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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
National Accordion Symphony Orchestra in November Concerts
Dr. William Schimmel: Busy Accordion Autumn
The Amazing Accordion Kings in Concert November 14
Latest Update on the Documentary, "Accordions Rising"
Dallas Vietty and Victor Prieto Present Accordion Workshops in Pennsylvania
Koray Broussard and the Zydeco Unit
Regina Symphony Orchestra with Alexander Sevastian and Quartetto Gelato
Gene Van Conducts the National Accordion Symphony
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Accordion Day at Acme Accordion School in New Jersey
Video: Guy Klucevsek Performing in Remembrance of Lars Holmer
Long Island Accordion Alliance To Feature Bud and Linda Gramer
Brooklyn Accordion Club, Accordion Repair, November 8th
Judy Starr Writes Adventure Series Including the Accordion
Vivant! Performed at Roosterville Airshow and Flying Competition, Kansas City – USA
Cory Pesaturo Performing for the Coupe Mondiale Social Evening - Finland
Ken and Mary Turbo Accordions Express - El Salvador
New Site: A World of Accordions Museum
Classical Revolution RVA, Yemaya written by Barry Bless
Accordion Aficionados Celebrate Music and Diversity in Fort Bend
Book: "Making Money as a Strolling Accordionist" by Nancy Leonard
Future events |
Squeez-in Orchestra, Minneapolis – USA
Donna Maria Regis Concert, New Hampshire – USA
2016 National Accordion Convention March 10-12, 2016 in Texas
New and Updated Sites |
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 November is a month filled with accordion events! In this publication, you will see amazing videos, read about upcoming workshops and concerts, and learn about what has already happened.Thank you for submitting your ideas and comments. Please continue to do so. Are you having a holiday program or concert? Let us know about it for the December news. Ritabelll@aol.com Best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving! |
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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National Accordion Symphony Orchestra in November Concertsby Rita Barnea |
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| "You'll Never Walk Alone" a Tribute to America's Veterans will be a benefit concert supporting Kernan's Heroes and featuring The National Accordion Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gene Van. The concert takes place on Friday, November 6, 2015 at 7:PM and on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at 2:PM in Century Center, South Bend, Indiana. Admission is Adults-$20; Students- $10: Children 10 and under are free. Group rates are available. All profits from contributions and ticket sales will directly support the Kernan’s Heroes veterans program at Life Treatment Centers in South Bend. A free promotional concert, "Meet the Artists" takes place on Thursday, Noember 5, 2015 at 7:PM at Century Center, South Bend. Guest performers include: Joseph Natoli, Richard Romiti, Amy Jo Sawyer, Kenn Baert, Gail Campanella, Jane Christison, Rebecca Ratcliff, and The Soundscape Trio. Conductor Gene Van extends an invitation to all to attend these important event: "On Friday and Saturday, November 6 and 7, at Century Center in South Bend, I will have the honor of conducting the National Accordion Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, a group of 50 very talented and devoted artists from 15 states, including many from northern Indiana. They will be traveling to South Bend to perform in two very special benefit concerts entitled, “You’ll Never Walk Alone—A Tribute to America’s Veterans.” The purpose of these benefit concerts is to raise funds in support of the Kernan’s Heroes homeless veterans program located at Life Treatment Centers in South Bend. Kernan’s Heroes provides specialized treatment sessions to address the individual needs of veterans. Currently, Kernan’s Heroes serves 15 homeless veterans a month as part of a contract with the American Veterans Association. Overall, Kernan’s Heroes has served over 150 veterans within the local area over the last few years. Life Treatment Centers is a not-for-profit organization. Being a veteran myself, this cause is very near and dear to my heart. At a time when there are so many of our American servicemen and women who are struggling to make the transition from military to civilian life—many who have served numerous tours of duty, along with the tens of thousands of veterans who are still living with the aftereffects from their time served decades ago, there is no doubt that the need for assistance is great. That is why I am asking you to join with me in support of this very important cause. Your assistance in the form of a contribution, no matter at what level, is helpful and necessary to cover the costs related to the production of this event. All profits from contributions, as well as from ticket sales, will directly support the Kernan’s Heroes veterans program. On behalf of the National Accordion Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, the Michiana Accordion Club, Life Treatment Centers in South Bend, and myself, I would like to thank you for your assistance and for your generosity. May God continue to bless you and your families, our veterans and active servicemen and women, and this great country we call America." Respectfully, Gene Van For advance ticket sales and info: Michiana Accordion Club 574-262-0212 or 574-876-6721 For further information: maryannvanp@yahoo.com |
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Dr. William Schimmel: Busy Accordion Autumnby Rita Barnea |
