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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Mumford & Sons Wins Grammy for Album of the Year
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
2013 NAA Convention March 7-9 in Dallas, Texas
AAA to Adjudicate Coupe Mondiale Qualifying Categories via Skype.
World’s First Kauri Accordion arrives in New York
AAA Open Meeting on March 17 in Whippany, NJ
Renzo Ruggieri and Josif Purits in Concert on March 24th
ATG Competition and Festival July 17-21st 2013 in Lisle, Illinois
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
AAMS Honors Beverly Curnow Roberts on March 16
2013 Mesa Accordion Event is a Huge Success
Cory Pesaturo Performs on David Letterman Show
Gulf Coast Accordion JamFest
'Play Your Accordion Without Pain', New Chapter Released - USA
Video: Brave Combo with Dallas Wind Symphony, ‘Mollie B. Polka Party’ Taping – USA
Emilio Magnotta in Concert at the Long Island Accordion Alliance
Josif Purits in Concert at the SFAC
Bill Schimmel in Performances
Video: Trio Voronezh "Two step" A. Zigankov
Gary Dahl Releases New Music eBooks
Accordionist Yesenia Garcia
Video: Comedy Accordion, Moscow - Russia
The Accordion Goes Back to the Future with John Custie
Future events |
AAA 2013 Master Class/Concert Series July 26-28th
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 Thank you to our readers for another record year of page views by our readers. All the Accordions Worldwide sites enjoyed 952,261 page views for December 2012 and an amazing 11 million plus page views for the 2012 year.AccordionUSA enjoyed 125,338 page views for December 2012 and a whopping 1.18 million page views for the 2012 year! The USA news is read all over the world by accordion enthusiasts. Your advertising on the news helps to promote your accordion activities. We want to thank our readers for their support of our completely free service website. The service is only financially possible because of our large readership and the financial support of our greatly appreciated advertisers. We encourage you to please think first of our advertisers, if you are looking to purchase a new accordion, used accordion, repairs, music, CDs, etc, etc. Your support helps our work. For more information on advertising: goaccordion@yahoo.com |
Mumford & Sons Wins Grammy for Album of the Yearby Rita Barnea |
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 Mumford & Sons’ second studio CD ‘Babel’, released in September 2012, on February 10th won the Grammy award for Album of the Year. ‘Babel’ debuted at number one in the UK and US, becoming the fastest selling album of 2012 in the UK, and the second-biggest selling debut in 2012 in the US.Mumford & Sons are an English folk-rock band, whose members include Ben Lovett - vocals, accordion and keyboards. The group formed in December 2007, emerging out of what some in the media labeled the "West London folk scene" with other artists such as Laura Marling, Johnny Flynn and Noah and the Whale. Keyboard and accordion player Ben Lovett met Marcus Mumford sometime around third grade at the King's College School, a private school in Wimbledon attended by John Barrymore and Charles Dickens Jr. Mumford played rugby and soccer and acted in school musicals (he played the Artful Dodger in "Oliver"; Lovett was a classically trained pianist who also played in several bands. Together they started a six-man free-jazz group called Détente – but when a friend of Mumford's older brother made him a bluegrass mixtape near the end of high school, Mumford became obsessed and started writing those kinds of songs instead. The band name, "Mumford & Sons" originates from the fact that Marcus Mumford was the most visible member, organizing the band and their performances. Lovett indicated that the name was meant to invoke the sense of an "antiquated family business name".A handful of similar bands were increasing their visibility in West London around the same time, giving rise to the label "West London folk scene". Mumford downplays that characterization as an exaggeration—Mumford & Sons and a few other folk acts just happened to be operating in general area at the time. In an interview with the Herald Sun, Marcus Mumford said, "It's not folk really. Well, some of it is, and it's certainly not a scene. Someone got over-excited about a few bands who live in a hundred-mile radius and put it in a box to sell it as a package. It's a community, not a scene. It's not exclusive." Having developed in the same musical and cultural environment, Mumford & Sons' sound has been compared to that of artists such as Noah and the Whale, The Avett Brothers, Johnny Flynn, and Laura Marling, for whom Marcus Mumford used to drum. Mumford & Sons continued to grow in popularity in 2011, winning several major awards and headlining larger shows and festivals. In February 2011, they received a European Border Breakers Award for their international success.They received a Brit Award for British Album of the Year with Sigh No More and performed "Timshel" at the ceremony. UK sales of the album subsequently increased by 266 percent.While touring the United States in early 2011, the band began writing songs for the follow-up album. Keyboardist Ben Lovett credited the creative atmosphere of Nashville, Tennessee with easing the songwriting process. Mumford & Sons played at the Glastonbury festival on Friday 24 