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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
UMKC Accordion Orchestra Celebrates 50th and Final Concert, Kansas City - USA
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
AAA Festival: July 13-17 in Charleston
2011 ATG and Roland Festival July 27-31st in Orlando
Roland-USA V-Accordion Festival Entries Close, Florida - USA
Dee Langley, Orkestar Bez Ime (OBI) group Wins McKnight Artist Fellowship - USA
Fremar Foundation Presents ‘Music & Merlot’ Concert, Kansas City – USA
18th Annual Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration
Eugene Ettore: 90th Birthday Memorial Website
Stephen Dominko: CD is Now Available
American Accordionists' Association Launches Youth Involvement Program
AAA Master Class and Concert Series, NYC July 29-31st
ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 to Honor Tony Lovello
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Accordionist Jane Christison: Children's Entertainer
Standing Ovations for Frank Marocco Concert, Klingenthal – Germany
Vivant!-“The Kansas City Sound” & Fremar Tour Wisconsin, U.S.A
Silvia Eberly, Washington, DC’s Austrian Gem
'House' star Hugh Laurie's CD Features Accordion, Los Angeles - USA
National Button Accordion Festival, Pennsylvania – USA
South 9th Street Italian Market Festival, Philadelphia - USA
WMAS Sponsors Italian Night Dinner Dance – A Huge Success
Future events |
Cory Pesaturo's Summer Concerts
LIAA June Meeting
Alex and Peter Chudolij to Perform at July Roland Festival
First Wallace Accordion Festival in Idaho, August 11-14
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 Summer is beginning! Time to slow down, relax, enjoy life, and attend accordion events around the country!Read this month's USA news to see what, when, where, and why it is happening! Find out about all the accordionists who are getting ready to educate and entertain you! Enjoy the summer! |
UMKC Accordion Orchestra Celebrates 50th and Final Concert, Kansas City - USAby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
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 The University of Missouri Kansas City - UMKC Accordion Orchestra presented a stunning final concert on Sunday May 22nd 2011 in front of a capacity audience at White Recital Hall on the UMKC Campus, bringing to a close 50 spectacular years of music making under the leadership of founder and Musical Director Joan Cochran Sommers.Presenting works by: Piazzolla. Rossini, Jackson, Josipović, Delibes, Verdi, Lecuona, Anderson, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Sawyer, Loewe, and Franceschina, the grand finale included many former orchestra members as well as an 80 voice choir. Although the 50th Anniversary Concert marked the final concert of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra, attracting many alumni from across the country to rejoin the group to celebrate this historical event, Joan Cochran Sommers will continue to organize and present accordion concerts with smaller ensembles and chamber groups made up of former UMKC Accordion orchestra members. As part of the weekend activities, almost 100 alumni from all years of accordion activities at UMKC had a fun filled and emotional celebration dinner, where each former and current orchestra member, during the course of the evening stood and spoke of their adoration for Joan Sommers and the wonderful memories of their affiliation with the UMKC Accordion Orchestra. The orchestra presented their first concert in the Spring of 1961, and during the following five decades became renowned for presenting an array of repertoire from Joan’s spectacular arrangements of the large symphonic and orchestral works to important performances of new original works for accordion, including many that were commissioned for accordion orchestra and everything in between. For a full report of the 50th Anniversary Celebrations, the UMKC Accordion Orchestra history, photos from throughout the years, the 50th Concert program and program notes, as well as numerous photographs from throughout the weekend of celebrations, please visit the UMKC Accordion Orchestra website. For further information email: joansommers@kc.rr.com Purchase 6 CD's from UMKC Accordion Orchestra |
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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: July 13-17 in Charlestonby Rita Barnea |
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| The American Accordionists' Association is proud to announce the 2011 AAA Festival from July 13-17, 2011 at the Sheraton at Charleston Airport, Charleston, South Carolina. At this time, the International Accordion Orchestra Competition will take place. The competition is open to all accordion orchestras. There is no restriction as to the number of members in the orchestra. The minimum requirement is eight accordions. Click 2011AArules for Festival Contest Rules for solos, duets, ensembles, and bands. The deadline for these entries is June 10, 2011. The Festival Orchestra music is available for distribution. The orchestra will be conducted by Joan Sommers. The selections for the concert include: "Sound of Music", "Welcome to Venice", "Phantom of the Opera". Please email AAA1938@aol.com indicating your grade level or send request by FAX 203-335-2048 or by phone: 203-335-2045 Join us as Joan C. Sommers is honored with the AAA's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. There will be cash awards, workshops, exhibits, concerts, and competitions for all ages. The tentative schedule includes: Wednesday.....Registration, Press & Squeeze event Thursday........Luncheon Concert, Cabaret Night Friday.............Massed Band Performance conducted by Frank Busso, Gala Evening Concert Saturday.........Awards Concert, Banquet, Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation, Festival Orchestra conducted by Joan Sommers. Sunday...........Breakfast Meeting and Farewell The AAA Festival Coordinators are: Mary Tokarski, Frank Busso, Linda Soley Reed. Make sure you attend for wonderful, memorable music, friendship, and more! For further information view 2011AArules or the AAA website or email Mary Tokarski: mary.tokarski@comcast.net or Linda Reed at aaa1938@aol.com |
2011 ATG and Roland Festival July 27-31st in Orlandoby Rita Barnea |
