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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Octoberfest Las Vegas International Accordion Festival Ready to Start - USA
Free Postage, Super Value Christmas Gifts Books
The Klezmatics Receive Lifetime Achievement Award
Dick Contino Receives Honorary Membership Award from MAS
Accordionist Lauren Brody in Theodore Bikel Tribute in NYC
Connecticut Accordion Orchestra Presents Holiday Program
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society December Concert
Accordion Pops Orchestra Christmas Special
Joe Cerrito CD's For Sale on New Website
Resurgence of the Accordion in Michigan
Attending Concerts May Be Hazardous to Your Health (and the Performance!)
Accordion Celebration | A Non-Traditional Concert on Dec. 1
AbsolutAccord in Concert in San Francisco
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
2013 Something for Everyone!…Get Ready for the 15th Annual LVIC in 2014
Now Available… the All New “Accordion Bee” iBook
New Book by Rob Howard: "Accordion: A Pictorial History"
6th Gary Dahl "Easy Listening Variety" eBook, Now Released
Sam Falcetti and Family Support the Arts at the University of Massachusetts
Ludovic Beier at "The Django Reinhardt" New York Festival
Håvard Svendsrud Performs with the Accordion Pops Orchestra
Guy Klucevsek in Concert at the University of Massachusetts
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) Concerts and Events
Guardian Newspaper Education Feature: 'Music graduates are more employable than you might think'
Frank Busso Jr. and Air Force Strings Perform "Bohemian Rhapsody"
Ken and Mary: Turbo Accordions Express
'Play Your Accordion Without Pain', New Chapter Released
Busy Year for Jane Christison
2014 Accordion Babes Calendar is Available Now
Future events |
2014 National Accordion Convention is March 5-9. 2014
CD Reviews |
New and Updated Sites |
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Barnea |
 The holidays are here! So much shopping to do. But wait, the holidays are much more than frenzied buying sprees!It is time to think about others who are less fortunate. You can be generous with whatever musical talents you possess. What about sharing your holiday songs by playing for a senior center, hospital, or family gathering? As those of us who have played for people already know… everyone enjoys music and marvels at HOW DO YOU DO THAT? on the accordion? The buttons, the keys, the bellows…. adults and children are always fascinated with the accordion. Playing the accordion is both pleasing to the ear and captivating to the eye. It is never boring! So, why not be brave and go out there and play whatever you know for someone who doesn't know the accordion! But…… since you are still going to go shopping anyway…….. please consider supporting the many accordion artists, composers, and writers…… who have created many wonderful musical gifts that you can consider giving as presents. They are inexpensive and you will be giving a gift that is entertaining, educational and, at the same time, supportive of our fellow musicians. In this issue, you will get some great ideas for gifts. Don't forget that while you are making time for shopping, put aside some time for practicing and sharing your music. As always, send your comments/ideas to me at Ritabelll@aol.com Make sure you read the 2014 January USA news for a comprehensive list and description of upcoming festivals, concerts, and more! Happy Holidays to you and your family from everyone at Accordions Worldwide!(AWW) |
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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Free Postage, Super Value Christmas Gifts Booksby Harley Jones |
 Accordion Christmas Gift ideas for friends and family at: 2013Christmas IdeasFree Postage from 15th November to 15th December ONLY make the following books SUPER value for a Christmas Gift. Free Postage Special: "The Ins and Outs of the Accordion" by Thierry Benetoux (catalog benetouxen00). A quality book about accordion repairs, tuning etc. that is very popular indeed. In English and French. Comprendre et Reparer Votre Accordeon (catalog benetouxfr00). Free Postage Special: "Sounding Out The Accordion" by Thierry Benetoux (catalog bthierryen). A very quality book that cares of the sounding and tuning up your accordion. In English and French. L’Accordeon & SA Diversite Sonore (catalog bthierryfr). Free Postage Special: Rob Howard Publications," An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments" by Rob Howard, are unique books that suit the new learner of the accordion instrument. It also have "An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments Volume 2", "An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments Volume 3", An "A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments Volume 4". Free Postage Special: "Playing Well" by Lynda Griffith (catalog lynda01), Prevention and Biomechanics of Musician Injuries These Christmas gift ideas have been compiled to hopefully attract your Xmas gift money to be spent with accordion artists, composers, arrangers and publishers. Please support accordion artistry and choose from over 2,200 eSheet pieces, 270 CD/DVD’s, 990 eTracks recordings, 833 plus printed works and numerous books (text) to choose from. 2013Christmas Ideas |
The Klezmatics Receive Lifetime Achievement Awardby Rita Barnea |
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 On Tuesday, November 19, 2013, The Klezmatics received a Lifetime Achievement Award at YIVO’s 88th Annual Benefit Dinner and performed excerpts of a work-in-progress based on the Letters to Afar installation by Péter Forgács and The Klezmatics, (featuring YIVO’s unique collection of Polish Jewish home movies from the 1930s) at the Museum of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw. The Klezmatics are world-renowned superstars of klezmer. Since their emergence from New York City’s East Village in 1986, they have revitalized Yiddish music for the 21st century. The band has helped to change the face of contemporary Yiddish culture, not least through their career-long research and use of materials found in the Max and Frieda Weinstein Archives of YIVO Sound Recordings. They have performed in more than 20 countries, released ten acclaimed albums and served as the subject of a feature-length documentary film, 'The Klezmatics: On Holy Ground' Writer Jeff Tamarkin said about the Klezmatics:"Since their emergence more than 25 years ago, the Klezmatics have raised the bar for Eastern European Jewish music, made aesthetically, politically and musically interesting recordings, inspired future generations, created a large body of work that is enduring, and helped to change the face of contemporary Yiddish culture. Often called a “Jewish roots band,” the Klezmatics have led a popular revival of this ages-old, nearly forgotten art form. They have performed in more than 20 countries and released 10 albums to date—most recently the two-CD Live at Town Hall, recorded in their home base of New York and released in celebration of the band’s silver anniversary. On their Grammy-winning 2006 album Wonder Wheel, the Klezmatics set a dozen previously unsung Woody Guthrie lyrics to music, widening their stylistic base by largely diverging from klezmer. During their quarter-century existence the Klezmatics have collaborated with such brilliant artists as violinist Itzhak Perlman, Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Tony Kushner and Israeli vocal icon Chava Alberstein, plus many other prominent artists working within multiple genres. Today, with three original members—Lorin Sklamberg (lead vocals, accordion, guitar, piano), Frank London (trumpet, keyboards, vocals) and Paul Morrissett (bass, tsimbl, vocals)—still on board, alongside longtime members Matt Darriau (kaval, clarinet, saxophone, vocals) and Lisa Gutkin (violin, vocals), the Klezmatics are without a doubt the most successful proponents of klezmer music in the world." Klezmatic accordionist, Lorin Sklamberg (photo on left), also performs on guitar, piano, and in lead vocals. The legendary music critic Robert Christgau has described Lorin Sklamberg’s voice as “transcendent, ethereal and sensual,” while a writer for Folkworld gushed that the Klezmatics’ frontman “brings tears into my eyes with his fabulous way of singing.” Since he co-founded the legendary klezmer group in 1986, Lorin Sklamberg has been on the receiving end of countless tributes of that nature—his crystalline, expressive vocalizing never fails to have an emotional impact on all within its range. Sklamberg, who says he “sang before he spoke” and taught himself to play guitar, piano and autoharp, has been involved in the world of Jewish music since he was 15 years old, when he co-founded a band, Rimonim, with three Hebrew school classmates at his conservative shul in Alhambra, California. After being introduced to klezmer, Lorin began to seek out songs within the genre, but it wasn’t until after he moved to New York in the early ’80s that he was able to incorporate klezmer into the music he performed. Lorin can be heard on some 50 CDs, and also composes and performs for film, dance, stage and circus, produces recordings, and teaches and lectures from London and Paris to Kiev and St. Petersburg. By day he works as the Sound Archivist for the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. The Klezmatics December Schedule: Dec 4, 7:00pm Phoenix, AZ - MIM MusicTheater Dec 5, 7:30pm Tucson, AZ - Fox Tucson Theatre Dec 7, 7:30pm Santa Monica, CA - The Broad Stage, Santa Monica College Dec 8, 8:00pm Berkeley, CA - Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse For further information: folkloreproductions@klezmatics.com |
Dick Contino Receives Honorary Membership Award from MASby Rita Barnea |
