![Jacques Mornet's [non] Method Book with Video Support](http://www.accordions.com/index/squ/graphics/jmornet-en.jpg)
Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
Guy Klucevsek Performs His Compositions: “Clarissa” and “Air Apparent”
2022 Coupe Mondiale Rules and Regulations Released - Switzerland/Finland
NAA Convention 2022
Trio Voronezh Performs in “Beauty and the Beast” Ballet March 4 - 6
ATG Professional Development Workshop on February 13, 2022
Free Postage, Super Value Books Until 7th February - France
Accordionist Louis Simao performs with Kiran Ahluwalia: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert
2022 AAA Festival: Postponed until 2023
Bridge and Wolak On Tour
ATAM to Honor Joseph Natoli in April
33rd Illinois Polkafest - February 4, 5 & 6
NAA Updates and Weekly Challenge #50 of #52: Driveway Concert
“Accordions Rising” Available Now Free on YouTube
Accordion Yellow Pages/Future Events - CYBERSPACE
Virtual: Accordion Star International 2022 Competition/Festival
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat: Big Success
Ksenija Sidorova Performs Piazzolla with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO)
Updated Composers Guide to the Piano Accordion on the AAA Site
ATG Festival in July
Try Something New as a Way to Become a Better Musician
Cory Pesaturo on Jimmy Fallon’s New Musical Game Show
L’Art En Voyage with Anna Lumière and Finn Manniche on February 12 in Canada
Dee Langley Performs for “La Boheme” in Minnesota
Smorgasbandet Performs for the Long Island Accordion Alliance
"A is For Accordion": New Book for Children
Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini in December Concert
The 2022 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, curator
Lou Jacklich and Colette Ogata Perform for Silicon Valley Accordion Society
Frank Toscano Performs for the Long Island Accordion Alliance
Future events |
Sergei Teleshev and Maria Telesheva to Perform for San Francisco Accordion Club in March
ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition April 8 - 10
Powell River’s First Annual Accordion Fest May 6-7, 2022
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Welcome to the February USA news. The news this month features accordion events, personalities, concerts, competitions, festivals, new recordings and more!We are seeing more live events happening around the world. Usually two options are given: Live or online. A special feature of the news is the many videos for you. It is a great way to experience the artistry of the performers. Happy Valentine's Day! How about tickets to a show, online or live. Or maybe a new album. Or maybe a new accordion! Or maybe accordion lessons! What accordion gift can you give your special someone? Enjoy the February news! |
Guy Klucevsek Performs His Compositions: “Clarissa” and “Air Apparent”by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Video 2:
 Video 1: “Clarissa” composed by Guy Klucevsek. Video by Ray FoleyVideo 2: ”Air Apparent" was the opening piece of music in "Hard Coal: Life in the Region," a music/theatre piece by the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble. Guy shares, “Inspired by the lives of coal miners and their families in eastern Pennsylvania. Having been grown up in a coal-mining family myself in western Pennsylvania, I felt a particular bond with this material.” Composer/accordionist Guy Klucevsek shares,”’Clarissa’ is the first piece of a 2003 suite I composed called "Four Portraits," inspired by characters from Michael Cunningham's novel, "The Hours." Commissioned by La Milanesiana, a festival of music, literature and film.” The piece is included in his album, “The Well-Tampered Accordion”, available on Amazon. 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, Kepa Junkera, the Kronos Quartet, Natalie Merchant, Present Music, Relâche, Zeitgeist, and John Zorn. Guy Klucevsek is a contributing member of Artists4Peace. Guy shares: “I began playing accordion in the 1950s, when I was five or six, and began composing as a teenager. Thus it’s probably more than a coincidence that my compositions are primarily for accordion—either alone or in multiples, or in combination with other instruments. Who are Artists 4 Peace? Artists for Peace (A4P) is an international collective that aims to contribute to world peace and sustainability by creating opportunities for meaningful communication and innovative collaborations across the world. Artists 4 Peace (A4P) is a global collective presenting works focused on peace and sustainable living. Guy is the recipient of a 2010 United States Artists Collins Fellowship, an unrestricted $50,000 award given annually to "America's finest artists." He has premiered over 50 solo accordion pieces, including his own, as well as those he has commissioned from Mary Ellen Childs, William Duckworth, Fred Frith, Aaron Jay Kernis, Jerome Kitzke, Stephen Montague, Somei Satoh, Lois V Vierk, and John Zorn. Performances include the Ten Days on the Island Festival (Tasmania), the Adelaide Festival (Australia), the Berlin Jazz Festival, Lincoln Center, Spoleto Festival/USA, BAM Next Wave Festival, Cotati Accordion Festival, San Antonio International Accordion Festival, Vienna International Accordion Festival, and the children’s television show “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.” His 1987 project, Polka From the Fringe, a collection of commissioned polkas by Fred Frith, Elliott Sharp, Bobby Previte, Carl Finch, et. al., toured around the world and was released on 2 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 3 cds on the Intuition (Germany) label. 