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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Joan Sommers Celebrates 50 years with UMKC Accordion Orchestra
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
Daniel Desiderio Conducts Last APO Concert
Opening of Horace Lazzari Website
Amy Jo Sawyer, Performer, Composer of Accordion Music
Dr. William Schimmel Celebrates 35 Years with New York Philharmonic
Karen Fremar and Vivant! to Perform at World of Accordions Museum
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Frederic Deschamps Seminars, Grayson Masefield Concert in Spokane - USA
Dominic Karcic Documents Valtaro Musette History
Frank Marocco Honored, Hollywood – USA
Firefighters Save Concertinas from Blaze - USA
10 Year Old Accordionist On Cinco de Mayo Program
Future events |
Petar Ralchev Quartet on USA Tour
2011 AAA Festival, July 13-17, in Charleston, SC
Vincenzo Abbracciante Plans 2011 USA Tour
2011 ATG Festival in Orlando, July 27-31
Long Island Accordion Alliance Creates Interest in the Accordion
AAA Master Class and Concert Series, NYC July 29-31st
Nicole Renaud’s ‘Couleurs’ Multimedia Concert, New York - USA
Paul Monte to Perform for Massachusetts Accordion Association
Accordion Now! 2011 LOTS OF ACCORDIONS, LOTS OF MUSIC, LOTS OF FUN
‘Squeezebox Mania 1V’ Concert, Texas – USA
Dervish on Tour to the Lowell Folk Festival - USA
30th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival, Texas - USA
Victor Prieto’s Next Dates, New York – USA
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
  Welcome to the May USA News! As always there continues to be an amazing amount of accordion activity taking place all over the country and all over the world! Find out by reading the USA News! In May, we are celebrating the 3rd Annual World Accordion Day! You will learn about the many important concerts taking place during this time. I am proud to announce the Grand Opening of the Horace Lazzari Website in honor of World Accordion Day. Who is Horace Lazzari? Please visit the website to find out about his valuable contributions to the accordion world. Why is World Accordion Day celebrated in May? May 6th is the anniversary of the day that the accordion was patented in 1829. We invite you to join us on, or around May 6th to honor the invention of the accordion by scheduling, attending, performing or promoting a concert featuring the accordion. Please visit the World Accordion Day website for more information. We look forward to celebrating this event with you! |
Joan Sommers Celebrates 50 years with UMKC Accordion Orchestraby Rita Barnea |
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 The (University of Missouri-Kansas City) UMKC Community Accordion Orchestra celebrates its 50th year at the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance with a special anniversary concert on Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 2:30 PM at the White Recital Hall at the James C. Olson Performing Arts Center, UMKC Campus, 4949 Cherry Street, Kansas City, Missouri. This is a free concert, no tickets required, however you can call 816-235-2799 for information and directions. The concert will be directed by Joan C. Sommers, with a special guest choir comprising of approximately 70 members made up from singers from both Pleasant Lee Middle School and The Heartland Academy, directed by Dr. Verna Brummet, coordinated by Christine Jarquio. Special artists on the program include: Suzanne Boucard (Soprano); Louis Barr (Dancer); Laura Cantu (Dancer) and virtuoso MIDI accordionist, Betty Jo Simon. The program includes: ROSSINI: "Overture from L'italiana in Algeri" JOSIPOVIC: "Ditiramb" ANDERSON: "Serenata" DELIBES: "Les filles de Cadix" LOEWE: "I Could Have Danced All Night" from My Fair Lady LECUONA: "Malagueña" from Andalucía ("Suite Española") VERDI: "Triumphal March" from Aida PIAZZOLLA:" Adiós Nonino " FRANCESCHINA: "Iconosphere" *composed for director Joan Cochran Sommers SAWYER: "Recuerdos" *composed for the UMKC Community Accordion Orchestra for the 50th Anniversary Concert RODGERS: "Medley from The Sound of Music" JACKSON: "Let There Be Peace on Earth" Joan C. Sommers has directed the world famous UMKC Community Accordion Orchestra since it formed almost 50 years ago, when she established the accordion program at UMKC in 1961. During its long history the UMKC Accordion Orchestra has won many national titles in the USA, and toured to such places as Germany, Switzerland, Austria, England, Scotland, Sweden, Denmark, Russia, Estonia, New Zealand, Australia, Hungary, Czech Republic and Italy. The orchestra presents regular concerts at the University and has made guest appearances at national festivals and other important engagements throughout the United States. Highlights include appearances with the Kansas City Symphony, the Kansas City Civic Symphony Orchestra, and at the American Accordionists' Association (AAA), the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) and the Accordion Federation of North America Annual Festivals. Concert repertoire includes original accordion orchestra music, orchestral transcriptions, Broadway Music, Jazz and popular favorites. The UMKC Accordion Orchestra members consist of UMKC students, graduates, alumni and special guests who accompany the orchestra when on tour. The Annual Spring Concert of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra on April 29th, 2001 marked the 40th Anniversary of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra which gave its first University Recital in the Spring of 1961. This landmark concert also marked the retirement of Joan C. Sommers from the Conservatory therefore making this concert the last official concert of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra. The orchestra continues to rehearse and perform at the University, however, it is now called the UMKC Community Accordion Orchestra. In conjunction with this 40th Anniversary Concert, the UMKC Accordion Orchestra released a set of six CD's highlighting the 40 years of accordion greatness. The UMKC Community Accordion Orchestra performed at the 100th Anniversary Celebrations of the UMKC Conservatory of Music and in 2007 at the 60th Anniversary Coupe Mondiale in Washington DC, where they performed at both the festival headquarters Hotel and also at the famed Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Joan C. Sommers is very busy as an adjudicator, clinician, and conductor at many musical events. In July 2010, she and several members of the orchestra were busy performing or assisting during the Annual Music Festival held by the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International where she served as Chair and Coordinator of The Anthony Galla-Rini International Competition for Classical Accordion held in honor of one of her early teachers. In October 2010, she adjudicated at the 4th V-Accordion International Competition in Rome sponsored by the Roland Corporation, after which she traveled to Verazdin, Croatia to adjudicate at the Coupe Mondiale, participate in many CIA meetings and to conduct the "World Accordion Orchestra IV" in a world premiere performance of ICONOSPHERE, a new piece written by the well-known American composer-playwright-author, John Franceschina, and dedicated to her. Upon her return, she presented workshops and conducted the International Orchestra at the 2010 Las Vegas International Accordion Convention. She is looking forward to this concert of the UMKC Community Accordion Orchestra since it will be a celebration of 50 years for the accordion group concerts at the UMKC Conservatory of Music under her direction. She hopes you will join in that Celebration! One of the pieces to be performed on that concert will be ICONOSPHERE, which was written for Joan Sommers by renowned American composer John Franceschina while accordionist and composer and jazz musician Amy Jo Sawyer composed "Recuerdos" especially for Joan Sommers and the UMKC 50th Anniversary concert. Joan Sommers is sought after as a performer, conductor, clinician, adjudicator and musical director for major accordion festivals throughout the world, such as those in China, Poland, Norway, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. Joan is a Past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, marking the third time she has led this esteemed International organization which is affiliated with the International Music Council (IMC) - UNESCO. Internationally, Joan serves as Vice President of the Confédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA) where she has at various times led or been an officer in the Music Committee, and where she also serves as an jury member on many occasions. Joan earned the right to represent the USA in the CIA Coupe Mondiale in both 1955 and 1956, which undoubtedly developed her interest in worldwide accordion activities. Joan has since been honored numerous times by both national and international accordion organizations, as well as other musical