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| The Michigan Accordion Society (MAS) honored Dick Contino for his dedication to the accordion at the Oct 2013 Las Vegas International Accordion Convention. In addition to Dick Contino as an Honorary Member, there are seven other Honorary members: Ray Battani, Linda Lee Brown, Julia Cailotto, John Shollack, Peter Soave, Darlene Stolaruk, and Steve Stolaruk. All Honorary members above have gone above the call of duty in promoting the accordion and have given a great amount of their time to help make both the instrument and the Michigan Accordion Society successful over the years. This distinction is also given to the newest honoree: Dick Contino! The Michigan Accordion Society, established in June of1996, is an association for promoting and sharing the music of the accordion. Currently there are over 150 members and increasing. Their first purpose is to promote the accordion as a beautiful and versatile instrument. The accordion is capable of accompanying music of all types, from classical, jazz, and rock, to the more traditional polkas and folk songs. The MAS would like to see more young people learning how to play and appreciate the accordion. Their second purpose is sharing accordion music within the nearby communities. Monthly meetings include professional artists and amateurs playing a variety of music All members are encouraged to participate in the "ACCORDION JAM". In addition they help advertise where and when the members are playing. The MAS hopes to get some small ensembles playing at local malls, schools, and churches to share accordion music with the public. For further information: webmaster@michiganaccordion.org |
Accordionist Lauren Brody in Theodore Bikel Tribute in NYCby Rita Barnea |
 The National Yiddish Theatre, ‘Folksbiene’, will present a unique concert event celebrating the folk legend and actor Theodore Bikel in anticipation of his 90th birthday in May 2014. "Miracle of Miracles: A Chanukah Extravaganza" takes place at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, New York, on Monday December 2nd, 7.30 PM. Featured in the all-star cast are the beloved Emmy-winning actor Fyvush Finkel, klezmer giant Frank London, the Russian concert phenomenon Psoy Korolenko and the Broadway actors Joanne Borts (‘Once’) and Elmore James, among many others. Accordionist Lauren Brody will play in the orchestra. Lauren Brody is an alumna of the pioneering klezmer revival band Kapelye, with whom she toured and recorded for over a decade, and is also a Yiddish singer well known for her unique old-world sound. Lauren leads a parallel life as a performer of the traditional music of Bulgaria and the Balkans, and has won a series of grants to conduct groundbreaking research in Bulgaria on early commercial folk music recordings. Lauren Brody, born in New York City, has been involved with music since early childhood. A classically trained pianist, she received a B.A. in music from the City University of New York, and pursued a Master's Degree in Music before changing course to devote herself to the restoration and tuning of pianos. Lauren Brody’s study of traditional accordion styles brings her in contact with traditions from throughout Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean. Her two specialties are Yiddish and Balkan music. She first became aware of Bulgarian music as a teenager, and was so deeply impressed with what she heard that, in 1969, she made her solo first trip to Bulgaria. That initial trip sparked a life-long interest and commitment to the music and the culture, despite the fact that Lauren has no Bulgarian ancestry. In 1971, during the Communist era in Bulgaria, when visitors from the West were not welcome in the region, it is remarkable that she received a stipend from the Bulgarian government to do post-graduate study in Bulgarian folk music at the State Music Conservatory in Sofia. During this period that she was first introduced to old 78rpm recordings of Bulgarian folk music which became a subject of great future interest for Lauren. In 1990, she received a grant from the Fulbright Foundation to research the commercial recording industry in Bulgaria from 1900-1950. It was the the pioneer study on the subject, as most Bulgarian scholarship in the field of ethnomusicology was devoted to field research. The notion that commercial recordings were a valid avenue of inquiry did not have much traction among Bulgarian scholars at the time. Despite this skepticism, colleagues at the Institute of Music in Sofia were quite helpful to Lauren in the pursuit of her research goals. The results of that research are presented on a CD she reissued on the Yazoo label entitled "Song of the Crooked Dance". A monograph in both English and Bulgarian is planned for the the near future. Lauren said, "I have a lifelong interest in the music of the Balkans, and in the preservation and dissemination of recordings from the 78 rpm era. I have started a comparative study of accordion styles in Romania, Serbia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Greece, and will be launching a blog 'Lauren Brody’s Accordion Bytes' soon." In addition to her research activities, Lauren has been an active performer and teacher of Bulgarian folk music and singing. She appears on two CDs as vocalist and keyboard player with the Yuri Yunakov Ensemble, and has been teaching at seminars since the early 1970s. She leads a dual life as a klezmer musician, and has been a member of Kapelye and Mikveh, with whom she has appeared in films, recorded and toured extensively through the U.S., Canada and Europe. Theodore Bikel, the Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning actor, folk singer and political activist, will make a special appearance supported by the Frank London-led Folksbiene Klezmorim Orchestra. Vienna-born Bikel earned a best supporting actor Oscar nomination in 1958 for ‘The Defiant Ones’. He had major roles in ‘The Blue Angel’, ‘My Fair Lady’, and ‘The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming’. He also created the role of Baron von Trapp in the original production of ‘A Sound of Music’ on Broadway. He has played Tevye in ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ over 2000 times on Broadway and elsewhere, beginning in 1967. A world-renowned folk singer, social activist and spokesman for liberal Jewish causes, he also was a former president of Actors’ Equity. |
Connecticut Accordion Orchestra Presents Holiday Programby Rita Barnea |
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 The Connecticut Accordion Orchestra (CAA) Orchestra will perform in concert on Saturday, December 14 at 2:PM at the Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street, Branford, CT. The concert is an annual event at this library. It is free to the public. Donations are accepted. The concert is followed by the club's annual Holiday Party {$35/person) at Pompeo's Restaurant, 485 Main Street, Branford, CT. The orchestra consists of 21 accordionists, plus a percussionist. and is conducted by AAA President Linda Soley-Reed. The program includes: "Cantique Noel", A Medley of Christmas songs entitled "On Christmas Eve," "Sleigh Ride", "Jingle Bell Rock/Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" (arranged by CAA member and AAA Board Member Don Gerundo), ""Moon River (arranged by Frank Marocco), and "Tarrantella Amore". Mary Tokarski will perform solo pieces and duets with her sister, Julie Cardona. Orchestra members performing in this year's concert include: Mary Tokarski, Julie Cardona, Don Gerundo, Ginger Grider, Marilyn O'Neil, Kathleen Di Cocco,Sandy Zera, Bob Vitale, Gerry Hertel, Jeanine Cariri, Bob Czarnecki, Art Daigle, Pam D'Angelo, Dorothy Gondek, Mary Mascolo, Steve Balog, Art Piel, Ken Reed, Rev.Mark Schaarschmidt, Fred Schwinger, Walter Ziemba, and Mike Rasimas, Percussion. The Connecticut Accordion Association is dedicated to the promotion of the accordion through all music genres and all variations of accordion instruments. Musicians at at all levels who play all types of accordions....piano accordion, diatonic, chromatic button and more are welcome to join. Directions to Blackstone Memorial Library: I95 Exit 54 Cedar street. Turn right onto Cedar Street. Follow through the light and past one stop sign. The Library is up the hill on the left. For further information about the concert/party: Marilyn@CTAccordion.com. |
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society December Concertby Rita Barnea |
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| You are invited to attend the annual Holiday Concert and Potluck Dinner sponsored by the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society. It takes place on Sunday, December 15, at 4:PM at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church, 3435 Sleepy Hollow Road, Falls Church, Virginia. Enjoy this popular and festive annual event. The holiday spirit will come alive in the beautifully decorated social hall filled with the joyous sounds of an accordion orchestra, small groups, soloists, and sing-alongs, followed by delicious food prepared by the members. The mission of WMAS (pronounced Wah-mass) is to bring together accordionists and promote accordion music in the national capital region. The organization meets at 4:PM on one Sunday every month (except August) at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church in Falls Church, Virginia. $7 donation at the door. Children under 12 and members free. For further information: peter@musicisforever.com or 703-919-5701 |
Accordion Pops Orchestra Christmas Specialby Rita Barnea |