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, “Cirque Lili” for French circus artist Jérôme Thomas, which has been performed over 250 times world wide, always with live music, and his own piece, “Squeeze Play,” an evening of collaborations with Dan Hurlin, David Dorfman and Dan Froot, Claire Porter, and Mary Ellen Childs. He and Dan Hurlin were awarded, jointly, 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. Klucevsek has released over 20 recordings as soloist/leader on Tzadik, Winter & Winter, innova, Starkland, Review, Intuition, CRI, and XI. Stereo Review cited his Starkland recording, Transylvanian Software, as a recording of special merit" (1995). He 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.” Guy is a very sincere, friendly, and sensitive person who immediately puts everyone at ease. His music reveals his kind and reflective nature. See future publications for more compositions by Guy Klucevsek. For further information: gklucevsek@mac.com |
2022 Coupe Mondiale Rules and Regulations Released - Switzerland/Finlandby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
 |
  The 75th Coupe Mondiale will be held from 04 - 09 October 2022 in Zofingen, Switzerland, hosted by the CIA member accordeon.ch led by President: Yvonne Glur (President) and Switzerland CIA delegate Ruedi Marty.CIA President Mirco Patarini and CIA Secretary General Kimmo Mattila warmly invite accordion competitors, teachers and supporters to attend the 2022 Coupe Mondiale which will feature concerts and competitions as follows: • 75th Coupe Mondiale • Masters Coupe Mondiale • Junior Coupe Mondiale • International Competition for Virtuoso Entertainment Music • Junior International Competition for Virtuoso Entertainment Music • Chamber Music - Classical • Chamber Music - World Music 2022 rules and regulations at: Coupe Mondiale View hotel information and pictures of the concert venues at: Coupe Mondiale Download printable event poster at: 2022CM-poster.pdf The on-line entry system will open in Spring and the entry closing date is 31 August 2022. You will find a complete Report of the 2021 Coupe Mondiale at: 2021 Video Homepage & Video Timetable at: 2021CM-Video 2021 Daily Reports, pictures, results at: 2021CM-Report |
 |
NAA Convention 2022by Markus Baggio |
 |
| We are in the final stretch of the planning of our convention. We are confident, well maybe hope is the better word, that by mid-February the infection rates are on their way down and people are ready for an in-person convention in March. It has been a while since people were able to meet in person. Yes, there is Zoom and other virtual possibilities, but being reunited with your fellow accordion players is something different! Attention all youth who are planning to participate in the March 2022 National Accordion Convention: By special agreement with NAA officials, Dick Albeski (youth coordinator), and http://www.AccordionUSA.com, young conventioneers (under the age of 18) are encouraged to send a single-song video to Mr. Abreski at JuAccordion@hotmail.com of you playing your favorite musical selection. All young participants are encouraged to perform in the scheduled youth concert and/or the Jerry Jacoby's "Music in the Air" program. Same place as the years before: Hilton Hotel, Richardson, TX (formally a Hyatt facility) Save the dates: Wednesday, March 16th to Saturday, March 19, 2022. Please follow this link to register for the hotel and the convention: http://accordions.com/naa/conv6Registration.html Covid-19 will most likely not be over, so we will follow all health guidelines of the State of Texas, the local authorities, and the Hotel to keep you safe. For example, we will have breakfast and lunch in the main ballroom, to allow for social distancing and don’t interfere with other travelers of the hotel. We will have 18 presenters and performers with a total of 40 sessions and band rehearsals. Workshops cover musicality, technology, play-along. Something for everybody. There is also plenty of time for reconnecting with your friends. Check out details for the presenters and workshops: http://accordions.com/naa/conv3Work.html Here is a glimpse of the evening activities: * Wednesday evening: Welcome reception. Meet and mingle with your fellow accordionists. * Thursday evening: Music around the world. We will dedicate rooms to different cities like Paris, Rome, Munich, and others. Each will have a main presenter, but everybody is welcome to play for open mike! Stroll around with a beverage for an entertaining trip. * Friday evening: Dance Party - dance until your shoes fall off! We will have performers on stage entertaining you with Folk, Polka, and Ballroom dance. * Saturday evening: Gala dinner with a final concert. |
 |
Trio Voronezh Performs in “Beauty and the Beast” Ballet March 4 - 6by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video: Trio Voronezh (LIVE) A.Tsygankov - "Mar dyandya"/А.