June 2011, and then embarked on a North American tour. Mumford & Sons have recorded two songs for Andrea Arnold's adaptation of "Wuthering Heights", one of which (entitled "Enemy") will be played over the closing credits.Through 2011, the band continued to 'road test' songs from their upcoming album, many of which had been written before and during the writing of Sigh No More. In June 2012, Mumford & Sons contributed a song "Learn Me Right" with Birdy to the Pixar film "Brave", which came to be called "Not with Haste". Soundtrack.On 16 July 2012, Mumford & Sons officially announced the details of their second studio album Babel, including the release date of 24 September 2012 and a track listing of 12 songs. A deluxe edition containing three exclusive songs was also announced. A week later, the album became available for pre-order. The lead single "I Will Wait" premiered on Zane Lowe's BBC Radio 1 show on Tuesday 7 August.On 29 August 2012, Mumford & Sons recorded their live performance of "I Will Wait" at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.The performance was released on 9 September as the bands official video for the song. On 22 September 2012, the band performed two songs from the new album, "I Will Wait" and "Below My Feet", on Saturday Night Live. Mumford & Sons' second album "Babel" debuted at number one on the UK Album Chart and the US Billboard 200.It became the fastest selling album of 2012 in the UK, selling over 158,000 copies in its first week, and was the biggest selling debut of any album in 2012 in the US, selling 600,000 in its first week and over a million worldwide.In November 2012, Mumford & Sons released their 2013 East Coast tour, which includes stops in Boston, New York and Fairfax, Va. in February 2013. |
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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2013 NAA Convention March 7-9 in Dallas, Texasby Rita Barnea |
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 The 2013 National Accordion Convention takes place March 7-9, 2013 at the Westin Park Central Hotel, Dallas, Texas.The 2013 NAA Convention planning committee invites every single conventioneer to actively participate in all aspects of the Convention. The convention includes a stimulating three days of non-stop accordion, learning one or more accordion-related techniques and/or musical styles to take home with you. Having fun with accordion activities is the main focus. American music will be featured this year including popular music such as rock 'n roll, jazz, country and Hispanic music. Convention activities will include: • Play-along sessions with lead sheets and director (ear-players welcome) • Gospel - Bluegrass, Pop Tunes - Ethnic Music and Traditional Accordion Music • Workshops for all levels of musicians (folk - light classical) • Evening Events: Band/Orchestra - Polka Show - Concerts - Jam Sessions. It will be a social occasion and has even been called a "reunion" of sorts. This convention is an opportunity to get together with old friends and to meet new friends with a common interest, an opportunity to share your musical talents by playing for each other and exchanging ideas! President Norman Seaton says, "Our 2013 NAA convention will be extra special because this is the first year we are coordinated with Spring Break. As a result, we have multiple youth activities scheduled for all day Saturday, 2013 National Accoridon Convention Youth Day, March 9th, with Shelia Lee, Daniel Kott and Dick Albreski. Due to generous donations by various members, the youth are allowed to attend convention workshops, concerts, and related activities without paying an entrance fee." Saturday Concert Artists include: Patricia Bartell, Gordon Kohl, Amy Jo Sawyer, Nick Bratkovich, Richard Noel, Mario Pedone, Joel Guzman, and Jessica Faltot. 2013 Convention Workshop Presenters include: Joel Guzman, Richard Noel, Amy Sawyer, Debra Peters, Alvaro Barsi, Kaitlin, Gilbert Reyes, Dr. Ian Blair Fries, Bill Palmer, Nick Ballerini, Patricia Bartel, Dan Orza, Mario Pedone, Jessica Faltot, Rebecca Ratcliff, Daniel Kott, Shelia Lee, Tony Lovello, Dick Albreski, Arlyn Visentin, Kim Clowe, Joe Recchia, Gordon Kohl, Norman and Sharon Seaton and Nick Bratkovich. Make sure to attend this festival which will inform and entertain you! For further information: Norman Seaton: NatlAccordion@sbcglobal.net Or call: 214-938-5984 |
AAA to Adjudicate Coupe Mondiale Qualifying Categories via Skype.by Rita Barnea |
 For the very first time the AAA will allow contestants competing to qualify for the 2013 Coupe Mondiale to perform for the judging panel via Skype. The competition will be held at the the Hanover Marriott, 1401 Route 10 East, Whippany, New Jersey.which coincides with the MAMTG competition and the AAMS Festival.The Skype hookup will begin at 2:PM on Saturday, March 16th with four contestants vying for qualification in the Junior International Entertainment Competition and one in the Virtuoso International Entertainment Competition. |
World’s First Kauri Accordion arrives in New Yorkby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
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 As part of an International venture between New Zealand and Finland and the USA, a local craftsman in Finland has constructed the world's first accordions made from the prized native New Zealand 'Kauri' tree.