  Dr. Schimmel’s new CD, “THE THEATER OF THE ACCORDION”, has been on the Amazon.com best seller list for a number of weeks. The album features guest artist,Wynton Marsalas, trumpet. It is on the Roven Record label and can be ordered throughAmazon.comDr. Schimmel is the featured artist in a new video by Serbian composer/dj Milica Paranosic. The title of the video is “NINA” and the release date is October 31, 2015. Dr. Schimmel’s choral work, “YUD LAMED YUD,” had its world premiere on October 15, 2015 at the MC Gallery in New York. On September 18,19 and 21, He appeared with the New York Philharmonic performing Leonard Bernstein’s score to “ON THE WATERFRONT” and Nino Rota’s score to “THE GODFATHER”. Both movies were shown as the orchestra played. “ON THE WATERFRONT” was performed again on October 11 at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. On October 16, He appeared with The American Symphony at Carnegie Hall in a performance of Henri Dutteliex’s “CORRESPONDENCES” for Soprano and Orchestra. Dr. Schimmel continues to perform in the hit musical “AN AMERICAN IN PARIS” on Broadway. He can be heard in the new movie “ROCK THE KASBAH” starring Bill Murray. The music is by Marcelo Zarvos On November 29, 2015 his composition “NEVER SAY DIXIELAND” will have it’s world premiere at Spectrum performance space in New York. William Schimmel is a virtuoso accordionist, author, philosopher and composer. He is one of the principle architects in the tango revival in America, the resurgence of the accordion and the philosophy of Musical Reality (composition with pre-existing music). He received his diploma from the Neupauer Conservatory of Music and his BM, MS and DMA degrees from the Juilliard School. He has taught at the Juilliard School , Brooklyn College CUNY, Upsala College, New School University, Neupauer Conservatory (dean) and has lectured on accordion related subjects at Princeton , Columbia , Brandeis, University of Missouri , Duke University, Manhattan School of Music, the Graduate Center CUNY, Santa Clara University, The Janacek Conservatory in Ostrava, Czech Republic and at Microsoft. He has performed with virtually every major symphony orchestra in America (and the Kirov ) including a longstanding relationship with the Minnesota Orchestra, as well as virtually every chamber music group in New York including Ensemble Sospeso and the Odeon Jazz Ensemble. He is founder of the Tango Project, which, in addition to his hit recordings with them, has appeared with Al Pacino in the film: Scent of a Woman, for which Pacino won an Oscar. The Tango Project also won the Stereo Review Album of the Year Award, received a Grammy nomination and rose to number I on the Billboard Classical Charts. He can be heard in other films including True Lies, Kun Dun and many others including films that he both scored and performed and a series of films for the Nature Conservancy which have won numerous prizes in documentary categories. He is an authority of the music of Kurt Weill, having recorded all of Weill's music that employs the accordion. He is a prolific composer with many commissions from concert music to Broadway and off-Broadway. He has written countless accordion pieces for himself and others including a test piece for the Coupe Mondiale, the accordions' most prestigious world competition. His Portrait No I for orchestra was conducted by the late Leopold Stockowski. Dr. Schimmel's theatre works in collaboration with Micki Goodman have made accordion history.He now heads the Neupauer Conservatory Order of the Shield program, a private studies program for gifted students on a graduate and post graduate level. he conducts a successful three day master class and concert series sponsored by the American Accordionists' Association (where he is distinguished lecturer in residence) moving into its 20th season. The Confederations International of Accordionists have awarded Dr. Schimmel the distinguished merit award for the AAA Master Class and Concert Series as well as his contribution to the international accordion scene. He received the American Accordionists' Association Distinguished Service Award for Fifty Years of Accordion activity and his work as Lecturer in Residence. He is listed in Who's Who in America and Great Minds of the 21st Century. Dr. Schimmel, and his wife, choreographer, director, filmmaker Micki Goodman co-founded and co- directs the Institute for Private Studies, a pluralistic think-tank. They have a 34 year old son, Michael, an accordionist and visual artist---and a Special Olympics gold medal winner. For further information: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
The Amazing Accordion Kings in Concert November 14by Rita Barnea |
 The Amazing Accordion Kings will perform on November 14, 2015 at 8:PM at the New Dorp Moravian Church 2015 Concert Series,2205 Richmond Road,Staten Island, NY 10306. Tickets are $15 at the doorFrank Toscano, Manny Corallo, and Angelo DiPippo have successfully participated in every facet of the “accordion world”. These master musicians have created beautiful arrangements covering the spectrum from opera to jazz. Prepare to be blown away by the dexterity and virtuosity of these Amazing Accordion Kings! One of the world’s fantastically talented musicians who just happens to play accordion. From Garden City, NY the legendary Angelo Di Pippo has played accordion since the age of eight years old and is a graduate of Holy Cross College with a Master’s degree from C.W. Post College and an honorary Doctorate from Five Towns College. Angelo has played in thousands of recording sessions. Over the years Angelo has recorded and concretized with score of famous such as artists as: Peggy Lee, Harry Belefonte, Debbie Reynolds, Frankie Avalon to name a few. He has also appeared on The Tonight Show, The Today Show, The Regis Philbin Show and many more too numerous to mention. Besides being voted by Keyboard Magazine “best accordionist in America”, Angelo has appeared in many movies where he can be seen and heard in films such as the wedding scene in the Godfather. He has also played in