Цыганков - "Мар дяндя" Concert for Oregon Bach Festival in Eugene, Oregon 6/23/2021 Tickets are available now for “Beauty and the Beast” with Trio Voronezh. Performances take place at the Soreng Theater, Hult Center in Eugene, Oregon. Every live theater ticket receives a complimentary livestream/on demand virtual viewing link —full flexibility in how you enjoy the show—or, share it with a friend! Fall into a world of fairytale adventure, romance, drama and mischief in Ballet Fantastique's gothic storybook re-telling of "Beauty & the Beast"with international chamber music sensation Trio Voronezh (live on stage!). Experience for yourself BFan's vibrant storytelling, trademark twists, lavish costumes, fantastical sets, and the luscious, enchanting music of Trio Voronezh. Suggested ages 4+. Trio Voronezh (USA) which includes Sergei Teleshev (accordion), Val Petrukhin (balalaika) and Vladimir Volokhin (domra) won the 3rd Prize at the International Competition PIF Castelfidardo 2020 - Astor Piazzolla Award. Excerpts from their website: Vladimir Volokhin, Valerie Petrukhin and Sergei Teleshev formed the Trio in 1993. The folk trio named themselves after the working-class city from which they studied and perfected their craft, a city of over a million people, and approximately 350 miles south of Moscow. In 1995, Trio Voronezh sprang onto the international stage after they were discovered playing classical favorites and folk tunes in a Frankfurt, Germany subway station. Sergei Teleshev won many regional and international accordion competitions and recently became the US V-Accordion Champion by winning 2013 US Roland V-accordion festival. In July 2017 he won in two categories (Solo Open, and Ensemble) at the International Accordion Competition in Victoria, Canada. Valerie Petrukhin has performed with many famous Russian folk orchestras and ensembles and currently is being an honored member of the Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society.Vladimir Volokhin went on to win the title of National Champion in the All-Russia Domra Competition in 1986 and 1990. In addition to five albums released in the following years, the Trio was featured on a 2007 release of "Peter and the Wolf, along with the London Symphony. It was selected by Dr. Toy, Stevanne Auerbach, as one of 2007's "10 Best." Stevanne Auerbach is one of the nation's and world's leading experts on play, toys, and children's product. The recording was also selected by National Parenting Publication Awards "NAPPA Gold Award." Trio Voronezh's astonishing virtuosity and delightful artistic innovation give the trio the ability to alter the way audiences experience classical, folk and contemporary repertoire. The diverse repertoire of the Trio includes the works of Vivaldi, Bach, Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky, Shostakovich, and Rachmaninov, as well as Russian folk songs, Argentine tangos, gypsy dance music, bluegrass and popular songs by Gershwin. The ever-expanding concert material is arranged by the members of the Trio, and performed with extraordinary virtuosity and musical lyricism entirely from memory. Sponsored by: Title Sponsor: Alpha IT Project support: Nils and Jewel Hult Endowment — Arts Foundation of Western Oregon Fund of The Oregon Community Foundation For further information: steleshev@yahoo.com |
ATG Professional Development Workshop on February 13, 2022by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
 You are invited to the ATG Professional Development series focusses on how to teach accordion, which is open to all levels of performers, including people who do not teach, but who want to learn a lot! It is scheduled for February 13, 2022 3-5:30 PM CT on Zoom.Murl Allen Sanders will give a talk on how to teach people who are new to the accordion, but who already have a musical background on another instrument. He’ll address “some tips and essential things to address and learn, for both the student and instructor.” Murl is esteemed as both a performer and a teacher—having worked with such diverse artists as Chuck Berry, Etta James, Il Divo, Glenn Yarbrough, and the Seattle Symphony—and he is adjunct faculty at the Cornish College of the Arts and the Shoreline Community College in Seattle. Michael Bridge, DMA candidate at the University of Toronto, will give a presentation on strategies for sight-reading and ear-training, and how to teach it. Michael shares, “I taught courses on this topic as a teaching assistant at the University of Toronto for many years, and have helped many students who struggle with ear-training. Fortunately, on accordion, we have a number of excellent music theory resources built in to our instrument, which we will use to our advantage. We will talk about rhythmic and melodic sight-reading skills, and how to recognize harmonic patterns with your ear.” A few changes: Based on survey results from our successful inaugural workshop last November, we have decided not to cap participation in the hopes of sharing knowledge as widely as possible! Three hours was quite a stretch mentally, so we will aim for two and a half hours, but extra questions will certainly be welcome. The cost of attendance is $60 for ATG members, or $85 for non-members. Register quickly for your front-row Zoom seats! We’re looking forward to a productive discussion. Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/professional-development-for-accordion-teachers-tickets-262330175617 |
Free Postage, Super Value Books Until 7th February - Franceby Harley Jones |
 |
| Free Postage Special Until 7th February: 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 In 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. In French. L’Accordeon & SA Diversite Sonore (catalog bthierryfr). |
 |