The dream of New York resident Kevin Friedrich, born in Dargaville, New Zealand (near where the giant Kauri trees grow), and a regular visitor to Ikaalinen, Finland, the home to a rare accordion making school, where trainees are taught the art of constructing accordions in the traditional Finnish folk style, this project combines the rich and rare tradition of Finland's accordion making culture with the stunning timber of the New Zealand Kauri tree. Under the hands of master Finnish craftsman Aaro Luukinen, the dream of a Kauri instrument has now become a reality. Three magnificent instruments K1, K2 and K3, all to be officially named at a later date, have been crafted. The first of the instruments K1, will be housed at the Dargaville Museum, which already features extensive displays on the history of the Kauri trade in the Dargaville area. This instrument crafted from Kauri timber from Dargaville, will be used for performances in the region to showcase this unique and beautiful instrument, the world's first made from the Kauri timber. K2 will be housed in Ikaalinen, Finland and will be the showcase instrument of the craftsman and accordion making facility, while K3 will become the personal instrument for Kevin to keep in New York City and will be used for personal performances. Each instrument while similar in design, is slightly unique, and profile the individual finishing touches of Aaro's design. In addition, each instrument has a unique grill pattern designed by Aaro’s wife, Henriikka. The three patterns which were later hand carved by Aaro are titled ‘Birth’, ‘Growth’ and ‘Departure’. The instruments were completed and officially unveiled on 30 January 2013 in Ikaalinen, Finland at an International Press Conference, with the debut performance scheduled for March 24th, 2013 in Dargaville, New Zealand at the 6th Annual Afternoon of Music featuring New York based accordionist Kevin Friedrich. Craftsman Aaro Luukinen was born in Lapland in Northern Finland. His father Matti Luukinen had an accordion workshop and a small factory in the village Salla. The workshop specialised in diatonic accordions and was the only accordion manufacturer in Finland since the Kouvola factory stopped in 1995. Matti Luukinen worked for more than 30 years building accordions. Aaro grew up in this atmosphere of accordion building and got a lot of knowledge from his father. Both parents were professional with Aaro's mother making more than 500 sets of accordion bellows by herself. Aaro studied accordion building at the Ikaalinen Arts and Crafts School and graduated as an Artisan in 2003. He worked in his father's factory in 2006-2008 and since then, he has operated his own accordion workshop and now serves as a teacher of accordion making at the Ikaalinen College of Crafts and Design. For more information and pictures of the crafting process, please visit: www.accordions.com/kevin/n_kauriaccordion.htm Picture of Instruments: K1, K3 and K2 (Birth, Departure and Growth) at the Press Conference and Presentation Ceremony 30 January 2013 - Ikaalinen, Finland Picture of Group: Kauri Accordion Team: Kimmo Mattila (Project Manager in Finland), Kevin Friedrich, Aaro Luukinen (Artisian and teacher at IKATA), the late Jarmo Salin (Teacher of the IKATA Department of Design), Joni Liukkonen (Director of Ikaalinen College of Crafts and Design - IKATA) and Tapio Nysten (Head teacher of the IKATA accordion department) |
AAA Open Meeting on March 17 in Whippany, NJby Rita Barnea |
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  The AAA Open Meeting takes place on Sunday, March 17, 2013 at 2 pm at the Hanover Marriott, 1401 Route10 East, Whippany, New Jersey. This important and informative event takes place immediately following the AAMS Awards Ceremony. All are welcome. Free admission. Refreshments will be served.At this time, AAA Historian, Joan Grauman will present a lively demonstration of "Nine Decades of the Accordion in the Media.” Joan will present little known facts about the early founders of the AAA, their important contributions and unique input into the development of the piano accordion as we know it today. Above: Photo of part of exhibit Left: AAA Founding Fathers. Right: AAA President Linda Soley Reed Reflections: 75 Years of Accordion History On March 9, 1938, twelve distinguished accordionists and colleagues convened to determine whether or not an association for accordionists should be formed. The meeting was presided over by Sam Roland and included Charles Magnante, Abe Goldman, Joe Biviano, Pietro Deiro, Pietro Frosini, Gene Von Hallberg, Anthony Galla-Rini, Charles Nunzio, Sydney B. Dawson, Sam Roland and Byron Streep (absent from meeting was John Gart). Upon motion made and seconded, the above-named, including John Gart, formed the charter membership and decided that the name of this association was to be The American Accordionists’ Association. See photo. So much accordion history has been made since that meeting in 1938! Competitions were organized. Carnegie Hall Concerts featured top accordionists of the day. Composers were commissioned to expand the accordionists’ library. Colleges and Universities opened their doors to accordionists as music majors. How many of you remember those competitions at Peter Stuyvesant High School and Charles Evans Hughes High School both in New York City? Or how about those concerts at Carnegie Hall with capacity crowds? Or looking at some of the early commissioned works and being excited over trying them for the first time? Or having the thrill of being accepted into a college music program and auditioning on your accordion? We invite you to share your memories of AAA events through the years to be included in the AAA’s 75th Anniversary publication: “Reflections: 75 Years of Accordion History.” Please e-mail copy as a word document or within an e-mail as well as jpeg photos to ameraccord1938@gmail.com or via US mail to: M. Kendrick, 120 Valley View Road, Stratford, CT 06615. If you wish to have photographs returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Photographs will be scanned and returned promptly. Updated information regarding the 75th AAA Festival to be held at the New Yorker Hotel, August 14-18th in New York City will be available at the Open Meeting. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, March 17. For further information e-mail: ameraccord1938@gmail.com |
