-school program where everybody can participate rather than an after-school program. I have been contacted by a number of educators who are interested in starting similar programs in their schools, and I am excited to support them. If you or someone you know are an educator interested in teaching the accordion in school, please feel free to contact me. I will assist you in any way that I can! I look forward to the day when there will be in-school accordion programs dotted all over the map. Carleston Elementary School music webpage: http://www.pearlandisd.org/Page/7988 Email: Brian.Berlin@gmail.com |
Cody McSherry Successful At Leavenworthby Pat McSherry |
 Video 1: Cody won 1st place in the Diatonic Category of the 2017 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration. Prijatelji Ostanimo Prijatelji was part of the program performed by Cody McSherry. Video 2: Joan Grauman and Cody McSherry performing "While I'm Away" composed by Stas Venglevski. Thank you to Dan Grauman for the videos. Pennsylvania accordionist Cody McSherry, age 13, had new-found successes on a recent visit to Washington state’s well-known Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration. Though he had intended to simply enjoy the ambiance of the event, perform at the various venues, jam with his fellow accordionists, and take part in two competitions, once at the event he decided to take part in the event’s major competition – the Leavenworth Open. Deciding to enter the Leavenworth Open only about thirty-six hours before the event, McSherry put together a program in which he performed on two types of accordion and played three styles of music. Though he did not intend to be in the competition, he found himself being awarded second place! The judges stated that the competition was quite close and considered issuing a tie for first, had that been possible. Cody was very pleased with second place, with a well-deserved first place being awarded to Scotland’s Gary Blair, Jr. Both were given the honor of performing at the evening concert in the Festhalle. In addition to the Leavenworth Open, Cody was awarded a first place in both the Diatonic Accordion Open competition and the Old Time Accordion Open competition. Also, Cody asked his friend Joan Grauman, (conductor of the Potomac Accordion Ensemble and Music Director of the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society, AAA board member and historian) to join him in registering for the duet competition only a day before the event. Joan graciously agreed and the pair beautifully performed two selections. They were thrilled to receive a third place. Cody and Joan Grauman also performed at several locations around town, including the gazebo and the grange venues. Of course, jamming with other accordionists from across the country and around the world was also a highlight of the Leavenworth experience, and Cody could be found every evening joining the many outstanding accordionists meeting to jam in the Bavarian ambiance of the famous Andreas Keller restaurant. McSherry is a student of Mary Tokarski and the 2015 winner of the Carmen Carrozza Memorial Award Competition, Junior Division. He is the youngest member of the Accordion Pops Orchestra, and has his own band, “Polterabend.” In addition to performing on the piano and diatonic accordion, Cody also plays the theater and pipe organ, and performs in various stage productions as an actor. For further information: pat@lmsetch.com Picture background below showing the beautiful picturesque town of Leavenworth and Joan Grauman finishing a practice on her hotel deck. |
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Jane Christison Entertains At Villagefest 2017by Rita Barnea |
 Janie Next Door® is on this year’s lineup of performers for VillageFest 2017. Jane Christison will be playing in a new location this year, the Pavilion next to where they’re serving Chris Cakes. So you can have breakfast and listen to some fun music at the same time!Venue: Prairie Village Municipal Grounds 7700 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS Janie Next Door is also known as musician, entertainer, singer, songwriter, children's performer, Jane Christison.The goal for her music performances is for everyone to enjoy the music and have fun! Her children's CD, "Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door," is a musical invitation to sing, clap, dance, march and have some fun with songs like "Can I Go Out and Play?," "Lunchbox, Lunchbox," "Let's Go Marching" and 15 other happy songs. It is targeted for kids, but teachers, parents and grandparents seem to be enjoying the songs too. A graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music, Jane is also known for her Music With A Smile (R), playing and singing many styles of music. She is the