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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Save the Date: Frank Busso, Sr. To Receive the 2022 AAA Lifetime Achievement Award
350 Accordions Collection Donated to A World of Accordions Museum - Superior
Updated Site: Kevin Friedrich "The Journey" CD Released
Eddie Monteiro and Warren Vache Perform at Shanghai Jazz Club on July 8
Nick Ariondo Performs Music in New Disney Movie “Luca”
Stas Venglevski and Michael Bridge in Online Concert July 18
Online: Encore Broadcast of 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award for Linda Soley-Reed
Joseph Natoli in Concert at SFAC
Meet Accordionist/Singer Silvia Navarro
2021 Virtual AAA Master Class & Concert Series in New York with Dr. William Schimmel
NAA Weekly Challenge 19: Independence Day
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Dan Newton, "Daddy Squeeze" Summer Accordion Events
Cory Pesaturo Performs on TV Game Show "Let's Make a Deal"
Meet Accordionist “Papa Joe” DeClemente
Marek Kalinowski Entertained at Milwaukee Accordion Club
Online: International Youth Music Competitions 2021 - USA
OLLI Zoom Class on Accordion+Music+Culture Available for Adults 50+
Dominic Karcic Performs for Bastille Day Festivities
Jack Garton Performs at Victoria Event Centre - Canada
Vancouver Squeezebox Circle Meets on July 2
Future events |
2021 Rose City Accordion Camp in Eagle Creek
It's Official! The 2021 Cotati Accordion Festival Is Happening!
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Dear Readers,Wishing you all a Happy 4th of July! Time for fireworks, celebrations, and accordions! As conditions improve and more indoor/outdoor events are scheduled, please email me at Ritabelll@aol.com with details of your upcoming live rehearsals, festivals or performances so we can let accordionists and enthusiasts around the world know the positive news about our beloved instrument. Read the USA news this month for new CD releases, online concerts, competitions and future events. It is exciting to see the accordion world starting to open up again! In the meantime, continue your practicing, taking lessons, and how about performing for friends and family again? Enjoy the summer! |
Save the Date: Frank Busso, Sr. To Receive the 2022 AAA Lifetime Achievement Awardby Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
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 I am sure I speak for all when I say that accordionists cannot wait to get back together, in person, again soon!! The members of the AAA Governing Board are no exception. We are enthusiastically planning the 2022 AAA Festival, which will take place July 13-17, 2022, at the Marriott Philadelphia West, 111 Crawford Ave, Conshohocken, PA 19428. At the AAA Festival, long-time AAA Board member, Frank Busso Sr., will receive the AAA Lifetime Achievement Award. Frank has faithfully served the AAA as Treasurer, Vice-President, President (1981, 1992-94), and has also chaired many committees including the annual national festivals, and the Young Artists Concert Series. He held the position of the Comptroller of the AAA for many years. For decades, Frank has been an educator, performer, conductor and all-around ambassador of the accordion. Attached is the feature article from the 2017 AAA Festival Journal: "Spotlight on Frank Busso Sr.". It is an enjoyable, heartwarming and enlightening biography of a man whose life revolved around his love of the accordion, the national accordion community, and his family. You might ask, “What has happened since 2017?” One delightful bit of news: Frank’s twin granddaughters, Julianna and Francesca, are now studying the accordion with their father, Frank Busso Jr. All of the Busso grandchildren are now accordionists! Let’s hope we can hear the “Busso Octet” perform for us at the 2022 AAA Festival! Photo below L to R: Christina Busso Lammers, Alexander Lammers, Frank Busso Sr., TV news reporter, Caroline Lammers, Frank Busso Jr., and Nicholas Busso at the 2018 AAA Festival, Alexandria, VA. Read: "Spotlight on Frank Busso Sr.". |
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350 Accordions Collection Donated to A World of Accordions Museum - Superiorby Kevin Friedrich VP - A World of Accordions Museum |
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 A World of Accordions Museum received a most generous donation of 350 accordions (yes 350 accordions!) from Alain Papineau in Washington, DC. Also loaded were 14 cartons of history material from the AAA Archives. Some of the A World of Accordions Board members went there to help load a rental truck which Kevin Friedrich and Tracey Gibbens then drove 24 hours to deliver this precious cargo to A World of Accordions in Superior, Wisconsin. Additional information about this exciting donation will be available in future USA News and World of Accordions publications. We encourage accordion supporters to donate regularly to this excellent cause. Picture below: L-R: Cheryl, Krystal Harrington, Rob Dingmann, Ethan Carrier, Judy Carrier, Habib, Kevin Friedrich, Roger Schmitz, Helmi Harrington, Charlie Harrington. |
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Updated Site: Kevin Friedrich "The Journey" CD Releasedby Harley Jones |
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 The CD titled "The Journey", features music by renowned New Zealand composer Gary Daverne (picture right) who has written pieces specifically for Northland, New Zealand, such as “Song of the Far North”, “Gem of the Kaipara”, “Day of Aranga” as well as “The Anzac Trilogy”, all which have been featured at Kevin's annual Fundraising concerts at the Dargaville Museum, New Zealand, often with the composer present.CDs are available online at Catalog: friedrich01 The Journey CD for only US$20 including postage. MusicForAccordion.com site update adding Kevin Friedrich CD. http://www.musicforaccordion.com/search.aspx?t=3 |
Eddie Monteiro and Warren Vache Perform at Shanghai Jazz Club on July 8by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Accordionist Eddie Monteiro will perform with the Warren Vache Quartet on July 8, 2021 at 6:PM at Shanghai Restaurant and Jazz Club, 24 Main Street,Madison, NJ.They will be joined by Earl Sauls on bass and Vinnie Corrao on guitar 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. 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 member of the AAA Governing Board and 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. A member of pit orchestras on stage in Broadway revival performances of both "Evita" and "Carnival". He has recorded radio and television jingles for Sesame Street, General Foods, Pontiac, Colgate, Palmolive, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Bennigan's Restaurants and more. Lead artist of innumerable society bands performing throughout the world at social events, political gatherings and corporation conventions, Eddie has done it all! The Shanghai Restaurant and Jazz Club 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 sans 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 consistently superior. No music charge, $25 food and drink minimum, the performance begins at 6:PM. Reservations strongly recommended. Phone: (973) 822-2899 For further information about Eddie Monteiro: chordean.changes@gmail.com |