organizations for her ongoing dedication and contributions to the field of music. As a performer, she uses the piano accordion, but she teaches all types of systems. Her students play both chromatic and keyboard instruments with various configurations. Her students have won numerous top awards, including the United States Championship Competitions and have been candidates to the CIA Coupe Mondiale World Accordion Championships on many different occasions over a long period of time. Some of the most outstanding accordion professionals, both men and women, have been her students and have earned music degrees at the UMKC Conservatory of Music. Joan C. Sommers was presented with the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention by organizer Paul Pasquali in November 2010. She received this prestigious award for her distinguished contributions to music education, accordion music, and culture. This was the third year that Joan returned to conduct the Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra. Her dedicated work and spirit were apparent in the outstanding musical performance. Joan Sommers has made numerous contributions to the advancement of the accordion. She established the only college-level accordion training program in the U.S. in Kansas City, at the University of Missouri Conservatory of Music in 1961. During Joan’s career she designed and taught courses in accordion orchestra, arranging, chamber music, literature, and accordion history, while giving private lessons. She quickly became a full Professor and in 1988 was appointed Assistant Dean. Additionally, she has taught and adjudicated in many countries and has held elective and appointed offices in both national and international accordion organizations. She has now retired from UMKC but continues to teach, something she loves. Joan is a talented arranger for the accordion orchestra and says it is constantly in her mind, making it difficult for her to just listen to music as background. When she listens, she hears and analyzes the specific sounds, the techniques used, and the form of the composition. For further information email: joansommers@kc.rr.com Purchase 6 CD's from UMKC Accordion Orchestra. Purchase 2 CD's from Amy Jo Sawyer Purchase 2 CD's from Betty Jo Simon |
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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Daniel Desiderio Conducts Last APO Concertby Rita Barnea |
 World renowned accordionist/conductor Daniel J. Desiderio, who is retiring, will conduct his final concert, "A Memorial Tribute to Charles Nunzio (1912-2010), with the Accordion Pops Orchestra for the benefit of the Alzheimer's Association on May 1st. The orchestra is honored to dedicate this concert to the late Charles Nunzio, world famous accordionist, teacher, composer, and arranger who passed away in October 2010 at the age of 97.The highly respected jazz artist, Eddie Monteiro, who studied with Charles Nunzio, will be the featured performer. APO member,Alfred Terzo, is the new conductor of the APO. Daniel J. Desiderio is one of the country’s foremost accordionists. Well known in the accordion field for his compositions and arrangements, Mr. Desiderio has recorded on the Ampco and Cormark labels. He has performed in concerts throughout Europe and America, appearing at London’s Royal Festival Hall, Copenhagen’s Radio House, Munich’s Congress Hall, New York’s Carnegie Hall and Town Hall, Philadelphia's Academy of Music and Kimmel Center, and the White House. Mr. Desiderio began his formal musical training at the age of 9 under the late Arnold Crowe of Philadelphia and later Pietro Deiro, Sr, the "Daddy of the Accordion." He also studied arranging and composition with Dr. William Happich of the University of Pennsylvania. He began his concert career at age 17. During his four year military service, he was featured soloist with the Air Force Band and Symphony Orchestra in Washington, DC, performing around the world under the direction of Col. George S. Howard. He is a former member of the Board of Directors of the American Accordionists' Association, one of the founders of the Pennsylvania Accordion Teachers Association, and a member of the Accordion Teachers Association of New Jersey which has become the MAMTG. In addition to serving as conductor of the Accordion Pops Orchestra, Mr. Desiderio continues to perform in concerts and private affairs in the Philadelphia area. He also operates a music studio in Media, Pennsylvania where he teaches accordion and piano students. The origin of the APA can be traced to 1970, when it was organized by the Accordion Teachers' Association of New Jersey. Over the next ten years it performed at various community functions throughout the state under the direction of its first conductor, Dr. Jacob Neupauer of Philadelphia. In 1980 the orchestra members took a leave of absence, but four years later the membership was reorganized under the direction of the late Eugene Ettore of Livingston, New Jersey. In 1985, Daniel Desiderio was invited to act as a guest conductor of the orchestra and a few years later the A.T.A. of NJ appointed him as conductor in residence. The name of the orchestra was formally changed to the Accordion Pops Orchestra and its membership was expanded beyond the original members from New Jersey to include performers from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Maryland, and Rhode Island. The largest professional accordion orchestra of its kind on the East Coast, the group consists entirely of accordions plus percussion instruments. In addition, the orchestra often accompanies guest soloists including pianists and vocal artists. Most of the twenty-five plus members of the orchestra are professional musicians or teachers. Many are soloists in their own right. The orchestra performs a repertoire of light classical, Broadway, big band and popular music. It has entertained audiences at concert halls, county fairs, festivals, schools, and playhouses at many locations primarily in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. The May 1st concert takes place at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse in Hampton, NJ.Lunch/1 PM. Concert/3 PM at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, NJ. The donation is $48.00 which includes luncheon and concert. For further information the Accordion Pops Orchestra CD: Rosemarie Cavanaugh 732-257-8198 |
Opening of Horace Lazzari Websiteby Rita Barnea |
 In honor of the 3rd Annual World Accordion Day, I am proud to announce the Grand Opening of the Horace Lazzari website in the May Accordions USA news. Click Horace Lazzari to see the new website. Through this website, people will learn valuable and historical information about the significant contributions that were made not only to the accordion world, but the musical world as well, by concert accordionist, Horace Lazzari. I would like to share the chain of events which led to my recent great honor and pleasure of meeting Horace Lazzari in Walla, Walla, Washington where he presently lives with his lovely wife, Jeanette. I would like to express my gratitude and acknowledge the assistance of Petosa Accordions for generously sponsoring my trip to Seattle and Walla, Walla, Washington. Thank you Joe Petosa! I met Horace Lazzari as a result of my research concerning my former accordion teacher, Eugene Ettore. I was working on the creation of a memorial website for him and investigating the performances of his "Manhattan Concerto". How many were there? Where and when did they take place? Because of the trust and generosity of Eugene Ettore's daughter, Carol Asimou, my home is filled with his music, manuscripts, photos, scrapbooks, etc. In August of 2010 when looking through a scrapbook, I came across a newspaper article, concert program and letter written to Eugene Ettore by Horace Lazzari describing his performance of the "Manhattan Concerto" with the Walla, Walla Symphony Orchestra in April 1961. I immediately realized that this was a significant find!. I decided at that very moment to call Horace. After a brief internet search, I found the phone number, called , and was very happy to "meet" Horace and Jeanette over the phone. It was amazing to learn that he performed the "Manhattan Concerto" fifty years ago and here I was, performing it with an orchestra (Roxborough Symphony Orchestra in Philadelphia) fifty years later! We also discovered that we play the same model of accordion, the Petosa AM 1100 and gave our performances of the "Manhattan Concerto" on the same instrument! What a coincidence! Speaking with Horace and Jeanette on the phone, we became instant friends and I was invited to Walla, Walla, Washington to meet them. In October 2010, I combined a trip to Walla, Walla with a visit to Joe Petosa at the Petosa Accordion Company. Leaving West Orange,NJ where I live, two plane flights later, I was met at the airport by Horace and Jeanette. I do not think they would mind my saying that they are both a very