Accordionist Louis Simao performs with Kiran Ahluwalia: Tiny Desk (Home) Concertby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Kiran Ahluwalia: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert with Louis SimaoFor the second consecutive year, NPR teamed up with globalFEST in January 2021 for an online music festival called Tiny Desk Meets globalFEST: three nights, nine bands, and a world of musical traditions hosted by African pop star Angélique Kidjo. The sets from the festival are included as individual Tiny Desk (home) concerts. Excerpts from Bob Boilen’s article: Kiran Ahluwalia's original compositions embody the essence of Indian music while embracing influences from Mali and Western blues, rock, R&B and jazz. With her six-piece group of electric guitar, accordion, organ, tabla, bass and drum kit, Ahluwalia creates boundary-breaking songs that invite us to explore the human condition, transcending the self by losing ourselves in a trance of groove and melody. The two-time JUNO and Songlines award winner's open-hearted vocals have positioned her as one of global music's most compelling cross-pollinators. --globalFEST” Set List * "Dil" * "Rabba Ru" * "We Sinful Women" Musicians * Kiran Ahluwalia: vocals * Rez Abbasi: electric guitar * Louis Simao: accordion, organ * Davide DiRenzo: drums * Ravi Naimpally: tabla * Rich Brown: electric bass From the age of seven, Kiran Ahluwalia has approached music differently. Born and raised in India before immigrating to Canada, Ahluwalia surrounded herself with many different styles of Indian music. But it wasn’t until after her move to Toronto that she began embracing her musical heritage while also exploring Western blues, rock, R&B, jazz, and the sounds of Mali, West Africa. “When you take different styles and merge them together, and you don’t want a simple cut and paste, then you’re really developing a new hybrid genre,” Ahluwalia says. “It’s incredibly invigorating when I feel a connection in expressions from different cultures and then figure out ways to connect them seamlessly in my music. Excerpts from Louis Simao website: Award winning, Toronto-based accordionist/musician Louis Simão has been composing, performing and recording as a multi-instrumentalist in a variety of genres for twenty years. 2016 marked the release of his much-anticipated solo album, “A LUZ” (The Light) – a collection of Simão’s own compositions and arrangements. Joined by the best cross-genre musicians Toronto has to offer, Simão takes the listener on a journey through the sounds of the Portuguese-speaking world as experienced through the life of this first-generation Canadian son of Portuguese immigrants. His cultural background combined with his jazz sensibility and chamber music compositional style come together to create a voice that is at once universal while remaining deeply personal. Co-produced by Luis (Luisito) Orbegoso and recorded by John Bailey at The Drive Shed, Simão’s music easily flows from samba to folkloric Portuguese music, to funk-based grooves and lush string and woodwind arrangements. Accompanying Simão on stage for this new solo project will be Luis (Luisito) Orbegoso, David French, Rich Brown, Bill McBirnie & Marito Marques. As a sideman, Louis Simão has performed and/or recorded with Nelly Furtado, Dominic Mancuso (2010 JUNO winner), Michael Occhipinti’s Sicilian Jazz Project (2009 JUNO nominee), Kiran Ahluwalia, Luis Mario Ochoa, Justin Rutledge, Guinga, Henrique Cazes, Patricia Cano, Daniela Nardi’s Espresso Manifesto, Sophie Milman, Bill McBirnie, “MARIA SEVERA” at The Shaw Festival, Tapestry New Opera Works, Eliana Cuevas, Aline Morales and Luanda Jones. Described as “utterly unique” (CBC Radio One), he was the winner of the 2007 USA Songwriting Competition in the World Music category with his song, “Fado Torto”. Simão has opened for Cesaria Evora and Celso Machado, shared a night with Brazilian reggae stars Chico Cesar and Rita Ribeiro, toured Portugal (2006); and in 2008, was the invited artist of the Portuguese Consulate and the Instituto Camões at the Festival de Printemps in Azzemour, Morocco. In 2017, he was nominated in 3 separate categories for the 2017 International Portuguese Music Awards (IPMA) and won Song of the Year with his composition "Três Anos" (Simão/Petrilli). In November of 2017, he was named World Solo Artist of the Year by the Canadian Folk Music Awards, and in the Spring of 2018 was nominated by the Independent Music Awards for World Beat Artist of the Year. Simão's diverse skills also have him in demand as a music educator and clinician as well as a panel juror for the Canada Council for the Arts and FACTOR.“A LUZ” is made possible through the generous support of the Toronto Arts Council, the Ontario Arts Council and through the Canada Council for the Arts. Credits * Creative direction and production: Tina Wroblewski * Audio: Reza Moghaddas * Camera: Golan Sahraei * Editing: Edgar Maldonado * Lighting: Samira Banihashem * Special thanks: Canada Council for the Arts, Danielle Devlin, Ian Menzies Tiny Desk Meets globalFEST Tiny Desk Team Producer: Bob Boilen Video Producer: Maia Stern Audio Mixing: Josh Rogosin Tiny Production Team: Bobby Carter, Kara Frame, Joshua Bryant, Sofie Hernandez-Simeonidis Executive Producer: Keith Jenkins Senior VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann globalFEST Artistic Team Co-Directors: Shanta Thake, Isabel Soffer, Bill Bragin 2022 Curators: Shanta Thake, Isabel Soffer, Bill Bragin, Gabrielle Davenport globalFEST Production Team Event Producer: Ian Thake Producer: THE OFFICE performing arts + film* Video Producer: Karim Tabbaa Special Thanks The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, NYC Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, JanArtsNYC, Valerie French (social media), Yuri Kwon of Pitch Perfect PR (publicity), Tamizdat (legal services) and Duane Morris (legal services) *THE OFFICE performing arts + film consists of Rachel Chanoff, Laurie Cearley, Olli Chanoff, Erica Zielinski, Nadine Goellner, Lynn Koek, Noah Bashevkin, Catherine DeGennaro, Gabrielle Davenport, Chloe Golding, Kyla Gardner, Tess Peppis, Zion Jackson, Scout Eisenberg and Jose Alvarado For further information: Beverly Kreller Publicist | SPEAK Music bev@speak-music.com 416-922-3620 |
2022 AAA Festival: Postponed until 2023by Joan Grauman, AAA Historian |