Nick Ariondo Performs Music in New Disney Movie “Luca”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Video: Movie Trailer - you can hear the accordion music by Nick Ariondo.A new Disney movie entitled “Luca” features music by accordionist Nick Ariondo. It was recorded at the 20th Century Fox Studios. The movie is set “in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera. Disney and Pixar’s original feature film “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water’s surface”. Nicholas S. Ariondo (Nick Ariondo), accordionist/composer/arranger/pianist received his BA and MA Degrees in Music Performance & Composition at California State Univ., Los Angeles, CA. Nick Ariondo's musical accomplishments include: 25 ASCAP Awards Onstage performances with opera legend Placid Domingo Studio session work at Capitol Records with Paul McCartney Double Grammy Award winner with the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra Performed on the Oscar-winning film 'Life of Pi', music by Michael Danna Featured soloist with Oscar-winning conductor/composer Alexandre Desplat 'The Shape of Water' with the L.A. Philharmonic Orchestra at Disney Hall Cameo on-screen performance in 'Bridesmaids' award-winning film, music by Mike Andrews First American to receive Italy's Ancona/Castelfidardo Prize for his chamber music Inclusion in the International Who's Who in Music (14th Edition) Cambridge, England 1990 Artists Fellowship Grant recipient: California Arts Council Composer/arranger of numerous works cataloged with ACCO-Music Publishing/ASCAP and is a Publisher member of BMI. Nick's diverse musical background includes classical to modern contemporary, jazz, gypsy and multi-ethnic world styles. As a session musician, his accordion is heard on many a soundtrack for film and television (composers John Powell, Randy Newman, Mychael & Jeff Danna, Danny Elfman, Joseph Trapanese, Chris Young, Howard Shore, Alan Silvestri, Joel McNeely, Lyle Workman, etc.) . As a composer/arranger, Ariondo's arrangements of Russian folk songs were featured in Warren Beatty's film "Love Affair", music by Ennio Morricone (1994, Warner Bros.) As a concert artist, Nick performs his original compositions/arrangements with orchestras, chamber music ensembles, vocalists and in solo recitals throughout Southern California and abroad. Nick Ariondo has worked on stage and on movie soundtracks with many well-known people in show business such as Placido Domingo, Bette Midler, Randy Newman, Nicola Benedetti, and Michael Buble. He has been described by critics as “the Yehudi Menuhin of the accordion”. “Luca” is the 33rd movie that Nick has been credited with musically. The movie was released on June 18th, 2021. For further information email: accomusic@nickariondo.com |
Stas Venglevski and Michael Bridge in Online Concert July 18by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Video: Dynamic Duos (Promo) The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) is proud to present four Online Summer Concerts! The concert includes Michael Bridge on digital accordion, Kornel Wolak on clarinet, Stas Venglevski on acoustic accordion, and Rene Izquierdo on guitar. The concert takes place on Sunday, July 18, 2021 2:PM Central Time, 3:PM EDT from 3-5:PM Tickets: * $80 - VIP - Meet the artist (1:30-2:00) + Box Seats: VIP Meet the artists 30 minutes before concert. You will receive a separate link for this meet & greet! Limited capacity so you will have time to get to know Stas & Michael. * $40 - Orchestra level seating:Sales end on Jul 18, 2021. Same online view but you can support your artists and organization if you are so inclined! * $25 - General Admission: Balcony seating * $15 - Students - Standing Room only * With your ticket purchase, access to the concert is through Friday July 26, 2021. Since the ATG is not hosting a live festival, a clever price structure is providing the opportunity for you to support the artists and ATG as you are able. Of course, you can also always make a donation through this website if you wish to contribute above the $80 level. As always, the ATG will continue to strive to offer their members and students quality programming and performance opportunities. ATG appreciates your support at whatever level you find comfortable. ATG President Mary Ann Covone shares, “This is going to be an incredible concert and it is a preview to the live concert we will present in Chicago next summer. Enjoy this 4 minute promotional clip and I encourage you to purchase tickets for the virtual event on July 18, 2021. To my non-accordionist musician friends, this concert will give you an opportunity to hear the accordion as you have likely never heard it before! Join us!” This spectacular event is not to be missed! Michael Bridge on electronic accordion in duo with Kornel Wolak on clarinet and Stas Venglevski on acoustic button accordion in duo with Rene Izquierdo on guitar. ATG is a proud member of the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) and The International Music Council (IMC), an NGO official partner of UNESCO |
Online: Encore Broadcast of 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award for Linda Soley-Reedby Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
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 Did you miss the Lifetime Achievement Award program for Linda Soley-Reed originally held on May 23rd, 2021? We have good news for you! An encore broadcast will take place on Monday, July 19th, 2021 at 7pm EST via the Zoom Platform. You must register no later than July 12th, 2021 so we can add you to the attendee list and send you the link to the event. A review of the event is online at: http://www.accordionusa.com/#art4504 Included in this article is a 13-minute slideshow on Linda’s life and a PDF of a book of tributes. All those who registered previously will automatically be sent the link to the encore event. There will be a tax deductible registration fee of $25 to attend the event. Please click on the link to purchase an "Event Ticket" at AAA-Store. You will receive a confirmation email and a link for Zoom prior to the July 19 event. Please be advised that this will be the last opportunity for you to view this wonderful tribute to Linda! Hope to see you there!! |