founder/ owner of Music With A Smile Productions, L.L.C., which produces her CD's and videos. Jane wrote both the words and music for all the songs on the CD. Jane is available for live Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door performances at preschools, elementary schools, libraries, community centers and festivals. These upbeat programs feature songs from her CD as well as some traditional children's favorites. Her smile and enthusiasm are contagious. Audiences are encouraged to sing along, march, clap their hands, dance and join in on the fun of a live musical performance. Her original songs are so catchy that they'll stick in your head, and you won't want them to leave. Live and in person, or on a CD, you're sure to enjoy the music of Janie Next Door! For further information on Janie or ordering her CD’s/videos: janec@musicwithasmile.com or Phone: 913-492-3883 |
National Accordion Awareness Month Celebrated in June - USAby Harley Jones |
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| Since 1989 Nashville Public Radio has designated June as National Accordion Awareness Month. Excerpt from an article by Kara McLeland for Nashville Public Radio. "Chances are, if you’ve ever been around an accordion, it’s difficult to not be aware of it; the instruments (and its many variants) are unique in both physicality and timbre. So why a whole month dedicated to them? While the accordion is commonly known to listeners, many might not be aware of the instrument's versatility and its role in the world of classical music. Many incredible local musicians have performed at Nashville Public Radio, including two of Nashville’s finest accordion players. Earlier this year on Live in Studio C, Jeff Taylor joined guitarist Jonathan Sargent in playing several of Sargent’s original compositions. Sound file above: Track list: Mas que siempre, Tango 4 For You Spanish Sun Blazin' Fuego Evocaion In January, Jeff Lisenby performed a program with Matt Davich and Emily Nelson that included selections from Fiddler on the Roof and Turandot, as well as an original tango by Lisenby. Sound file above. (Jeff Lisenby has CD's and music available at: Jeff Lisenby ) Hear Music from an American composer and accordionist Pauline Oliveros who was always a forward-thinker. Oliveros’s A Love Song for accordion, voice and bass trombone exemplifies her meditative approach to environmental improvisation, and her love of experimenting in highly resonant spaces. She passed away in November 2016." Recording above. |
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration 2017 Reportby Kathleen Falco |
| It's hard to believe that the Celebration is over and we are already planning for the 25th Anniversary for June 21-24, 2018! This year was filled with so many musicians from all over, with competitions and dancing. The competitions were held Friday and Saturday at the Festhalle and the results are below. Our youngest this year was 6 years old and oldest is hard to say as no one wanted to share their age. The Gazebo hosted a variety of musicians this year and the bleachers were filled. Even the rain on Friday didn't keep people away. On Saturday, it was a beautiful day for the Accordion Parade that ended at the Gazebo playing all the way there and more songs were played when they arrived. There were excellent workshops this year given by John Giuliani, Mark Myking, Stas Venglevski, Jim Tobler, Steve Albini, Kim and Dan Christian, Kory Tideman and Max Kyllonen. Free Accordion Lessons were given in the Grange by a number of teachers and were well attended by people who were excited to try out the accordion for the first time. Evaluations were also at the Grange where you could play a piece for an adjudicator and would be given an evaluation sheet on how to improve your playing and what to work on for performing. Free Concerts were also going on at the Grange in the afternoons. Then when most activities come to a close, the Festhalle comes alive with Concerts followed by Dance bands. This year having Dance Bands at the end of the Concerts was lots of fun and there was dancing all around the Festhalle. The playing continued at the Andreas Keller where everyone tried to get in and get a seat for the Jam that took place for the rest of the evening. It seems this year we had Accordions, Button Box, Diatonic, Stand up Bass, Guitar and other fun musical wood instruments to keep the beat. It was a fun time for all ages. Sunday was the Awards Ceremony and the Celebration came to a close until the next year. The Committee has already started working on our Special 25th Anniversary with lots of great surprises for everyone. So mark your Calendars for next year to attend the Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration. For more information go to our website www.accordioncelebration.org Northwest Accordion Society is the host for this wonderful celebration. For the Love of the Accordion! |