several Broadway productions. Angelo is an accomplished arranger and conductor and for over twenty years has conducted and arranged for the eminent Metropolitan Opera baritone Robert Merrill. Today Angelo is actively arranging and performing New York. Frank Toscano has made music his entire life. For more than 47 years Frank has been a music educator and professional musician. For over four decades Frank has headed the “Frank Toscano School of Music” Born & raised in New York, Frank came from an Italian family who valued the idea of music being played in the house constantly. Without a choice from his father, Frank took lessons on the Accordion under the direction of Emilio Chiesa and never dreamed that it would became the passion of his life! Frank’s passion is both education and performing. Frank is an accomplished pianist, accordionist and jazz artist who has performed with many artists. He can be heard on many recordings of other artists too numerous to mention. You can hear Frank arranging -performing on his the his recording “Accordion to Frank” as well as Accordion Kings & Accordion Kings Volume 2. Composer, arranger and music editor Manny Corallo started at age four playing the drums and soon switched to the accordion. Manny took lessons from his father’s accordion teacher– Frank Toscano! As Manny says, it was at first a father-son bonding things but soon Manny had a lifelong love affair with music. At age 13 he also began piano lessons with Frank and has gone on to compose and arrange music, first for commercials and then he began arranging for various artists. Manny then had a chance to score a children’s cartoon, which led him to scoring music for the movie Pokemon. Manny has gone on to score and arrange music for many projects including recordings and live productions. Manny attributes his success to a great music education from Frank Toscano and is very proud of his musical relationship with Frank and Angelo as the Accordion Kings. For more information: franktee@amazingaccordionkings.com |
Latest Update on the Documentary, "Accordions Rising"by Rita Barnea |
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 From the film website: "Accordions Rising is a documentary feature film about the resurgence of interest in accordion music over the last 30-40 years. Though many continue to see the accordion as the stodgy instrument of a bygone era – and accordion jokes abound — it is time to set the record straight!Roberta Cantow was recognized with her first grant from The American Film Institute while still a graduate film student at NYU. Through the years, The New York State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York Foundation for the Arts and others provided grants for the completion of four film works. She received a NY Area Emmy for her film, "Clotheslines", about the symbolic and artistic role of laundry in women’s lives. Her films and additional videos have garnered several Best of Category Citations in film festivals around the country as well as an Award of Excellence for Dreamtime, in 2008 and an Award of Merit for Not a Still Life, both in the document-ary category, from the Accolade Competition. Her work has been exhibited in many of the venues for independents, including a presentation in the Cineprobe Series of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Her four 16mm films were selected for archival preservation by the Donnell Media Center, New York City, in 2001. All of her work will be housed in the Sophia Smith Women’s History Collection of Smith College (in perpetuity)." Roberta's update on the film: "I have submitted "Accordions Rising" to about 10 different film festivals. SXSW is a big deal film and music festival which takes place in Austin, Texas in March. In addition to the usual information, they made a special request for a film's "twitter handle." Thus, a new way to support the film in relation to this festival possibility is to follow on twitter @accordionsrising to show that interest exists there as well. (Note that the twitter handle is not plural). I m also hoping to continue to grow the mailing list on the film's website: www.accordionsrising.com. In the coming week or so, there will also be a way for people who have seen the film, such as those who contributed and received a copy as a perk, to write comments on the site and to even have conversations there." Editor Rita Barnea comments: "I have previewed Roberta Cantow's new documentary, "Accordions Rising" and recommend that everyone obtain a copy of it when it is available. The film is an excellent, entertaining, and educational view of the accordion. It shows the vast versatility and importance of the accordion, its diversity crossing all cultural and musical boundaries. Truly, when you see this film, it will greatly enhance your understanding of the accordion, where it is today and how it will go on to influence our musical future." Roberta concludes:"Making this film was a complete thrill and kept me going for five years!. I am very excited to present "Accordions Rising" to the world. Unfortunately, in the hopes of getting a premiere at a choice film festival, I have to keep it on reserve until I am notified of festival acceptance and presentation." For further information: rcantow@originaldigital.net |
Dallas Vietty and Victor Prieto Present Accordion Workshops in Pennsylvaniaby Rita Barnea |