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 The ATG welcomes all to their 71st Annual Competition and Festival in Orlando, Florida at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel. Phone: 1-407-240-1000. ATG rates are available 3 days before and after the Festival.The ATG Competition will be held in the following categories: Open Solo, Free Bass Solo, Ethnic/Folk Solo, Polka Solo, Jazz Solo, Diatoni/Button Box , Pop Solo, Digital Accordion Solo, Evaluation, Duets, Ensembles, ad Accordion Orchestra and Accordions with Other Instruments Orchestra. For ATG Entry Forms: wbsimon@earthlink.net The 2011 Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival finals will be on July 29, 2011 during the 71st Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival in Orlando, Florida. There will be three competition categories: Senior (age 18 and older) Junior (age 17 and younger) Diatonic (age 18 and older) Performances will feature Italian accordion artist Sergio Scappini, seven-time diatonic accordion champion Danilo Di Paolonicola, 2010 Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival winner Chris Gorton, father and son artists Alex and Peter Chudolij, Grammy nominee Alex Meixner, and Steve Albini of Roland U.S., Russian accordionist, Oleg Sharov, the Polyphonia Orchestra from the Reunion Islands, The Brian Laurie Accordion Showband from Scotland, Rock n Roll accordionist, Bruce Gassman, and Gordon Kohl. An amazing array of talent awaits those who attend the ATG and Roland Festival this July. During the ATG Festival, attendees will have the opportunity to experience a variety of workshops on a variety of topics including: •Teaching the Accordion - with panel of leading teachers from around the globe •Conducting and Rehearsing Ensembles: hands-on experience with the professionals! •"Perform Confidently" - workshops to enhance your performance, led by national educator and expert, Helen Spielman •Playing Rock and Roll, Pop Styles •Digital Accordion Workshop •Ethnic & Folk Dance Styles anck. For additional information please contact: Virginia Harmon, Roland Festival Coordinator Phone: (323) 890-3776 or E-mail: Virginia@RolandUS.com Steven Albini, V-Accordion Product Manager, Roland Corporation U.S. Phone: 323.890.3700 x 2353 or E-mail: steven.albini@rolandus.com ATG Festival Coordinator: Liz Finch Lizeef@aol.com |
Roland-USA V-Accordion Festival Entries Close, Florida - USAby Steve Albini, Roland Corporation U.S. |
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| Entries close for the Roland US V-Accordion Festival auditions has been extended from June 1st to June 6th. The Roland US V-Accordion Festival takes place at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel 5445 Forbes Place, Orlando, Florida 32812 on July 29th. There are three categories Junior (17 and under), Senior (18 and over) and Diatonic (18 and over). Five contestants from each category will be chosen as finalists. The finalists will be flown to Orlando, Florida to compete on July 29th. The winner of the senior division will represent the US at the international finals in Rome in October. The winners of all Roland US categories will receive a V-Accordion (Senior - FR-7X, Junior - FR-3X and Diatonic - FR-18D). Performances featuring world-renowned accordion artist Sergio Scappini, seven-time diatonic accordion champion Danilo Di Paolonicola, 2010 Roland US V-Accordion Festival winner Chris Gorton, father-and-son artists Alex and Peter Chudolij, Grammy nominee Alex Meixner, and Steve Albini of Roland US are also part of the Roland-USA V-Accordion Festival. For further information email: Virginia@RolandUS.com |
Dee Langley, Orkestar Bez Ime (OBI) group Wins McKnight Artist Fellowship - USAby Rob Howard |
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 Accordionist Dee Langley, part of Orkestar Bez Ime (OBI) group were awarded a McKnight Artist Fellowships for Performing Musicians. Dee Langley writes: “This is the 'Holy Grail' for people in the arts here in Minnesota. “WOW, WOW, WOW!!! We did it! I'm really excited!”.For the 15th year, MacPhail administered the competition, a component of the McKnight Foundation Artist Fellowship program, which is intended to provide recognition and financial support to Minnesota musicians, to enrich Minnesota’s cultural community. Over 116 soloists and ensembles applied submitting recordings, artist statements and resumes from which nine solo/ensemble finalists were chosen, by a panel of national and regional judges, to a live audition on May 6th. They judges awarded four McKnight Artists Fellowships to Minnesota musicians., each award being a $25,000 fellowship. One recipient was the band Orkestar Bez Ime (OBI), whose members are Colleen Bertsch – (violin, vocals), Dee Langley (accordion, vocals), Katrina Mundinger (clarinet, percussion/ vocals), and Natalie Nowytski (vocals, percussion). Orkestar Bez Ime, meaning “orchestra without a name’ in Bulgarian, was formed in 2002 to bring Balkan dance music to the Upper Midwest. Since then OBI has performed at many local Twin Cities venues and has toured in North Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Alabama, and Pennsylvania to critical acclaim. For further information email: squeezermn@yahoo.com |
Fremar Foundation Presents ‘Music & Merlot’ Concert, Kansas City – USAby Karen Fremar |
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 The Fremar Foundation for Accordion Arts offered its inaugural event, “Music & Merlot,” on May 14th in Kansas City, Missouri. The concert featuring popular Kansas City ensemble Vivant! and former U.S. Accordion Champion, Don Lipovac was a resounding success. Attendees enjoyed a wine bar reception and then were treated to a variety concert featuring works by Fremar, Bernstein, Wonder, Jackson, Simons & Marks, as well as several blues tunes and hits from Motown. Don Lipovac performed Romanian and Slovenian works and gave informative discussions about the origins of the works and his button-box instrument. Vivant! tour members Julie Silfverberg, Dee Sligar, Karen Fremar, Gail Overly and Sarah Cantrell, performed a portion of the program that they will perform on their upcoming concert tour of Wisconsin. The Fremar Foundation, Dr. Karen Fremar, Chairman of the Board, was formed in May 2010 to support outstanding artists and artistic contributions to the accordion field. The foundation’s board is comprised of knowledgeable individuals from the legal, corporate and music communities in Kansas City. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Fremar Foundation seeks to educate and inform the public about the unique musical qualities of the accordion, its music and musicians, and its history. The foundation received a significant grant from the Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust, Mr. Daniel C Weary and Bank of America, trustees. A newly commissioned work ‘Night at the Pla-Mor’, by Karen Fremar, which illuminated a famous ballroom in Kansas City was given its World Premiere. The Fremar Foundation will continue to present events in the future featuring accordion artists and works for accordion. For a full report on the concert visit the Vivant! website. For further information email: kfremar@att.net |
18th Annual Leavenworth International Accordion Celebrationby Rita Barnea |