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Gary Dahl Promotion, Any 3 or more eBooks @ 50% off - USAby Harley Jones |
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 July promotion - Any 3 or more Gary Dahl eBooks @ 50% off. Email your order to: MusicForAccordion@yahoo.com and you will receive the invoice by email, payable online with Paypal (worlds largest) secure server system using your credit card. Your eBooks music is emailed to you after payment. Gary Dahl has released 10 great value eBooks in recent years. Click the links below for further information: DH01-eB - Latin Spectacular! - eBook US$35.50 DH02-eB - Favourite French Standards - eBook US$35.50 DH03-eB - The American Songbook - eBook US$35.50 DH04-eB - Favourite Waltzes and Polkas - eBook US$46.50 DH05-eB - Easy Listening Variety - eBook US$35.50 DH06-eB - Easy Listening Variety - eBook US$57.50 DH07-eB - Traditional Polish Carols - eBook US$16.50 DH08-eB - Italian Spectacular - eBook US$35.50 DH09-eB - Traditional Christmas Carols - eBook US$18.50 DH10-eB - Polka - eBook US$18.50 |
Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini in "Accordions Around the World"by Rita Barnea |
  Accordionist Mario Tacca recently performed in an open mic event at Bryant Park in New York City to advertise “Accordions Around the World" which will take place every Wednesday evening during the month of July. Mario Tacca and his wife, international vocalist, Mary Mancini, will perform in Bryant Park on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 and Wednesday, July 12, 2017 from 6 to 8 PM. The accordionists will be located around the park and rotate during those two hours. See article on Bryant Park, "Accordions Around the World” in the Highlights Section of this publication. Mario Tacca, on the Board of Directors of the AAA, 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 outstanding virtuosity 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. 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. As a dynamic and popular performing duo, they have 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 their busy performance schedule, Mary and Mario have recorded 10 CD's between them. For further information: www.gioiaproductions.com Email: mariobtacca@hotmail.com or marymancini@msn.com |
New England Digital Accordion Orchestra Summer Concertsby Peggy Falcetti |
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  The New England Digital Accordion Orchestra, conducted by Sam Falcetti (picture left), is comprised of accordion hobbyists and a few semi-pro players from CT, MA, NH, RI and is the nation’s only Digital Accordion Orchestra. They will be playing many genres of music including Big Band, Broadway, Ethnic, Country and Rock.Throughout centuries many types of orchestras and bands had their own identity from the symphony, woodwind and string orchestras, to the swing, marching & ethnic bands from different countries. Each served a purpose in musical evolution but there has never been an orchestra that could do it all until now. You will hear horn and wind sections, strings, guitars, and of course the accordion in beautifully orchestrated arrangements including Frank Sinatra arrangements and vocal styling by Eddie Young (picture right). The Orchestra’s unique sound is history in the making. It’s the only Digital Accordion Orchestra in the United States. Sam Falcetti is thrilled to be returning to the West Springfield, MA for the 54th Summer Concert Series, where he last conducted groups in the 70’s and 80’s. He is also excited about performing at the 32nd annual Rotary Summer Concert Series in East Longmeadow, MA. Date: Tuesday July 4th (Bring your lawn chairs) Time: 1:30 - 3:30 Place: Town Common, West Springfield (Park Street, Rt. 20) just over North End Bridge. Rain Date: Same day and time, at West Springfield High School (425 Piper Rd) Date: Wednesday July 19th (Bring your lawn chairs) Time: 7:00 - 9:00 Place: East Longmeadow High School Campus Field (180 Maple St) Rain Date: Thursday July 20th, same place and time For more information regarding the orchestra contact: samfalcetti@gmail.com or call 413-204-5522. |
Beverly Roberts Curnow Performs for Long Island Accordion Allianceby Dominic Karcic |