Joseph Natoli in Concert at SFACby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The San Francisco Accordion Club presents Joseph Natoli online in concert on July 18, 2021.Joseph Natoli makes his home in Northeast Ohio with his wife, JoAnn, and has been a performer and advocate of the accordion since the age of seven. Joe started his studies with prominent Ohio accordion teacher, the late Mickey Bisilia and won the 1972 AAA US Virtuoso Accordion Championship under Mr. Bisilia’s tutelage, while placing first runner-up several months later in the Coupe Mondiale world accordion competition in Caracas, Venezuela. More recently, Joe won the grand prize for the first Roland US V-Accordion competition held in Los Angeles, California, in 2008. Joe’s education includes Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the University of Toronto Faculty Of Music in Toronto, Canada, where he was the first student accepted there to use the free bass accordion as an applied major instrument. Mr Natoli started his musical career mostly as a performer, but had always been interested in composition, and has focused on his compositional craft even more in recent years. Joe has written many original pieces in all musical styles and genres for standard and free bass accordion. Some of Joe's most recent recordings include an all-acoustic accordion CD called Omaggio, and an all-digital Roland V-Accordion CD entitled Waltz for Ron. In 2018, a new CD was released entitled Chameleon (Vol 1) which focuses on the widely diverse styles of Joe’s original compositional output. Soon to follow were Chameleon (Vol 2) in 2019 and Chameleon (Vol 3) in 2020. Joe's compositions and recordings are published by Janpress The San Francisco Accordion Club is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization whose purpose is to enhance, promote and stimulate an appreciation for the accordion within the membership and throughout the general public. Donations are tax-deductible and gratefully accepted. For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com |
Meet Accordionist/Singer Silvia Navarroby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video 1: Our new “Toxica” music video is out! Grupo Imagen performs “La Toxica”Video 2: Grupo Imagen at Tejano Conjunto Festival 2015 Talented accordionist/musician Silvia Navarro was born in Big Spring, TX. Silvia shares, “I’ve always loved music as far back as I can remember. I come from a musical family of musicians and song writers. I learned to play the guitar when I was about 11 years old. I always had an interest in learning to play the accordion. My dad bought me a 2 line accordion when I was about 13 and I learned to play by ear. My parents had several musical friends who had a great part in me learning music. I joined my first band when I was 14, a local Tejano band in Big Spring. About a year later my family formed a musical band in which I played the accordion, one of my sisters played the bass, my brother the guitar and my other sister sang. My mom also sang in the band. We moved to south Texas when I was 15 and we continued our family band for a few years. Since then I’ve lived in Corpus Christi, TX and have been involved in several musical projects including my current band Grupo Imagen. My sister is the bass player, my husband is the manager/promoter and I play the accordion. I’ve had the privilege of working with several talented musicians and vocalists throughout the years as part of Grupo Imagen which is a Tejano/Conjunto band out of Corpus Christ, TX, a predominantly all woman band! As a band we’ve recorded several songs, we’ve produced several musical videos and continue to play live shows. We won the Tejano Music Award for best new group in 2015. We have written, produced and recorded several original songs throughout our career. My sister, mom and I are song writers for the band. We are currently working on an album that will also include a song written by one of my brothers. I have also recently developed a recording studio where I will be recording all of our music and eventually other artists as well. I am grateful for my musical ability because it’s the only way I can truly communicate and connect with other people. In so many ways my music is my voice. I’m grateful to be part of such an amazing team (Grupo Imagen) and I’m thankful for the support I receive from my family and friends especially my husband.” Amelia Gomez is the bass player for Grupo Imagen as well as one of the song writers and co-producers. Amelia shares, “Music has always played a role in our family. I remember my family singing songs as we worked in the cotton fields of Big Spring, TX as a child. When I was 13 my sister, Silvia, taught me how to play the bass guitar. In 2001 I wrote my first song entitled “Dano”. I remember it just flowing out of me and onto the paper. I have always loved writing but had never written a song before that. It wasn't until 2013 that I joined Grupo Imagen and “Dano” was recorded. Putting the feeling of the love and support that we have received with Grupo Imagen is impossible but know that we are truly blessed and appreciative of every one of you. Thank you.” AWW wishes Silvia and her musical family continuing successes in all their musical projects! For further information: silvianavarro361@gmail.com |
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2021 Virtual AAA Master Class & Concert Series in New York with Dr. William Schimmelby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 The American Accordionists' Association (AAA) will present a 2021 Master Class & Concert Series with Dr. William Schimmel, moderator and curator, from July 30th to August 1st, 2021. This event will be held online the same as the very successful 2020 event. Entitled "The Twilight Time" (The magical place from light to darkness), the AAA Master Class and Concert Series will feature daily masterclasses from 3:PM to 4:PM and concerts from 4:PM to 5:PM.Welcome to our 27th Year and like last year, the master classes and concerts will be virtual. The topics will include: A new AAA commissioned work 51 ways to go - oom pah Playing the Accordion for babies The use of the Accordion for Special needs adults Sea Shanties The accordion in confined space The Accordion and Alcohol - including Happy Hour The Accordion and no Alcohol - Coffee and Culture New exciting videos The accordion and the “chi” The resonance of the accordion when absent Which/What - Which accordion for what purpose Unusual accordions and accordion replacements and how to use them Art Songs, Indie