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 The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration, sponsored by the Northwest Accordion Society, will hold their 18th annual festival from June 16-19, 2011 in Leavenworth, Washington.The Northwest Accordion Society has been hosting accordion events in the Northwest for 25 years. Included in it's accomplishments are monthly accordion socials, the annual "Day of the Accordion" at the Seattle Center, accordion scholarships, and it's elegant quarterly publication "The Northwest Accordion News".Leavenworth is Washington’s “Bavarian Village” and a perfect setting for this celebration. Nestled in a cozy narrow valley at elevation of 1100 feet surrounded by wilderness of rugged, majestic mountain ranges, over 2 million visitors per year from all over the world come to experience magical Leavenworth. With the Northwest Accordion Society as your host and Leavenworth as the setting, why not plan to join them and enjoy four wonderful days of everything accordion. Whether you are a competitor, participant or just love great accordion music, there is enjoyment and participation for everyone. Here is a partial list of what is happening: •Accordion Competitions •Workshops •Concerts with World Class Performers •Free Performances at the gazebo, grange, and restaurants •Free Accordion lessons •Accordion Parade on Saturday •Accordion Vendors •Opportunity for all accordion players to play •Jam sessions and much more! The 2011 judges will be Jelena Milojevic from Canada and Mario Pedone from Texas. Workshop presenters will be Bonnie Birch, Paul Fedorowicz, Toby Hanson, Max Kyllonen and Kory Tideman, Jim and Shirley O'Brien, Alicia Baker, Vincenzo Abbracciante, Steve Albini, Jelena Milojevic, and Mario Pedone. Performers include: Jelena Milojevic, Steve Albini, Mario Pedone, The Spokane Accordion Ensemble directed by Patricia Bartell, Vincenzo Abbracciante, The Great Old Time Palooza, a lively performance of Old Time music featuring: Bonnie Birch, Toby Hanson, Rod Miller, Max Kyllonen and Kory Tideman, and Jim and Shirley O'Brien Don't miss this exciting accordion event which promises something special for everyone! For more information: Bonnie Birch …Bonniebirch@msn.com |
Eugene Ettore: 90th Birthday Memorial Websiteby Rita Barnea |
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| June 2nd 2011 would have been the 90th birthday of Eugene Ettore. In honor of his birthday, I have updated the website with photos of his many distinguished awards and honors which he received over the years. All of these prestigious awards are on a wall in his home in Livingston, NJ . where his daughter, Carol, and family still live. Carol kindly loaned me these awards, and in scanned form are now included here for you to see. In addition, I have added his letters, artwork, and other interesting articles written about him. The Eugene Ettore website will be continuously updated. If you have any letters or original manuscript scores by Eugene Ettore, I would greatly appreciate knowing about them. Please contact me at: Ritabelll@aol.com. Additionally, I will include on this website recollections and remembrances by accordionists who knew Eugene Ettore. If you have programs or news articles which you do not see on this website, I would appreciate your sending a copy to me at Email: Ritabelll@aol.com . Eugene Ettore is a very important and valuable part of the development of the accordion. It is hoped that all - especially the younger generation of upcoming accordion artists - learn about him and include his music in their repertoire. Future plans for the website include mp3 examples of his compositions as recorded by Rita Davidson. Additional plans include the availability of his music at www.musicforaccordions.com For further information: Ritabelll@aol.com |
Stephen Dominko: CD is Now Availableby Rita Barnea |
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| Concert accordionist Stephen Dominko has released a new CD, now available. The order of the pieces on the CD are as follows: 1 Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 - Franz Liszt 2 Traumerei - Schumann 3 Sonata No. 7 in D - Joseph Haydn 4 Poet Speaks - (Der Dichter Spricht ) - Schumman 5 Prelude in G Minor - English Suite No. 3 - J. S. Bach 6 Capriccio - D. Scarlatti 7 Allemande - J.S. Bach 8 Fantasia "The Wanderer" Op. 15 - Franz Schubert Stephen Dominko will perform at the 4th Annual ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 Festival on Saturday, August 13, 2011 at the Nashua Courtyard Marriott Nashua, New Hampshire. He will present a Lecture-Demonstration on Technique & Style on Saturday morning. Stephen P. Dominko’s life of music was set in motion when he was just five years old. While listening to a recording of Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival” he ran from the room crying. When his parents asked him what was wrong, he told them, “The music is too beautiful to listen to.” At that time, the accordion was a popular instrument. Hee began taking lessons with Rudolf Molinaro. When Stephen was 10, he was a guest on the Sam Levenson Television Show. Immediately following that appearance, his concert career began. Remarkably by age 13, Stephen Dominko was the youngest US Open Champion in history. Stephen played his first of two concerts at New York’s Carnegie Hall at age 14, his second at age 18. During this same period, he was competing at the international level representing the United States, becoming the youngest-ever World Champion at 17. Upon auditioning for the Mannes College of Music, Stephen placed as a sophomore. He studied with John Goldmark, majoring in music theory and analysis. In 1966, Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic staged international auditions to find six of the world’s most talented young musicians. After a series of auditions, Stephen and five others were chosen. They performed on The Bell Telephone Hour from Lincoln Center. Stephen who performed the "Chopin F Minor Concerto", was the only accordionist ever to play with The New York Philharmonic. Recording, concerts, TV and radio performances followed. The young Dominko delighted his audiences with his fiery and expressive style. Since 1985 Stephen Dominko has been composing. He has also studied yoga and meditation. His experience as a VNA Hospice volunteer, combined with his spiritual practices, has largely inspired his compositions. He continues to compose from his home in Washington, New Hampshire. He teaches piano, accordion and composition to a select number of advanced pupils. For more information about ACCORDIONS NOW!!: Suzanne Welch - accman@accordionconnection.com Donna Maria Regis - regisdonna@yahoo.com Co-Founders, ACCORDIONS NOW! Music Festival For information about the CD and Stephen Dominko:vince@cuminotto.com |
American Accordionists' Association Launches Youth Involvement Programby Marilyn O'Neil, Youth Involvement Program Coordinator |