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| The New Jersey based Accordion Pops Orchestra under the direction of Al Terzo will present their Christmas Special Concert on Sunday, December 15, 2013 at 2:PM at the Holy Trinity Church, 100 Main Street, Helmetta, NJ. Admission is a donation of $10.00. This not to be missed concert features Guest Soloist, Mary Tokarski, and the Accordion Pops Orchestra. Laura Addeo will be flute soloist. Josephine Sarica will lead a vocal quintet. The orchestra's roots 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. Maestro Desiderio retired as conductor in May 2011 and turned over the baton to Al Terzo. 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. Mary Tokarski maintains a busy concert schedule. On November 16th, she performed with the Boston Modern Orchestra Project on Virgil Thomsons "Four Saints in Three Acts Opera" at Jordan Hall in Boston, MA. The Boston Modern Orchestra Project is widely recognized as the leading orchestra in the United States dedicated exclusively to performing new music, and its signature record label, BMOP/sound, is the nation’s foremost label launched by an orchestra and solely devoted to new music recordings. Concert Accordionist, Mary Tokarski performs both nationally and internationally as a soloist, with Symphony Orchestra, with String Quartets and as a member of The 'K' Trio. Orchestras include Prince George’s Philharmonic in Largo, Maryland; the Moravian Symphony (Czech Republic), the Auckland Symphony (New Zealand), The Pioneer Valley Symphony Orchestra (Massachusetts), the Waterbury Symphony (Connecticut), the Bronxville Pops Orchestra (New York), and The Hamden Symphony Orchestra (Connecticut). Mary toured mainland China with the Mantovani Orchestra, performing both in the orchestra, and as a soloist, and performed with the Wolf Trap Performing Arts Center Orchestra in the full sound track for “Lord of the Rings: Return of the King”, complete with the film. Mary has released two solo CDs, “Music with Mary . . . with my friends!” and “Music with Mary . . . for my friends!” – both of which received international acclaim. Conductor Al Terzo is a teacher, arranger, and conductor who has been with the orchestra since its inception in 1970. He is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, New Jersey Music Teachers Association, and National Association of Music Educators. Mr.Terzo serves on the governing board of the American Accordionists Association and is a founding member of the Mid Atlantic Music Teachers Guild. He is an accomplished accordionist who has performed at the Garden State Arts Center and Newark's Symphony Hall. Currently Mr.Terzo teaches accordion and piano in New Jersey. Put Sunday, April 27, 2014 on your calendar. The APO is planning a Memorial Concert to celebrate the life of the great Carmen Carrozza. It takes place at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse in Hampton, NJ. Rosemarie Cavanaugh and Dr. Joe Ciccone are planning the event. Check future issues of the USA news for more information. For further information on this event: Drjciccone@aol.com. If you are interested in engaging the orchestra for a performance, would like more information on an upcoming concert, or might be interested in joining the orchestra, please email: webmaster@accordionpops.com or Alterzo@hotmail.com |
Joe Cerrito CD's For Sale on New Websiteby Kevin Friedrich |
 Joe Cerrito announces his CD recordings for sale as well as selected YouTube videos of his recent performances.Joe began studying accordion at age 12 with Joseph Petteruti and then with Joseph Biviano and also Bob Wilbur. He began playing small jobs at age 14 and has played professionally ever since. Joe was a member of the 1st Army Jazz Band directed by Claude Thornhill and also played in the 56th Army Band while in Korea. Throughout his career, he backed up greats such as Sarah Vaughn, Steve Allen, Harry Belafonte, Bob Wilbur, and most recently, Dick Hyman. Joe Cerrito owned his own music studio ‘Cerrito School of Music’ from 1955 until 1997. The studio was very active in both the AAA and ATAM competitions, and Joe still teaches a few students in his home. He appeared in the movie ‘True Lies’ starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, both as a member of the 17 piece orchestra and as an accordion soloist. He has also performed on numerous television programs and radio performances over the years. Joe has appeared in many many jazz concerts with the renowned Tony Dannon. Joe released a recording titled 'Dedication' in the early 1990s with his trio and quartet. Tony Dannon and Joe also recorded a jazz CD, ‘Jam Session’, in the 1990s. His most recent recording is ‘Ave Maria and Popular Accordion Solos’ and a book, ‘Modern Accordion Arrangements’ with accompanying CD. Currently, Joe Cerrito is an active accordionist performing with bands, doing theatre work and also performing as a strolling accordionist where he performs at restaurants and private parties. Although a noted jazz accordionist, Joe also performs all kinds of other musical genres for a wide variety of events. In addition to his performing, Joe also teaches privately at his home and also through SKYPE as well as doing repair work and MIDI installations. For further information, please visit: Joe Cerrito |
Resurgence of the Accordion in Michiganby Rita Barnea |
 Listen to a fantastic CBS radio program about the Michigan Accordion Society and the resurgence of the accordion. Marie Osbourne of WWJ Radio Detroit interviewed several members of the MAS including President Joe Recchia. at their November 2013 Music Event.Click here for the Interview Audio File: MichiganInterview The CBS local story is called "Step Aside Electronic Music, There's a New Accordion in Town!" "Today Detroit is known for its electronic music but it wasn’t long ago that the accordion was king in the metro area and some say the instrument is making a come back! It’s a glamorous instrument,” says Chet Wise. “I think it’s got a lot of glamor.” The 78-year-old Wise has been playing the instrument his whole life. “I plan to play until I drop.” Michigan Accordion Society President Joe Recchia tells WWJ’s Marie Osborne that he’s noticing a trend in the metro area: “We have players that are four, six, seven years old that are taking lessons at some local studios in the area that are affiliated with our organization,” said Recchia. “We are seeing a demand and actually we are seeing an increase.” Recchia says the draw is the instruments’ versatility and affordability. “In my opinion it’s one of the best instruments to learn because you do have a piano style keyboard on one side and you have bass and chords on the other,” he said. Recchia says that his uncle used to teach nearly a thousand students a week. He blamed the British Invasion on the loss of interest in the instrument in the 60s. But the accordion has been a part of rock and roll music for decades; from The Who – penning a song dedicated to the ‘Squeeze Box’ to the Talking Heads – the unique sound of the accordion has made its mark in all genres of music. The Michigan Accordion Society has grown from just a few dozen members to over 200 statewide. For further information: jrecchia@comcast.net Photo of Michigan Accordion Society President Joe Recchia and Reporter Marie Osbourne of WWJ Radio Detroit |
Attending Concerts May Be Hazardous to Your Health (and the Performance!)by Rita Barnea |
 Winter is here as is the cold/flu season. Have you ever attended a concert, play, or lecture that you could not enjoy because of the noise of people coughing? If you are really sick and cannot control your coughing, shouldn't you stay home? Or take medicine before you go? Or bring your own cough drops? I am sure that we all have had the experience of either being the one who coughed or, perhaps, (more likely, right?) we have been the ones who were annoyed by the loud sound of coughing. What can happen?In the November 25, 2013 of the publication of "The Classical Review", author Lawrence A. Johnson wrote: "Tilson Thomas throws out the first lozenge at Chicago Symphony concert: Michael Tilson Thomas found a novel way for dealing with bronchial Chicago audiences last weekend. Last Thursday night’s opening performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 9 with Tilson Thomas leading the Chicago Symphony Orchestra was plagued by audience coughs, which proved especially distracting in the hushed pages of the final movement. On Saturday night, there was even more coughing throughout the first movement. The conductor went offstage and emerged with two large handfuls of loose cough lozenges, which he tossed underhanded into the main floor audience seats. He said he hoped that would solve the problem and encouraged audience members to pass them on to those that need them. Celeste Wroblewski, the orchestra’s vice-president of public relations, confirmed the details Monday, adding, in an email, that 'the audience responded in the same good-natured spirit, with laughter and applause'.” Photo of Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas |
Accordion Celebration | A Non-Traditional Concert on Dec. 1by Rita Barnea |
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  Experience the accordion in its many unique facets as the Vivace Accordion Orchestra and Conductor Collins Loupe showcase the sophisticated sounds of color, depth, harmony, tension, and versatility of the accordion! The concert takes place on Sunday, December 1, 2013 at 3:PM at the Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague, Spokane, WA.Tickets are $10 at the door.The performances will include: The Portatos | Accordion Band (ages 11-26) with hits like :The Final Countdown", "Tango Pour Claude" and "Surfing USA" directed by Patricia Bartell. The Vivace Accordion Orchestra of Able To Play Music, directed by Collins Loupe with selections including : "Passacaglia" (Bach), "New York Tango" (Galliano), "Invierno Porteno" (Piazolla), and "Gernika" (G. Hermosa). Able To Play Music is a music studio that offers a unique way of learning music for all ages using the accordion and piano. The studio serves students in the Inland Northwest area but primarily Spokane, Washington. Patricia Bartell is the founder and leader of Able To Play Music which offers all students a world where everyone plays. She was born in La Paz Bolivia, South America, and is a graduate of Whitworth University with a B.A. in Music Education and Accordion Performance. Patricia did her student teaching under the guidance of Karen Baldwin at Chatteroy Elementary School and Riverside Elementary school. She completed her student teaching at Ferris High School before she landed her job with Northwest Christian Elementary School. She taught there for two years before moving into full-time position teaching private piano and accordion lessons in her studio, “Able To Play.” She is widely-known throughout the U.S. northwest and western Canada as an adjudicator, professional performer and teacher. In addition the program features accordion