Songs and new takes on Rapture Hymns and Psychedeliia And Twilight Time: The short list of featured participants will include: Micki Goodman, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Paul Stein, Will Holshouser, Dr. Denise Koncelik, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Michael Schimmel, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, John Foti, Jeanne Velonis, Bachtopus, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Mary Spencer Knapp, Charita Paramikatorn, Sarah Starpoli, Miwa Gemini, Jennie Muoio, Erica Marie Mancini, Carl Riehl, Doug Makofka, Bob Goldberg, David Stoler, Benjamin Ickies, Corn Mo, Brian Dewan, Mike’s Place (Mike, Edith, Keith, Tony, Brian, Micki), Ted Nash, The Yorkvillians, Melissa Elledge, Rachel Quirbach, Rachel Swaner, Elaine Yau, Peter Flint, Robert Duncan, Mayumi Mayaoka, Dan Cooper, Michio Suzuki, John Ferraro, Dave Soldier, David First, Peter Jarvis, Linda Reed, Raymond Storms, Natasia Thweatt, Gene Pritsker, Quentin Tice, Milica Paranosic, Elliott Sharp and others to be announced. - and Dr. Schimmel (the long list on the downloadable flyer may contain some past participants) The Zoom links will be provided shortly before the event $110 for entire weekend - $25 per individual master class or concert - $40 per day (includes Master Class and Concert) Download the AAA Masterclass flier for a full list of participants and reservation information: 2021AAAMasterClass.pdf Online reservations: http://www.ameraccord.com/annualmasterclass.php |
NAA Weekly Challenge 19: Independence Dayby Sharon Seaton, Ed.D. |
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 Professor Sharon R. Seaton, Ed.D., Coordinator, NAA Training Center Coordinator is organizing the links for the NAA's COVID-19 Survival Kit (See March USA news for more details):Here is the NAA Weekly Challenge 19: Independence Day 1. The NAA is offering to our members and guests what we have named the “52 Challenge.” Once a week for the next 52 weeks, we will create a project for you to initiate or complete that involves the accordion or some aspect of music. You will receive an email each Friday that reveals and explains the activity. Some activities will be quite easy to perform while others will consist of a more extended commitment of time and effort. 2. Our mission is to encourage our members to continue pursuing their love of the accordion! This is not a time for a break in accordion activity. It is true that most public accordion engagements have been on hold for the last year because of the need for players to remain distanced from each other and from audiences. We have missed playing and have missed each other! Weekly Challenge 19: July 4 is just around the corner! Americans everywhere in the U.S.A. will be celebrating our country’s birthday in some way: picnics, cookouts, family get-togethers, firework displays. Our Week 19 Challenge is to be prepared to play at least one patriotic number on the accordion, and to perform it for at least one person. There are a number of patriotic songs to choose from, such as "America the Beautiful"," My Country Tis of Thee", "God Bless America", "Star-Spangled Banner", "You’re a Grand Old Flag", "Yankee Doodle Dandy", "This Land is Your Land". If this will be a new experience for you, and since there are just a few days until the Fourth, you may want to choose an easier one to learn. "My Country Tis of Thee" or "America the Beautiful" are relatively simple. When I was a freshman music major in college music theory class, we were required to be able to play “My Country Tis of Thee” in every key. Of course, we did not have access to the music in all the keys, so that meant we had to transpose the song “in our heads.” While this was a bit of a challenge for some students, it is also a good skill to have if one is accompanying a singer. Sometimes singers will find the written key of a song to be in an uncomfortable range for their voice and will ask you to change keys . Week 19 Challenge for you is to play the song you choose, either by finding the music, which should be available online if necessary, or by playing it “by ear.” Then, if you are up to it, try playing it in one or more different keys. And as you do this, notice the highest notes and the lowest notes. As you will see, every key is not appropriate for most singers! I hope you have a fun-filled holiday and that you will consider adding a little live music to your social gathering! Please mark your calendar! National Accordion Conventions: The NAA conventions will continue to be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in North Dallas Hotel until further notice. The scheduled dates are: * March 16-19, 2022 * March 15-18, 2023 Dr. Sharon R. Seaton, NAA Director accordionsharon@yahoo.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Jamie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues Teach 3 Courses at Fairbanks Summer Arts Festivalby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Accordionists Jamie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues will give performances and teach the accordion classes throughout the week including 3 courses at the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival from July 26 to July 30, 2021.. The location is: Journey Church 1201 Hoselton Rd Fairbanks, Alaska Accordion Course Descriptions: 1. “Accordion For Kids” Open to kids ages 5-12. July 26 to July 30, 2021.Come try out an accordion! This workshop will give a demonstration of how the accordion works, including a look at the inside and a chance to see and touch all the parts, along with the opportunity for your child to play one. Instruments will be provided and private lessons will be available during the week. 2. “Accordion - Playing through Tunes” Ages 18+ July 26 to July 30, 2021 4:45 to 6:15 PM We will walk through a variety of different styles featuring accordion i.e. Latin, Norwegian, and French and talk about a few tips and tricks to play more authentically and relaxed. There will be written arrangements for two or more accordions. We will have the opportunity to share these at the final concert series. Beginners welcome. 