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 Mention the word "accordion" to people over the age of about 30, and you get a rather predictable set of visual and/or auditory responses that are often, but not always, negative, followed by a verbal response along the following lines:"My grandfather/mother/father/uncle used to play the accordion." "We have one in our attic that belonged to ________________ (fill in the blank). (In a whispered tone, eyes shifting) "I used to play." (With a dreamy smile) "I'd love to start playing again, but doubt if I remember how." And, finally, the painfully uttered......"UGH!" Mention that you play the accordion to anyone under the age of 30, and you'll quickly notice that the response is DIFFERENT..... VERY DIFFERENT!!!!! And this has become the "buzz" word as I've investigated and explored young minds in an effort to determine just what kids are thinking about our instrument these days. When I tell a young person that I'm an accordionist, this is what I get (and these are direct quotes): "Really? I listen to _____________ and they use accordion in their music." "My dad played one and we still have it and I've been trying to learn how to play it myself." And my favorite response.... "How cool is that!!!" The American Accordionists' Association has decided that the time has come to confront the issue of attracting youth to the world of the accordion. And we've recognized from our research into the issue, that the approach we take to bringing new, young musicians into our "nest" requires a very different approach; an approach that is nothing like the one that drew us to our instrument many years ago. Our observations over the last several years reveal that once exposed to fine accordion music, young people express a curiosity about it, an openness that can and will, if the curiosity is nurtured, lead to a desire to play it, or include it in their musical pursuits. (A fine example of this new trend at work is the latest US Virtuoso Champion, Gabe Hall Rodrigues.) These young people are often musically experienced, and therefore, have some knowledge of what it's like to learn how to play an instrument. They have not only the desire to explore other musical opportunities, but the means to do so. They are less reliant on their parents. Most importantly, they want to be different from their parents. So, while their parents may encourage trying out the "usual" musical fare, these young people, true to their age and stage, will want to be different in an effort to express their individuality, and declare their independence from their elders. And let's face it, the accordion is different. We oldsters have been touting its benefits for years: its versatility, portability, its ability to capture intense emotion and imitate just about any other instrument. Young people see all of these qualities, too, along with the fact that it's different! The latest digital models, with all their "bells and whistles" appeal a generation that's grown up holding a computer along with their baby bottles. With all of these new developments in mind, the American Accordionists Association is proud to announce an exciting new effort to promote the accordion among young aspiring musicians. The Youth Involvement Program will take place for the first time this year at the AAA's Annual Festival, which will be held in Charleston, South Carolina from July 13-17 at the Sheraton at Charleston Airport. A select group of young accordionists between the ages of 13 and 28 will be joined by Charleston area high school aged youth who play instruments other than accordion. They will form a Jazz Ensemble, conducted by noted Jazz Accordionist and AAA board member Mr. Eddie Monteiro. The ensemble will rehearse on Friday and perform several jazz pieces at the festival's awards ceremony on Saturday afternoon. The response among youthful participants has been overwhelmingly positive! Their primary reasons for joining this endeavor? In the words of all of the registrants: "It's a different experience!" Photos are of Eddie Monteiro and the Charleston Jazz Kids:From left to right Xavier, Anna, Kendrick and Richard. For further information: Marilyn O'Neil....... Marilyn@CTAccordion.com |
AAA Master Class and Concert Series, NYC July 29-31stby Dr. William Schimmel |
 THE AMERICAN ACCORDIONISTS' ASSOCIATION MASTER CLASS AND CONCERT SERIES presentsTHE SEMINARS - 2011 with DR. WILLIAM SCHIMMEL - MODERATOR/CURATOR WALTON THE IMPERIAL, CROWNED! NOT INVITED TO THE ROYAL WEDDING? JOIN US FOR A WEEKEND OF REAL ROYALTY! WELCOME TO OUR SEVENTEENTH YEAR! A WEEKEND OF BLOODY ARISTOCRACY! IMPERIAL ACCORDIONS, ROYAL MODELS, EXCELSIOR, VICTORIA, TITANO, MONARCH, NOBLE, THE EMPORER - TO NAME A FEW! KING OF DOWNTOWN SQUEEZERS, QUEEN IDA, THE NEW ACCORDION QUEEN, KING OF RAGTIME, THE FIRST, THE MAGUS, PEE WEE KING, POLKA KING, THE MADONNA OF THE ACCORDION, THE QUEEN OF COUNTRY, THE ACCORDION KINGS – TITLES! TITLES! TITLES! ACCORDION CULTURE IS A REGAL AFFAIR! ACCORDION ROYALTY! - A TITLE FOR EVERYONE! – EVERYONE WEARS A CROWN FOR THE ENTIRE WEEKEND - KING OF THIS, PRINCE OF THAT, ETC, ETC, ETC. BUT ONLY ONE CAN WEAR THE IMPERIAL CROWN - WILLIAM WALTON! WHAT DOES HE HAVE TO DO WITH ACCORDION CULTURE? HE DIDN'T WRITE FOR THE ACCORDION. WELL, HE WROTE A VIOLA CONCERTO – CLOSE ENOUGH! - A WORK ENTITLED FACADE – ACCORDIONISTS LOVE VAUDEVILLE, SMOKE AND MIRRORS – CLOSE ENOUGH! AND BELSHASSARS'S FEAST – ACCORDIONISTS LOVE TO EAT AND DRINK – CLOSE ENOUGH! HE ALSO WROTE CROWN IMPERIAL AND IT WAS PERFORMED AT THE ROYAL WEDDING! ACCORDION CULTURE IS VEHEMENTLY COMPETITIVE – WALTON IS DEAD – SO NO COMPETITION HERE AND NO COMPETITON AT THE SEMINARS – SO BE IT – WALTON IS THE IMPERIAL - LET'S CROWN HIM! NOT THE KING, WE ALREADY HAVE LOTS OF KINGS - BUT THE IMPERIAL!!!! BETTER THAN ANY KING OR KINGS!!!!! LONG LIVE THE IMPERIAL! THE ROYAL WEEKEND WILL INCLUDE: KING OF RAGTIME MARK BIRNBAUM IN A NEW WORK – THE DUKE OF EARL BROWN KING OF DOWNTOWN SQUEEZERS WILL HOLSHOUSER - JAZZ GREAT RICHARD NIXON'S FAMOUS “CHECKERS SPEECH” SET TO MUSIC THE ACCORDION AND FDR THE TANGO AND SHOPPING GLASGOW – THE TOKYO of the WEST KING ELVIS PEE WEE KING'S TENNESSEE WALTZ WITH VARIATIONS THE EMPEROR'S NEW CLOTHES – BY HUMORIST KEN LAUFER AN INSTALLATION HONORING SILENT FILM MAKER KING VIDOR A LECTURE ON PERFORMING FOR THE HOMELESS BY PAUL STEIN THE ACCORDION AND THE RULING CLASS BY DR. ROBERT YOUNG MC MAHAN AN INTERACTIVE VIDEO BY MICKI GOODMAN LEE MC CLURE'S DIGITAL FLUTE LADY GAGAKU WITH MAMI OKADA AND MR FUKUI DR. SCHIMMEL'S NEW OPERA – THE LAST SUPPER (BUS) DR. HUGO GOLDENZWEIG BRINGING BEETHOVEN TO THE ACCORDIONIST QUEEN OF NORWEGIAN COUNTRY INGRID KVALE JIM THORPE PA'S OWN DOUG MAKOFKA CHANGES (ALAN PRICE) FROM THE FILM, O LUCKY MAN! DAVID FIRST AS DAVID THE FIRST ART BAILEY BRINGS BARTOK AND JAZZ TO A HEAD – AND OFF WITH IT! JOHN FOTI – BACK TO NEW JERSEY – ARISTOCRACY AND BROKEN THUMBS CARL RIEHL'S HARVARD STYLE PUNK RULES! GODFREY AND LORRAINE – THOROUGHBREDS TRUE AND BLUE PRINCE OF STATEN ISLAND DAVID STOLER DR. ROCCO JERRY FROM TROY – LEAVING HELEN AT HOME INSTALLATION ARTIST, CRISTINA SPELIGENE, BAKING A KING CAKE MARTINA LI JOINING US FROM CHINA – SHE DROVE ALL THE WAY MARY TOKARSI – THE QUEEN OF THE AAA – LITERALLY BRIAN DEWAN – CZAR OF THE AUTOHARP – THE ACCORDION'S STRING SECTION AND THE ACCORDION'S OWN BASTARD SON – DR. WILLIAM SCHIMMEL ALL ROYAL PREMIERES – MADE FOR THE OCCASION! AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED! THE ROYAL EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT: THE TENRI CULTURAL INSTITUTE OF NEW YORK 43A WEST 13TH ST – BETWEEN 5TH AND 6TH AVE JULY 29, 30 AND 31 2011 For more information visit the American Accordionists' Association website or email: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 to Honor Tony Lovelloby Rita Barnea |