Renzo Ruggieri and Josif Purits in Concert on March 24thby Rita Barnea |
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| The great Italian Jazz accordionist Renzo Ruggieri and Russian classical virtuoso Josif Purits will present an International Accordion Celebration concert on March 24, 2013 at 3:PM at Mt. Mary College Campus, Heifaer Hall, 2900 N. Menomonee River Parkway, Milwaukee, WI. Renzo Ruggieri is the internationally renowned jazz artist and a leading exponent of jazz music. He has performed all over the world as a Duo and in the Renzo Ruggieri Orchestra. With these two groups he has performed significant works and composed theatre music. Renzo has also worked with the Opera Theatre of Rome and performed with the famous artist Antonella Ruggiero at the San Remo festival in 2007. Josif Purits is a world champion classical accordionist from Russia who has won more than twenty international competitions. In addition, Purits is participating in the art projects of the International Charity Foundation of Vladimir Spivakov. As a concert artist, he has performed in Austria, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Czech Republic, China, France, Canada, Denmark, Serbia, and in other countries. Josif will perform for the San Francisco Accordion Club on March 17th. See article in this issue. Because seating is limited, it is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance for $20. Cost at the door will be $25. Call 262-957-6599 or 414-543-7714 Stas Venglevski is the founder of Accordion 21st Century presenting the finest accordionists and bayanists from around the world. For further information: stasvenglevski@wi.rr.com |
ATG Competition and Festival July 17-21st 2013 in Lisle, Illinoisby Rita Barnea |
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| The 73rd Annual Competition and Festival of the ATG wll be held in Lisle, IL (Chicago) from July 17-21st, 2013. This year you will have the opportunity to hear some of the world's finest accordion artists in concert, attend a variety of interesting and informative workshops and Master Classes, perform in the popular ATG Festival Orchestra, celebrate at the Gala Banquet and Luncheon, shop at the ATG Marketplace, enjoy a variety of Concerts and meet your fellow accordionists from around the world! All events are open to the General Public. You will find a diverse array of musical genres performed by a variety of accordionists. There is truly something for everyone. You are invited to come along and discover the magic and diversity of the accordion as presented by this year's ATG Guest artists. Some of the guest artists include Martynas Levickis and Polyphonia. Tickets may be purchased an all inclusive package of tickets (details available soon) or you are also welcome to buy individual General Admission Tickets at the Door for each event. Free parking is available at the Hotel. Please check back for exciting details of the upcoming festival in future USA news issues. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
A Rare Glimpse behind the Scenes of ‘Evita’ with Eddie Monteiroby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
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  Renowned East Coast accordionist and AAA Board of Director Eddie Monteiro recently concluded his year long engagement as accordionist and keyboardist in the popular Broadway production ‘Evita’ starring mega Pop star Ricky Martin as Che, and Argentinean Elena Roger as Eva.Fellow Board of Director Rita Davidson and I were lucky enough to sit next to Eddie in the orchestra pit for one of Eddie’s last performances as Evita came to a close, to see how the Show came together from the musician’s point of view. After a tour of the set, including a cameo photo opportunity on the balcony from where the blockbuster ‘Don’t Cry for Me Argentina’ is sung from, and meeting the Musical Director of the show Kristen Blodgette, Rita and I took our places in the pit next to Eddie who proceeded to deliver perfection over the next two hours, as he executed a rather demanding accordion part, coupled with his doubling on synthesiser. With limited visibility of the musical director, no visibility what so ever of the actual production happening on stage, and the percussionist being in another room all together, each Music Stand had a closed circuit video monitor focused on the Conductor. With limited access to the sound of the other musicians, the overall balance was in the hands of the sound engineer, who had his job down to a science. As the thunderous applause from the audience welcomed Ricky Martin to one of his opening numbers, virtually a duet between Ricky on stage and Eddie underneath, Eddie was in his element. Without batting an eyelid, Eddie was performing under the demands of a high profile gig, accompanying one of the biggest pop stars in the world today, surrounded by nothing but respect from his fellow musicians. Having heard the show from out in the audience a few days earlier, the accordion echoed magnificently throughout the theatre, at the hands of the master musician. During our pre-show tour, Eddie had explained the procedure of technical glitches as it pertained to the musicians, and in particular to the electronic instruments. Amazingly, in a rare situation in the early part of the show, such a predicament arose. As Eddie transitioned to the Synthesiser, there was no sound from his monitor, so while his performance was still being heard, he could hear nothing at all, rather a disconcerting situation. Without ruffling so much as a feather, while one hand was playing his part, another was signalling the situation to the technical assistant, who arrived immediately as expected, and without missing a note, Eddie continued on playing while explaining the problem, and within a short time, all was back in order, and before Rita and I knew it, Eddie had already strapped his accordion back on, and was on to his next number. Having seen several shows that showcase the accordion, most are under the hands of a keyboardist with no previous accordion experience, who doubles on the accordion, it has been frustrating to see the under utilised potential of our instrument in these high profile moments. Evita was a different and welcome change! It was easily recognisable from the Conductor Kristen Blodgette and assistant Conductor William Waldrop, as well as the other highly sought after musicians, that to have an expert accordionist and musician such as Eddie, was so greatly appreciated. Congratulations to Eddie for his work in doing what could only be expected from any professional musician… delivering. Rita and I were so lucky to have this rare glimpse into the behind the scenes work of the all important musical side of the professional pit orchestra, where perfection and dependability is standard fare! Eddie we salute you! |