 |
  Due to the AAA’s commitment to the health and safety of our many loyal attendees and guest artists, and to help support our nation’s efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19, our Governing Board had to make a difficult decision. The 2022 AAA Festival has been postponed and will be rescheduled, along with the AAA Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner in honor of Frank Busso, Sr., (picture left) for the summer of 2023. More information will follow shortly. Please visit our website: www.ameraccord.com often for updates and to view new articles and information that gets posted regularly. Stay tuned for information on upcoming virtual workshops, on the 2022 Virtual Competitions, the Elsie Bennett Composition Competition and the Carrozza Competition. Thank you for your understanding and continued support of the AAA! Stay safe and keep practicing! |
Bridge and Wolak On Tourby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video: Bach/Rachmaninoff: “Partita in E Major, BWV 1006” | CBC Music Clarinettist Kornel Wolak and accordionist Michael Bridge (Double-Double Duo) play a transcription of Sergei Rachmaninoff's arrangement of Bach's “Violin Partita No. 3 in E Major, BWV 1006”: Prelude, Gavotte, Gigue. Recorded at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Toronto, Ont. Michael Bridge and Kornel Wolak are acclaimed music and comedy duo who combine traditional acoustic instruments with 21st-century digital technology to uniquely reimagine the repertoire of classical, world, and jazz music. We are happy to inform you that Bridge and Wolak are on tour now. Tickets to many wonderful and entertaining concerts are available now. Plan to attend. Michael Bridge (accordions & piano) and Kornel Wolak (clarinet & piano) are an internationally-acclaimed music & comedy duo, integrating traditional acoustic instruments with 21st century digital technology. They perform their own uniquely re-imagined repertoire of classical, world and jazz fusion. With deft virtuosity and endless wit, Bridge & Wolak have been called the “Victor Borges of the 21st Century.” Fun-loving gentlemen (with seven degrees in music), they are both globe-trotting musicians and educators. They were nominated for the BC Touring Artist of the Year award in 2019. “Watch and be amazed!” —CBC. “Remarkable subtlety in Bridge’s production of sound. [...] Control and a smooth expressivity are what make Wolak shine.” Toronto Star. Their program features selections from composers such as Handel, Bach, Chopin, and Gershwin as well as a few surprises. Deft virtuosity and endless wit. Future Performances Include: Feb. 4: Johnson County Community College Friday, February 4, 2022 7:00 PM 9:00 PM Johnson County Community College Feb. 6: Pamlico Musical Society Sunday, February 6, 2022 7:00 PM 9:00 PM 609 Broad StreetOriental, NC, 28571 Feb. 17:: Borrego Springs Community Concert Association Thursday, February 17, 2022 7:30 PM 9:30 PM Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center Feb. 23: College of Southern Idaho Wednesday, February 23, 2022 7:30 PM 9:30 PM 315 Falls AvenueTwin Falls, ID, 83301 Feb. 24: Carthage College Thursday, February 24, 2022 7:30 PM 9:00 PM 2001 Alford Park DriveKenosha, WI, 53140 Feb. 25: LuCille Tack Center for the Arts Friday, February 25, 2022 7:30 PM 9:30 PM LuCille Tack Center for the Arts Feb. 27: Stroede Center for the Arts, Defiance, OH Sunday, February 27, 2022 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Stroede Center for the Arts Mar. 4: Longview-Kelso Community Concerts Friday, March 4, 2022 7:30 PM 9:00 PM Rose Center For The Arts Mar. 6: Wenatchee Concerts Sunday, March 6, 2022 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Wenatchee High School Apr. 24: Judith Arts Sunday, April 24, 2022 4:00 PM 6:00 PM Hobson Public School Apr. 26: Chouteau County Performing Arts Tuesday, April 26, 2022 7:00 PM 8:30 PM 1406 Franklin StreetFort Benton, MT, 59442 Apr. 27: Alpine Artisans 2 Valleys Stage Wednesday, April 27, 2022 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Seeley Swan High School (map) Apr. 29: Belt Performing Arts Center Friday, April 29, 2022 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Belt Performing Arts Center (map) Apr. 30; Port Ludlow, WA Saturday, April 30, 2022 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Port Ludlow Bay Club (map) For further information: michael@michaelbridgemusic.com |
ATAM to Honor Joseph Natoli in Aprilby Peggy Falcetti |
  The ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition takes place April 8-10, 2022 in Newton, MA and Virtual. The New England Music Festival is an annual musical competition sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts, Inc.The ATAM will be honoring Joseph Natoli at this year's festival as an honorary member. Joseph Natoli, makes his home in central Ohio with his wife JoAnn and has been a performer and advocate of the accordion since the age of seven. Joe started his studies with prominent Ohio accordion teacher, the late Mickey Bisilia of Youngstown, Ohio. Joe later attended and achieved Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the University of Toronto Faculty of Music where he also studied free bass accordion as his applied major instrument with renowned Canadian virtuoso, Joseph Macerollo. Joe is a past president of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) as well as co-founder and director of the International Digital Electronic Accordion Society (IDEAS), which holds its annual Symposium in November each year. Joe has released 5 CDs, including Omaggio, Waltz For Ron, Merry Christmas, Chameleon Vols 1 & 2, with Vol 3 on its way in early 2022 (to include his latest compositions including Alone…, Homage & Offspring to the Bumblebee, Fantasy On a Well-Known Melody, & Remembering Ennio, along with many others). Joe tries to use his orchestrational knowledge to exploit all the best coloristic possibilities on digital accordion. Joe’s compositions and arrangements traverse a diverse set of musical styles (including classical, light classical, jazz, ethnic, avant garde, and cinematic). For any information about IDEAS and/or his publishing company JANPress Music, you are invited to send any requests to josephnatoli@ymail.com or to janpressmusic@yahoo.com. |