3. “Accordion Workshop” Ages 18+ July 26 to July 30, 2021 3:15 to 4:30 PM Jump deeper into accordion. Learn about the accordion mechanics, and some theory that allows you to open up opportunities on the accordion. Different bass accompaniment outside of our typical ¾ and 4/4 patterns. This will include chord combining techniques and some bellows tips. Must be able to read music. Jamie is based in Seattle, WA where she studied accordion under three-time Latin Grammy Nominee, Jovino Santos Neto at Cornish College of the Arts. Her main projects are Seattle’s only Brazilian forró band, En Canto, and Accordion duo with Gabe Hall-Rodrigues, Creosote. The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) has featured Jamie in their Museum of Making Music exhibit titled “Accordions: Expanding Voices in the USA”. She recently accompanied the Seattle Symphony’s live scoring of “Lord of the Rings”, and played the accordion part in Tchaikovsky's “Suite No.2” with the Seattle Philharmonic. In October 2019, Jamie was "Nellie Friedman" in Seattle Repertory Theater’s run of Paula Vogel’s Tony award winning play, Indecent. Jamie is a frequent guest performer and presenter of stylized Brazilian and Tango music at numerous festivals. She works for accordion manufacturer Petosa Accordions, where she is able to share her passion and actively participate in the reinvention and face of the traditional Instrument. Gabe also loved music from an early age. He began piano lessons at age seven. “My teacher was perfect for me as he allowed me to play by ear as well as with music”. He studied with the same teacher from age 7 to 18. In school, he sang in the choirs and played baritone saxophone in the band. Gabe attended Arizona State University (ASU) where he received his bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy in 2011 and his master’s degree in Jazz Piano Performance in 2013. He studied under the award-winning pianist and composer, Mike Kocour. Gabe taught in the Arizona school system and at a private school for ten years, spent a year in Recife, Brazil where he studied Brazilian music and performed with local musicians, and toured the US with the folk rock band “Jared and the Mill” as their accordionist. While in Seattle touring with Jared and the Mill, he visited Petosa Accordions where he and Jamie met each other. Both loved Brazilian music and Jamie invited Gabe to open for her band EnCanto. They began a musical association and fell in love with each other. A multi-ethnic female-led sextet, En Canto, is Seattle's only Forró band. Forró music is a combination of multiple Brazilian rhythms including baião, xote and arrasta-pé. The word refers to both the musical genre and the accompanying partner dance party events where it is heard. Additional Performances: 7/18: Creosote at the Bainbridge Summer Art Market . Creosote is the dynamic accordion duo with renowned Seattle accordionists Jamie Maschler and Gabriel Hall-Rodrigues, together they create original and Brazilian music inspired arrangements with a unique and endearing twist. Excerpts from their website: They have performed at several accordion events throughout the country, perform regularly in Seattle and recently were featured performers at the National Association of Music Merchants’ (NAMM) Museum of Making Music. 8/21: Seattle Parks Department present En Canto Deception Pass (more details to follow) For further information: Jamie.maschler@gmail.com |
Dan Newton, "Daddy Squeeze" Summer Accordion Eventsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Accordionist Dan Newton AKA Daddy Squeeze & Elizabeth are streaming live again! Monday, July 5, 2021 12:Noon CT. Send your requests to daddysqueeze@yahoo.com then watch live or later at Facebook.Additional July and August 2021 Performances Include: July 11: Daddy Squeeze @ Waldmann Brewery, St. Paul 2-3:30pm. July 15 7:PM: Celebrate all things French with CAO on the outdoor Belvedere stage at Crooners. Get tickets in advance by calling (763) 760-0062. 6161 Highway 65 NE, Minneapolis, MN August 2 12 -1:PM : Daddy Squeeze Live Stream August 8 2:-3:30 PM : Daddy Squeeze @ Waldmann Brewery, St. Paul 2-3:30pm August 19 7- 8:30 PM : Cafe Accordion Orchestra @ the Crooners, Fridley MN August 26 and 27: 3:15 PM -6:30 PM : Cafe Accordion Orchestra at the Minnesota State Fair Excerpts from his website: Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton has been dazzling audiences with his creative accordion style for over 30 years. His fresh approach to the accordion and his mind-boggling repertoire of both original and traditional material will change the mind of the most hardened accordion skeptic. Dan draws influences for songs and tunes from such sources as French Musette, Gypsy Swing, Cajun, Jug band, Tex-Mex and Cumbia. He calls this global gumbo “ethnoclectic” music. Daddy Squeeze entertains and also enlightens his audiences with stories and colorful anecdotes about the accordion and his experiences while making a living playing the instrument he loves. Dan has produced more than 25 albums for himself, his band, and other performers. He has appeared on recordings by other artists such as Garrison Keillor, Son Volt, The Proclaimers, Peter Ostroushko, Prudence Johnson and Pat Donohue. His music was featured for one season on MTV's series The Real World: Paris. Dan has performed at the Lincoln Center, NY, Kennedy Center, Washington DC, Accordion Festivals in Vienna, Austria, San Antonio, TX and Cotati, CA, Bastille Days in Milwaukee, WI, Kaustinen Folk Festival in Finland and the Winnipeg Folk Festival. Dan was also a frequent guest on the Garrison Keillor’s radio show A Prairie Home Companion. Dan spends much of his time playing accordion with his group Café Accordion Orchestra, performing Vintage Swing, Latin, American, and French Café music. He leads a number of other bands including; Jumbo Ya Ya, The Rockin’ Pinecones, The Hula Peppers, and The Daddy Squeeze Band. For further information: daddysqueeze@yahoo.com |
Cory Pesaturo Performs on TV Game Show "Let's Make a Deal"by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Cory Pesaturo performed on the popular television game show “Let’s Make a Deal” on June 4th, 2021. Watch his performance on the video above.Cory has won many musical awards. Cory won the trio of World Championships on Acoustic, Digital & Jazz Accordion, and is an accordion graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA. In 2017, Pesaturo because a Guinness World Record Holder, as Redbull flew him to Austria to break the Marathon Accordion Record - Cory played for over 32 hours! Cory has given 2 TED Talks, 2 Google Talks, and an EG Talk, and has spoken at various other conferences on the accordion. He performed at the White House for President and Mrs. Clinton on 4 occasions and became the youngest person ever to perform at a State Dinner. His TV appearances have include: The Late Show with David Letterman, performing with Johnny Depp, and Nationally televised programs in New Zealand, Canada, Italy, Tunisia, France and Finland. Cory has a vast accordion repertoire and is not restricted to jazz. He has performed at accordion festivals and clubs, private parties and social events across USA and beyond. Besides performing, Cory has judged accordion competitions in US, Canada and Europe and has given master classes at various universities throughout the US and Europe on the Accordion and Improvisation. His mission to the accordion world, is to teach all players that aiming for the “Best Musician you can be regardless of your instrument,” is far more important than trying to be the “Best Accordionist/ Instrumentalist.” |