lively and energetic 86 year young couple. Jeanette had said to me before I left NJ. "Rita, I hope you do not mind that when we pick you up at the airport, we must go straight to Horace's gig at an Octoberfest Party, a gig he has had for more than 8 years! ". We went to the home where the party was taking place. Horace spent the next 3 and half hours, playing nonstop for over 60 people at an outdoor party! His playing was amazing, a vast repertoire of light classics, ethnic and popular music.! He shared with me that he still enjoys practicing. His flawless techniques in performing his program accurately, clearly demonstrated his talent and dedication to practice. "There is no substitute for daily practice", Horace says. Horace, Jeanette, and I spent a fabulous weekend of sharing music, listening to recordings, talking about his performance of the "Manhattan Concerto", and, of course, playing the accordion! Horace's talented former student, Jim Rice, an award winning accordionist, came over for dinner and the time passed quickly. I was fortunate to be trusted with many of Horace's photos and programs, soon to be online on www.accordionusa.com. Horace Lazzari is truly an inspiration not only to accordionists but all musicians! He and his lively wife, Jeanette, can show you how to live a life filled with music and friends, staying youthful and healthy. No doubt that playing the accordion keeps one young and in good shape! They extended another invitation to me and I look forward to visiting them again very soon. There is so much that can be said about Horace and his musical accomplishments. Born on October 17, 1924 in Fort William ( Now Thunder Bay) Ontario, Canada, Horace was known as Canada's "Boy Wonder of the Accordion" by the age of nine. Lazzari has musical memories which go back to age 3 when his father, also an accordionist, introduced him to the instrument. "I have been playing my accordion for audiences ever since I can remember, " he said. He also studied with a piano teacher, Patrick Shaw, and also with Fiori Baldovin, the son of an accordion maker in Fort Williams. During his early years, he toured and performed throughout the eastern province of Canada. On one of these tours he had the exciting experience of accompanying Kate Smith during a show. Before moving to Vancouver, B.C., he pursued his theoretical studies at the Toronto Conservatory of Music. As he grew up, Horace performed in theaters almost every week during the days when vaudeville was a part of motion picture house programs. He usually occupied the top place on the bill. He was described as "The Boy Wonder of the Accordion" and the "Canadian Elks Greatest". Horace won a radio contest and $25.00 in prize money in Ontario in 1939. He later went on to greater fame as first place talent winner in a Horace Heidt show in Yakima in 1949. Horace Lazzari moved to Vancouver where he studied the accordion in depth with Alf Carlson, an outstanding accordion teacher who was highly recognized as an outstanding educator throughout Canada. and his friend, Leonard Wilson, Fellow of the Trinity College of Music on the faculty of the University of British Columbia. During these years, Horace gave concerts throughout the northwest and California becoming well known as a concert accordionist. He also toured briefly with the Canadian armed forces with a group of 5 entertainers performing at bases. Horace met his wife, Jeanette, in Vancouver and were married on his birthday, Oct. 17, 1949. Horace and Jeanetter eventually moved to Walla, Walla, Washington, a college town, which had climatic conditions to meet his needs, becoming a well known resident of the community. In 1961, Lazzari who had been concertizing throughout the Northwest, was asked to perform an accordion solo with the Walla Walla and Mid-Columbia Symphony Orchestras, a first for both organizations. Horace premiered the Pacific Northwest performance of the "Manhattan Concerto for Accordion and Orchestra"(1951) by Eugene Ettore with both orchestras. He achieved one of his goals which was to perform with a symphony. The Walla, Walla Symphony Orchestra conducted by William H. Bailey was the oldest continuous symphony west of the Mississippi. He also performed with the Mid-Columbia Symphony Orchestra of the Tri-Cities. Horace Lazzari also has been a guest artist with the local symphony playing on their Pops concert programs, Chamber concert series, and Young People's Concerts. Horace appeared on many programs with other accordionists including Chuck Berger, Murl Sanders, Joe Morelli, and Ken Olendorf. He is a member of the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) and the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG). He was also president of the Walla Walla Music Teachers Association. His strong interest in the financial world made him a natural choice for treasurer of the Walla Walla Symphony Society, a position he held for many years. His wife, Jeanette, was executive director. She is also one of her husband's biggest fans. She said. " With his accordion, he can make people sing, cry, dance, be happy or sad or even pray. Horace Lazzari continues to be an inspiration to everyone he meets. I would like to thank Dr. Paul Cohen, noted musicologist, publisher, author, composer, professor and performer, all relating to classical saxophone, for his patience, professional guidance and assistance in the creation of the Horace Lazzari Website and the Eugene Ettore Memorial Website. If you have any photos, programs, or information related to Horace Lazzari. the "Manhattan Concerto" or Eugene Ettore, please forward to me. Email: Ritabelll@aol.com or call me at 201-675-4861. I will scan and return all information to you. Horace and Jeanette would enjoy receiving email from readers of his website: horjean@gmail.com |
Amy Jo Sawyer, Performer, Composer of Accordion Musicby Rita Barnea |
 Amy Jo Sawyer will have her new composition, "Recuerdos" ("Memories") premiered at the celebration of Joan C. Sommers 50th year as conductor of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra. Joan Sommers had requested that Amy Jo create a new composition for the celebration to be held in Kansas City on May 22nd. (See the first article in this issue about Joan C. Sommers).Amy Jo has been composing music since she was a teenager. “My teacher would say – see what you can do with this pop piece to make it more interesting. It was something I loved to do. When I was in High School I started composing my own music.” O. Pagani published two of her original pieces in 1966: "Just Cruisin" (jazz style) and "Fantasia" (classical). The former was used as a Jazz competition test piece in Accordion Federation of North America (Los Angeles) competitions. Amy Jo Sawyer has written music for, and performed with, the (University of Missouri at Kansas City) UMKC Accordion Orchestra, under the direction of Joan Sommers, on four of their international tours. “Latin Impressions” (tour to Russia and Baltic countries), “Opus 5-6-4” (tour to New Zealand/Australia), and “Carnival” (tour to Italy). Two of her other orchestra compositions, “Juntos” (Tango) and “Diggin’ Dorian” (Latin Jazz) were performed at ATG Festivals by the ATG Festival Orchestra. Amy Jo Sawyer arranged “All The Things You Are” for the 2011 Frank Marocco Accordion Event held in Mesa, Arizona. The previous year “Juntos” was performed at the 2010 FMAE. Frank chose “Juntos” to be included in the repertoire that will be performed by the orchestra at his FMAE in Castelfidardo, Italy on June 4, 2011. Joan Sommers has also chosen “Recuerdos” to be performed by the Festival Orchestra at the annual Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International to be held at Disney World, July 30, 2011. Amy Jo composes for all combinations of instruments including solos and duets for accordion: “Three For Frank”, a jazz waltz dedicated to Frank Marocco: “Jazzin’ Three” (solo with optional 2nd part); “Elida”, (bossa nova),(Delete – and) “Juntos” (Tango for two accordions), and” Brazilian Suite” - in three movements: Carnival, Evening, Celebration (various Latin rhythms). Amy Jo Sawyer began her study of the accordion at the age of ten with Henri Milano, in Mesa, Arizona. Her musical parents, Marlin & Virginia McLaws, played trumpet and piano respectively in their own Dance Orchestra for fifty years in the Phoenix area. Amy Jo started piano lessons at the age of five and during her grade and high school years played the baritone horn in the school bands. The accordion became her "first love" and at age fourteen she entered the National Accordion Competition, in Chicago, placing 2nd in her age category. At age nineteen she won first place in the Western States Accordion Competition in Long Beach, California and competed in the Coupe Mondiale World Accordion Competition in Biel, Switzerland, establishing herself as one of the world's foremost accordionists. Amy Jo Sawyer continued her studies under the direction of Anthony Galla-Rini