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| Victor Prieto and Dalas Vietty will present the accordion event the US has needed for years! On November 21st and 22, 2015, Victor Prieto and Dallas Vietty will bring the legendary formula of the Victor Prieto Masterclasses in Spain, to the you in the United States! Save yourself the ticket to Europe. Dallas and Victor said: "For any and every level of accordionist, this workshop will revolutionize the way you think about accordion and music. Held over two days at Liberty Bellows in Philadelphia, your concept and approach to the accordion will be changed forever. We promise FUN, deep learning, and exposure to NEW techniques, skills and approaches. Signup today and be a part of this historical first event. " What are the pre-requisites for the workshop? To make sure we aren't teaching an introduction to the accordion, you should have at least a year of accordion playing under your belt. That being said, we are encouraging all accordionists to attend. Because the concepts and experiences are so large and deep, all accordionists are going to benefit greatly from this workshop. What topics will the workshop cover? The workshop is going to revolves around three major areas: 1. Contemporary Harmony: sounds and approaches to play the music of the last 40 years, and beyond. 2. Contemporary Techniques of the Accordion: how to apply these sounds to rhythms, melodies, soloing, comping. 3. Ensemble Playing: experience, learn techniques and approaches, and get feedback on playing with an ensemble. The workshop is customized to the attendees, so depending on who attends we will apply to various genres of interest, for example: folk, tango, jazz, pop, rock, funk, swing, gypsy jazz, Galacian, Flamenco, to name a few. The event takes place at the Liberty Bellows Accordion Shop on 614 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 About the organizers Victor Prieto and Dallas Vietty: Victor Prieto, NYC based accordionist, raised in Spain. is a Grammy Award Winner 2010, Grammy Nominee 2014. Extremely well known in Europe and NYC for his revolutionary approach to two hands technique, improvisational vocabulary and command of music. Victor has recently finished up a month of masterclasses for jazz accordionists in Spain. And created and been the head of Jazz accordion departments in the US and Europe. Victor has recorded with Yo-Yo Ma, and many others, and plays festivals and concerts around with world with his own projects and others. Dallas Vietty, Philadelphia based accordionist has performed at Iridium Club in NYC, and many other festivals, clubs, and halls with his group and other groups. Specializes in Gypsy Jazz and musette style for the piano accordion. As well as swing and traditional American Jazz styles. Dallas has created the new accordion curriculum for Django in June over the past 4 years. Dallas teaches accordionists all over the world via Skype. For further information: dallasvietty@gmail.com, |
Koray Broussard and the Zydeco Unitby Rita Barnea |
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 Zydeco accordionist , Koray Broussard, has released a new single called “OH I.” It has a classic R&B love song smoothness to it, and is enhanced by Koray's accordion playing. Listen to his new song.Broussard's band includes Broderick Freeman on keyboard, Darryl Dardin on drums, Shone Richard on rubboard, Lance Ellis on bass and Broussard on accordion. Zydeco music is an integral part of Koray Broussard and his family. As a native of Opelousas, LA, Koray is a third generation Zydeco musician. His father John, uncle Jeffrey and grandfather Delton are all accomplished and well known accordion players in Southern Louisiana and throughout the USA. When asked how old he was when he began to play the accordion and who his teacher was, Koray replied, "I'm 26 and no one really taught me how to play. It's been around me since the day I was born and it's in my blood. I had no choice but to pick it up, lol. I love it with a passion!" For further information: broussardkoray@yahoo.com |
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Regina Symphony Orchestra with Alexander Sevastian and Quartetto Gelatoby Rita Barnea |
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 Music video of Quartetto Gelato performing "Al De La"The Regina Symphony Orchestra (RSO) presented their first Shumiatcher Pops concert of the 2015 - 2016 Season featuring Alexander Sevastian with Quartetto Gelato on October 10, 2015 at the Conexus Arts Centre. Virtuosic showpieces, romantic tenor arias, pyrotechnical solos, blazing gypsy show pieces, multi-instrument mastery and a World Accordion Champion, Alexander Sevastian - this is Quartetto Gelato. With a performance repertoire that circles the globe including classical masterworks, operatic arias, the sizzling energy of tangos, gypsy and folk songs, the group's theatrical stage presence and relaxed humor establishes an intimate rapport with audiences worldwide. Alexander Sevastain is the accordionist for Quartetto Gelato which he joined in 2002. Alex (accordion, piano, bandoneon) has won four International Accordion Competitions including the Oslofjord in Norway (1998), The Cup of the North in Russia (2000), the Anthony Galla-Rini Accordion Competition in the U.S.A. (2001) and The Coupe Mondiale in the U.S.A. (2007). Alex began his professional career in Moscow in 1996, performing with the Russian Radio Orchestra, which he toured with as a soloist throughout Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Alex also was a very active recitalist and chamber musician. Highlights of his career include appearances in the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, Glinka Capella Hall (St.Petersburg), Suntory Hall (Tokyo), Minato Mirai Hall (Yokohama), Roy Thomson Hall (Toronto), Jack Singer Hall (Calgary) and Metropolitan Museum (New York). Recent solo engagements include recitals in Mexico, Italy, Portugal, Serbia, U.S.A. and Canada as well as appearances with several symphony orchestras. From the review by Jeff Dedekker of the the Leader-Post(Canada): "It would be a huge understatement to describe Sevastian as just an accordion player. A four-time world accordion champion, Sevastian’s skill on the Bayan, the Russian button accordion, is astounding. Maier stressed the difficulty of playing the Bayan, pointing out it has 227 buttons, as compared to 88 keys on a piano." Photo of Quartetto Gelato by Koby Inc. Photo of Alexander by Vladimir Kevorkov |