teacher Bratislav Manasijevic from Serbia who just recently moved to teach accordion at Able To Play Music in Spokane, WA and also to teach via Skype. A well-known accordion teacher Bratislav has extensive accordion experience, not only as a teacher, but also a performer. At the 3rd “Akordeon Art” competition in 2012, held in Sarajevo, the capitol of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bratislav was awarded the Diploma for “The Most Successful Teacher” out of 82 teachers from 14 countries. Bratislav worked as a Professor at the University Alfa Music Academy in Belgrade, Serbia. Prior to that position, he worked for eight years as the Director for the Accordion Department at the Music School in the Brcko District of Bosnia and Herzegovina where he taught some of the top accordion players hailing from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. many of his top students have won international and national accordion awards. In addition to his professional career, Bratislav holds a Degree from the Accordion Department from the Music Academy of Eastern Sarajevo and he is one concert away from having his Master's Degree in Accordion. He continues to be a judge at prestigious events both in the United States and around the world. Photos: Members of The Vivace Accordion Orchestra: (L-R) Kurt Wismer, Corrie Sams, Gabriel Soileau, Helen Byrne, Margaret Collyer, Patricia Bartell, Collins Loupe, Naomi Harris, Bratislav Manasijevic, Robynne Snow, Diane Guffin, Lilian Deck, Yev Nosov, (not in photo) Pam Beckstrom. Conductor: Collins Loupe Director: Patricia Bartell For further information: admin@abletoplaymusic.com or 509-998-5422 |
AbsolutAccord in Concert in San Franciscoby Rita Barnea |
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| AbsolutAccord will be the featured performers on Sunday, December 15, 2013 at 2:PM at the San Francisco Accordion Club, Oyster Point Yacht Club, 911 Marina Blvd., South San Francisco. AbsolutAccord includes some of the Bay Area's finest accordionists, and will open your ears to a world of unforgettable melodies. Fun and fully engaging, AbsolutAccord plays its diverse arrangements with a unique style and flair. Their wide spectrum of music, universally loved, is delivered with a classical and elegant touch. AbsolutAccord's repertoire includes jazz standards, French, Italian,Russian music, tangos and classical music Photo: Clockwise from upper left corner - Randy Hicks, Norma Zonay-Parsons, Marian Kelly, Lynn Ewing, Joe Simoni, Dave Perry and Richard Yaus. Upcoming performances include: December 11, 2013 "Peninsula Del Rey Retirement Community" in Daly City The San Francisco Accordion Club is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization whose purpose is to enhance, promote and stimulate an appreciation for the accordion within the membership and throughout the general public. The SFAC hosts musical programs on the 3rd Sunday of every month at 2:PM. Membership is open to any individual expressing interest in the accordion and accordion music and wishing to join. The only qualification for membership is the payment of annual dues as established by the Executive Board. For further information: info@sfaccordionclub.com and info@absolutaccord.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Mary Tokarski Releases New Christmas CDby Kevin Friedrich |
 American concert accordionist Mary Tokarski has released a new Christmas CD just in time for the Holiday Season. Mary invites listeners to enjoy her idea of Christmas music, as she explains her choice of pieces."March of the Toys and Parade of the Wooden Soldiers were childhood “favorites” of mine. On Thin Ice and Slippery Slope are representative of Connecticut winters (Can you imagine Santa Claus arriving on the ice, and sliding down that snowy, slippery slope?) What better way to enjoy the holidays than going over to the Shopping Center – everyone’s favorite pastime during the Christmas season. Moon River is from one of my favorite movies “Breakfast At Tiffany’s”, while Chopin’s Polonaise in A Major brings visions of grandeur to celebratory events and church services. The March from “The Nutcracker”, Ave Maria, O Holy Night, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas are typical for holiday listening. Tracks are as follows: 01. March of the Toys Victor Herbert 02. Moon River Henry Mancini 03. On Thin Ice John Gart 04. Let's Go Shopping (from Shopping Center Suite) Gary Daverne 05. In the Bookstore (from Shopping Center Suite) Gary Daverne 06. Super Market (from Shopping Center Suite) Gary Daverne 07. Coffee Shop (from Shopping Center Suite) Gary Daverne 08. Arcade (from Shopping Center Suite) Gary Daverne 09. March from "The Nutcracker" P. Tchaikovsky 10. Polonaise in A Major F. Chopin 11. Ave Maria J. S. Bach/Gounod 12. Parade of the Wodden Soldiers Leon Jessel 13. O Holy Night Adolphe Adam 14. Slippery Slope Michael Bridge 15. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas Martin & Blane To order, please visit: Mary Tokarski |
2013 Something for Everyone!…Get Ready for the 15th Annual LVIC in 2014by Rita Barnea |
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  It was 1998 when the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention was first conceived. Paul Pasquali who organized the first Las Vegas International Accordion Convention which took place in 2000 said: "What an amazing week at the 2013 Las Vegas International Accordion Convention! First it was great seeing our host hotel looking beautifully refreshed and clean. But the magic started on Monday with Gina Brannelli playing for our welcome registration and continued until the last note rang out Thursday night from the Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra.There was a great array of performers and seminar presenters (in program order) Mario Pedone, Dick Contino and musical director Corky Bennett (keyboard), Pete Contino (Dick’s son - drums), Bob Sachs (bass), Gordon Kohl, Liz Finch, Jerry Cigler and Paul Betken accompanied by Ken Seifert (bass) and Rich De Labio (drums), Nancy Leonard, Tatiana Semichastnaya and Steve Albini, Joey Miskulin with Julian Tanaka (clarinet), Ken Seifert (bass) and Rich De Labio (drums). Pete Barbutti, Dick Contino, Joan Cochran Sommers, Peter Soave, Gina Brannelli, and Jeff Lisenby, Mary Tokarski and Stas Venglevski. Father and son duo of Bob and Beau Mansfield. Awards (pictured) were presented to Dick Contino and to Joey Miskulin. The grand finale was the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention orchestra of 32 accordion players taking the stage along with a full symphony percussion section, directed by Joan Cochran Sommers. A fitting grand finale!" The Honorary Conductors over the past years have included: 2000 – Art Van Damme 2001 – Dick Contino 2002 – Myron Floren 2003 – Gina Brannelli 2004 – Joan Cochran Sommers 2005 – Peter Soave 2006 – Iona Reed Pukara 2007 – Walter Ostanek 2008 – Carl Fortina 2009 – Pete Barbutti 2010 – Frank Marocco 2011 – Angelo Di Pippo 2012 – Jeff Lisenby Lifetime Achievement Awards have been presented to: Anthony Galla-Rini, Pete Barbutti,Tony Lovello and Joan Cochran Sommers Over the years, Youth Awards have been presented to: Ginny Mac, Mario Pietrodarchi, Spencer Wagner, Sammy Thomas, Gino Bagala, Michael Bridge and Emanuel Gasser Be sure to mark your calendar with the special anniversary date of August 17-21, 2014, which will mark the 15th anniversary celebration of the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention. Room rates will only be $28 a night. Joey Miskulin will return in August 2014 to help celebrate. The event features four nights and three full days of captivating WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT, fabulous meals plus enjoyable and informative workshops. The LVIAC includes three gala luncheons and four regal dinners including concerts and top entertainment at all 7 meals. The Grand Finale is a dress-up dinner and features the Las Vegas International Accordion Orchestra! The convention will take place at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino locate at 4000 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada. You can register now. Phone number: 1-800-472-1695 or outside the USA +01 801-486-1695 |
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Now Available… the All New “Accordion Bee” iBookby Rita Barnea |
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 If you are looking for a unique musical gift with no wrapping required for the holiday season, the popular children’s book, “An Accordion! What is That” is now available as an iBook through iTunes. Go to www.accordionbee.com and click on the bee to the right of the book cover.Three fellow accordionists have combined their special talents to create a delightful children's book about their favorite instrument entitled, "An Accordion! What is That? Looking at the Accordion Inside and Out." The book includes a CD with narration and music. A teacher's guide is also available on the website. Karen Malan-Uribe, award-winning author of children's books, is the author. Celebrated artist, Joan Geller Grauman, illustrated the book and created its mascot, an animated honeybee named "Buzz Treble". The CD includes a wonderful narration of the book, as well as music beautifully performed by world renowned accordionist, Mary Tokarski. Karen, Joan, and Mary have given in-depth presentations at accordion festival/conventions and public schools on how to use the book to promote the accordion and enroll young students. The possibilities for educational as well as entertainment value are limitless. They are available to present programs. For further information: mary.tokarski@comcast.net or www.accordionbee.com |
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New Book by Rob Howard: "Accordion: A Pictorial History"by Rita Barnea |