AAMS Honors Beverly Curnow Roberts on March 16by Rita Barnea |
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| Beverly Roberts Curnow will be the 2013 Guest of Honor at the American Accordion Musicological Society event which will hold its 3 day annual Festival of Workshops, from March 15 to 17, 2013 at the Hanover Marriott, 1401 Route 10 East, Whippany, NJ. A very special Banquet and Concert will be held on Saturday March 16, 2013 honoring Beverly Roberts Curnow, a student of Carmen Carrozza and winner of the 1965 AAA national competition and the Confederation of International Accordionists Competition in Valletta, Malta (the first female contestant to do so). She holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Music Education from New York University and Columbia University. Following graduation, she taught choral, instrumental, and general music at all levels in the Wilson Area public school system of Easton. Pennsylvania for thirty-five years. Remaining an active accordionist throughout her teaching career, she continues to make many guest artist and concert appearances for the American Accordionists’ Association. She also plays in pit orchestras for Broadway musicals and shows, and performs as soloist with the Allentown (Pennsylvania) Band. In 2008, she presented the world premiere of Samuel Adler’s “Canto XVIII at the AAA 70th Anniversary Concert in Valhalla, New York. She presently serves as a member of the AAA Governing Board, and in that capacity, is a member of the Composers Commissioning Committee. Workshops will be held all 3 days of the festival. Bring your accordion and learn how to do the Russian Bellow Shakes, Meet Dr. Marion Jacobson, author of “Squeeze This”, learn about the Life and Times of Pietro Deiro Sr, “Daddy of the Accordion” and much more. For more information, contact Joanna Arnold Darrow or phone 856-854-6628 |
2013 Mesa Accordion Event is a Huge Successby Dan Grauman |
 The beautiful Arizona Golf Resort was the setting for the seventh annual four-day gathering, known as the Mesa Accordion Event (MAE), formerly the Frank Marocco Accordion Event, which brought together 50 accordionists and 30 family members from twelve states, three Canadian Provinces, and Italy. Many of the participants have been to this event multiple times, and twelve have attended every year. This gathering has become more of a “family reunion” than an accordion camp. An orchestra, led by MAE Music Director and renowned bayanist, Stas Venglevski, performed a wonderful concert to an enthusiastic audience of over 350. Solos, a duet, and ensembles were featured, in addition to the orchestral selections. The highlight of the weekend was an evening celebration of the life, music and legacy of the great Frank Marocco, founder of this annual event, which began in 2007. Several of the participants, including Stas Venglevski, former AAA US Virtuoso Champion, Joe Natoli, 2010 AAA US Virtuoso Champion, Gabe Hall-Rodrigues, and jazz accordionist, Amy Jo Sawyer, wrote original compositions or arrangements to honor Frank Marocco’s memory. The 2014 MAE will feature Guest Artist, Joan Cochran Sommers, who will be honored on the occasion of her 80th birthday. For further information about the 2014 MAE please contact event directors, Dan and Joan Grauman: mesa.accordion@verizon.net 2013 MAE collage details: Top left: Quinn & Liam Collins, youngest 2013 MAE orchestra members and 2012 AAA festival multiple trophy winners Top right: (l to r) Gabe Hall-Rodrigues, Amy Jo Sawyer, Frank Petrilli, Joe Natoli, Wes Anderson (drums), Sean Brogan (bass) perform a composition by Amy Jo Upper center: 2013 MAE orchestra Lower center: MAE Music Director, Stas Venglevski, demonstrating bellows shake technique with assistance from Gail Campanella Bottom left: Italian accordion virtuoso, Antonino De Luca, with Frank Petrilli Bottom right: Bruce Lawrie receives award from MAE co-directors, Dan & Joan Grauman, for being staff photographer and sound director for all seven years of the event |
Cory Pesaturo Performs on David Letterman Showby Rita Barnea |
 On Thursday, February 21st, Cory Pesaturo performed with the Bill Carter Band and Johnny Depp on the David Letterman Show. Versatile accordionist Cory Pesaturo is involved in many types of accordion events Among his future appearances are 3 pending concerts in Italy, dates to be announced soon; participation in the Carthage Jazz Festival in Africa on April 12, 2013; The Montmagny Accordion Festival, August 29-September 1st, located one hour north of Quebec City. Cory will judge at the 2013 Coupe Mondiale, August 19-25 in Victoria, Canada. He will also perform with violinist Yasmine. Cory will also perform in a Jazz Trio Night with two accordion artists to be announced in the USA news very soon. One of Cory's special interests is cars. He will perform at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance World's Top Car Show. This is the main car show in the world which takes place every year. All the best cars are there including auctions, events, historical races. Cory performs at various events during this time. August 14-18, 2013. He will also entertain at the Cotati Accordion Festival August 17-18th. For further information: Cory@corypesaturo.com |
Gulf Coast Accordion JamFestby Shelia Lee |