Meet Accordionist “Papa Joe” DeClementeby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Do you know Papa Joe De Clemente? He 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. Before COVID,“Papa Joe” De Clemente volunteered 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. Accordionist Papa Joe DeClemente said, “Without a doubt, the COVID-19 situation has had a tremendous impact on everyone. When the crisis hit us in March of 2020, everything in New York shut down. Gigs got either cancelled or postponed. In addition, the Elementary School band that I worked with got cancelled. But hopefully they will start up again in September 2021.However, within a short time thereafter, I noticed that there was a light, not at the end of the tunnel, but in that tunnel and it wasn’t a train heading my way. The Covid crisis had its biggest impact on the larger parties but I noticed that people still did their best to work around that. The crisis actually created more smaller parties and the accordion entertainment business became more attractive. Over the past year I have play more engagements & weddings than in the prior seven years combined. Besides engagements & weddings, restaurants have started to open their doors to live entertainment. For me, I found that I had to avoid singing, during those days, but that helped me to improve my playing techniques. In February, I played a Sweet 16 Birthday party for a member of the Johnson & Johnson family which was held outdoors on a hill top. Despite the crazy weather conditions, it turned out to be one of my favorite gigs and I was treated exceptionally well. Attached is a photo of that gig. Now that the mask requirements have been lifted for vaccinated people, which I am one, I started using my singing talent with the accordion again and I am having a blast.” 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 52 years this August 17th 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. Music teacher, Linda Holcomb adds, “Performing for nursing homes and Senior Centers brings such joy to the people there. They love to see the children play their accordions. Our students always come home from those trips so excited, having experienced how their music can really be a blessing to others.” Joe hopes to resume teaching and repairing accordions at the school ASAP. Joe’s accordion schedule for July 2021 is as follows: July 3rd - Wedding July 6th - Village Lanterne July 9th - Children’s BirthdayParty July 10th - Square Dance July 11th - Birthday Party July 13th - Village Lanterne July 18th - Reunion July 20th - Village Lanterne July 27th - Village Lanterne July 30th - Wedding Joe shares, “In August, I am planning on doing some traveling, about 4,000 miles worth, and I will be bringing one of my squeezeboxes with me. I have already started to contact other accordionists whom I plan to visit and play with.” Papa Joe is an enthusiastic, positive, and encouraging force in the accordion world! For further information: Joedeclemente@yahoo.com |
Marek Kalinowski Entertained at Milwaukee Accordion Clubby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Video:" Slovak Czardasz" by Marek Kalinowski & Peter HerzThe Milwaukee Accordion Club were happy to present a live concert by guests Peter Herz on violin and accordionist Marek Kalinowski on June 28th, 2021 at the Root River Center in Franklin, Wisconsin, USA. This accordion and violin duo performed a mix of American standards, Tangos, Polish ethnic music and singing in Polish. The aim of the Milwaukee club is to stimulate a positive attitude toward the performance of music on the accordion by strengthening relationships with fellow musicians, expanding knowledge of the accordion and accordion playing, and by developing various musical programs to acquaint the general public with the education and entertainment values of the accordion. For further information: skylinerguy@gmail.com |
Online: International Youth Music Competitions 2021 - USAby Rob Howard |
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 The organization International Youth Music Competitions LLC, Atlanta, will hold competitions online this year due to Covid-19 restrictions. The executive team is Dr. Adriana Janse van Rensburg, Dr. Vera Ilyushina, Marija Maksimova, and Nicolette Venter.The event is a monthly music competition for all instruments, levels, styles and genres of music making. Participants are now invited to take part in the July World Music category which will include art music by national/local composers, traditional/ethnic music, arrangements of folk and traditional music, and adaptations of folk/ethnic/traditional music. Age categories include: Young Musicians: age 7 and younger Junior 1: age 8 and 9 Junior 2: ages 10 to 13 Senior: ages 14 to 18 Collegiate: age 19 to 26 Open: 27+ Mixed: Mixed ages Entries will be accepted from July 1st to 31st, 2021. Results will be emailed to entrants from August 24th to 26th, 2021. Download competition rules and entry form here: 2021-IYMC.pdf |
OLLI Zoom Class on Accordion+Music+Culture Available for Adults 50+by Pamela Tom |
 David Noferi (Los Angeles Accordionaires President) will give an 8-week internet accordion lecture series via ZOOM on Thursdays (July 8 – August 26, 2021 from 1:30 – 3:00 PM) for players or curious students aged 50+. The program is sponsored by the Osher Lifelong Learning Ins tute (OLLI) at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). The course is $15 plus semi- annual membership fee of $20. Scholarships are available for people with financial need which results in students paying 10%. Sign-up starts June 14, 2021 at 9 AM. For further details visit the CSULB OLLI website: csulb.edu/olli, email: olli@csulb.edu or call: (562) 985-8237. This course is an overview of the accordion and how it is embraced in cultures throughout the globe. Whether you are a student of history or different cultures or simply curious about the instrument, you will find many points of interest across many genres of music. Classes consist of story-telling (sometimes humorous) supported by music videos to provide audio-visual examples. Open discussion is encouraged. Class limit: 12. (Source: The Sun Summer Class Catalog, 2018. CSULB OLLI) Dave Noferi teaches piano accordion in Long Beach, South Bay, and Los Angeles Areas and online. Excerpts from his website: David is a retired Architect with a history of accordion playing in the Boston and Seattle areas, playing weddings, private affairs and Italian Restaurants prior to moving to LA. Dave is very active in accordion festivals and conventions on the west coast and is a co-organizer for the student scholarship competitions at the Cotati Accordion Festival, Cotati, CA. He is currently President of the Los Angeles Accordion Club. He may be found performing at local farmer’s markets, restaurants, senior centers, and various private events in So Cal. His repertoire consists of diverse selections of music ( Latin, Italian, French, etc ), American song-book standards, folk, country and pop, etc. Check out the OLLI Class Catalog. A wide variety of courses of interest including: yoga, iPad, i-Phone, art, gardening, blue grass guitar, writing, etc. Some courses are free including: SSI and Medicare, an introductory harmonica course, and more. |