 Just in time for the holidays, author Rob Howard has released his latest book, "Accordion: A Pictorial History" which can be easily ordered from www.musicforaccordion.com."Accordion: A Pictorial History" tells the story of the accordion, from its origins in the early 1800s up to the present day. The book is fully illustrated throughout with over 300 colour photographs, each with information, plus several articles. The articles include: "What’s in a name?"; "Busson – first of the great accordion builders"; "Significant developments in the 19th Century"; "Concertinas"; "Pietro Frosini, Guido and Pietro Deiro – the Big Three of their era"; "The 1930s – The era of the accordion bands begins"; "The 1940s – Revisiting the Uniform keyboard"; "Italy, Hohner, and East Germany – the post-war era"; "Syd Lewis…and the end of an era" (written by Steve Roxton); "Recent Times; Helmi Harrington’s ‘A World of Accordions’ museum". Most of the pictures come from the huge Ken Hopkins collection in Northern Ireland, with others contributed by The Accordion Shop, Ron Bennett, Gary Blair, Tony Compton, Colin Ensor, Edwin Erickson (Canada), Skyler Fell (USA), Jean Hanger, Helmi Harrington (USA), Reza Hasani (Iran), Caroline Hunt, Roy Magna, Gordon Pattullo, Danielle Pauly (France), Barry Smith, Heather Smith, Bernard Wrigley, Alan Young, etc. This book is a sequel to Vintage Accordions (2011) and is similar in format, but adds much new information, and has different articles and photographs. "Accordion: A Pictorial History" is a high quality production, A4 sized hardback, and makes an ideal present for any accordion enthusiast! Rob Howard has played the accordion since 1968. At present, he is the concert secretary, compere and 'public voice' of Stockport Accordion Club. He has played in a folk group, in accordion bands, entertained in restaurants and for French-themed evenings, has performed in musicals, has accompanied Irish step-dancing and Polish dancing, has been a member of a Bavarian Oompah Band, played in several ceilidh bands, and leads 'wartime sing-a-alongs' at Stockport Air-Raid Shelters. For over 20 years he has contributed articles and reviews to specialist music magazines, and above all, is an enthusiast for the accordion. The book is available online with secure server credit card purchase in Euro or US$. Catalog No: robaccord06 "Accordion: A Pictorial History". Postage is free until December 15, 2013. I recommend that you also consider buying Rob's other wonderful books: "An A to Z of the Accordion and Related Instruments", Volumes 1 to 4. There are more than fifty pages filled with fascinating information and photos. There is always something new to learn about the accordion. After reading his new book, your knowledge of the accordion will be greatly enhanced. For further information: robaccord5@hotmail.com |
6th Gary Dahl "Easy Listening Variety" eBook, Now Releasedby Gary Dahl |
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 Following on the very successful Gary Dahl arranged eSheet music (able to be sent to you by email), Gary Dahl has now released the 6th of his music eBooks.Cat No: DH06 Collection #6 Easy Listening Variety 26 Titles: You Belong To My Heart, Walk On By, Tumbling Tumbleweeds, Ebb Tide, Time To Say Goodbye, Baby Face, Rocky Top, Lara's Theme, Impossible Dream, Danny Boy, It's All In The Game, Can't Help Falling In Love, California Dreaming, Adagio, Music Of The Night, Port Orchard Blues (Cajun Blues), Eloise (A Cajun Waltz), It Had Better Be Tonight, Hello My Baby, The Godfather, What A Friend We Have In Jesus, The Baby Elephant Walk, Abide With Me, Rockin' The Blues, Lyin' Eyes, Perdido. 65 pages of music for only US$40.00 or Euro equivalent. Click the link to see music samples and see why Gary Dahl arrangements are very popular. These eBooks make excellent gifts for Christmas. The previous eBooks recently released are: Cat No: DH01 Collection #1 Latin Spectacular (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH02 Collection #2 Favorite French Standards (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH03 Collection #3 The American Songbook (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH04 Collection #4 Favorite Waltzes & Polkas (click link to see music samples) $35 Cat No: DH05 Collection #5 Easy Listening Jazz (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH06 Collection #6 Easy Listening Variety (click link to see music samples) $40 Gary Dahl is offering a Christmas Special. Buy his eBooks 1-5 and you will receive his new eBook 6 selling for $40 without any extra cost. Cat No: DH01-6-eB There are over 200 Gary Dahl arrangements available online at: http://www.musicforaccordion.com/inform/garydahl/index.htm |
Sam Falcetti and Family Support the Arts at the University of Massachusettsby Rita Barnea |
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| Sam Falcetti with his wife, Peggy, have been involved with the New England Music Festival for over fifty years. Sam is passionate about the accordion. He is a music teacher, performer, owner of the Falcetti Music Business and an outspoken advocate for accordion students and the instrument. He recently organized the first Roland Accordion Orchestra in the USA. Sam's deep commitment to the accordion is not recent. Both Sam and Peggy are devoted to all of the musical arts and music education, in general. In the paragraphs below, you will read an article published in 2003 when the Falcetti family was involved in the renovation of Bezanson Recital Hall at the University of Massachusetts where Guy's concert was held on November 21, 2013. ( See article about Guy Klucevsek in this issue). Because of the generosity of the Falcetti family, all music students and concert artists such Guy Klucevsek who perform at the concert hall, have a beautiful and acoustically superior venue in which to showcase their talents.The Falcetti's have helped to provide a quality and highly enjoyable environment for both concert goers and performers. Due to the Faletti's desire to leave a legacy to the music students of the future, the University of Massachusetts named the lobby: Falcetti Music Lobby. In the photo: Sam and Peggy Falcetti with Guy Klucevsek at November 21,2013 performance of Guy and Todd Reynolds. (Article in this issue) "Falcetti Music, Inc. Donates Lobby for Newly Renovated Concert Hall at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Mass". To read article, please click on link: FalcettiDonation For further information: peggyf1944@gmail.com Top photo: Accordionist Guy Klucevsek with Sam and Peggy Falcetti at the University of Massachusetts |
Ludovic Beier at "The Django Reinhardt" New York Festivalby Rita Barnea |
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 All videos and photos by Dan Davidson. Air France presented the Django Reinhardt New York Festival at Birdland, New York City, November 5-10th featuring Gypsy guitar Legend Dorado Schmitt and sons Amati and Bronson with French accordionist Ludovic Beier (accordion & accordina); Pierre Blanchard (violin), Francko Mehrstein (guitar); Brian Torff (bass), Jarryd Torff (saxophone) and special guest Cyrille Aimee (vocals). Ludovic Beier performed throughout the festival. The group is so popular that most shows were sold out. Ludovic Beier enhanced all of the selections with his great jazz improvisational abilities. He obviously displayed his love for the accordion and jazz with his smile and animated expressive playing which enthralled the audience. Ludovic was amazing with all eyes on him during his brilliant solos. The combination of accordion, guitar, bass, and violin mesmerized the audience who enthusiastically applauded as each one took their turn displaying their virtuoso abilities in improvisation. This was the 14th year of the Django Reinhardt NY Festival and a "Django Festival Allstars" CD has been produced which is receiving excellent reviews. After the show, I interviewed several members of the audience/program. Pat Philips, co-producer of the Django Reinhardt Festival said, " I feel that Ludovic is one of the great musicians of the world today on both instruments, accordion and accordina. He always rises to the top!" I really enjoyed the evening at Birdland Jazz Club and highly recommend that you catch Ludovic's performances the next time he visits the USA. He is truly inspirational! For further information: RP@birdlandjazz.com |
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Håvard Svendsrud Performs with the Accordion Pops Orchestraby Rita Barnea |
 Guest soloist, Håvard Svendsrud, from Norway performed with the Accordion Pops Orchestra (APO) under the direction of conductor Al Terzo at Kean University, "Wilkins Theatre" in New Jersey on October 20, 2013. The performance of Håvard Svendsrud can be seen above. The program was varied and appealing to all. Accordion orchestra arrangements by Al Terzo included: "'Pop' Goes the Bellows"; "Disney Remembered"; "Phantom of the Opera; "Donkey Serenade"; "Music Man"; "Colonel Bogey March"; "Frankfurter Polka"; "Trolley Song". Other selections on the program were: "Old Man River" arr. Anthony Galla-Rini; "Caramba" by Joseph Rixner; "Concerto #1' by Mozart featuring Flute Soloist, Laura Addeo; "Russian Folk Songs" with Balalaika soloist, Len Davis. After intermission, Håvard Svendsrud presented a sensitive and flawless performance of "Concerto in A" by Pietro Deiro. His encore solo was "Jolly Caballero" by Pietro Frosini. He was enthusiastically received by the audience. The Accordion Pops Orchestra has existed for many years.The orchestra's roots 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. Maestro Desiderio retired as conductor in May 2011 and turned over the baton to Al Terzo. 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. Guest soloist for the concert, Håvard Svendsrud (Norway) studied music at the Barratt Dues Institute of Music in Oslo with the accordion as main instrument. He lives in Oslo and is a professional freelance musician with both a classical and traditional repertoire.He won in several categories in the Norwegian Accordion Championship in 1992, 1993 and 1994. He also won the Nordic final of Frosini Grand Prix in 1993. He was one of the engaged artists at Oslo city’s 1000-year jubilee, giving a separate concert August 12th, 2000. He has been soloist with different orchestras including the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra and The Norwegian Army Band. Håvard Svendsrud was appointed ”Cultural Ambassador” for the Norwegian Foreign Ministry, involving a long-term commitment in Venezuela in 1995. He has also performed in the USA, Iceland, Finland, The Czech Republic, Italy, England and Scandinavia. Many of his concerts have been supported by Fund for performing artists, Arts Council Norway and Music Information Centre Norway / Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For more information about the APO: alterzo@hotmail.com For more information about Håvard Svendsrud: karen@hsvendsrud.com, |