33rd Illinois Polkafest - February 4, 5 & 6by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  The 33rd Illinois Polkafest takes place February 4, 5 & 6, 2022! at the Hyatt Regency,1800 E. Golf Rd, Schaumburg, ILExcerpts from Polkafest website: It was 1988 when Bob Doszak. first had the notion to bring the best Cleveland-style polka bands in the country together under one roof. Oakbrook, Illinois was the site for the very first Illinois Polkafest. After a huge success that first year, the Illinois Polkafest would become a tradition for Bob and his family for the next 25-plus years as the event quickly became one of the largest polka dances in the United States. Since then, many thousands of polka fans have converged on the greater Chicago area during the first weekend in February to hear some of the best polka bands in the country. Many dozens of the best known and most talented bands have performed at the festival, which has been held at a handful of different Chicago-area locations including: Oakbrook, St. Charles, Naperville, and now Schaumburg. Although he was only 9-years-old when the first festival was held – starting with the 2016 festival – Bob’s son Chris has taken on the task of running this annual event. Like his father, Chris continues to book the very best bands from around the country and keep what is now one of the last remaining large polkafests still going strong. Attending the Illinois Polkafest provides some of the best fun you can have over a February weekend. It has become an annual tradition for many fans from California all the way to the east coast. Whether this will be your first Illinois Polkafest or you have been attending for years, you are certain to have a great time along with family and friends as you dance and listen to some great polka music! Participating musicians include: Joey Miskulin, producer, in-demand studio musician, and member of Grammy-award winning group Riders In The Sky. For over five decades, he has collaborated with a range of artists from U2 to Roy Rogers, from Paul McCartney to Frank Yankovic, and many more. He is also very well known from his many years in polka music. Joey returns to the Illinois Polkafest to be able to see and visit with all of his friends as well as perform with some of the bands. It’s a rare chance to see one of true polka greats! Additional performers include: Steve Meisner, Eddie Rodick, Klancnik and Friends, Ron Likovic, Bob Doszak, and Mikey Dee. Three great days of music and dancing with some of the best polka bands in the nation. For further information: Phone: 815-514-4041 E-mail: ILpolkafest@yahoo.com |
NAA Updates and Weekly Challenge #50 of #52: Driveway Concertby Norman Seaton, NAA President |
 |
 Drs. Norman and Sharon Seaton share important 2022 Convention Information and Weekly Challenge #50 of #52Convention Update: All Signs Say “Go!” If you are even thinking about coming to the annual National Accordion Convention, register today, Why? Because the planning committee and the hotel folks need to finalize our plans with accurate numbers, especially because the lunches and banquet are included in the prices. Remember, if you need to cancel after enrolling, money will be refunded quickly. Hotel Registration (closes February 23 with guaranteed perks): Booking Link: https://group.hilton.com/7c4yt5 Convention Registration (we need to update the hotel chefs on Monday Jan 31) Registration Link: 2022 Convention Registration Form Convention Band Music: Practice these musical selections to be ready to play in the group activities during the convention. Challenge #50 of #52: Driveway Concerts: Plan a Driveway Concert for an upcoming spring weekend and invite the neighbors! How brave are you? I received a wonderful suggestion from accordionist Dale Mathis in Arizona: Give a concert for the folks in your neighborhood and hold it in your driveway (or front porch etc.) To quote Dale: “Here is an idea ... Prepare to perform a driveway concert! It's been happening in my neighborhood. I did one last Spring, and I may do one in the next few months when the 5:00 PM weather here in Arizona is perfect for an outdoor gathering. * When I did the last one, I printed up eighty half-sheet hand-out sheets, then my wife and I walked the block and rang doorbells. It is a great way to meet neighbors. We started with, "Hi, I'm your neighbor down the street, I'm not selling anything, I'm here to invite you to my driveway concert this Friday evening." Getting people to show up is all about personal connection, thus, we rang the doorbell rather than just leaving a flyer on the door. * We had about fifty people show up. It was fun. And, because it was a special event, I had to practice songs I had not played for some time to prepare. It's a great reason to get the accordion out and play every day! You can watch the Spring 2021 Driveway Concert video on my You Tube channel: Dale Mathis Accordion. March 3, 2021 What a great way to promote the accordion! I’m assuming