in Los Angeles, and represented Arizona in the National Accordion Competition in New York City. "One of the greatest compliments I have received was from Anthony Galla-Rini as he included my name with those he considered his most talented students in the book, 'Anthony Galla-Rini on His Life and the Accordion' written by Swedish author Ove Hahn." While living in Germany (1967-1970) she studied with famous Danish accordion artist and teacher, Mogens Ellegaard. In 1964 she won a competition sponsored by the Sacramento Symphony Orchestra, the winner of which to perform in solo with the symphony. The other contestants were violinists and pianists. The Symphony Conductor, Sandor Salgo, exclaimed, "she is a musical genius, and just happens to play the accordion!" She performed "Concerto for Accordion & Orchestra", by Paul Creston. Amy Jo Sawyer received a BA degree in Composition in 1988 and a Master's Degree in Jazz Performance in 1989 from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville. While there she composed several jazz originals that were performed by the SIU-E Concert Jazz Band, with her on keyboards. An original, "Just You," was also performed by the Brigham Young University "Synthesis" Jazz Band. Amy Jo Sawyer has performed accordion parts with the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra on numerous occasions, including accompanying world renowned Italian Tenor, Luciano Pavarotti and a recent performance of “Lord of the Rings, the Fellowship of the Ring”. Amy Jo has served as President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International, Inc. and President of her local chapter of the Illinois State Music Teachers’ Association. She is a Nationally Certified Piano Instructor through the Music Teachers National Association. She has three original piano pieces that have been approved by the State of Illinois to be performed as repertoire in the “Achievement In Music Program”. She is an active performing artist on both accordion and piano. Her two CDs are available for purchase: “According To Amy” (Jazz and original pieces, with combo), and “Classically Amy” (solo classical pieces) at Amy Jo Sawyer. Her CDs and original music are also available at 618-632-2859 or Email: AmyJo@apci.net. |
Dr. William Schimmel Celebrates 35 Years with New York Philharmonicby Rita Barnea |
 AAA Artist in Residence Board Member, Dr. William Schimmel is celebrating his 35th year of performing with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. On Monday,April 11, Bill Schimmel performed with Itzhak Perlman and the New York Philharmonic in a varied program including: Tchaikovsky "Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture " Ennio Morricone "Love Theme from Cinema Paradiso" Hupfeld "As Time Goes By," from Casablanca (1942) John Barry "Main Title from Out of Africa" John Williams "Theme from Schindler's List" Gardel "Por Una Cabeza" (Tango from Scent of a Woman) Mozart "Overture to The Magic Flute" Schubert "Overture to Die Zauberharfe (The Magic Harp), a.k.a. Rosamunde Overture" Kreisler "Liebesleid, Liebesfreud, Schön Rosmarin" Beethoven "Leonore Overture No. 3 " Dr. Schimmel played "Por Una Cabeza" - the piece he originated in the movie "Scent of a Woman". He can be seen playing the accordion with the orchestra as Al Pacino dances in the ballroom. In the past 35 years Dr. Schimmel has played the music of Thea Muscrave, Paul Hindemith, Kurt Weill, Lorne Maazel, accompanied opera singer Andre Bocelli, Barbara Hendricks (a former student of Dr. Schimmel), violinist Itzak Perlman, flutist James Galway and many others. Dr.Schimmel has worked with every major symphony orchestra in the USA and the Kirov. Future performances include: On May 19, he will record “Spiral Jetty” by Anthony Cornicello for Accordion , Violin and Cello with members of the Modernworks ensemble – New York On June 4, he will perform Jorge Martin's “Ropa Vierda for Accordion, Cello and Percussion” along with his arrangement of :”La Fiesta” by Chick Corea with members of Close Encounters with Music. The concert will take place at Ozawa Hall – Tanglewood – Lenox, Mass. On June 5 and 26, he will perform the music of Edith Piaf with singer Gay Marshall at Feinsteins – New York On June 14, he will be the featured artists on a program titled “The World Accordion to William Schimmel”. He will perform his own compositions and arrangements for Accordion and assorted instruments. The concert is part of the Cape May Music Festival – Cape May, New Jersey. On July 29, 30 and 31, he will present his yearly AAA Accordion Seminars at the Tenri Cultural Institute, New York. For more information on Dr.William Schimmel, please read the April 2011 article "Dr. William Schimmel's Upcoming Performances". or billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
Karen Fremar and Vivant! to Perform at World of Accordions Museumby Rita Barnea |
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 Karen Fremar and her accordion ensemble, "Vivant" will perform in concert at A World of Accordions Museum at Harrington ARTS Center, 1401 Belknap Street, Superior, WI, on Sunday, May 22nd at 2:PM. Refreshments will follow. The program will consist of lively popular favorites and virtuoso selections. Dr. Fremar is a published composer of works for accordion, and has also composed chamber works utilizing the accordion and works for accordion orchestra. She is one of the few woman accordionists who have been published. Her other compositions include works for solo voice, SATB choir, orchestra, string quartet, brass ensemble, woodwind quintet, mixed chamber works, solo piano, and electronic music works. Fremar is the composer of the 1981 Coupe Mondiale Test Piece, Reflections. Fremar studied composition with Gerald Kemner at the Conservatory of Music, University of Missouri-Kansas City. While a graduate composition student, she taught in the Conservatory's Electronic Music Lab and in the music theory program. She studied composition at the University of Kansas with John Pozdro, and completed interim session study with Milton Babbitt. Fremar was an Assistant Instructor of Music Theory at KU. Her degrees include the Bachelor of Music-Accordion Performance (with distinction) and the Master of Music-Composition from the University of Missouri-Kansas City; the Master of Music-Philosophy and the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Theory from the University of Kansas. Her doctoral dissertation was a study of the life and works of the 18th-century Austrian composer, Marianna Martines. Her edition of Martines's Sinfonia has been performed world-wide by symphony orchestras. Fremar won the 1974 CIA International Competition for Virtuoso Entertainment Music in Stockholm, Sweden. In the same year, she placed 3rd in the Coupe Mondiale and won the Swedish award for the best performance by a female candidate. In Chicago, she won the 1974 United States Accordion Solo Championship (AAA), as well as the United States Accordion Duo Championship (AAA) with Jeff Lisenby, also a United States Solo Champion (ATG). Fremar began playing the accordion at age two, as a student of her mother, Margie Fremar, and first performed publicly at the age of 2 1/2. Formal piano and percussion studies followed thereafter, culminating in studies with Joanne Baker (piano) and Charmaine Asher-Wiley (percussion). At age 14, as leader of the Teen Tones accordion ensemble, she won auditions and appeared on the nationally televised Ted Mack Original Amateur Hour in New York. At age 16, she won auditions at the Shenandoah Conservatory of Music in Winchester, Virginia, to perform as a percussionist and featured accordionist with the All-Students Groups U.S.A., presenting concerts in 12 countries throughout Europe. Fremar studied accordion at the University of Missouri-Kansas City with Joan Cochran Sommers. She performed in concert with the University Orchestra as a three-time winner of the University's Concerto-Aria competition, toured the Pacific with the Accordionaires for the U.S.O., and was concertmaster of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra. Professionally, Fremar played and arranged music with Lisenby for their duo, Karen and Jeff; and was performer/arranger for many years with her jazz combo, The Kansas City Sound. Fremar has performed with the Kansas City Philharmonic, the Kansas City Symphony, and the Tulsa City Orchestra for Luciano Pavarotti's World Farewell Tour. She has served on International Accordion Juries for the CIA, and the Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International, and has adjudicated for the American Accordionists' Association, as well as numerous other competitions. Fremar has also served as an adjudicator for piano competitions, including serving as Assistant to the International Jury for the XII Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition in Salt Lake City, Utah.a published, prize winning composer in addition to being a musicologist and accomplished virtuoso accordionist. Vivant! members are: Dee Sligar, Bass Keyboard; Gail Overly, Accordion; Julie Silfverberg, Accordion/Keyboard; Karen Fremar, Accordion/Keyboard; Sarrah Cantrell, Percussion/Mallets/Keyboard; and Janne Silfverberg, Trombone/Percussion. A World of Accordions Museum founded by Dr. Helmi Harrington in 2004, has about 1,700 accordions and chronicles the world history of the instrument. Music scholars from as far away as Austria have come to use the museum's archives. Some of the world's finest accordionists have performed in the Harrington Art Center's 1,000-seat concert hall. The building also houses the nation's only technical college program for accordion and concertina repair. Vivant! will also perform in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the Root River Center, sponsored by the Milwaukee Accordion Club, on May 23 at 7:30 PM. For further information: vivant@vivantsound.com or accordion@sprynet.com, |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