Gene Van Conducts the National Accordion Symphonyby Rita Barnea |
 Gene Van is the conducer and organizer of the Kernans's Heroes Benefit Concerts which you can read about in this month's news. Gene is an enthusiastic and dedicated musician who constantly strives to promote the accordion throughout the USA and world. You are all encouraged to attend the events on November 5,6, and 7th 2015. As contributed by Mary Ann VanPaemel:"Gene Van has been a member of this community his entire life and a musician since early childhood. After graduating from Mishawaka High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. While serving his tour of duty, he performed with the U.S Navy Band as a part of Special Services entertaining the many troops here in the States, as well as throughout Europe. Upon returning home after being honorably discharged, he married and had four beautiful daughters. In 1958, Gene started his own small business, the Gene Van Accordion Studio (later to be called the Gene Van Conservatory of Music), in Mishawaka, which he would own and operate for the next 50 years. During the course of those years, he introduced hundreds of young (and not so young) individuals to the world of music using the piano accordion as the principal instrument. Though many of those students would go on to pursue music as a career, this was not his core objective. He believed that music was an excellent tool to build character, discipline, and self-confidence in young individuals, as well as providing a wholesome outlet for socializing and having fun while doing so. His students and groups over the years have won countless honors in state, regional, and national competitions—their travels taking them to numerous major cities and venues throughout the country. While the competitions taught the students about setting and achieving goals, it was the countless local performances and activities that gave them an insight as to what ‘community’ was all about. Whether it was decorating and performing on a float for a local parade, entertaining residents at a local nursing home or retirement facility, performing in a non-stop musical marathon to raise money at a local mall, performing at a local or state university, appearing on a local television program, or being the featured attraction at a local cultural event such as ‘Carnival for the Arts’, it was these experiences, and the relationships that were formed in the process, that would leave a lasting impression on these individuals. Years later, these same students—now adults with families and careers of their own and many living hundreds of miles away, still come back to their roots, the place they once called home, to participate in benefit concerts organized by Gene that have raised thousands of dollars for local charities and non-profit organizations in our community. This weekend’s benefit concert, in support of Kernan’s Heroes, is featuring not only former students of Gene’s, but also numerous outstanding accordionists from 15 different states, in addition to over 40 vocalists, and many other extremely talented local musicians. Over the years, Gene Van, and the Gene Van Accordion Orchestra, has been recognized on numerous occasions for their contributions to this community with official proclamations from several local mayors and from the County Board of Commissioners. In 2008, during Gene’s 50-year reunion celebration, as a gift of recognition from his former students, an engraved brick was purchased to be permanently placed in Kate’s Garden in Mishawaka’s Lincoln Park honoring his many accomplishments as a teacher and the contributions that he has made to the many lives that he has touched through his teaching. Gene served from 1972 through 1974 as the Coordinator of Music for the Fort Wayne-South Bend Catholic Diocese. He also served as President of the Indiana Accordionists’ Association for over 20 years. Gene still continues to teach music out of his home, in addition to composing and arranging music for the accordion orchestra, and performs on occasion. " For further information: maryannvanp@yahoo.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Michigan Accordion Society Parade Float Wins First Place!by Rita Barnea |
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 Michigan Accordion Society President Joe Recchia is proud to announce the following wonderful news: "The Michigan Accordion Society in partnership with Villa Penna Wins 1st place for best Float Theme at the 2015 Michigan Columbus Day Parade in DownTown Mt. Clemens, Michigan in October 2015.This was a big honor as over 40 floats participated in this years Parade. MAS President Joe Recchia said "Our float received so many compliments and we were told that people really enjoyed our spirit, music and float design and was so unique and well received that we were asked by other community parade organizers to bring our float and accordionists to other events throughout Michigan”. The Float featured over 20 Float participants and 14 Accordionists along with a wonderful display of Food and Wine table that was integrated in the front of the float called "The Taste of Italy”. The float was named "Santa Maria" after Christopher Columbus's ship. The idea was conceived at the recent MAS Board meeting and grew from just a discussion to designing, soliciting sponsors, securing materials, fabricating and winning 1st place all within a few weeks. This was a significant accomplishment for the Michigan Accordion Society and a special thank you goes out to all the people who helped build the float as well many of their great sponsors who helped in making the Accordion float a great success!" For further information: jrecchia@comcast.net, |