 The 4th Annual Music Festival, ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011, will be held Friday-Saturday, August 12-13 at the Nashua Courtyard Marriott, Nashua, New Hampshire, their beautiful, new location.ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 has a schedule packed full with talent. Here is the Festival LIneup, in alphabetical order: Concert Artists & Workshop Presenters: ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival Orchestra, Rita Davidson, Stephen Dominko, Fabio & Fabio, Sam Falcetti, Lynda Fish, Evan Harlan, Tony Lovello, Gary Morin, Donna Maria Regis, Jerry Tramontozzi, Carmen Vitanza, Arthur Welch, and a surprise or two... Read in the June USA news about many of the featured performers. The Festival Schedule features concerts, workshops, lecture-demonstrations, open mike night, casual jam sessions, vendor exhibits, door prize drawings, festive lunch buffet, cocktail reception with entertainment, gala plated banquet, and more. The ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 Festival Orchestra will be conducted by Donna Maria Regis in "A Musical Tribute of Thanks to Tony Lovello". Come see and hear for yourself why Tony Lovello is called "The Entertainers' Entertainer," "The King of the Bellow Shake," and, as the National Accordion Association has anointed him, "The Living Legend of the Accordion World." You will read more about Tony in the July USA news. How can one man any age -- much less one 78 years old! -- possess such enormous physical energy and such prodigious musical talent --all tied up with a bow of irrepressible humor? Tony Lovello is truly one of a kind! The ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 Festival Orchestra [AN!FO] offers a musical tribute to cherished friend and mentor, Tony Lovello. The idea for a New England accordion festival was inspired by Tony's performance at the first concert ever to be co-sponsored by the New Hampshire Accordion Association and Accordion Connection LLC. Register by July 22 if you want to be part of this special program honoring Tony Lovello and his music. Individual parts will be sent in advance. For more information: Suzanne Welch accman@accordionconnection.com Donna Maria Regis regisdonna@yahoo.com Co-Founders ACCORDIONS NOW! Music Festival Hotel Accommodations Special Rate -- Only $89 [plus NH tax] per ROOM. Reserve by July 22, 2011. Call Marriott Worldwide Reservations 1.800.321.2211. Mention ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival at Courtyard Nashua. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Dr. Robert McMahan Performed in May Concertsby Rita Barnea |
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| Dr. Robert Young McMahan, performed on May 15th with the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra conducted by Roy D. Gussman in Red Bank, NJ. Robert played several important accordion solos in Dominic Argento's "Valentino Dances". The Monmouth Symphony Orchestra is one of the most venerable symphony orchestras in New Jersey. The orchestra is composed of seventy five professional and highly talented amateur musicians. The ongoing mission of the orchestra is to make great classical music easily accessible to all residents of the community and to encourage talented youth throughout the state. Dr. McMahan also presented a recital with clarinetist, George Balog ,on the Downtown Afternoon Recital Series at the First Reformed Church, in New Brunswick, NJ, on May 11. The program consisted of three AAA commissions, William Grant Still's "Aria", Paul Creston's "Prelude and Dance", and Robert Baksa's "Sonata". In addition, he performed his own composition, "Three Inventions for Clarinet and Accordion (2009)", with George Balog, Clarinetist. Secretary-Treasurer of the AAA, Robert McMahan has long promoted classical music for the accordion through his extensive performance, recording, composing, teaching and writing. McMahan teaches Theory and Composition at the College of New Jersey and offers the major in accordion there as well. Both concerts were well attended and enthusiastically received.You can view his performances: Youtube (tag: Robert Young McMahan For further information: mcmahan.rymcmahan.robert@gmail.com |
Accordionist Jane Christison: Children's Entertainerby Rita Barnea |
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| Accordionist Jane Christison, "Janie Next Door," is the new kid on the block of Kansas City's children's performers. On Sunday, May 29, 2011, she performed at the Kansas City Jiggle Jam, the nation's largest independent family music festival. Attendance was estimated to be 25,000+ for the two-day event. Since the 2010 CD release of "Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door," Jane has been introducing the accordion to the preschool set in the Kansas City area, playing entertaining, musical programs that have the kids singing, clapping, dancing, marching and having fun with her original songs as well as some traditional children's favorites. Jane was also the featured performer at the KC Baby & Kid Fest held on Saturday, May 14, 2011. Jane Christison is an accomplished accordionist and entertainer, playing and singing many styles of music. She performs upbeat and engaging 45-minute programs for seniors groups, retirement communities and nursing homes. Her personality and enthusiasm for playing the accordion are in demand as well for conventions, theme parties and other celebrations. Jane studied serious accordion literature with Joan Cochran Sommers at the University of Missouri- Kansas City Conservatory of Music and graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in accordion performance. She has been featured as a guest artist at accordion festivals throughout the US, performing and presenting workshops. Video versions of two of her workshops, "Playing the Accordion for Fun and Fame!" and "Squeezing Money Out of Your Accordion" are available through her company, Music With A Smile Productions, L.L.C., as is her children’s CD “Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door." She feels fortunate to have been able to combine two of her favorite things, music and travel. As a member of USO Shows, she toured the Far East, playing at military bases in Korea, Japan, Okinawa, Taiwan, the Philippines and Guam. A second USO tour took her to the Azores and Germany. As a member of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra, Jane has performed in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, England, Scotland, Sweden, Russia, Estonia, Denmark, Australia, New Zealand, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Italy. The CD can be purchased online at www.janienext.door.com. For more information: janec@musicwithasmile.com |
Standing Ovations for Frank Marocco Concert, Klingenthal – Germanyby Holda Paoletti-Kampl |