Dominic Karcic Performs for Bastille Day Festivitiesby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Accordionist Dominic Karcic will perform for Bastille Day festivities on July 14 and July 15, 2021 at 6:PM at La Baraka Restaurant, 255-09 Northern Boulevard, Little Neck, NY.Originally from Astoria, NY AAA Board member, accordionist, pianist, and band leader, Dominic Karcic attended St. Francis of Assisi grammar school, William Cullen Bryant high school, New York College of Music where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree and continued his education at the City University of New York (CCNY) where he received his Masters Degree in Music. Dominic was one of the founders and first president of the Adriatic Islands Charity Committee and served as its president for thirteen years during his tenure the committee raising thousands of dollars for senior citizen homes, hospitals and churches in the Mali Losinj (Lussin Piccolo) area of Croatia. The organizations first fund raiser at the Oyster Bay caterering house in Astoria, NY attracted nine-hundred and fifty people and Dominic and his orchestra supplied the music for the monumental event. Dominic has always played professionally (accordion and piano) in the New York metropolitan area and continues to do so today. He and his musicians “The Continental Sound” have been house musicians at the Columbus Citizens Foundation (NYC) for over twenty-five years and he has played for organizations like the Valtarese Foundation (Parma, Italy), Fubinese Society (Piemonte, Italy), Italian Charities of Queens, NY, Italian Heritage Association of Long Island, La Pace Restaurant (Glen Cove, NY) and also at Magnanini Winery in Wallkill, NY. His love for the Valtaro Musette music was instilled in him through his years of study with noted accordionist Peter Spagnoli. In recent years he has been involved in the preservation and documentation of this musical style. He collaborated in writing a biographical article on the life and career of accordionist John “Scudlein” Brugnoli (founder of the Valtaro Musette Orchestra). He and fellow accordionist Ray Oreggia have given workshop presentations on the Valtaro Musette style for the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA), Connecticut Accordion Association (CAA), Maryland Accordion Club, the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) and the Istria Women’s Club (Astoria, NY). Dominic founded the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) The wide spread success of LIAA events has endeared it to accordionists and accordion music lovers from all over the New York Metro area and has made it (LIAA) and its events the “Voice of the Accordion on Long Island.” He also created and performs with various singers in a program titled "From Broadway to the Met” which features the music of the American Song Book and Opera. For further information: dkarcic10@gmail.com |
Jack Garton Performs at Victoria Event Centre - Canadaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 Video: Jack Garton and the Demon SquadronMusician Jack Garton will perform on Saturday, July 3, 2021 at the Victoria Event Centre. Tickets from Victoria Event Centre. All-Ages / ID Required for Alcohol Service Early show: Doors: 7PM / Show: 7:30PM-8:30PM Late show: Doors: 9:30PM / Show: 10PM-11PM Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, now living on Galiano Island, Jack Garton has been making exciting music and theatre professionally for 15 years. Equally at home in the dense rain forest and eclectic West Coast arts scenes, he is sought after as both a collaborator and solo artist. Jack has forged a unique sound on the trumpet, playing as a sideman with many BC roots acts, including most recently Petunia and the Vipers, blending a traditional jazz style with a sense of forward-looking adventure. Exerpts from his website: Whether performing with his touring band, The Demon Squadron, or solo, armed with an accordion, trumpet and drums, his show is dynamic, fluid, and fun. Playing a steady stream of festivals, clubs, house concerts and halls has honed the sound and performance into an impressive and unique experience. Jack Garton's show is a roller-coaster tour through roots music in the folk and blues traditions. Performing up to 5 instruments at once as a one-man band, it's a virtuosic high-wire act, and a lot of fun. The Victoria Multicultural Society operates the Victoria Event Centre (VEC), located in downtown Victoria, Lkwungen Territory. Opening its doors in 2003, the VEC has quickly become a favourite venue for emerging artists and local community organizers. |
Vancouver Squeezebox Circle Meets on July 2by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The Vancouver Squeezebox Circle (BC Canada) takes place on Friday, July 2, 2021 from 7 to 9:PM as a virtual Zoom session.If you would like to lead songs, check the website for a collection of tunes or email a PDF of something new to: squeezeboxcircle@gmail.com. Note that duets or other multi-part arrangements are more challenging to do on Zoom! You're always welcome to play a song (or several songs) without sheet music. The August meeting will tentatively be in Maclean Park. Although Bandcamp Fridays are off, the Accordion Babes' "Accordion Fridays" are still in effect, as part of which your Circle host Rowan Lipkovits will perform an hour-long videostream of his "Stupid Accordion Tricks" to the Zoom conference room from 6-7:PM. Jack Garton has performances scheduled for July 3rd and 9th at the Victoria Event Centre and Saltspring Legion Hall, respectively. (See the article about him in this publication.) There will be a mystery accordion celebration performance scheduled for Maclean Park on August 21, 2021. For further information about meetings and music: squeezeboxcircle@gmail.com |