Accordion Day at Acme Accordion School in New Jerseyby Rita Barnea |
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| Come celebrate the joy of the accordion on Accordion Day. November is National Accordion Month, an all day festival. The public is invited to attend all events, free of charge, as Acme Accordion School hosts the annual Accordion Day on Sunday - November 1, 2015 from 10:30 AM to 3:PM at Acme Accordion School,322 Haddon Avenue, Westmont (Haddon Township), NJ 08108 Admission is free and open to the public. Any free will donation will be graciously accepted and placed in the Acme Scholarship Fund.This is a family-friendly event - great for all ages. Events begin at 10:30 AM. Soloists may sign up to perform a solo or two until 11:30. From 11:45 to 12:30 will be the setting-up time for the Accordion Day photo for all accordionists who wish to participate. Bring your accordion if possible. The goal is 150 accordion players or more. All ages are invited - enjoy meeting new friends - bring your family. The photo event will be followed by a concert featuring guest performers: Suzy Andrew and Dr. Lou Persic from Pennsylvania, and Ron Onda of Maryland. Suzy Andrew will perform literature from the standard accordion repertoire including the famous "Rhapsody in Blue". Dr, Lou Persic will perform popular standards for your listening pleasure. Joanna Darrow will perform music of Frescobaldi. Also performing throughout the day will be the Westmont Philharmonia Accordion Orchestra, the Westmont Accordion Club, and other ensembles from the Acme Accordion School. For more informationn: Joanna Arnold Darrow - 856-854-6628 |
Video: Guy Klucevsek Performing in Remembrance of Lars Holmerby Harley Jones |
| Video 1: Guy Klucevsek performs "Boeves Psalm" composed by Lars Holmer with All Accordions All the Time, his ensemble with Art Bailey and Nathan Koci, in New York City on WNYC's Spinning On Air with David Garland, for an in-studio session recorded March 3, 2015. Listen to the whole show at www.wnyc.org/shows/spinning/ Video 2: Guy Klucevsek performs his own composition written in memory of colleague / accordionist Lars Hollmer of Sweden. Guy in Video 2 is performing live at Sushi Performance Space, San Diego, CA. The concert was recorded in 2010 and the video released Apr 26, 2014. |
Long Island Accordion Alliance To Feature Bud and Linda Gramerby Rita Barnea |
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 The next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) sponsored by La Villini Restaurant is on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2015 at 6 PM. The LIAA is in their fifth year celebrating the accordion on Long Island. Come and enjoy the festive music of the Long Island Accordion Alliance and November's featured artists "German-American" entertainers Bud and Linda Gramer. They are a two piece German band for all your entertainment needs. Place: La Villini Restaurant 288 Larkfield Road. East Northport, NY 11731 631 261 6344 Reservations are recommended. The LIAA received extensive coverage in the November 1, 2015 Long Island Newsday in celebration of five years of accordion camaraderie on Long Island. For further information: bud_linda_gramer@yahoo.com |
Brooklyn Accordion Club, Accordion Repair, November 8thby Rita Barnea |
 On Sunday, November 8, 2015 from 3-5:PM, the Brooklyn Accordion Club will sponsor a Repair Workshop by Evan and Hank from Brooklyn Bellows. The event takes place at 61 Local (61 Bergen St. Brooklyn). Local 61 is just around the corner from Bergen (F, G) stop, and only several blocks away from Borough Hall (2, 3, 4, 5) or Jay Street Metro Tech (A, C, N, R) Evan Perry-Giblin is an accordionist, pianist, music teacher, and owner of Brooklyn Bellows. Evan, originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a 2011 graduate of Temple University with a degree in Spanish. He has always been involved in music, playing the piano since age 6. He also plays the bass and drums. While in college, he acquired his first accordion and devoted himself to the instrument. For further information: Brooklynbellows@gmail.com Admission: $3 to $5 (Suggested. Pay what you can.) For further information on the workshop: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com For further information on Evan: Brooklynbellows@gmail.com |
Judy Starr Writes Adventure Series Including the Accordionby Rita Barnea |
 Author/accordionist Judy Starr has written a Christian adventure series about two 12-year-old kids (Katie and Zack) who keep getting transported to places all over the world, where they have wild and fun adventures, all while learning important character values. The first book, "Adventure at Cassidy Ranch", is set in Colorado. The second, "Adventure in the Bahamas", is on the island of Elbow Cay in the Bahamas, and the third, "Adventure in Paris", is set in Paris where the kids stay with a family whose 17-year-old son, Andre, is an accordionist. They go out with him as he busks around the glamorous city, and he even gives Katie a quick lesson. Andre wants to play professionally, but his father wants him to carry on the family bakery business. Katie and Zack think the accordion is amazing, and love to listen to Andre play. Andre even plays some Frank Marocco jazz pieces, and the book is dedicated to both her father and to Frank Marocco who was Judy's music teacher for three years. The books are for ages eight and up including adults. The book is available in paperback, Apple iBook, Amazon Kindle, B&N Book. Judy Starr and her husband, Stottler, have traveled much of the world as staff members of Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ). They call California home, where Judy writes and speaks, using her imagination, world travels, and love of high-adrenaline activities to bring Katie Carlson and Zack Cassidy to life. In her free time, Judy is a professional oboist and loves to entertain and minister through music. She’s also a crazy mountain biker, as well as a swimmer and rollerblader—and she’ll try any sport that makes her heart pound. For further information on ordering: Judy.Starr@ccci.org or stottler.starr@cox.net |