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| The Gulf Coast Accordion JamFest & Competition takes place on Saturday March 9, 2012 from 10:AM to 3:PM. Admission is free. Sponsors: Roland Accordions, Hohner Accordions, & Master the Accordion Workshops, Houston Accordion Performers & Heritage Arts Productions. Location: National Accordion Convention - The Westin Park Central - 12720 Merit Drive - Dallas,Texas75251 - Hotel Phone (972) 385-3000 Competition is open to 1. All ages (4 to 99 yrs old - there is category for 61 and older!), 2. All accordions (Button, Chromatic, Piano Keyboard, Cajun/Zydeko), 3. All styles (Norteno, Conjunto, Vallenato, German, Italian, Bohemian, Celtic, Zydeco, Cajun, etc.) 4. Semi-Professional and amateur! (if you support your family playing - please come an particiapte in Jam Sessions) 5. Polka Division and a Pop/Jazz Division as well in Dallas TWO COMPETITIONS in ONE First - SOLO COMPETITION ($10 Entry) - compete on your accordion by type accordion and style music - by your age Second - JamFEST OPEN TITLE ($25 Entry) - compete within your age bracket - with multiple songs! FULL RULES and Entry Form <http://www.heritageartsproductions.com/images/JamFestRulesEntryForm.pdf> - Deadline March 8. www.accordionjamfest.com <http://www.heritageartsproductions.com/www.accordionjamfest.com> |
'Play Your Accordion Without Pain', New Chapter Released - USAby Harley Jones |
  This is an ebook (able to be emailed to you, Acrobat pdf format). John Bonica PT CMP NZRP has released the 3rd Chapter of his book 'Play Your Accordion Without Pain'. The chapter is titled: 'Neck and Neck-Related Symptoms'.This exciting ebook is being published chapter by chapter, at least one chapter per month. Released to date is: Introduction Chapter 1 - An Overview Chapter 2 - Learning to Read Your Body’s Signals Chapter 3 - Neck and Neck-Related Symptoms There will be a minimum of 24 chapters. As a special introductory offer, you can purchase the whole book for US$22 (or Euro equivalent) and be sent each chapter by email as it is released. Purchase at: John Bonica |
Video: Brave Combo with Dallas Wind Symphony, ‘Mollie B. Polka Party’ Taping – USAby Rob Howard |
 Brave Combo, performing the Polish polka, "Tattletale," as a twist, in concert with The Dallas Wind Symphony, Texas on Fat Tuesday, February 12, 2013.Brave Combo was playing next for the ‘Mollie B. Polka Party’ taping at the Sokol Hall, Ennis, Texas on Saturday February 23rd. Also performing are Polka Nuts (Colorado), SqueezeBox with Jim Busta (Minnesota), Texas Dutchmen, The Bohemian Knights (Oklahoma), Jodie Mikula Orchestra (Texas), and the Ennis Czech Boys (Texas). |
Emilio Magnotta in Concert at the Long Island Accordion Allianceby Rita Barnea |
 Accordionist Emilio Magnotta will be featured in concert at the Long Island Accordion Alliance meeting on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at 6:30 PM. The event takes place at La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY. For reservations: 631-261-6344In addition to performing, Emilio recently opened his own music store featuring new and used accordions in addition to musical instrument repairs. Emilio will also bring a display of various music items available at his store, Emilio Accordions, 1011 Hope Street, Stamford, Connecticut, Suite 2E, 203, 883-8400. You may also bring your accordion for evaluation/repairs. Call ahead for items which you may need. The LIAA will present internationally acclaimed Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini on Wednesday, April 3, 2013. For further information: dkarcic10@verizon.net |
Josif Purits in Concert at the SFACby Rita Barnea |
 The San Francisco Accordion Club invites all to their March 17, 2:PM meeting featuring Russian accordion virtuoso Josif Purits.
Purits is a 24 year-old native of Moscow, who began music studies at the age of 6. Since the age of 8, he has been winning numerous competitions, including 21 International Competitions, taking the coveted First Prize in 2009 at the 34th Edition of the Castelfidardo Internatinal Accordion Competition in Castelfidardo, Italy. Josif studied accordion under Andrey Ledenyov at the A.G. Schnittke Moscow State Institute of Music from 2004 to 2008. He is presently a student of the world-renowned bayonist Friedrich Lips at the Russian Gnesins Academy of Music in Moscow. Iosif has done concert tours in many countries including Austria, Sweden, Finland, France, Czech Republic, China and Canada. This is his first concert tour of the United States. The concert takes place at the Oyster Point Yacht Club,911 Marina Blvd., South San Francisco. The SFAC hosts musical programs on the 3rd Sunday of every month. For this exceptional program there will be an admission charge of $10. For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com |
Bill Schimmel in Performancesby Rita Barnea |
| Dr. William Schimmel continues to maintain a busy and varied schedule. Upcoming activities and performances include" FEB 25 – RECORDING FOR NEW TV SERIES – MARCELO ZARVOS FEB 27 – PERFORMANCE WITH ESTELLE PARSONS – LA MAMA - MUSIC OF KURT WEILL MARCH 14 – PREMIERE OF DR. SCHIMMEL'S FULL MOON/TEMPTING ARMS FOR ACCORDION AND PIANO – MANNES COLLEGE OF MUSIC MARCH 15 – MC GALLERY – 549 WEST 52ST – PREMIERE OF DR. SCHIMMEL'S MY DIASPORA AND MONTY – WITH DI J NOIZEPUNK APRIL 4 – EITHER OR ENSEMBLE – COMPOSERS' PORTRAIT – REBECCA SAUNDERS – MILLER THEATRE – COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY APRIL 11 – NEUE GALLERIE – LAUREN FLANIGAN APRIL 20 – ROULETTE – MUSIC OF MILICA DJORDEVIC – TALEA ENSEMBLE MAY 4 – FREEHOLD NJ – LATVIAN MUSIC WITH LAILA SALINS MAY 11 – MELLVILLE NY – LATVIAN MUSIC WITH LAILA SALINS MAY 16 – 17 – BEAT FURRER'S FAMA – TALEA ENSEMBLE – BOHEMIAN NATIONAL HALL JUNE 18 – NORTH SOUTH CONSONANCE – CHRIST AND ST STEPHEN'S CHURCH – PERFORMING ANNA VEISMANE'S WHY WE? FOR ACCORDION AND STRINGS JULY 26, 27 AND 28 – THE SEMINARS – THE ACCORDION IS 3D – NO GLASSES REQUIRED – TENRI AUGUST 15 – MOSTLY MOZART – LINCOLN CENTER DR. SCHIMMEL'S THE WHEEL OF BECOMING FOR SOLO ACCORDION (PLAYED BY DR. SCHIMMEL) PLACED NO 2 ON THE SOUNDCLICK CONTEMPORARY CHARTS (OUT OF 9,347 LISTINGS) AND NO 4 ON THE CLASSICAL CHARTS (OUT OF 42,362 LISTINGS) DR. SCHIMMEL IS FEATURED ON A NEW CD UMBRELLAS IN MINT FEATURING SINGER SONGWRITER LISA KIRCHNER(DAUGHTER OF THE LATE COMPOSER LEON KIRCHNER) DR. SCHIMMEL IS FEATURED ON THE FOLLOWING SOON TO BE RELEASED CDS: "I'M A STRANGER HERE MYSELF" – MARK NADLER "THE UNSUNG KURT WEILL" – LAUREN FLANIGAN SOLO CD – SELECTIONS TO BE ANNOUNCED For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