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 American accordionist Frank Marocco displayed his brilliance in technique and interpretation performing in a concert at the Klingenthal International Competition, along with a string quartet and percussion of the Vogtland Philharmonie Greiz, Reichenbach (picture above).The arrangements for strings and accordion were by Daniele di Bonaventura, and the original works were by Frank Marocco, who received a several standing ovations for his concert. In the world of accordion performance, Frank Marocco is renowned not only for his mastery of the instrument, but for his highly developed musicality. In any style, on the concert stage or in the recording studio, his playing is superb. Frank Marocco is one of the most recorded accordionists in America, and has recorded for or worked with artists ranging from Eric Clapton, Brian Wilson, Pink Floyd and Madonna to Luciano Pavarotti, conductor Maxim Shostakovich and composer John Williams. Photo right Frank Marocco and famous French teacher Jacques Mornet of CNIMA J.Mornet. Jazz On the Road 3 CD Pack available at Frank Marocco |
Vivant!-“The Kansas City Sound” & Fremar Tour Wisconsin, U.S.Aby Karen Fremar |
  Kansas City based ensemble Vivant! and Karen Fremar, U.S. Champion (A.A.A.) and C.I.A.Virtuoso Entertainment Champion, recently completed a successful and enjoyable concert tour of Wisconsin. The ensemble performed full concerts Sunday, May 22nd on the Harrington Arts Center 2011 Concert Series in Superior, WI; and Monday, May 23rd, for the Milwaukee Accordion Club in Milwaukee, WI. The mixed ensemble programmed five original Fremar works, including A.A.A. Commissioned work in honor of Faithe Deffner—“Herricks Road,” “Jammin,’” “Free (Tango),” “Whatever You Do,” and the Wisconsin Premiere of her new Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust commissioned work, “Night at the Pla-Mor.” Mixing blues, swing, pop, tango, polka, and originals, Vivant! spans the gamut of musical tastes, but not without adding their original touch to each work. The innovative group of musicians was received with great enthusiasm by both audiences, with performances resulting in standing ovations and encore requests. (Below: Vivant! in Milwaukee Concert, and with Dr. Helmi Harrington and World of Accordions staff member, Audrey.) Vivant’s program illustrated the versatility of the accordion in a setting of synthesized sound and innovative percussion. The group features from one to three accordions, two performers on Korg and Roland Synthesizers, vocals, and a an array of percussion; including set, congas, djembe, and other interesting percussion toys, such as the rain stick and hotel desk bell. Vivant! enjoyed a tour of the 1700+ fascinating bellows driven instruments in the World of Accordions Museum, given by Museum Director, Dr. Helmi Harrington, and also were treated to a beautiful reception following their Superior concert (which also celebrated Dr. Harrington’s birthday). The group was excited to find many enthusiastic accordion aficionados in Wisconsin and enjoyed sharing their new brand of music, now dubbed “The Kansas City Sound.” Sherry Huiras, Board President and Shirl Berry, Past President of the Milwaukee Accordion Club Board were instrumental in coordinating the group’s Milwaukee performance. For a full report of the group’s tour or for additional information go to: www.vivantsound.com, or email vivant@vivantsound.com. |
Silvia Eberly, Washington, DC’s Austrian Gemby Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
 Silvia Eberly lights up every room she enters with her lovely smile, her genuine Austrian accent and the constant twinkle in her eyes. Then, like magic, she opens the bellows of her gorgeous four-row Steirische Harmonika (an Austrian musette diatonic accordion with brilliant “tuba” bass reeds), and one is instantly and blissfully transported to the luscious green hills of Austria.A natural entertainer, Silvia fills each performance with playful surprises including yodeling (which she does quite well!) and, when performing with her very talented young student, Michael Leggett, she may put down her accordion and play the “spoons”. Silvia’s spoons, which are handmade ornamental “percussion instruments”, delight the audience as she skillfully hits them on her hip, her head, under her arms and other… surfaces. Silvia was born and raised in Vienna, Austria. On weekends, her aunts, uncles and cousins would get together to sing and play music. Her grandmother, mother and father all played the accordion. “Now, you know – I just HAD to learn it!” Silvia says with a smile. She studied piano accordion in Vienna with the world-renowned accordionist, Prof. Walter Maurer, and she became quite good. As a teenager, Silvia was asked to become the accordionist for a local folk dance club. One day, the club purchased a Steirische Harmonika. After two lessons, Silvia taught herself to play this accordion. When Silvia moved to the United States, she settled, with her family, in the Washington, DC area. Silvia regularly entertains at Café Mozart in DC, the Euro Bistro in Herndon, VA, occasionally at the Biergarten Haus in DC and the Ram’s Head Tavern in Annapolis, MD. She is eagerly awaiting the re-opening of her beloved Old Stein Inn in Edgewater, MD, where she was a regular performer since 1999. The restaurant is currently being rebuilt after a fire in late 2010. Silvia teaches both piano accordion and Steirische Harmonika. Her student on Steirische Harmonika, Michael Leggett, received the first place trophy in April at the MAMTG/AAMS convention in Whippany, NJ, in the ethnic solo category. Silvia also owns and operates the popular puppet show company, “Magic Mountain Puppets, Inc.” She plays accordion during her puppet shows, of course. Silvia was recently chosen to represent the accordion manufacturers, “Strasser Brand Steirische Harmonika” and the “Original Kaerntnerland Harmonika”. She is now a US dealer for these accordions. Silvia has released several solo CDs, as well as one with Michael Leggett. “So, I am breathing Harmonikas and fulfilling my strong desire to revitalize young people to learn their grandparents’ traditions by learning the accordion and harmonica – and to have fun with it!” Silvia can be reached at 571-241-0730 or by email at harmonika777@gmail.com. Photos: 1. Silvia at the Old Stein Inn 2. Silvia and the Leggetts 3. Silvia and the guys 4..Young Silvia Eberly |
'House' star Hugh Laurie's CD Features Accordion, Los Angeles - USAby Rob Howard |
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 British movie and TV actor Hugh Laurie, currently starring in the popular US TV medical drama ‘House’, is also an accomplished singer and musician. On May 9th Laurie released his debut CD, 'Let Them Talk', an album of jazz and blues songs such as 'St James Infirmary', ‘After You've Gone’, and ‘It Ain't Necessarily So’.The backing band includes accordionist David Hidalgo, of ‘Los Lobos’, and there are guest spots from Tom Jones, Dr John and Irma Thomas. Laurie sings lead vocals, and plays piano and guitar on the CD – and has admitted that he might come in for some stick for billing himself as a bluesman now. "I was not born in Alabama in the 1890s," he acknowledged. "I've never eaten grits, cropped a share, or ridden a boxcar. I am a white, middle-class Englishman, openly trespassing on the music and myth of the American South." The CD is available via Hugh Laurie’s website or Amazon. |