Vivant! Performed at Roosterville Airshow and Flying Competition, Kansas City – USAby Rob Howard |
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 Vivant! pictured above, was featured in an hour-long show at the recent Roosterville Airshow and Flying Competition, part of the Roosterville International Airport 50th Anniversary Bellows, Bi-Planes & Beverage Event in Kansas City, Missouri. Their program featured swing, blues and pop music on a beautiful September day. Picture left is Karen Fremar, the founder of Vivant! Vivant! members include Julie Silfverberg (accordion), Melody Stroth (piano), Dee Sligar (bass), Judy Johnson (flute), Karen Fremar (accordion), Janne Silfverberg (trombone/Latin percussion), and Brian Steever (drums). Many hundreds enjoyed hanging out and dancing to some rockin' accordion music by the runway while eating great BBQ and viewing numerous flying exhibitions! For more information about Vivant and their CD recordings, please visit Karen Fremar. |
Cory Pesaturo Performing for the Coupe Mondiale Social Evening - Finlandby Harley Jones |
| Cory Pesaturo (USA) was performing for the late night social evening in the bar of the hotel where the 2015 Coupe Mondiale delegates and jury were staying. Above are two video clips showing Cory performing and improvising, especially in the 2nd video of Under Paris Skies. This was a social evening so you will hear background noise. On the ships cruise after the Coupe Mondiale, Cory gave a terrific entertainment performance of nearly 2 hours for the very appreciative accordionists. |
Ken and Mary Turbo Accordions Express - El Salvadorby Harley Jones |
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| `Ken and Mary Turbo Accordions Express` performing at the 2015 Miller Brewing Co. Pilsener Oktoberfest in El Salvador, Central America from October 22 - 25, 2015. |
New Site: A World of Accordions Museumby Kevin Friedrich |
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| World of Accordions Musuem has launched a new site at: www.worldofaccordions.org Founded in 1993, this Museum in Superior, Wisconsin is dedicated to educating the public about the history of the accordion. This new site already contains a wealth of information about the accordion and its historical development and information will be steadily added over the coming years. |
Classical Revolution RVA, Yemaya written by Barry Blessby Harley Jones |
| Published on Oct 21, 2015. Classical Revolution RVA and The Happy Lucky Show performing together during an Evening of Exotica at Balliceaux October 18, 2015. Yemaya written by Barry Bless. |
Accordion Aficionados Celebrate Music and Diversity in Fort Bendby Tina Tate |
 From the Sugar Land Sun: They hail from Germany, Japan, Austria, Columbia, Italy, the United States, and Azerbaijan and speak one language –Accordion. Their love of the instrument promotes friendship, learning, and solace.Musicians from the Fort Bend Accordion Club entertained more than 40 patrons and guests during the club’s monthly musical performance at Eduardo’s Mexican Restaurant in Stafford. Outside, gloomy weather persisted on Sunday, October 25. Inside, swells from the organ brightened the room and inspired diners to dance and sing. Guest organist, Manef Rza, visited from Azerbaijan. The crowd clapped along as he deftly glided across the keys and buttons of the Garmon-style accordion. Rza played Western harmony with his left hand and elicited the song’s Eastern melody with his right hand. “West meets East,” he said via a translator, Ali Haghshenas. A member of the Fort Bend Accordion Club, Hagh-shenas performed several folk tunes on the Garmon. Friendship abounds in the accordion club. The night’s first female performer, Dolores Baumann invited her friend Willy Krolls to attend. “He taught me to play the accordion 17 years ago,” she said. Krolls confirmed that and ended up performing a few songs for the crowd. “Tonight is the first time I’ve played in five years,” he said. Krolls said his hands had been badly burned in a past accident. “Do you believe in miracles?” he asked. “I’m one. Never give up.” Club President Vince Ramos performed with a Gabbanelli accordion decorated with beautiful mother-of-pearl inlays. As his hands whizzed across the keys, well-loved Mexican ballads emerged and prompted patrons to croon along with him. He later invited Elia Davila onstage to sing traditional songs from Puerto Rico. Accordionist Megumi Hada performed and credited the instrument with saving her. After being gifted with an accordion from her husband, the novice student asked her teacher, “Can I learn the tango?” The clever teacher knew better and guided her to start with two Christmas songs. Hada’s beloved husband was later killed by a drunk driver in front of their home. Deeply affected, she became withdrawn from grief. Her teacher phoned and said, “Your tango is waiting.” Hada began, step-by-step, to play again. “She knew I needed that song for my soul.” Virtuoso Mario Pedone owns seven accordions. “My favorite is the Excelsior,” he said. Pedone has toured and performed around the world. He founded the Mario Musical School and teaches students of any age to play and compose music. “Most of my students are Chinese,” he said. Maestro Pedone performed several duets with Ramos and later invited all the accordionists up for a jam session at the end of the evening. Accordionists Ed Karish and Jorge Ortiz joined the aforementioned musicians on stage. Pedone initiated a lively rendition of the Chicken Dance giving rise to a dueling accordions scenario. Rza answered back with a dynamic interpretation of the song –all in good fun. To learn more about the Fort Bend Accordion Club, contact Vince Ramos at 281-204-7716, or Mario Pedone at 713-401-7933. |