Video: Trio Voronezh "Two step" A. Zigankovby Harley Jones |
| Trio Voronezh "Two step" A. Zigankov performed at a 2012 concert in Florence, Oregon, USA and published 31 January 2013. |
Gary Dahl Releases New Music eBooksby Rita Barnea |
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| One of the most popular arrangers of music for the accordion is Gary Dahl of Puyallup, Washington State. Following the big success of the Gary Dahl graded special series of eSheet music (able to be sent to you by email), Gary Dahl has now released three Music eBooks. Cat No: DH01 Collection #1 Latin Spectacular - 10 titles, Besame Mucho, Amapola, Tico Tico, Brazil, Beyond the Sea, El Cumbanchero, Adios Muchachos, Spanish Eyes, A Day in the Life of a Fool, Amour, over 26 pages of high quality arrangements for only US$24.95 or Euro equivalent. Cat No: DH02 Collection #2 Favorite French Standards - 10 titles, La Vie en Rose, Les Bicyclettes de Belsize, Moulin Rouge, Clair de Lune, Pigalle, Domino, Michelle, Padam Padam, Under Paris Skies, The River Seine, 32 pages of high quality arrangements for only US$24.95 or Euro equivalent. Cat No: DH03 Collection #3 The American Songbook - 10 titles, Tenderly, Angel Eyes, Misty, September Song, Moon River, Summertime, Sentimental Journey, Crazy, The Godfather, Autumn Leaves, over 32 pages of music for only US$24.95 or Euro equivalent. You can view sample pages of the music online (DH01, DH02, DH03) and order from the shopping basket which links to the high security eCommerce site run by Worldpay.com, one of the world's largest internet payment processing systems. There are nearly 200 arrangements on his MusicForAccordion.com website of Gary Dahl. Gary Dahl is widely known as a virtuoso accordionist as well as a composer, arranger, recording artist and music educator, with an extensive background in music theory, composition and harmony. Gary has developed an impressive body of work including hundreds of individual arrangements and more than a dozen books currently in publication by Mel Bay Publications. As a recognized teacher, Gary provides specialized training for all levels of students. Gary's students have won national and state competitions as well as achieving professional status. Lessons are available via computer MP3 for students worldwide. Gary currently performs for private functions. Gary is a graduate of the University of Washington specializing in composition and theory and is a former commercial corporate pilot, flight instructor and corporate sales manager. For further information: garydahlmusic@msn.com |
Accordionist Yesenia Garciaby Shelia Lee |
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| Yesey G and her Stars appeared on the Mollie B Polka Party TV taping on Sunday Feb, 24. Yesenia Garcia along with her brother Luis Garcia and the two brothers Anthony and Omar Castillo performed 6 songs for the taping. These shows will air all year long on the RFDTV – Family Network. Yesey has played the diatonic accordion for only 3 years and during the 6 songs, she also switched to drums and to bajo (a Mexican tuned 12 string guitar that is used to play bass and chords). While she was on drums and bajo, Anthony played the accordion and Omar played the drums. The large crowd at the tapings were very impressed with Yesey’s versatility and her outstandingly “tight” sounding group. The group ranged in age from 12 to 19! and have only rehearsed together for a few months. Shelia Lee with Houston Accordion Performers / Heritage Arts Productions – has been teaching Yesey and coaching the group. She also auditioned for the Texas Folklife Big Squeeze Competition this past weekend. The winner wins a Hohner Accordion and a recording contract. She also just won the top honors at the Gulf Coast Accordion JamFest – the Sweepstake Trophy. Anthony Castillo won his age bracket and a Free Hohner accordion. Yesey’s Photo with Jeffery Barnes of Brave Combo |
Video: Comedy Accordion, Moscow - Russiaby Harley Jones |
| Not USA News but will definitely make you laugh. |
The Accordion Goes Back to the Future with John Custieby Sara Piali |
 John Custie beckons audiences to experience “The Accordion Then and Now” The accordion has played background tracks for mainstream pop since the 60s, when Billy Joel and Bob Dylan used it to embellish Piano Man and Together Through Life. But on February 3, 2013 at Northport Library, the diva once again had her day, thanks to John John Custie’s brilliant guided musical tour of the accordion through the ages.Featuring a rich ensemble and an interwoven narrative, the program moved the audience through the Old West with She’ll be Comin’ Round the Mountain and showed the place of the accordion in American folklore with "Take Me Out To The Ball Game". In all songs the accordion was front man for a first-class band. Peter Campo accompanied on guitar, Frank Miroddi on saxophone and clarinet, and Steve Hoffman on the drums. Custie wielded the instrument through different ethnic waves, including "Celito Lindo" and "Irish Eyes are Smiling". It was an entertaining way to show how immigrants from everywhere in Europe smuggled their culture through Customs, inside the squeeze box. And on through the music revolutions of the 20th century went the accordion, with masterful renditions of Jazz favorite "Satin Doll", "Motown’s Mony, Mony", "YMCA" and more. It’s truly impossible to recount the diversity of music that was performed by this all-star cast. The band, all seasoned veterans, was fearless. A "Clementi Sonatina, Opus 36 No. 1" was played for the classical touch. Frankie Yankovic’s "Just Because Polka" was a big hit with traditional accordion aficionados. A truly golden moment occurred however, with an accordion-led rendition of the popular hip-hop song, "Our Day