it was a free concert, so there was little commitment on the part of the neighbors. It gave them an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors on a weekend and a chance to meet others. For the accordionist, it is a reason to prepare music to perform and to show off a musical instrument that is little known to many people. A further comment by Dale in response to last week’s Challenge quoting Mitchell White on practicing: "A deadline is a terrific motivator. The majority of folks to whom I sell accordions have had jobs for decades, but now they are retired. There is no need to set the morning alarm, no need to worry about the morning commute, no need to meet that production goal at the plant, no need to finish that report. Now they have time to join a club, visit the grandkids, take that once-in-a-lifetime trip. All of those are great activities, but after you have taken that trip and have accomplished a few other things you said you would do "after I retire," there is still a need to participate in a daily activity that helps you feel alive and keeps you from becoming a couch potato. Hundreds, probably thousands, of university studies have been written to prove that playing a musical instrument is excellent for brain and physical health. And, of course, playing the accordion requires a certain amount of physical and mental ability. So, we play accordion to stay healthy and we stay healthy so we can continue to make accordion music." For further information: NAA |
“Accordions Rising” Available Now Free on YouTubeby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Filmmaker Roberta Cantow shares, “Accordions Rising” is now available for free on YouTube, thanks to Indie Rights, my distributor. I am providing the list here of all the places where the film can be seen where it is currently streaming:Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Indiegogo.com, Google Play, Vudu, YouTube (Free) and coming soon, Tubi TV.” "Accordions Rising" has won awards internationally and nationally including two different Awards of Merit in the Documentary Category and one other: Global Accolade Competition – Award of Merit, November, 2015; Indie Film Fest, August, 2016 – Award of Merit; Bare Bones International Music and Film Festival – Best Movie Poster, April, 2016. The film has been a winner at several accordion festivals across the country and in Wales, the UK and Germany. Roberta Cantow was recognized with her first film grant from The American Film Institute while still a graduate film student at NYU. Through the years, The New York State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York Foundation for the Arts and others provided grants for the completion and distribution of 4 film works and videos. She received a NY Area Emmy for her film, "Clotheslines" about the symbolic and artistic role of laundry in women’s lives, as well as many others. Roberta's work has been exhibited in many of the venues for independents, including a presentation in the Cineprobe Series of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Her four 16mm films were selected for archival preservation by the Donnell Media Center, New York City, in 2001. All of her film and video work will be archived in the newly named Special Collections of Smith College. I think that “Accordions Rising” is an excellent film. It is educational, relevant, and entertaining showcasing the versatility of the accordion. I recommend it to everyone. For further information: rccantow@gmail.com |
Accordion Yellow Pages/Future Events - CYBERSPACEby Diatonic News |
 |
| All concert, competition and festival organizers are reminded to list their Future Events in our yellow pages website. Its free to list and you can do it yourself. You can also change and update your listing yourself as further information becomes available. The accordion yellow pages Future Events calendar displays at the top right hand side of this Weekly News of accordions.com in all 7 languages plus other popular sites such as the USA News and the Diatonic News. Huge numbers of readers every year view the accordion yellow pages Future Events, so all accordion event organizers are urged to take full advantage of this free service to keep the accordion community informed. |
Virtual: Accordion Star International 2022 Competition/Festivalby Sergei Teleshev |
 |
| The Accordion Star International 2022 Competition/Festival is virtual this year. It will take place on Facebook April 15-24, 2022. The ASI 2022 Competition offers an opportunity for accordionists of all ages to present their artistry to an international audience of music aficionados, professional musicians, show business representatives and producers. The ASI 2022 Festival will host concerts, master classes, interviews and presentations by the elite competition jurors and festival guests. Accordion students, amateurs and professional accordionists of all ages are welcome to participate. The international jury for the ASI 2022 Competition features leading renowned performers, teachers, composers, conductors, and producers from: USA, Canada, Russia, China, Italy, France, Germany, Ukraine, Albania, Sweden, Austria, Belarus, Cyprus, Iran, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Macedonia, Scotland, Serbia, Bosnia and Hercegovina, South Africa, and other countries. Jurors will not be evaluating the competitive performances of their students nor competitors representing their country. Vyacheslav Semenov (Russia) is presiding as jury president. Winners will be announced in 14 categories of varying genres, combos, age groups and instruments (piano, bayan, button, digital and accordion