49th NE Music Competition and Festival: A Great Success!by Rita Barnea |
 The Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts held their 49th Annual New England Music Competition and Festival on April 8-10 at the Boston Marriott Newton.. Co-chairpersons, Peggy Falcetti and Roger Latulippe, made the event a huge success because of their great devotion to the event and their excellent organizational skills. 2011 participating studios included: Arruda Music, De Rossi Music, Edsac Music, Emilian's Music, Falcetti Music, Gaviani Music, Chet Lawson Music, Let's Play Music, Rosita Lee Music & Dance Center, Lewis School of Music, Miguel School of Music, Paul Monte Music Studio, and Robert Paolo Music. The officers of the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts are: President Michael Falcetti, Vice President Johanna Lewis, Secretary Frankie Coelho, Treasurer Peggy Falcetti. Over 400 people attended the 49th Annual New England Music Festival Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 9th. Dinner music was provided by the Bob Ferrier Duo. The 2nd Annual New England Music Festival Dance Party with live DJ was also held Saturday evening with free admission to all the contestants. A wonderful time for all! On Sunday, April 10th, the 2010 US Roland Accordion Champion, Christopher Gorton presented an outstanding performance for all in the main ballroom. All were amazed by his technical virtuosity and expressiveness. During the festival, several fascinating workshops were presented: Alex Rindone of Let's Play Music gave a Sound Recording Workshop; Jay Latulippe of Let's Play Music offered a Keyboard Improvisation Workshop; Bruce Yelle of Falcetti Music presented Strumming to the Next Level Workshop. All were informative and valuable presentations. There were over 800 participants and 1800 entries competing for $6,000.00 in cash awards in the following categories: ATAM Piano Entertainment Solo: 1. Jennifer Messina 2 Christina Colon 3. Michael Kalisz; ATAM Accordion Entertainment Solo: 1. Rachel Quirbach 2. Diana Shoemaker 3. Zachary Waggoner; ATAM Guitar Entertainment Solo:1. Alexandra Corallo 2. Hannah Desser 3. Amanda McCarthy. The NE Accordion Championship Winners: 1. Kyle Fredricks 2. Marissa Williams 3. Brian Aucoin. The NE Guitar Championship Winners: 1. Stephen Hensley 2. Jessica Minikowski 3. T.J. Normand. The NE Piano Championship Winners: 1. Daniel Lipeles 2. Justin Markowski 3. kelly Li. The NE Drum Championship Winner: Mohit Mali. Amy Berard of Rosita Lee Music is the 2011 winner of the ATAM $500.00 Scholarship Award which is awarded each year to a graduating high school senior who plans to pursue a college major in music. ATAM President, Michael Falcetti, said, " As President of the ATAM, I would like to recognize the the outstanding musical talents of all the contestants in this year's New England Music Competition and Festival. It is the result of many hours of dedication and practicing that got you here. Hopefully, your participation in this years's competition will be a great learning experience that will musically enrich your lives for many years to come. Myself and all the members of the ATAM give a heartfelt thanks to our contest co-chairpersons, Peggy Falcetti and Roger Latulippe for their unending efforts in making this wonderful event possible" Please mark your calendars now and plan to attend and celebrate 50 years of "Making Music" at the New England Music Competition and Festival on April 13, 14,15 2012. For further information: peggyfalcetti@falcettimusic.com |
Frederic Deschamps Seminars, Grayson Masefield Concert in Spokane - USAby Patricia Bartell |
 A review of the recent concert by Grayson Masefield in Spokane has been written by Pamela Beckstrom plus a review of the master classes by Robynne Snow.Grayson and his teacher Frederic Deschamps at the invitation of Spokane accordion teacher Patricia Bartell and assisted by Hohner, were in Spokane conducting master classes for the week. This is the second time in two years that they have been invited to make masterclasses in Spokane and a concert by Grayson Masefield. 2011 Spokane Concert Review |
Dominic Karcic Documents Valtaro Musette Historyby Rita Barnea |
 AAA Board member Doinic Karcic has created a Valtaro Musette web site to store, document and preserve as much history, information, articles, podcasts, pictures, and videos dealing with the founders of the Valtaro Musette Orchestra, John “Scudlein” Brugnoli and Pete “Philomena” Delgrosso, and also the many prominent musicians / accordionists, their colleagues, and people who heard this music.Born and raised in Borgo Val Di Taro, Italy (Pr. Parma) Brugnoli and Delgrosso immigrated to the United States at different times in the 1930s and proceeded in their own unique way to make their contribution to the history of accordion music. They collaborated, recorded, wrote and arranged music that reflected their own genuine creative style (Valtaro Musette) touching the hearts and souls of thousands of music lovers, dancers and above all fellow accordionists in the United States and beyond. Their story is also an “American success story” that illustrates the opportunities that this great country offered to the millions of immigrants. Additionally, Dominic would like to interview people who played Valtaro music in NYC between 1936 and 1961. He also requests interviews of people who went there for dinner or dancing. You do not have to be an accordionist or musician to participate in this project. Originally from Astoria, NY, Dominic Karcic earned a Bachelor of Music degree from New York College of Music. He received his Masters Degree in Music from the City University of New York (CCNY) Dominic was a public school music teacher for thirty-two years focusing on vocal and instrumental instruction in the Long Island towns of Valley Stream, Freeport, and Baldwin. He has always played professionally in the New York metropolitan area and continues to do so today. Dominic's ultimate goal is to take all this information and present it in a concert and documentary for television. If anyone has an pertinent and relevant pictures, videos, recording, documents etc. and would like to contribute / donate them to this web site please contact Dominic at accordionman@optonline.net. |
Frank Marocco Honored, Hollywood – USAby Harley Jones |
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 The American Society of Music Arrangers and Composers presented a Luncheon with Special Guest Frank Marocco on April 20th at Catalinas in Hollywood. Frank Marocco spoke about his career, answering many questions.Frank Marocco is one of the most recorded accordionists in America (and, possibly, the world), having played on a vast number of movie soundtracks, television scores, commercial jingles and record albums, in the studios of Hollywood and beyond. He has recorded for and/or worked with artists ranging from Brian Wilson, Pink Floyd and Madonna to Luciano Pavarotti, conductor Maxim Shostakovich and composer John Williams. He was nominated eight years in a row for the Most Valuable Player Award by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (N.A.R.A.S) and received that award twice. Frank is also a consummate jazz artist and a gifted composer with several of his own albums to his credit. He has played his music for audiences all over the world. |
Firefighters Save Concertinas from Blaze - USAby Harley Jones |