Will Come". The accordion echoed the sounds of the next generation, rich and true. Anyone who heard the performance could never again consider the accordion “merely relevant.” In an age of synthesizers, this old instrument was capable of moving to a new creative beat and making it even better. In many respects, John Custie is the perfect choice to exhibit the accordion as a contemporary instrument with an intriguing past. Classically trained, as a child in 1959 he was the original player of the first Iorio Accorgan. Since then John has enjoyed a career spanning more than 30 years, performing with international celebrities. He also studied arranging and music composition under the world renowned Angelo Musolino. His musical repertoire exhibits the rich diversity of his experience: Jazz, Rock, Disco, Rhythm & Blues, Cajun, Zydeco, as well as romantic Italian ballads. ‘The Accordion Then and Now’ is an evolving performance. Although it appears to focus on history, the goal is clearly to help audiences imagine the accordion as an innovative instrument for the future. This is a message only understood by those who witness it with their own ears. One hopes that John Custie has the opportunity to play it again for the rest of us. Featuring:Pete Campo – guitar Frank Miroddi - sax & clarinet; Steve Hoffman – drums; John Custie – Accordion For more information: custie@custie.com |
Future events |
New England Music Festival April 5-7, 2013by Rita Barnea |
 Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts will sponsor their 51st Music Festival at the Boston Newton Marriott in Newton, Mass. April 5-7, 2013.In 2012 the ATAM celebrated their 50th anniversary with the Air Force Strolling Strings performing for over 500 people at Saturday nights’ milestone banquet which was attended by over 35 past champions, past members and current contestants and their families. Chairman, Peggy Falcetti, from Springfield, Ma., states that this years’ event will be as large as last year with over 700 contestants. Roger Latulippe, co-chairman with Peggy for over 30 years has retired his position as co-chairman as of 2013 and will be surely missed. He will continue as an active member and assist at the Festival. Two new and exciting workshops will be presented by Jay Latulippe and Sam Falcetti. The workshops entitled “How to Memorize a Song In 5 Minutes” and “Choosing a Career in Music” will take place on Saturday. There is no charge to attend these workshops. The ATAM will also award a $500.00 Music Scholarship to a contestant planning on majoring in music in college this September and over $4000.00 in cash awards to all 1st place winners in high level categories. President, Johanna Lewis, is happy to announce the premier performance by the “New England Roland V Accordion Orchestra” on Sunday afternoon. This orchestra is the first of its kind in the United States. Sam Falcetti from Springfield, Mass. will conduct this new sound by an accordion orchestra. The New England Music Festival is an annual musical competition sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts, Inc, (ATAM; established in 1962) which typically features more than 3000 entries and 800 contestants from all across New England. All events are free and open to the public, while entry fees for contestants vary by category. During the festival, contestants, ages through 22, take part in accordion, guitar, bass guitar, drum, percussion, piano, violin and voice competitions. Solo, duet and group categories are also offered. Non Competitive Categories include evaluation solos and festival group divisions. Contestants must be students of ATAM teachers. The three-day event takes place Friday through Sunday. On Friday evening and Sunday a “Battle of the Bands” is held in the hotel ballroom. Cash awards are given to the first, second and third place winners in three divisions. The Accordion, Guitar, Drum, and Piano Championships are also held Friday evening with cash awards given to all competitors. On Saturday and Sunday continuous group competitions are held in the hotel ballroom. Solo and duet competitions are ongoing. An awards banquet is held on Saturday evening with more than 500 in attendance. A $500.00 cash scholarship is awarded to a contestant accepted as a Music Major in college. More than $3,000 in cash is awarded to winners throughout the weekend. Contestants are evaluated by judges from all over the country. At the event, students will have an opportunity to participate in workshops, compete in age-level categories, perform for evaluation, attend concerts, and have fun at a Dance Party on Saturday evening. One of the best things about the event-contestants can participate regardless of their experience level or ability. For further information: http://www.accordions.com/atam/ |
AAA 2013 Master Class/Concert Series July 26-28thby Rita Barnea |
 The Accordion is 3D, No Glasses RequiredThe American Accordionists' Association (AAA) Master Class and Concert Series celebrate its 19th season on July 26, 27 and 28 at Tenri Cultural Institute,43A West 13th Street, in New York. Master classes are at 3 pm. Concerts at 7 pm. The title of the Seminars is "The Accordion is 3D-No Glasses Required". The moderator/curator, Dr. William Schimmel projects that it will be the best one yet: intriguing workshops, stellar performances and, most of all, a collegial attitude in its presentation. Master Classes are at 3:PM. Concerts take place at 7:PM. $20/master class; $25/concert; $40/day includes master class and concert. Or $110/weekend. Participants come from the local New York area, across the United States as well as China, Japan, Argentina, Croatia and Norway. Guest artists during the weekend include Dr. Schimmel, Dr.Robert Young McMahan, Erica Mancini, Peter Flint, John Foti, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Micki Goodman presenting a new video work, Doug Makofka, Ken Laufer, Paul Stein, Ingrid Kvale, Martina Li, Mayumi Mayaota, Corn Mo, Mary Tokarski, Will Holshouser, Bob Goldberg and The Famous Accordion Orchestra, David Stoler, Art Bailey, Brian Dewan, Melissa Elledge plus more. For reservations and information: 212-876-0827 (office) 917-498-6823 (cell) |