 On Wednesday, June 7, 2017 Beverly Roberts Curnow made her very first visit to the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) at La Villini Restaurant in East Northport, NY. By the response of the patrons the members of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) hope that Beverly will be returning real soon. She is a former American Accordionists' Association (AAA) champion (1965) and also went on that year to become the "very first female" to win the very prestigious Coupe Mondiale which was held in Malta. On Wednesday she opened her program "Scherzo" (John Gart) which was followed by "Zigeuner Weisen" (Gypsy Airs by Pablo De Sarasate, Opus 20), "81 Rue de Briey" (by our dear friend Mario Tacca), "Mimicri" (Pietro Deiro), "Fiddle-Faddle” (Leroy Anderson) and a very entertaining "Snow Train Shuffle Medley" (John Gart). Beverly was then joined by Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) members Dominic Karcic and Ray Oreggia in three "toe tapping" selections that included "Cumana Merengue," "Petite Waltz" and "La Volata Polka." Once again the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) had a very successful evening of bringing great accordion music and entertainment to the Long Island. The next Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) event will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2017 and feature accordionist Mario Balestra as guest artist. This event will also mark the "seventh anniversary" of Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA). Please come, join us and help celebration our "seventh anniversary." (left to right) Dominic Karcic and Beverly Roberts Curnow (picture by Peter Sbuttoni) For further information: dkarcic10@verizon.net |
Accordion Babes Pin Up Calendar, California - USAby Rob Howard |
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| The Accordion Babes 2018 Album & Pin-Up Calendar is in preparation, but the deadline for submission of photo, song on CD, art, pre-sales and advertising, etc, has been extended until June 26th. Renee de la Prade, the organiser, writes: “Our theme for next year is Calling All Muses. The world needs inspiration in these troubled times. When you plan your photo shoot, think about what inspires you to play music, or think about how you want your character and costume in the photo to inspire other artists”. There are lots of tips and diagrams available from Renee de la Prade for producing a calendar-quality photo, including nuts-and-bolts stuff like image dimensions, and some do's and don'ts for your photo shoot. There are new guidelines for photos, and please note that a photo needs to be accompanied by a photo release form signed by the applicant and her photographer. Applicants also need to submit a professional quality CD featuring them playing accordion. Songs can be traditional or own compositions, but not covers. For further information email: editor@accordionpinupcalendar.com |
Future events |
27th Cotati Accordion Festival August 19by Rita Barnea |
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| The 27th Annual Cotati Accordion Festival takes place on August 19 & 20, 2017 ~ Saturday & Sunday, 9:30 AM to 8:PM each day. Please call 707-664-0444 for questions about event information. Customer Service: 1-888-559-2576 The Cotati Accordion Festival is a yearly event. The venue is open under the shade trees of La Plaza Park in Cotati, CA. If you plan to stay for the whole day, bring your own comfortable, short-backed folding lawn chair. A shuttle will be provided from Park and Ride at the corner of Highway 116 and Old Redwood Highway on St. Joseph Way. Handicap parking is available at 102-104 W. Cotati Ave. (kitty cornered from the Korean Baptist Church) and in front of the Korean Baptist Church at 81 West Cotati Ave. Annual attendance reaches 2,000-3,000 a day. The Honorary Director this year is Marjorie Konrad. Performers include: AlpenBand California, Amy Jo Sawyer, Big Lou's Dance Party, Cory Pesaturo, En Canto with Jamie Maschler, Future Accordion Stars 2017, Gail Campanella, Ginny Mac, Gordon Kohl Jim Gilman, La Familia Peña-Govea, Lizeth Olivo, Ljubinka Kulisic - Serbia, Mark St. Mary, MotorDude Zydeco, Oddjob Ensemble, Royal Jelly Jive, Squeezy Peezy, T-Luke and the Tight Suits, The Golden State Accordion Club Band, The Great Morgani, The Mad Maggies and a free accordion jazz 101 workshop by Paul Betken. Events happening in and around Cotati the day before the festival: Friday, August 18, 2017 events include Scholarship Fundraiser to benefit future accordion stars. It will be held at the Redwood Cafe in downtown Cotati at 6:PM For more information, contact Sheri Mignano at cotatiaccordionstudentstage@yahoo.com. Event 2 features the Mad Maggies, Event 3 is the CAF kickoff in front of Oivers’ Markets; Event 4 is the After Hours Party at Volpi’s in Petaluma,CA. The Cotati Accordion Festival has something for all types of accordion aficionados. Make sure to include Cotati in your summer plans. |
September 26 Tribute Concert to Tony Rozanceby Laura Niland, President of the San Antonio Accordion Association |