National Button Accordion Festival, Pennsylvania – USAby Harley Jones |
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| The 4th National Button Accordion Festival took place at the Bessemer Croatian Club, Bessemer, PA, on the weekend of May 27th to 29th. This event, with no hired bands, is all about participation, and visitors were invited to bring their accordions and join in the concerts and jam sessions. There were three fun-filled days of music, dancing, jamming and performing starting on Friday at 5 pm and ending on Sunday at 9pm. Festival enthnic attire was encouraged to help set the atmosphere. There’s ample parking, and plenty of food and refreshments and they expected players from many states and Canada. For further information email: RPivovar@NationalButtonAccordionFestival.com |
South 9th Street Italian Market Festival, Philadelphia - USAby Rob Howard |
 On May 14, Roland V-Accordion Product Manager Steve Albini was performing at the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival in Philadelphia, PA. Performing with Steve was the Roland-USA V-Drum Product Manager Tim Root and singer Susan Minarich.Steve's performances were co-sponsored by Roland V_Accordion dealer Liberty Bellows of Philadelphia. Liberty Bellows’ retail store is located right in the center of the Italian Market Festival. On May 14 and 15 Steve was available at Liberty Bellows to promote and demonstrate the different V-Accordion models. For further information: Phone: 267-815-4407 or Email: web@libertybellows.com |
WMAS Sponsors Italian Night Dinner Dance – A Huge Successby Joan Grauman Morse, AAA Historian |
  On April 16, 2011, the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) sponsored a festive dinner dance at the lovely Marco Polo Italian Restaurant in Vienna, Virginia to mark the club’s 8th anniversary. Two of the club’s all-time favorites, the celebrated accordion duet team of Dominic Karcic and Ray Oreggia, known for their gorgeous Valtaro Musette Italian dance music, were brought in for this special occasion. Over one hundred club members and locals “celebrated the accordion” with great food, singing, dancing and camaraderie. Photos include: 1Italian night dancers 2.Dominic Karcic, Ray Oreggia, Sid Kowalczyk 3.l to r) Carolyn & Erwin Freed from Maryland and Connie & Pat Racioppa from Pennsylvania 4.Lou Coppola and Mary Tokarski 5.WMAS Board MembersJoan Grauman, Lee Paulson,and Mara Cherkasky 6.WMAS President Peter and wife,Sally DiGiovanni For more information: dangrauman@verizon.net |
Future events |
Dr. Schimmel Featured In New Exciting Projectsby Dr. William Schimmel |
 Dr. William Schimmel is the featured accordion soloist in the movie THE BEAVER starring Mel Gibson and directed by Jodie Foster. He is credited as accordion soloist and the mainly tango score is composed by Marcelo Zarvos.Dr. Schimmel will be the featured accordionist in a concert at Ozawa Hall – Tanglewood Ma. in a concert titled FIESTA – an evening of latin inspired contemporary music. Dr, Schimmel will perform his own rendition of LA FIESTA by Chick Corea and will join cellist Yehuda Hannani and percussionist Arti Dixson in a performance of ROPA VIEJA by Cuban composer Jorge Martin. The concert is presented by CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH MUSIC and will take place on June 4th. On June 12, He will be the featured performer at THE CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL - Cape May, New Jersey in a concert titled: THE WORLD ACCORDION TO SCHIMMEL. He will play his own version “realities” on classic pieces such as Poet and Peasant, Orpheus, Tangos by Pugliese, and many others with an assorted group of chamber musicians. On June 5 and 26, He will appear at Feinstein's, a Manhattan Nite Spot, with singer Gay Marshall in an evening devoted to the music of Edith Piaf. Dr. Schimmel is also the featured accordionist on a new CD by singer Lisa Kirchner – SOMETHING TO SING ABOUT – ALBANY RECORDS. Ms Kirchner, the daughter of the late Leon Kirchner, composer and teacher at Harvard University, performs the music of prominent American composers in her own personal jazz and crossover styling. The album consists of music by Leon and Lisa Kirchner, Stanley Silverman, John Corigliano, Charles Ives, David Del Tredici, Bob Telson, John Harbison, William Bolcom, Aaron Copland, Ned Rorem, Samuel Barber, John Adams, Paul Chihara, Wynton Marsalis and William Schimmel's SUICIDE IN C MINOR. Dr. Schimmel is also featured on other new CDS: RIDERS TO THE SEA, a one act opera by Marga Richter – LEONARDA RECORDS ROPA VIEJA by Jorge Martin – CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH MUSIC RECORDINGS A PORTRAIT IN SEVEN SHADES – by Ted Nash – Wynton Marsalis conducting – JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER RECORDS For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
Cory Pesaturo's Summer Concertsby Rita Barnea |
 Accordionist Cory Pesaturo continues to maintain a very busy performance schedule. He performed with his good friend, virtuoso accordionist, William Cosby, at a concert last weekend in Baltimore, sponsored by Dale Wise, which included an accordion orchestra. On June 9th-12th, Cory will head to the Montreal Grand Prix to play at various events during the Race Weekend, combining his love of Formula 1 with his music career. In addition to the race, Cory's music continues to be used for various shows on the SPEED Channel, especially with the Formula 1 races. Later in the month Cory will officially become the "Bret Favre of the Accordion World", as he will for the last time, and just for fun, head out to the Sata-Häme World Accordion Festival and Competition held in Ikaalinen, Finland. Cory said that "The Festival goes on National TV, and the judges / associates are good friends of mine that I never get to hang out with. I said I was retired from competition a long time ago, then by random occurrences did 5 in 2009 and said I was "Absolutely done" at that point after winning 5 of 5. Now I feel like Bret Favre, as this event is just too fun to pass up and the organizer told me I should come out....". Cory will be the first competitor ever from the United States, to compete at Sata-Häme. We wish him a successful outcome. In July, Cory will participate in the Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Celebration for the 3rd year in a row, and will present a few masterclasses, along with performing with his great friends out at KIOTAC such as Alex Meixner. Cory and Dick Contino, the two "rebels of the accordion world", will finally perform together at a concert in Detroit, Michigan on July 26th and 27th. Cory says that he and Dick have been wanting to perform