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 In New Ulm, Minnesota, 22 April, firefighters were able to save a piece of musical history from a burning home.Firemen were called early Friday to the former home of the late Christy Hengel (picture right). Christy Hengel is reported to be one of the last people to build concertinas in the USA. Hengel had his concertina shop there as well as an extensive collection of concertinas. New Ulm Fire Chief Paul Macho told the news media that firefighters retrieved "well over one hundred" concertinas from the basement. At first, firefighters didn't know the concertinas were inside until the owner arrived. The fire chief says the concertinas were saved before there was too much water damage. The home's residents reported having electrical issues Thursday night, but firefighters don't know the cause of the fire yet. Fortunately, no one was hurt. Dodie Wendinger, executive director of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in New Ulm, said virtually all the instruments were removed from the basement, though some received heavy damage. Hengel, former owner of the home who died in 2007, was a legend in the concertina world and widely known for his craftsmanship and the “industry standard” sounds his instruments produced. Some of his older concertinas have sold for thousands of dollars, and the Minnesota Historical Society placed one of them in its museum in 2000. |
10 Year Old Accordionist On Cinco de Mayo Programby Rita Barnea |
 The Multi-Educational Cross Cultural Arts Association (MECCA) Texas Fiddler and Cloggers from Killeen, Texas played at the opening ceremony for the 2011 season of the Texas Pickin Park at Fayetteville, Texas on Saturday, April 9. The group includes:( in Photograph) left to right: 13 year old Samantha Salvador-fiddle, 14 year old Osvaldo Sanchez-mandolin, 10 year old Sabrina Salvador-button accordion, and Dr. Daniel Kott-upright bass.The group played old time songs and performed clogging routines to their live music. Every second Saturday, they perform at various bluegrass/old time jam session throughout Texas. There is a weekend jam session at the Texas Pickin Park. Accordion players are welcome at the one hour directed old time jam session and the one hour instructional beginner/intermediate bluegrass jam session. On Thursday, May 5 (Cinco de Mayo), from 2:00 to 3:PM CDT, they will present a program of how to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with music and dance. These same musicians are also Maraichi de Colores. Mariachi and Conjunto styles of music will be will be broadcast over the regional Central Texas area by KPLE-TV. This program will also be webcast on the Internet on Ustream - dfkott, and will be an interactive video conference to 25 schools throughout Texas over connect2texas bridging network. For more information email: Daniel Kott, Director of MECCA at dfkott@aol.com |
Future events |
Vivant! and Don Lipovac in Concert, Missouri - USAby Rob Howard |
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 The ensemble Vivant! will be appearing in concert with accordion entertainer Don Lipovac on Saturday May 14th, 7pm, at the Bragg Auditorium, All Souls Unitarian Church, 5401 Walnut St, Kansas City, Missouri. Doors open at 6.30pm. The concert is sponsored by the Fremar Foundation for Accordion Arts. Vivant! will be performing a preview of their upcoming concert tour show and also premiering a new work, ‘Night at the Pla-Mor’, by Karen Fremar. Vivant! (MD Karen Fremar) includes Dee Sligar (bass, keyboard), Gail Overly (accordion), Julie Silfverberg (accordion, keyboard), Karen Fremar (accordion, keyboard), Sarah Cantrell (percussion, mallets, keyboard) and Janne Silfverberg (trombone, percussion). Don Lipovac, of Slovenian heritage, attended the Kansas City Conservatory of Music, and in 1958 won first place in the American Accordionists' Association (AAA) National Championship. He has entertained with his orchestra for several decades, has appeared on the Lawrence Welk TV show, as a soloist with the Kansas City Philharmonic Orchestra, and has been inducted into the Polka Hall of Fame, awarded at Ironworld, USA, in Chisholm, Minnesota. For further information email: vivant@vivantsound.com |
Petar Ralchev Quartet on USA Tourby Rita Barnea |
 The Petar Ralchev Quartet will appear on Friday, May 13, 9:PM at the American Serbian Club of Pittsburgh, 2524 Sarah Street, Pittsburgh, PA.Be prepared for an incredible evening of Blakan virtuosity with Petar Ralchev and his outstanding quartet! Cover Charge: $15. Accordionist Petar Ralchev is one of the brightest stars on the contemporary Bulgarian music scene. The founder of a unique performing style which he describes as “virtuosity, melodiousness, rich harmony and improvisation,” he is an inspiration for many young accordionists around the world today. His unique self-defining style distinguishes Petar Ralchev from other musicians. His music captures the magic of Bulgarian folklore and mixes it with mystic rhythms of the Balkans. The Mozart of the Bulgarian folk music started his professional accordion education when he enrolled in Pazardjik's music school as a first grader. He was admitted to Secondary School of Music in Plovdiv where he was a student of Mihail Mihalov. His love for music coupled with disciplined practice equipped him with solid musical education. He often played with other great musicians, such as Ivo Papazov and Georgy Yanev. Having inherited a wealth of tunes, rhythms and measures from the folk tradition, he takes them into new realms and leads them to new heights. Open to the subtleties and innovations in the music of other countries, he is one of the most sought-after performers in Europe today. In addition to his solo career, he appears with several multi-ethnic European bands such as The Other Europeans Band, No Border Orchestra, Accordionale, Danube Ship Orchestra, Arabesque, etc., and is included in many Bulgarian projects such as the Zig Zag Trio, Bulgari and the present Petar Ralchev Quartet. The members of the band are the youngest generation of artists, who have migrated to the “New World” carrying with them an incredible treasure: knowledge, attitude and skills deeply rooted in the old village traditions of their home country, yet polished through intensive training in elite professional schools and enriched by the musical traditions of other parts of the world. The result is music, which is intricate and mesmerizing: solid in its foundation, yet eclectic and versatile. Nikolay Georgiev (guitar) graduated from the Philip Kutev National School of Folk Arts and continued his education in the Musical Academy in Plovdiv. He has performed with many orchestras in Bulgaria and the US, and is currently a member of Kolorit Orchestra in Chicago. Nikolay is a highly creative musician whose approach to his instrument is inspired by ornamentation specific to other folk instruments such as gaida, gadulka and accordion. He experiments freely, enjoys improvisation and fits perfectly with Ralchev’s performing mode. Iliana Marudova-Georgiev (vocal) loves performing songs from all the ethnographic regions of Bulgaria and extends her repertoire to the neighboring Serbia and Macedonia. A graduate of the National School of Folk Arts in Shiroka Luka, she enrolled in the Musical Academy in Plovdiv where she trained until her arrival in the US. She has performed with several vocal groups such as the Academy Choir, where she was a soloist, Balkan Voices, and Ivan Milev’s Balkan Folk Band. She is currently singing with Izgrev Orchestra in Chicago. Petur Iliev (tupan, drum) is a dancer and choreographer with a career deeply steeped in the rich folk music and dance traditions of his family. He is a graduate of the Bulgarian National School of Dance Art and before coming to the US was a Principal Dancer with the Kutev National Dance and Music Ensemble. Iliev’s individual creativity, vast knowledge of the specifics of Bulgarian music, and his understanding of its later development make him one of the few drummers capable of adequately responding to Ralchev’s versatility and virtuosity. Performance dates: May 1 Boston, MA - Center Madara May 3 New York, NY - Drom/East Village Music Club May 7 Toronto, CANADA - Igranka May 8 Montreal, CANADA - Zornica and Bourque-Moreau Associés May 11 Philadelphia, PA - Crossroads Music May 12 Staunton, VA - Mockingbird Restaurant May 13 Pittsburgh, PA - Serbian Club May 14 Washington, DC - Ivan Velev/Bulgarian Association May 15 San Diego, CA - Vassya Val's Events May 21 Los Angeles, CA - Cafe Aman May 22 Los Angeles, CA - "Saint George" Eastern Orthodox Church May 25 Berkeley, CA – Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center May 27 Berkeley, CA – Subterranean Art House May 28 San Francisco, CA - Sts Cyril & Methodius Festival/Croatian American Cultural Center May 31 Eugene, OR - WOW Hall June 2 Vancouver, BC, CANADA June 3 Seattle, WA - Balkan Dancers/Russian Cultural Center For further information: ralchev@ivansworkshop.com Phone: 202-509-1630: |
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2011 AAA Festival, July 13-17, in Charleston, SCby Rita Barnea |