Guy Klucevsek in Concert at the University of Massachusettsby Rita Barnea |
 On November 21, 2013 at the Fine Arts Center Bezanson Recital Hall UMASS Amherst Campus, accordionist Guy Klucevsek presented a concert of his original music for solo accordion and for violin and accordion with violinist Todd Reynolds. Over 150 people in the audience were thrilled by the performance.AAA Board member, Sam and Peggy Falcetti attended the concert. Sam said, "It has been a long time since I have heard that high level of performance with all original music, and the whole concert with the violinist was absolutely fantastic! They should be seen often!" Guy Klucevsek is one of the world’s most versatile and highly-respected accordionists. He has performed and/or recorded with Laurie Anderson, Bang On a Can, Brave Combo, Anthony Braxton, Anthony Coleman, Dave Douglas, Bill Frisell, Rahim al Haj, Robin Holcomb, the Kronos Quartet, Natalie Merchant, Relâche, Zeitgeist, and John Zorn. He is the recipient of a 2010 United States Artists Collins Fellowship, an unrestricted $50,000 award given annually to "America's finest artists." His 1987 project, Polka From the Fringe, a collection of commissioned polkas by Fred Frith, Elliott Sharp, Bobby Previte, Carl Finch and others, toured the world and was released on two cds on the eva label, and were named “best recordings 1992” on WNYC-FM’s “New Sounds” program. In 1996, he founded Accordion Tribe, an international ensemble of composer/accordionists Otto Lechner (Austria), Maria Kalanemi (Finland), Lars Hollmer (Sweden), Bratko Bibic (Slovenia) and himself. They toured internationally from 1996-2009, are the subjects of Stefan Schwietert’s award-winning documentary film, Accordion Tribe: Music Travels, and released on three cds (Intuition) . Klucevsek has released over 20 recordings as soloist/leader on Tzadik, Winter & Winter, innova, Starkland, Review, CRI, and XI. Guy's music theatre scores include “Chinoiserie” and “Obon” with Ping Chong and Company, “Hard Coal,” with the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, “Industrious Angels” for Laurie McCants, and “Cirque Lili” for French circus artist Jérôme Thomas, which has been performed with live music over 250 times. He and Dan Hurlin were awarded, a BESSIE for, “The Heart of the Andes, which has played the Henson International Puppetry Festival, The Barbican Center in London, and the Ten Days on the Island Festival, Tasmania. Guy Klucevsek can also be heard on John Williams’s orchestral scores for the Steven Spielberg films, “The Terminal,” "Munich," “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” and “The Adventures of Tin-Tin,” and on A. R. Rahman’s score for “People Like Us.” Todd Reynolds is an accomplished violinist, composer, and conductor well known for his work with amplified violin and electronics. A student of Jascha Heifetz and former principal of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Reynolds entered the contemporary music scene in New York as a member of Bang on a Can and Steve Reich and Musicians. Reynolds co-founded the string quartet Ethel as an attempt to take a classical ensemble format into the technological age by collaborating with a series of avant-garde and experimental composers, musicians, and artists to expand the string quartet repertoire to include electronic and interactive works. Reynolds' playing has been critically acclaimed both in his career as a repertoire violinist and as an improviser. He has collaborated and recorded[2] with a wide range of artists, most notably Anthony Braxton, John Cale, Steve Coleman, Yo-Yo Ma, and Todd Rundgren. Reynolds has been the recipient of a number of grants and awards for his work, including ASCAP awards and a 2003 Meet the Composer Commissioning Award. For further information: gklucevsek@mac.com |
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) Concerts and Eventsby Rita Barnea |
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 WMAS has had an exciting fall season and is looking forward to their festive holiday events. On October 20, WMAS featured world renowned accordionist, Joe Natoli. Joe’s concert was well-attended and very well received! The club was delighted to have three former Coupe Mondiale competitors in the room that day (see photo): 1972 Bolivia representative, Robert Ford; 1972 AAA US Virtuoso Champion, Joe Natoli; 1955 AAA US Virtuoso Champion, Lou Coppola. Upcoming events in December include the WMAS Potomac Ensemble’s 3rd annual concert of holiday music at the Dublin Roasters Coffeehouse in Frederick, Maryland on December 7, and the very popular 11th annual WMAS Holiday Concert and Potluck Dinner in Falls Church, Virginia on December 15. ( See article in this issue) For more information, contact the music director for both events, Joan Grauman at: joangrauman@verizon.net or WMAS President, Peter DiGiovanni at: peter@musicisforever.com Potomac Ensemble photo description: Members of the Potomac Ensemble at Dublin Roasters last year: L to R: Joan Grauman, JoAnn Pankow, Peter DiGiovanni, Karen Malan-Uribe and Meryl Benenati (missing from photo: Lee Paulson, Mara Cherkasky and Lou Silvia). |
Guardian Newspaper Education Feature: 'Music graduates are more employable than you might think'by Harley Jones |
  From an Education Feature Article by Harry Slater (picture right) dated 11th October 2013With unique skills and a broad range of graduate jobs on offer, music students have better prospects than people imagine. If you study medicine at university, chances are you'll become a doctor. For music students, it's less obvious what job you'll end up with… but it could be really fulfilling. The perception that options are narrow and jobs are few for music graduates needs to change. It's wrongly assumed that when it comes to jobs, music students are confined to their field of study. In reality, music graduates go on to do a wide range of jobs in a variety of different industries. Alumni surveys from the University of Nottingham show that music graduates are employed across a varied range of fields. As you might expect, a large proportion (50%) work in the creative industry, but the roles performed by graduates vary greatly. Music grads work in publishing, editing, media production, broadcasting, and marketing. A number work with professional ensembles, but not all are performing as musicians – many work in management roles. Less anticipated but no less common is the employment of music graduates in finance and banking, legal and consultancy. Dr Robert Adlington, an associate professor of music at the University of Nottingham, credits these successful and varied outcomes to the highly desirable skills developed by music students during their studies. In 2011, the Confederate of British Industry outlined the seven skills that define employability: self-management, team work, business and customer awareness, problem solving, communication, numeracy, and IT skills. Adlington says that music students develop all seven of these. By this measure, music graduates are among the most employable of all. While some of these skills are acquired students of all subject – for example, team work, good communication, self-management – Adlington points out that music students have an edge. The experience of organising, hosting, and performing in events that are open to the public provides them with skills beyond those on other degree programmes. Few degrees require knowledge of customer awareness, or interaction with the public, for example. James Lister studied music at the University of Nottingham but is now an associate with legal firm Charles Russell. His degree "taught a whole load of things you can't find elsewhere", such as public speaking and self-expression. He says that these skills, in addition to the "highly analytical aspects of a music degree", which enable graduates to read, digest and form an opinion on a huge amount of information, greatly aided his transition into law. The employability of music graduates appears to be in for a further boost. In addition to covering the traditional elements of a music degree (composition, performance, theory, history and so on), new modules that are focused specifically on employability are set to be introduced. "Students don't want to leave their future to chance anymore," says Adlington, adding that employability is "part of our core model". Equally promising prospects can be achieved with less traditional, more hands-on degrees. The SAE Institute (previously known as the School of Audio Engineering) offers music courses that emphasise production values and teach students to a professional standard. Jordan O'Shea, who graduated from SAE with a first in audio production, says the institute fast-tracked his career, allowing him to go it alone. He says: "Without SAE, I wouldn't have been able to record my own album. It allows you to go from being a bedroom producer to being a contender." He adds: "Of course, there's no guarantee you'll be the next guy producing Adele." Students are taught not to depend on having access to a studio, or support or funding from a record label. Since leaving SAE, O'Shea has set up a self-built studio. From it, he co-founded Bear on a Bicycle, an award-winning Oxford-based music and art collective that cracked the city's scene in under a year. The collective's success is a reflection of how changes in the music industry allow artists to produce and publicise themselves. The internet means artists can publish, distribute, and promote their own work. These methods are nothing new, but if combined with professional knowledge and experience, it can be a winning, name-making recipe. |