  Accordionist Mike Middleton has agreed to come to San Antonio to play a tribute concert to the late Tony Rozance, who was instrumental in teaching the accordion to so many of us in the 40s through 70s. Mike is also trying to collect Tony Rozance memorabilia so that he can place a special tribute to Tony at the Accordion Museum. You can come down to San Antonio for this Tribute Concert on Tuesday Sept 26, 2017 at 5:30PM at Chesters Hamburgers on NE Loop 410 between Nacogdoches Rd and Broadway in the Private Party room where the San Antonio Accordion Association will be holding its monthly meetings. Tony deserves his place in history and we want to make this happen. If you have any photos, letters, arrangements, writings, concert booklets or other things with Tony Rozance’s influence, please donate that to the cause. Help us give Tony the credits that he deserves and a special place in the history of the accordion at the Accordion Museum. As many of you know, he was also a past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild. Mike will be playing Tony’s beautiful old vintage Excelsior accordion with all the bling and he will also bring the Tony Rozance Accordion School sign that Mike found in Pennsylvania at a pawn shop just by accident. Tony used to live in Pennsylvania and had a studio there for many years. We appreciate Mike Middleton for making this happen. He would love to see some of Tony’s former students come to this concert and those who knew him. Let’s share this wonderful time together. We look forward to seeing you all and hope to have a big crowd. For further information: Laura Jean Niland, President of SAAA Phone: 210 651 4359 Email Mike Middleton if you have specific items to donate: Michael.Middleton@BSWHealth.org |
Las Vegas International Accordion Convention Oct. 23-26by Rita Barnea |
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| What are the benefits of attending the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention (LVIAC) this October 23-26, 2017? Key Benefits of Attending the Convention are: 1. Join the fun and make new friends from all over the World. 2. See the latest in new accordions with factory exhibits. 3. Hotel accommodations are very inexpensive. 4. Be inspired by some of the finest. 5. Learn from the masters. A Special Scholarship will be awarded:Diero Youth Accordion Scholarship Pietro Deiro was born in 1888. Under the influence of his older brother, Guido, he began to play the accordion in Germany in 1905. In 1907, he moved to the United States, where he became the first accordionist to use a chromatic instrument with a piano-style treble keyboard. He began professional recording in 1910, and his most famous song, “Pietro’s Return,” was recorded in 1914. Mr. Deiro wrote many compositions, studies and transcriptions, and even opened his own publishing house. Referred to as the “Father of the Piano Accordion,” Pietro Deiro died in 1954. The Scholarship: The Las Vegas International Accordion Convention is proud to offer the Deiro Scholarship Award with the goal of promoting accordion musicianship, artistry and culture among today’s young and talented performers. The Scholarship offers free tuition to the annual Las Vegas International Accordion Convention, October 23-26, 2017, and is awarded through any sponsoring accordion club, organization or chaperone to one deserving youth accordion player 8 to 17 years of age. An adult must accompany the award recipient by attending the convention. Estimated value of each award is $570.00. Qualification: The Pietro Deiro Scholarship award recipient must be between 8 and 17 years of age at the time of the convention, and must have demonstrated musicianship and artistry in accordion performance. The recipient should also demonstrate an interest in accordion culture through a general knowledge of the instrument’s history and current application in the music world. The recipient must be accompanied by an adult chaperone who has been approved by the sponsoring organization, or who is related to—or is legal guardian of—the award recipient. Award winners will be announced publicly during the convention, and may be asked to perform publicly at least once during the convention. Applications must be postmarked no later than September 23, 2017. Download the application 2017Vegas.pdf Send the completed form to the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention, postmarked by September 23, 2017 |
CD Reviews |
Review of The Shortcut to Playing and the Bellows-Technique for The Accordion by Lars Ekby Franco Cambareri |
 Review of the eBook (sent to you by email) written by Lars Ek, reviewed by Franco Cambareri.The Shortcut to Playing and the Bellows-Technique for The Accordion by Lars Ek. Review at: Ek Book Review |
New and Updated Sites |
Updated Site: Joe Soprani New Pictureby Rita Barnea |
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| Updated Site: Joe Soprani New Picture |