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| The American Accordionists' Association is proud to announce the 2011 AAA Festival from July 13-17, 2011 at the Sheraton at Charleston Airport, Charleston, South Carolina. At this time, the International Accordion Orchestra Competition will take place. The competition is open to all accordion orchestras. There is no restriction as to the number of members in the orchestra. The minimum requirement is eight accordions. Click 2011AArules for Festival Contest Rules for solos, duets, ensembles, and bands. The deadline for these entries is June 10, 2011. Join us as Joan C. Sommers is honored with the AAA's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. There will be cash awards, workshops, exhibits, concerts, and competitions for all ages. The tentative schedule includes: Wednesday.....Registration, Press & Squeeze event Thursday........Luncheon Concert, Cabaret Night Friday.............Massed Band Performance conducted by Frank Busso, Gala Evening Concert Saturday.........Awards Concert, Banquet, Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation, Festival Orchestra conducted by Joan Sommers. Sunday...........Breakfast Meeting and Farewell The AAA Festival Coordinators are: Mary Tokarski, Frank Busso, Linda Soley Reed. Make sure you attend for wonderful, memorable music, friendship, and more! For further information view 2011AArules or the AAA website or email Mary Tokarski: mary.tokarski@comcast.net or Linda Reed at aaa1938@aol.com |
Vincenzo Abbracciante Plans 2011 USA Tourby Rob Howard |
 Italian accordionist Vincenzo's first USA performance and jazz workshop of 2011 will be held at the Accordion Festival in Leavenworth, WA, on June 18th. He is available for accordion club or festival performances, West Coast, between June 7th to 15th, and on the East Coast between June 20th to 29th, after which he will be on tour in Africa.Vincenzo will be playing the latest Borsini accordion, which has taken a year to build by hand. He will also be involved in playing at various jazz clubs around the country. Live video performances and some studio recording in Los Angeles is also on the bill. He is currently finishing up a long awaited jazz CD which will be made available at his performances. Please contact Jeffrey Iacono, Borsini Accordions (USA), as soon as possible to arrange a performance. For further information email: jeffrey@borsiniaccordions.it |
2011 ATG Festival in Orlando, July 27-31by Rita Barnea |
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| The ATG welcomes all to their 71st Annual Competition and Festival in Orlando, Florida at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel. Phone: 1-407-240-1000. ATG rates are available 3 days before and after the Festival. The ATG Competition will be held in the following categories: Open Solo, Free Bass Solo, Ethnic/Folk Solo, Polka Solo, Jazz Solo, Diatoni/Button Box , Pop Solo, Digital Accordion Solo, Evaluation, Duets, Ensembles, ad Accordion Orchestra and Accordions with Other Instruments Orchestra. For ATG Entry Forms: wbsimon@earthlink.net The 2011 Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival finals will be on July 29, 2011 during the 71st Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Festival in Orlando, Florida. There will be three competition categories: Senior (age 18 and older) Junior (age 17 and younger) Diatonic (age 18 and older) Performances will feature Italian accordion artist Sergio Scappini, seven-time diatonic accordion champion Danilo Di Paolonicola, 2010 Roland U.S. V-Accordion Festival winner Chris Gorton, father and son artists Alex and Peter Chudolij, Grammy nominee Alex Meixner, and Steve Albini of Roland U.S. For additional information please contact: Virginia Harmon, Festival Coordinator Phone: (323) 890-3776 or E-mail: Virginia@RolandUS.com or Steven Albini, V-Accordion Product Manager, Roland Corporation U.S. Phone: 323.890.3700 x 2353 or E-mail: steven.albini@rolandus.com |
Long Island Accordion Alliance Creates Interest in the Accordionby Rita Barnea |
 The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) was sponsored by two restaurants in the month of April. Its usual first Tuesday of the month “get together” was held in La Villini Restaurant in East Northport, NY resulting in another very successful evening. On Tuesday, April 19th the Alliance was invited to a new venue in Lindenhurst, Long Island called “The Village Lanterne”. Once again a near capacity crowd of accordion enthusiasts attended.In celebration of World Accordion Day, the next "get together'' of the "Long Island Accordion Alliance" is on Tuesday evening May 3rd - 7PM - at La Villini Restaurant East Northport, NY. Please come and join us. There'll be plenty of accordion music, great food, singing, fun and maybe some additional surprise guest artists showing up to perform. Reservations are recommended. Call 631 – 261 – 6344 A future date to mark down on your calendar is Wednesday, June 8th. The Alliance will perform at 7 PM at J&R Steakhouse, 1320 Stony Brook Rd. & Rt. 347, Stony Brook, NY 11790 (1/4 Mile East of Smithhaven Mall) Reservations are highly recommended. Please call 631-689-5920. The last time that the Alliance performed there 120 people attended. For further information: DKarcic10@optonline.net |
AAA Master Class and Concert Series, NYC July 29-31stby Dr. William Schimmel |
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| THE AMERICAN ACCORDIONISTS' ASSOCIATION MASTER CLASS AND CONCERT SERIES presents THE SEMINARS - 2011 with DR. WILLIAM SCHIMMEL - MODERATOR/CURATOR WALTON THE IMPERIAL, CROWNED! NOT INVITED TO THE ROYAL WEDDING? JOIN US FOR A WEEKEND OF REAL ROYALTY! WELCOME TO OUR SEVENTEENTH YEAR! A WEEKEND OF BLOODY ARISTOCRACY! IMPERIAL ACCORDIONS, ROYAL MODELS, EXCELSIOR, VICTORIA, TITANO, MONARCH, NOBLE, THE EMPORER - TO NAME A FEW! KING OF DOWNTOWN SQUEEZERS, QUEEN IDA, THE NEW ACCORDION QUEEN, KING OF RAGTIME, THE FIRST, THE MAGUS, PEE WEE KING, POLKA KING, THE MADONNA OF THE ACCORDION, THE QUEEN OF COUNTRY, THE ACCORDION KINGS – TITLES! TITLES! TITLES! ACCORDION CULTURE IS A REGAL AFFAIR! ACCORDION ROYALTY! - A TITLE FOR EVERYONE! – EVERYONE WEARS A CROWN FOR THE ENTIRE WEEKEND - KING OF THIS, PRINCE OF THAT, ETC, ETC, ETC. BUT ONLY ONE CAN WEAR THE IMPERIAL CROWN - WILLIAM WALTON! WHAT DOES HE HAVE TO DO WITH ACCORDION CULTURE? HE DIDN'T WRITE FOR THE ACCORDION. WELL, HE WROTE A VIOLA CONCERTO – CLOSE ENOUGH! - A WORK ENTITLED FACADE – ACCORDIONISTS LOVE VAUDEVILLE, SMOKE AND MIRRORS – CLOSE ENOUGH! AND BELSHASSARS'S FEAST – ACCORDIONISTS LOVE TO EAT AND DRINK – CLOSE ENOUGH! HE ALSO WROTE CROWN IMPERIAL AND IT WAS PERFORMED AT THE ROYAL WEDDING! ACCORDION CULTURE IS VEHEMENTLY COMPETITIVE – WALTON IS DEAD – SO NO COMPETITION HERE AND NO COMPETITON AT THE SEMINARS – SO BE IT – WALTON IS THE IMPERIAL - LET'S CROWN HIM! NOT THE KING, WE ALREADY HAVE LOTS OF KINGS - BUT THE IMPERIAL!!!! BETTER THAN ANY KING OR KINGS!!!!! LONG LIVE THE IMPERIAL! THE ROYAL WEEKEND WILL INCLUDE: KING OF RAGTIME MARK BIRNBAUM IN A NEW WORK – THE DUKE OF EARL BROWN KING OF DOWNTOWN SQUEEZERS WILL HOLSHOUSER - JAZZ GREAT RICHARD NIXON'S FAMOUS “CHECKERS SPEECH” SET TO MUSIC THE ACCORDION AND FDR THE TANGO AND SHOPPING GLASGOW – THE TOKYO of the WEST KING ELVIS PEE WEE KING'S TENNESSEE WALTZ WITH VARIATIONS THE EMPEROR'S NEW CLOTHES – BY HUMORIST KEN LAUFER AN INSTALLATION HONORING SILENT FILM MAKER KING VIDOR A LECTURE ON PERFORMING FOR THE HOMELESS BY PAUL STEIN THE ACCORDION AND THE RULING CLASS BY DR. ROBERT YOUNG MC MAHAN AN INTERACTIVE VIDEO BY MICKI GOODMAN LEE MC CLURE'S DIGITAL FLUTE LADY GAGAKU WITH MAMI OKADA AND MR FUKUI DR. SCHIMMEL'S NEW OPERA – THE LAST SUPPER (BUS) DR. HUGO GOLDENZWEIG BRINGING BEETHOVEN TO THE ACCORDIONIST QUEEN OF NORWEGIAN COUNTRY INGRID KVALE JIM THORPE PA'S OWN DOUG MAKOFKA CHANGES (ALAN PRICE) FROM THE FILM, O LUCKY MAN! DAVID FIRST AS DAVID THE FIRST ART BAILEY BRINGS BARTOK AND JAZZ TO A HEAD – AND OFF WITH IT! JOHN FOTI – BACK TO NEW JERSEY – ARISTOCRACY AND BROKEN THUMBS CARL RIEHL'S HARVARD STYLE PUNK RULES! GODFREY AND LORRAINE – THOROUGHBREDS TRUE AND BLUE PRINCE OF STATEN ISLAND DAVID STOLER DR. ROCCO JERRY FROM TROY – LEAVING HELEN AT HOME INSTALLATION ARTIST, CRISTINA SPELIGENE, BAKING A KING CAKE MARTINA LI JOINING US FROM CHINA – SHE DROVE ALL THE WAY MARY TOKARSI – THE QUEEN OF THE AAA – LITERALLY BRIAN DEWAN – CZAR OF THE AUTOHARP – THE ACCORDION'S STRING SECTION AND THE ACCORDION'S OWN BASTARD SON – DR. WILLIAM SCHIMMEL ALL ROYAL PREMIERES – MADE FOR THE OCCASION! AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED! THE ROYAL EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT: THE TENRI CULTURAL INSTITUTE OF NEW YORK 43A WEST 13TH ST – BETWEEN 5TH AND 6TH AVE JULY 29, 30 AND 31 2011 For more information visit the American Accordionists' Association website or email: billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
Nicole Renaud’s ‘Couleurs’ Multimedia Concert, New York - USAby Rob Howard |