Frank Busso Jr. and Air Force Strings Perform "Bohemian Rhapsody"by Rita Barnea |
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 The Air Force Strings is one of the most diverse and flexible units of The United States Air Force Band. The accordionist is well known Frank Busso Junior. Here they perform "Bohemian Rhapsody".Master Sgt. Frank J. Busso Jr. is the accordionist with the Air Force Strings, The United States Air Force Band, Washington, D.C. In addition to his musical duties, Sergeant Busso is guest artist manager and flight announcer. Originally from Staten Island, N.Y., his Air Force career began in 2005. Sergeant Busso attended Boston University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration in 2001. He studied accordion with Frank Busso Sr. at the Staten Island Music School in New York. Prior to joining the Air Force, Sergeant Busso was an instructor and arranger with the Boston University Athletic Bands. He was also an instructor at the Staten Island Music School, where his students earned many regional and national titles in competition. As a competitive accordionist, Sergeant Busso received numerous regional titles from the Accordion Teachers Association of New Jersey, including the organization's virtuoso championship in 1995. He also earned multiple national titles from the American Accordionists' Association in classical, popular, and ethnic competitions. Since 2001, Sergeant Busso has performed in concert as a member of The Busso Trio at numerous summer festivals hosted by the American Accordionists' Association and the Accordionists & Teachers Guild. The Air Force Strings recently performed at three events for Vice President Joe Biden at his residence upon the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory. The events included receptions for the Department of Labor, the Jewish Community for Sukhot, and a celebration of the anniversary of the passage of the Violence Against Women Act. Performing for Senators, Congressmen, and other distinguished guests, Technical Sgt. Luke Wedge led the Strings in programs of 1.5 hours of memorized music. In a departure from normal procedures, the Strings sent smaller strolling groups to each event to allow for greater flexibility and maneuverability, both outside and inside the residence. For all three events, it was decided to leave out the celli for enhanced mobility, who typically remain stationary. In addition to violins and violas, Master Sgt. Frank Busso (accordionist), Technical Sgt. Luke Wedge (strolling leader) and Technical Sgt. Daniel Benoit (bassist) performed at all three events. Neatly aligned along the path leading to the front entrance, the Strings performed background music for the arrival of the distinguished guests for 30 minutes. Once the speeches were completed, the Strings performed inside the residence during receptions for approximately an hour. The social staff and guests were very impressed with the Strings' vast repertoire of memorized music for the evenings, consisting of more than 40 strolling tunes. In addition, the staff appreciated that the setup and space requirements were very minimal. For the Band's Airmen musicians, it is always very special to have the opportunity to share their craft with an appreciative audience. However, it is even more of a treat to perform for one of the Band's highest priority customers, the vice president of the United States and his guests. Performing for our nation's highest military and civilian dignitaries is one of the duties performed day in and day out by the Band's Airmen musicians, and they are honored to do so. Viewers of the "Bohemian Rhapsody" on Youtube commented: "I saw these soldiers play to some World War Two Veterans at BWI airport . Amazing in a word. It was captivating , entertaining and the Veterans all had smiles on their faces. So did anyone who was within the area . I was so impressed with the Handling of it all. I actually said to myself "here is something you don't see everyday ". Very uplifting . Incredible." A teacher said, " Fantastic! I am an elementary music teacher. I will be using this in my string family lesson, my soon to be accordion lesson…My kiddos are singing a Tribute to Queen on their concert. This will inspire them! Thanks for all you do - especially this. Great performance of an exceptional arrangement." A.F. Photo: Members of the Air Force Strings with Vice President and Mrs. Joe Biden |
Ken and Mary: Turbo Accordions Expressby Rita Barnea |
 Midwest accordion entertainers Ken and Mary, a.k.a. the duo "Turbo Accordions Express" specialize in performing American traditional tunes, polkas, jazz, Irish, and international dance band music. Ken and Mary have worked as an accordion duo for many years, playing all varieties of music for events mostly around the Midwest. Ken brings over 40 years of music experience to the accordion duo. His music background includes not only playing the button-style accordion but also the tenor banjo, guitar, mandolin, and mandola. He taught in the Creative Arts program at Ohio State University from 1979 through 1984. He was even bestowed the title "Baron of the Banjo" by Frankie Yankovic. Ken had his own rag/jazz band for many years, playing in and around Ohio as well as performing in the German Pavillon at Disney's Epcot Center and at the Altstadt Fest in Goslar/Harz, Germany. He adds to the "Ken and Mary" duo his expertise on the 5-row diatonic harmonika, also called the button box or button accordion. Mary's music career has spanned over 30 years, playing both the organ and the piano accordion. She has performed at numerous festivals, banquets, and for parties. She currently brings to "Ken and Mary" her magical talent on the standard piano accordion. Their styles include: Big Band, Ragtime, Dixieland, Waltzes, Swing, Show Tunes, variety of Ethnic Music, older Country Tunes, Gospel, old Standard Favorites, and audience participation songs/dances. Mary and Ken were influenced by Lawrence Welk, Myron Floren, Frankie Yankovic, Eddie Peabody, Humphrey Brothers, Louis Armstrong, and many others. Upcoming performances: December 4th, 6-8:PM - German Buffet Night, Dinner 99 (previously Charlie Brown's Restaurant), 14499 St. Rt. 119, Anna, Ohio December 13th, 7-9:PM – Wurst Und Bier, 110 Hutchinson Ave, Columbus, Ohio January 18th - ‘GermanFest’, Taffy’s Café, 123 E. Main Street, Eaton, Ohio For further information email: kenandmarymusik@yahoo.com |
'Play Your Accordion Without Pain', New Chapter Releasedby Harley Jones |
  Special intro price continues for Christmas. John Bonica (PT CMP NZRP) is about to release the 9th chapter of his book 'Play Your Accordion Without Pain'. An eBook, readers can enjoy the convenience of having the chapters e-mailed in Acrobat .pdf format. This exciting eBook is being published chapter by chapter, with about one chapter being released each month. Released chapters to date are: Introduction Chapter 1 - An Overview Chapter 2 - Learning to Read Your Body’s Signals Chapter 3 - Neck and Neck-Related Symptoms Chapter 4 - The Shoulder Chapter 5 - The Amazing Brain and What It Does For You Chapter 6 - The Elbow Chapter 7 - The Great Accordion Myth Uncovered Chapter 8 - The Elbow Revisited There will be a minimum of 24 chapters. As a special introductory offer, you can purchase the whole book for US$22 (or Euro equivalent) and be sent each chapter by e-mail as it is released. For more information, and to purchase the eBook: John Bonica |
Busy Year for Jane Christisonby Rita Barnea |
 Jane Christison has received much acclaim this past year for her CD "Janie Next Door" Her list of awards includes:1. Creative Child Awards – 2013 CD of the Year – Kids Sing and Dance Category 2. Recipient of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award 3. Winner of a Tillywig Toy & Media – Sterling Fun Award 4. Approved by Parents’ Choice 5. Family Approved by the Dove Foundation Jane's next marketing project involves contacting as many libraries as possible for presenting programs.This idea came as a result of the CD being favorably reviewed in the School Library Journal, March, 2013. Additionally there have been two articles about her CD in “Pan Pipes, “ the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity’s quarterly magazine. Jane is always moving forward and onto the next project. Her plans include a second CD for which she has already written six songs. In addition to children's programs, Jane entertains at nursing homes, retirement communities and memory care facilities. She has performed at over 1,000 since November of 2000. Jane Christison is an accomplished accordionist and entertainer, playing and singing many styles of music. She performs upbeat and engaging 45-minute programs for seniors groups, retirement communities and nursing homes. Her personality and enthusiasm for playing the accordion are in demand as well for conventions, theme parties and other celebrations. And Jane is introducing a whole new generation to the joy of music by writing songs for children and performing as "Janie Next Door." Jane studied serious accordion literature with Joan Cochran Sommers at the University of Missouri- Kansas City Conservatory of Music and graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in accordion performance. She has been featured as a guest artist at accordion festivals throughout the US, performing and presenting workshops. Video versions of two of her workshops, "Playing the Accordion for Fun and Fame!" and "Squeezing Money Out of Your Accordion" are available through her company, Music With A Smile Productions, L.L.C., as is her children’s CD “Come Sing Along with Janie Next Door." She feels fortunate to have been able to combine two of her favorite things, music and travel. As a member of USO Shows, she toured the Far East, playing at military bases in Korea, Japan, Okinawa, Taiwan, the Philippines and Guam. A second USO tour took her to the Azores and Germany. As a member of the UMKC Accordion Orchestra, Jane has performed in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, England, Scotland, Sweden, Russia, Estonia, Denmark, Australia, New Zealand, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Italy. Her CD is a great stocking stuffer for the little ones in your life providing hours of musical fun. For further information: janec@musicwithasmile.com |