Future events |
2021 Not Just Oompah! Accordion Concert & Workshop Featuring Joseph Natoliby Shirley Johnson and Laura J. Niland, Co-founders of NJO |
 It’s time for more summer fun with Not Just Oompah! featuring Joseph Natoli, who will present a two-day workshop on “Music Composition” and a special online Concert as well. The 2021 Zoom Workshops are scheduled for: Monday, August 23 and Tuesday, August 24 from 7:00 - 9:30 PM Central Time each night. Cost: $70 includes all workshop materials delivered by email and a free concert admission. The Natoli Concert will be held on ZOOM and will feature a variety of music from Joe’s creative collection. Sunday, August 22 from 3:00 - 4:PM Central Time & is free to those taking the workshop. Additional Concert tickets are $25 to view the concert only. Registration is required to view the concert. Visit the website www.NotJustOompah.org for more details, registration, and payment. The NJO workshop will focus on Composing Music and will also include these topics: 1.Critical Elements in Composition & Arranging, 2.Alternative Stradella Chord Voicings with examples, 3.Using Accordion Registers Effectively (How to Orchestrate Possibilities Beyond That Master Switch) 4.How to Play Musically which is more than just notes to consider. Joe will lead you through the process of composing and arranging so that you can find your creative ninja! Joseph Natoli is a master musician, performer, arranger, composer, and teacher. He is a past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild (ATG) and in addition to his many projects, he is the co-founder and co-director of IDEAS (International Digital Accordion Society). Joe’s education includes a Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in music theory and composition from the University of Toronto (Canada) Faculty of Music. Although he started his musical career mostly as a performer, he has always been interested in composition, and in recent years his focus is more on his compositional craft. Natoli has written many original pieces in all musical styles and genres for standard and free bass accordion, all of which are available by inquiries to janpressmusic@yahoo.com , including his latest pieces: "Children’s Suite" for accordion solo; "Smooth" (a Latin jazz piece for solo or accordion quintet); 2018 commission for the American Accordionists’ Association (AAA) 80th anniversary entitled "Sonata in F Major (in the Classical Style)"; and another 2019 AAA commission for 2 accordions, cello and percussion called "Child’s Play". Joe has numerous recordings in both all-acoustic accordion and all-digital accordion. His CDs are available on his JANPress website www.JANPRESSmusic.com. Joe continues to compose new pieces daily, enjoying the creative process. We look forward to seeing you at this exciting workshop presentation. Explore your own creative talents and have fun learning with Joe Natoli. Joe will help you through the process of writing your own compositions with a few surprises along the way. Join us for the NJO summer fun at the “Music Composition” Workshop with Joseph Natoli. Again, the Zoom concert is Sunday afternoon, August 22. Be sure to register for the concert if you are not attending the workshop. For more details, registration, and payment visit the website: www.NotJustOompah.org For more information please contact: Shirley Johnson, co-founder NJO 512-680-0422 ShirleyJ@Vjeverica.com accsaj@gmail.com or Laura J. Niland, cofounder, NJO 210-651-4359 Ljniland@texas.net |
2021 Rose City Accordion Camp in Eagle Creekby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 The Rose City Accordion Camp will be held at the Collins Retreat Center in Eagle Creek, Oregon, USA from August 29th to September 3rd, 2021. The Rose City Accordion Club was formed in 1996 by a group of people who love playing this fantastic musical instrument. RCAC is a non-profit organization created exclusively for educational purposes within the meaning of section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. The club currently has 95 members ranging from teenager through senior citizen, amateur players, professionals and folks who do not play the accordion but love to listen to the music it produces. The Rose City Accordion Camp will include workshops led by Courtney von Drehle and Toby Hanson, solos, small group playing and large group jamming in the evening as well as an orchestra conducted by Beverley Fess and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues. All attendees must have had the COVID vaccination unless there is a medical condition certified by a doctor. Masks are required. For details email: bevo925@comcast.net |
It's Official! The 2021 Cotati Accordion Festival Is Happening!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| We are happy to report that the 2021 Cotati Accordion Festival will be live in September! The 30th Annual Nonprofit, Multi-cultural, internationally renowned Cotati Accordion Festival will be taking place this coming September 25th & 26, 2021 in La Plaza Park in downtown Cotati, Ca. This year's theme was to celebrate the 30th Annual milestone by riding the wave of the new "Roaring 20's". However, because of the stress and suffering so many have had to endure the last two years, we are merely centering on "bringing joy back to our lives". The two day multi-generational event will feature a vast array of old favorites from virtuosos like Cory Pesaturo to the creativity of a Sourdough Slim, and new main stage surprises like Sergei Teleshev and his daughter Maria to the likes of Junk Parlor, Hernandez Hideaway and Nathan and Jessie. The event will be following Sonoma County guidelines while having as normal an event as possible, including the multiple stages, vendors, food, beer and wine. Tickets are limited, get them now online! They will also soon be available at all four Oliver's Markets, The Next Record Store, Tall Toad Music and People's Music. Tickets are on sale: $21.00 for a one-day ticket at the gate $29.00 for a two-day ticket at the gate. This year there is an early bird special: If you buy your ticket by July 4, 2021: $17.00 for a one-day ticket, a savings of $4.00 $25.00 for a two-day ticket, a savings of $4.00 If you buy your ticket by August 15th: $18.00 for a one-day ticket, a savings of $3.00 $26.00 for a two-day ticket, a savings of $3.00 If you buy your ticket by September 25th: $19.00 for a one-day ticket, if you buy your ticket in advance of the event. $27.00 for a two-day ticket. or more information call Scott Goree at 707 479-5481 C.A.F. hotline 707 664-0444 Email: info@cotatifest.com By mail at C.A.F, 29 Mission Drive, Petaluma, ca., 94952. |