 Nicole Renaud’s ‘Couleurs’ original song cycle stands at the crossroads of French chanson, opera and performance art. It is a love story seen through colors, where each song represents a color.The French accordion magazine ‘Accordéon-Accordéonistes’ review states, “In this album, Nicole Renaud’s sound is white as snow, pure, transparent, lyrical.” Ms. Renaud’s multimedia concert takes place on May 8th, 8pm, at Galapagos Art Space, 16 Main St, Brooklyn, New York. Her performance involves live projection of the translated lyrics on her dress throughout the performance, thus creating visual poetry in the same vein of Apollinaire’s Calligrammes. The soprano accompanies herself on a new one-of-a-kind, luminous transparent accordion, the ‘lincordian’, designed by British artist-engineer Paul Etienne Lincoln. The scenic design and costume are by Parisian art director Jacques Perdigues, who has worked in the field of theater (Victoria Chaplin, Aurélia Thiérrée) and fashion (John Galliano, Thierry Mugler). For further information email: info@nicolerenaud.com |
Paul Monte to Perform for Massachusetts Accordion Associationby Rita Barnea |
 Accordionist Paul Monte will present a 1:30 PM performance and workshop at the May 22nd Massachusetts Accordion Association meeting at the Ciociaro Social Club,144 Bridge St, Newton, Massachusetts. Paul has been a leader on the New England accordion scene for many years. He has played at the finest venues and with renowned entertainers and is also a wonderful teacher of the accordion. Paul’s most recent accomplishment is a CD with bassist Tal Shalom-Kobi, which includes a wide variety of music styles. The concert on May 22 will include Paul and Tal. His workshop will highlight some of techniques Paul employs on the recording. The Massachusetts Accordion Association is delighted to participate in the celebration of the CD release. Paul Monte knew at the age of fourteen that he wanted to master the accordion, striving for excellence and perfection in his playing. In 1952, he founded his first studio in Copley Square, Boston. His fine performances at concerts and private functions resulted in a high demand of requests for accordion instruction. In 1963 Paul was the first instructor to teach accordion in the Popular Music Department of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. He held multi-year engagement with both the Statler and Copley Plaza Hotels in Boston performing with the house bands, then providing music for the Nantucket Yacht Club during the summers. Paul's recent performance as an accompanist to the Grammy Award winning vocalist Melissa Manchester with the Boston Pops Orchestra at Symphony Hall under the direction of John Williams was televised nationwide. As one of the founders of the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts (ATAM), he served as President, Treasurer, and as a member of the Board of Directors. Tal Shalom-Kobi, from Israel, is a bass player and music educator, with a degree in Music Education from Berklee College of Music and a Master in Jazz Performance from the New England Conservatory. Tal has performed in Jazz Festivals all over the world. Paul has dedicated his CD to his dear wife, Lillian, for her never ending support over the years. For further information: tagalong1@comcast.net |
Accordion Now! 2011 LOTS OF ACCORDIONS, LOTS OF MUSIC, LOTS OF FUNby Rita Barnea |
 The 4th Annual Music Festival, Accordions Now! 2011, will be held Friday and Saturday, August 12-13 at the Nashua Courtyard Marriott, Nashua, New Hampshire.The annual fun-fest has a terrific lineup. Artists and Presenters and their Workshops (in alphabetical order): ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival Orchestra, Rita Davidson ( Eugene Ettore, A 90th Anniversary Appreciation of His Life and Music); Stephen Dominko (Lecture-Demonstration on Technique & Style); Fabio & Fabio ( Four Generations: Continuing A Family Tradition); Sam Falcetti (Secrets of Accordion Fingering); Lynda Fish, Tony Lovello ( The One-of-a-Kind, Razzling, Dazzling "Living Legend");, Gary Morin, Donna Maria Regis, Jerry Tramontozzi, Arthur Welch (Avoiding the Pitfall of Do-It-Yourself Accordion Repairs) and other performers to be announced very soon. Activities planned are concerts, workshops, lecture-demonstrations, open mike night, jam sessions, vendor exhibits, door prize drawings, festive lunch buffet, cocktail reception, gala banquet and more. The ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival Orchestra conducted by Donna Maria Regis is a popular highlight of Saturday afternoon's concerts. Call for details on how to participate in the orchestra. The more the merrier! Call 1-800---328-5227. The ACCORDIONS NOW! 2011 Festival Orchestra offers a musical tribute of thanks to their cherished friend and mentor, Tony Lovello. The idea for a New England accordion festival was inspired by Tony's performance at the first concert ever to be co-sponsored by the New Hampshire Accordion Association and Accordion Connection LLC. AN!FO 2011 Rehearsal & Concert Saturday Afternoon To participate in the ever-popular ACCORDIONS NOW! Festival Orchestra, you must register by July 22. You must also bring your own accordion, music stand, and assigned parts. Sheet music and study sound clips will be sent to pre-paid registrants to learn and practice in advance. Co-sponsors of the festival are the New Hampshire Accordion Association and Accordion Connection LLC.(owner Arthur Welch) Plan to attend this exciting and fun accordion event! To register call: 1-800-328-5227 |
‘Squeezebox Mania 1V’ Concert, Texas – USAby Rob Howard |
 The ‘Squeezebox Mania 1V’ concert takes place on April 30th, 8.30pm, at Threadgills (WHQ), 301 West Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas. The concert features Radoslav Lorkovic, Conjunto Aztlan, Corey Ledet, Zhenya Rock, and Joel Guzman & Sarah Fox.Accordionist Juan Tejeda, appearing with the Conjunto Aztlan in the ‘Squeezebox Mania 1V’ concert, will also be taking part in the ‘Big Squeeze Accordion Contest’ concert in the afternoon in Houston. For further information email: juantejeda@sbcglobal.net |
Dervish on Tour to the Lowell Folk Festival - USAby Harley Jones |
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| The popular Irish traditional band Dervish, from Sligo, Republic of Ireland, have embarked on an international tour from April 24th to UK, France, Ireland and concluding at the Lowell Folk Festival in Massachusetts. The 2011 Lowell Folk Festival, July 29-31, 2011 is held in downtown Lowell and strives to present the very finest traditional artists from across the country. Based in Sligo, Ireland, the group Dervish features Shane Mitchell on accordion. Fronted as ever by vocalist Cathy Jordan, Dervish’s line up also includes bouzouki, mandola, flute, bodhran and fiddle. Other artists for the festival are: Bill Kirchen and Too Much Fun - Dieselbilly The Birmingham Sunlights - a cappella gospel Debo Band with special guests Fendika - Ethiopian funk and traditional azmari music Eddie Pennington - "Travis-style" thumb-picked guitar Eden Brent - Boogie-Woogie Piano Hector del Curto's Tango Quartet - Tango La Excelencia - Salsa Ledward Kaapana - Hawaiian slack-key guitar Le Vent du Nord - Quebecois Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper - Bluegrass Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas - Zydeco Nukuriik - Inuit Throat Singers The Quebe Sisters Band – Texas fiddling and harmony singing Shemekia Copeland - Blues Stanky & the Coal Miners - Eastern-style polka |
30th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival, Texas - USAby Rob Howard |
 The 30th annual Tejano Conjunto Festival will be held from May 10th to 15th at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center and Rosedale Park, San Antonio, Texas.The guest artistes include Mingo Saldivar, Eva Ybarra, Oscar Hernandez, Los Dos Gilbertos, Joel Guzmán, Los Monarcas de Pete, Mario Díaz, Gilberto Pérez, and many more. The festival includes concerts, dancing and jam sessions. On May 12th, 6pm, the Conjunto Hall of Fame Dinner will take place in the Guadalupe Theater, San Antonio. The festival’s special features include a free workshop on the Roland FR-18 Diatonic V-Accordion, which will cover the history of the genre and demonstrate the fusion of traditional Conjunto with modern technology. There will also be an ‘Accordion Tuning, Maintenance & Repair Workshop’, led by Tim Schofield, Hohner Accordion Repair and Parts Supervisor, who will demonstrate how to tune the reeds of an accordion and maintain it in tip-top playing shape. Accordion tuning kits will be available for purchase. |
Victor Prieto’s Next Dates, New York – USAby Rob Howard |
 The ever busy jazz accordionist Victor Prieto performs as follows:May 3rd, 9pm - with the Arturo O'Farril Latin Jazz Orchestra, Aimee Allen Group, Iridium Jazz Club, New York May 14th, 9pm - Arturo O'Farril Latin Jazz Orchestra, Wall to Wall Sonidos Festival, New York May 15th – with the Thomas Bergeron Trio, Yales Club, New York May 25th – with Emilio Solla y La Inestable de Brooklyn, Jazz Standard, NY June 12th – with the Maria Schneider Orchestra, Ojai Music Festival, California June 13th - with the Maria Schneider Orchestra, Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley, California For further information email: vpcruz@gmail.com |