Book: "Making Money as a Strolling Accordionist" by Nancy Leonardby Rita Barnea |
 Accordionist Nancy Leonard has just released her book "Making Money as a Strolling Accordionist." It contains photos and instructions/suggestions for strolling musicians and "describes in detail and step-by-step instructions on having a business playing the accordion." Price is $20 including postage.On November 4, 2014 7:30 to 10:PM at Johnny Pitolas Restaurant, Washington, D.C., Nancy Leonard will perform music from around the world in for "Dinner with an Artist" an Autumnfest tribute to diversity and to DC a being melting pot of diverse people from all around the world. For further information email: accordionstar@verizon.net |
Future events |
Victor Prieto Trio Master Class and Concert, Boston – USAby Rob Howard |
 Jazz accordionist Victor Prieto holds a master class, 1pm, followed a concert on Wednesday November 4th, 8pm, at Red Room @ Café 939, Berklee College of Music, Boston, USA. With accordionist Victor Prieto on November 4th are Chris Cheek - saxophone, Carlos de Rosa - bass, and Vince Cherico – drums. For further information email: victorprieto2001@yahoo.com |
Squeez-in Orchestra, Minneapolis – USAby Rob Howard |
 This year’s Squeez-in Orchestra takes place on Sunday November 8th at Waite Park Recreation Center, Enter Door #2 (34th Ave.), 1810 34th Ave. NE Minneapolis, MN 55418. The running times are:10am until 10m - Squeez-in Orchestra rehearsal 1pm until 2pm - Pizza party 2pm until 3.30 (or 4pm) - Concert for friends and family featuring the Squeez-in Orchestra and any group or person who wants to perform. We'd love to have you play in the orchestra and/or come to the concert, it's great family fun! Orchestra participation, Concert and Pizza party $25 all ages. Concert only $10, ages 16 and under are free! To obtain music and further information email: squeezermn (at) yahoo.com |
Donna Maria Regis Concert, New Hampshire – USAby Rob Howard |
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 New Hampshire Accordion Association (NHAA) is delighted to present its highly talented Music Director, Donna Maria Regis, in a solo concert on Saturday November 21st. Donna Maria's performance will be part of NHAA's regular monthly meeting at host Accordion Connection LLC, Gilmanton, New Hampshire.Here is NHAA's meeting agenda for November 21st: informal jam from about 12.15pm, followed by Open Mike at 1pm, then a just-for-fun group play-along session. All accordionists as well as other instrumentalists and vocalists – NHAA members and non-members alike – are encouraged to participate in any or all phases. Please bring music of any genre or style to share with the “play-along” group. The more variety, the better, and the more fun! After a short break, Donna Maria's concert will begin at 2.15pm. A reception with light refreshments will follow. The public is invited to attend free of charge. For more information email: regisdonna@yahoo.com or swelch@accordionconnnection.com |
2016 National Accordion Convention March 10-12, 2016 in Texasby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
 President Norman Seaton reports that the 2016 National Accordion Convention will be held in Richardson, Texas from March 10-16, 2016.2016 Convention Focus: Lifelong Learning for Accordionists! It is with great pleasure we announce the 29th Annual National Accordion Convention that is sponsored by the National Accordion Association, Incorporated (NAA). This convention is the result of NAA officials studying and developing an innovative musical program featuring the accordion. “A Creative Learning Model for Accordionists” The 2016 Accordion Convention activities are based on the innovative program described in “A Creative Learning Model for Accordionists” by Laura J. Niland. Conventioneers will experience high-quality instruction provided by master instructors from across the USA and beyond. Training sessions will address Ten Core categories: Know your accordion, Musicality, Musical Styles & Ethnic Genres, Music Theory Simplified, Effective Practice & Presentation, Strategies for Working Together w/ Group Applications, Solo Performance Strategies, Effective Use of Technology in Music, Personal Evaluations & Critiques, as well as Performance. National Accordion Band Camp The 2016 convention will still feature the Accordion Band Camp on Thursday that includes the Albreski Fun Band and the Accordion Orchestra. Other convention activities include training sessions, workshops, jam sessions, and evening concerts. Performance opportunities include the 15-Minutes of Fame, lunch bunch activities, banquet, Congo line, jam sessions, and many other fun events. Yes, we are still the same organization; however, the convention will emphasize more educationally enhanced training sessions. Call for Presenters, Vendors, and Volunteers NAA officials are conducting a national search for Presenters, Vendors, and Volunteers who want to contribute high-quality services for other accordionists. Monitor the NationalAccordion.org website for more information or contact President Dr. Norman Seaton directly at NatlAccordion@sbcglobal.net or call 214-938-5984. For more information: natlaccordion@sbcglobal.net Website:http://www.NationalAccordion.org/ |
New and Updated Sites |
Milwaukee Accordion Club Website Updates - USAby Sherry Huiras, Milwaukee Accordion Club |
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| The Milwaukee Accordion Club upcoming programs/meetings for the coming months. Monday - November 23, 2015 Featured Program: ‘Composers Night’ Monday - December 13, 2015 Featured Program: MAC Annual Christmas Party Full details including 2016 dates are on the website: Milwaukee Accordion Club (MAC) |