together for 12 years, and this will be a great moment. Dick has been a great friend and huge inspiration to Cory from the onset. Additionally, Dick is the reason Cory's father played the accordion, which is the reason Cory plays. Every generation can enjoy playing the accordion. World Digital Accordion Champion Cory Pesaturo is a graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA, where he was the first musician ever to major and graduate in the accordion. Accordion Legend Dick Contino said, “Of all the accordionists I’ve seen over the years, Cory is the one to pass the torch to, the only one who has all the tools to bring the accordion back to its former glory.” Pesaturo's extensive resumé includes appearances at the White House for President and Mrs. Clinton on 4 different occasions, the first at age 12 . On one of those occasions, he became the youngest person ever to perform at a State Dinner. He has since performed at 6 events for the Clintons and continues to keep in touch as proved by his 12 letters from the First family. Because of this, Cory is featured in Mrs. Clinton’s book “An Invitation to the White House”. In 2009 alone, Cory performed in 5 different continents, from Italy, to Canada, to New Zealand, to Japan and Tunisia. At 11, Pesaturo opened at the former Warwick Musical Theater for the ill Myron Floren, and later that year performed at the Sergio Franchi Memorial Concert where he has now performed for 10 consecutive years. In July 2002 at age 15, Cory became the youngest ever National Accordion Champion. A win in a concerto competition at the New England Conservatory of Music gave Pesaturo the rare opportunity to perform at the 2003 Christmas Pops Concert with the Brockton Symphony Orchestra as a featured soloist, where he became the youngest accordionist to ever solo with a symphony orchestra. Cory performed Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, which this performance can actually be seen on YouTube. Mr. Pesaturo is also heavily involved with the weather and motor sports worlds as well. From 2005 to 2006, he composed the Official list of records set by the inconceivable record-breaking 2005 Atlantic hurricane season. He has also written the lists for the 2007 and 2008 Seasons as well. Moreover, he has put out a report and list of the 2009-2010 Winter Season for the United States. Furthermore, his music is regularly played on Formula 1 broadcasts and he is currently working on a Formula 1 book that will change the way people look upon the sports history and its champions. In his early 20's,accordion wizard and Roland artist Cory Pesaturo has already enjoyed a career full of achievements that would make any musician proud. In August 2009, Cory added “world champion” to his already impressive resume with a win in the Digital Accordion category at the Coupe Mondiale World Accordion Championships. The annual event, hosted by a different country each year, is the most prestigious of all accordion competitions, attracting the finest accordionists from around the globe to compete and perform. At the event in Auckland, New Zealand, Cory took top honors playing the Roland FR-7 V-Accordion. 2009 was the inaugural year for the Digital Accordion category at Coupe Mondiale, and its inclusion is a testament to the growing popularity of Roland’s V-Accordion technology among the international accordion community. For further information:Cory.Pesaturo@gmail.com |
LIAA June Meetingby Rita Barnea |
 The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) will hold their June meeting on Wednesday, June 8th, 7 PM at the J & R Steakhouse, 1320 Stony Brook Rd. and Rt. 347, Stony Brook, NY.The evening will feature delicious dining, great accordion music, and dancing. Make your reservations early. Invite your friends! All are welcome. Bring your accordion! There will be a four course dinner for only $34. 95. For further information, call: 631-689-5920 |
Alex and Peter Chudolij to Perform at July Roland Festivalby Rita Barnea |
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| Father and son duo, Alex and Peter Chudolij, will perform at the the 2011 Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival finals on July 29 during the 71st Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival in Orlando, Florida at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel, 5445 Forbes Place, Orlando, Florida. Founder and President of Music Magic USA and Accordions USA, Alex Chudolij, started his musical career on October 8, 1964 at the age of 6. For the next 10 years he studied the piano accordion as a student of well known professor, teacher and performer Tulio Gasperini in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. During the latter part of his formal training Alex earned numerous awards in solo, band and ensemble categories at Rhode Island state competitions as well as national American Accordionists Association championships held in Pittsburgh, PA, Washington, DC and Springfield, MA. As a teenager Alex was already making numerous concert and festival appearances, pleasing the crowds with classic showpieces and his own concert arrangements. In 1991, Alex recorded a unique one man band instrumental album, "Electric Kozak" which was recorded using a midi accordion. This recording made its debut at the Garden State Arts Center, where it sold over 200 copies in its first day of sales. For the next four years Alex's Electric Kozak Band had been providing entertainment for crowds of all sizes and for all occasions, including a gala reception for then Olympic gold medalists Oksana Baiul and Victor Petrenko. Alex's wife, Lillianna, performed as the band’s lead singer until 1996, when Alex retired from regular band engagements and subsequently founded one of North America’s first and largest Internet based accordion dealerships – Music Magic USA. For his performances in Orlando at the ATG Festival, Alex will be joined by his 16 year old son, Peter, a sophomore in high school, who studies accordion with his father. Peter has varied musical interests ranging from Hip Hop to Eastern European. One of his goals is to one day become a member of the Tambouritzans at Duquensne University. Alex and Peter Chudolij are an amazing father and son accordion duo. Be sure to hear them in Orlando! For further information: info@accordionsusa.com or info@musicmagicusa.com 888-887-0975 |
First Wallace Accordion Festival in Idaho, August 11-14by Rita Barnea |
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| The Historic Wallace Accordion Festival will be held in Wallace, Idaho on August 11-14, 2011. This will be the first accordion event ever held in Wallace but certainly not the last! Some of the well known featured performers will be: Big Lou, Bruce Gassman, Andy Mirkovich, and Cory Pesaturo. There will be a parade, workshops with the above performers, open stage playing, concerts, parties and a pancake breakfast! For more information contact: Historic Chamber of Commerce 10 River Street Wallace, Idaho 83873 Phone/Fax: 208-753-7151 or griffbz@roadrunner.com |