2014 Accordion Babes Calendar is Available Nowby Rita Barnea |
 Are you looking for an unusual holiday gift? Here it is: The ‘Accordion Babes’ 2014 calendar for 2014, produced by Renee de la Prade in California, is now available, costing $15 plus $4 postage (US). All the ladies pictured are accordionists, not models, and the calendar comes complete with a CD featuring all 12 players. For further information email: squeezeboxgoddess@gmail.com |
Future events |
THE 20I4 ACCORDION SEMINARS – 20TH ANNIVERSARYby William Schimmel |
 The American Accordionists' Association Master Class and Concert Series will celebrate its 20th Anniversary season on August 1, 2 and 3 at the Tenri Cultural Institute of New York. The title is: THE EVERYDAY ACCORDION: ORDINARY X PROPER = RADIANT.Moderator/curator, Dr. William Schimmel states that it will be one of the best ones yet: intriguing workshops, stellar performances and, most of all, a collegial attitude in its presentation. What makes the Seminars different than any other event concerning the accordion? THE THIRTEEN POINTS: 1.The weekend is totally about the accordion and its culture. No stars – only the accordion. 2.The weekend is entirely non-competitive. 3.We present ideas and we are always learning. 4.We provide and intimate atmosphere which empowers anyone who chooses to attend. 5.We listen to every idea that is presented to us and we take it seriously. No one is ridiculed or put down over an idea that doesn't seem to “fly” at the moment. 6. Everything is presented in a clear cut fashion. Everyone who attends will understand what we are saying or doing. There is no esoteric shop talk. 7.There is something for everyone. If you attend, we urge you to “stick it out” and suspend your judgment. There will be inevitably something for you in it. 8.We present innovative information and yet we always present too much of it. Our concerts are a bit too long and our workshops make one's head spin. One participant said that her head spun for over a year due to all of the information that was presented in a short span of time. 9. Many of the spectators become actual participants in time. We are interested in everyone who attends. We are interested in helping you realize your goals. Anyone may attend – at any level. All we ask of you is to come with an open mind and most of all, a warm heart. 10. There is a certain “humility” to those who attend an participate at the Seminars. Ironically, many of the participants and presenters come from the greatest universities and conservatories in the world. We span the horizon: Juilliard, Peabody, Mannes, Oberlin, New England Conservatory, Columbia, NYU, Harvard, Yale – yet there is a certain “humility” in those who are there to serve the accordion in the best light that they can. They consider it to be a privilege and, yes, it can be humbling at times. Although we believe that there is something for everyone in the Seminars, we also realize that they may not be for everyone. This may sound like a contradiction. 11.We raise the bar extremely high yet we also present ideas that show the accordion in new and unusual manners as well as new takes on old ideas. This may be at times startling, due to the fact that our ideas about technique and process in general may differ greatly from conservatories and academic institutions – yet still maintain a “schooled” philosophy due to the “rub” and friction between the two. This is part of what we call “The built in ironic duality”. We revel in the “rub”. We don't look for the easy way out. 12. We believe that the accordion is in a better place since the Seminars. And we say that proudly and we also say it with humility. Time out New York has called the Seminars “ The Apotheosis of the Accordion” - the laboratory where ideas are bred. Accordions Worldwide has stated: “Once again, Dr. Schimmel, aided and abetted by his dancer wife Micki Goodman, has unstintingly and imaginatively produced and event that appears to be unlike any other in its scope and imaginativeness.” 13. If you feel that the Seminars are for you – join us next year for our 20th Aniversary! Deiro delights – Ettore elaborates – Frosini Fascillitates – Ellegaard is elegant – Magnante magnifies – Palmer is pedagogy – John Gart grabs you WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO? FIND OUT – AT THE SEMINARS! Participants come from the local New York area, across the United States as well as China, Japan, Argentina, Croatia and Norway. Featured participants and performers include: Micki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Will Holshouser, Art Bailey, Doug Makofka, Ingrid Kvale, Brian Dewan, Martini Li, Yoichi Fukui, Melissa Elledge, Mark Nathanson, Benjamin Ickies, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dragica Banic-Curcic, Peter Flint, Erica Mancini, Dr. Ronald Sarno, Dave Soldier, Mayumi Miyaoka, Tomoko Sugawara, Hu Jianbing, Rachel Swaner, Genevieve Leloup, Joy Betchler, Robert Haulfrecht, Dan Simon, Di J Noizepunk, Jed Distler, Patrick Grant, Joseph Pehrson, Dejan Bosovic, Mary Tokarski, Julie Cardona, Michael Dames, Dr. Rocco Jerry, David Stoler, Peter Jarvis, David First, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Lee Mc Clure, Ken Laufer, John Foti, Kathleen Tipton, Marni Rice, Bob Goldberg, Corn Mo, Di J Noizepunk (Gene Pritsker), Dan Cooper, Patrick Grant, Joe Pehrson, Milica Paranosic, Demetrius Spaneas, Dr. William Schimmel and many more to be announced. Be there for the 2014 Seminars on AUGUST 1, 2, 3, 2014 at The Tenri Cultural Institute, 43A W 13TH ST BETWEEN 5 AND 6 AVE MASTER CLASSES 3 PM; CONCERTS 7 PM; MASTER CLASSES $25; CONCERTS $30 FULL DAY – INCLUDES MASTER CLASS AND CONCERT $50 ENTIRE WEEKEND $125 FOR RESERVATIONS AND INFO: 212 876-0827 billschimmel@billschimmel.com |
2014 National Accordion Convention is March 5-9. 2014by Rita Barnea |
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 NAA President Norman Seaton invites everyone to the 2014 NAA Convention in Plano, Texas. Be sure to Save the Date for the 2014 National Accordion Association Convention: March 5-9, 2014! As always, it promises to be packed with informative workshops, exciting concerts with extraordinary musicians, reunions with friends and new friends to meet, and just plain fun. It will be held in Plano, Texas, this time at the Southfork Hotel. The 2014 convention will be the 27th year of the National Accordion Association's meeting. The convention will include play-along sessions, workshops, presentations, jam sessions, a dance party and several concerts. Both Jim Rommel and John Simkus are returning in 2014. The NAA Board of Directors is meeting regularly to put together a fantastic convention. The focus is changing from accordion music to a music convention that features accordion. What does that mean? Make plans to attend the March 2014 Convention to find out. More information in future USA editions. For further information: natlaccordion@sbcglobal.net |
CD Reviews |
Sy Kushner Releases New CDby Rita Barnea |
 Sy Kushner has released a new CD of original Jewish music composed by Sy and performed by some of New York's top klezmer musicians. Also available to go along with the CD is a book of music transcriptions of the tunes on the album. The CD is called, "The Sy Kushner Jewish Music Ensemble Volume Four: Klez, Kush & Son". This CD is an excellent holiday gift for those who enjoy Klezmer music. The CD includes an informative and easy to understand explanation of the music and background of the music and the musicians. For those unfamiliar with this type of music, the information provides a basis for understanding and would encourage one to learn more about Klezmer music. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the wide variety and styles of Jewish music on this CD. It ranges in mood from upbeat to reflective. I found myself clapping along and wanting to dance! All of the musicians on the CD are accomplished and talented on their instruments. The musicians include: Sy Kushner, Accordion; Aaron Kushner, Alto Sax;Aaron Alexander, Drums; Jeremy Brown,Violin; Marty Confurius, Bass; Ken Gross, Trumpet; Koby Hayon, Guitars;Richard Khuzami, Doumbek, Riq; Ken Maltz, Clarinet; Moshe Sobol, Latin Percussion; Nadav Snir-Zelniker, Doumbek and George Zorko ,Trombone. Sy Kushner has been performing, composing, recording, and teaching for the past 48 years. In 1966, he was one of the founders and Musical Director of The Mark Three, a Jewish music group that combined the influences of klezmer and contemporary Chassidic music of the time. The group featured alto sax and accordion as part of an ensemble, unlike most groups at the time and today which feature clarinet. You can also order the music for this CD arranged for C or Bb Instruments. Order the CD and play along. To order the CD's and music of Sy Kushner or for more information about his other CD's and music: nulitemusic@verizon.net |
New and Updated Sites |
Christmas Special of Gary Dahl eBooksby Gary Dahl |
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| Gary Dahl is offering a Christmas Special. Buy his eBooks 1-5 and you will receive his new eBook 6 selling for $40 without any extra cost. Cat No: DH01-6-eB The previous eBooks recently released are: Cat No: DH01 Collection #1 Latin Spectacular (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH02 Collection #2 Favorite French Standards (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH03 Collection #3 The American Songbook (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH04 Collection #4 Favorite Waltzes & Polkas (click link to see music samples) $35 Cat No: DH05 Collection #5 Easy Listening Jazz (click link to see music samples) $25 Cat No: DH06 Collection #6 Easy Listening Variety (click link to see music samples) $40 Christmas Special purchase link: Cat No: DH01-6-eB Each eBook is already full of hits that are much less price to buy in the eBook than individually. This special makes even greater value for a Christmas Special. |