related e.g., Bandoneon, Concertina, Melodica, Russian Garmon, any kind of national Garmon, etc.). The new categories include the “Astor Piazzolla Music Award,” and two categories “Accordion Star 37+” which have no age restrictions and are divided into amateurs and professionals. First place winners will receive “Accordion Star International 2022 Champion” titles, cash awards and winners’ diplomas. Second and third place holders will receive laureate titles with second and third place designations on their diplomas. All competitors will be awarded diplomas indicating their average score and position in ASI 2022’s world ranking. Entrants need to register, submit a fee and upload their current performance to YouTube by April 7, 2022. The videos will be broadcast on an assigned date designated for the category. Additional details are described in the competition rules. Accordion Star International 2022 competition festival is supported by Northwest Accordion Society, Cotati Accordion Festival, Tempo Trend Music, Petosa Accordions, Pigini Accordions and other festivals and organizations in North America, Europe, and Asia. Program details, competition rules, judges, scheduled competition times, concerts and results will be posted on ASI 2022’s FaceBook page. You may also request the rules and direct inquiries to world-class accordionist, Sergei Teleshev, ASI founder and director. For more information contact the festival team via e-mail: accostarfest@gmail.com. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
IDEAS Symposium 4.0 Jan 20 – 30, 2022by Joseph Natoli |
 |
Video 2:
 Video 1: “We’ll Dance Again” Composed and performed by Joseph NatoliVideo 2: Michael Bridge closed the Symposium with a breathtaking orchestration of Khachaturian’s "Toccata": The extremely successful IDEAS Symposium 4.0 is now in the history books, completing Jan 30,2022. IDEAS, as you know, stands for the International Digital Electronic Accordion Society, and they hold an international symposium each year for dedicated digital accordionists around the globe who want to learn as much as possible and optimize the use of their digital instruments and peripherals. This year was no exception. Take a look at this year’s schedule embedded here to get a good IDEA of how saturated and diverse these learning opportunities were for attendees over an incredible 10-day period! Workshops included topics like: * Understanding optimal settings for Zoom * The Magic of Walking Bass (2 sessions) * Level1/2 and tips/tricks courses on the Roland FR-4X, FR-8X or Bugari Evo digital accordions * Orchestration workshop on the Concerto digital accordion * Audio Interfaces (understanding and optimizing for recording or streaming) * Hand health for accordionists (Dr. Angela Natoli) * DaVinci Resolve video creation software techniques * Rehearsal Live Share (real time online ensemble or orchestra rehearsal software) * Achieving realistic percussion on digital accordions * Performing live with arrangers (like the Ketron SD-90) * Learning comping techniques for vocalists or melody instruments * Augmenting standard harmonies Each and every one of these sessions (90.2 hours worth!) were recorded and will be made available to registrants for at least the next year so that they can go back and reference the recordings repeatedly for continued learning. Furthermore, one can still pay the registration fee to “attend” the symposium via the recorded sessions, which is just like being there live! No other organization on the planet offers this much information while then making it available for such an extended period. Many people said in the first few days of the symposium, that if it ended right then, they would have gotten their money’s worth! That’s a testament to the incredible knowledge share that the symposium has become. Additionally, some of the greatest digital artists in the world performed and were also part of the faculty, including Michael Bridge, Uwe Steger, Cory Pesaturo, Eddie Monteiro, Joe Natoli, Annie Gong, and Julie Wisniewski (See photo on left). There were two major concerts, each repeated the following day at an earlier time to accommodate time zones across the earth. Concert #2 was dedicated to Donna Dee Ray, who we lost Nov 8, 2021 and who had been an avid acoustic and digital accordion performer all her life, as well as a very hard working ATG Board member much of her adult life. Donna Dee was honored on the concert with a new composition by Joseph Natoli dedicated to both Donna Dee and her surviving husband Dennis, and it is entitled “We’ll Dance Again”. See Video #1. (Attendees on Concert #2 1/28/22 in photo down). Additionally, you will definitely want to hear a video from Michael Bridge that closed the Symposium which was a breathtaking orchestration of Khachaturian’s “Toccata”. See Video #2 Here are some thoughts from two Symposium Attendees: John Modrowsky: The IDEAS Symposium was a unique vehicle for people interested in digital accordion (owners or just curious) to participate with a community of like-minded people. Topics ranging from basic music theory and tutorials on the basics of their digital instruments to audio and video capture and editing. As if not enough, there were breathtakingly creative concerts provided by artists from all over the globe (including Australia, New Zealand and Germany as well as the Americas) – a truly world-wide virtual event. This symposium and the GR8 IDEAS web site and forum are must do’s. Digital accordions such as those from Roland have been around for some years, but they are complex instruments with lots of capabilities – and there is virtually no aftersales support. GR8 IDEAS is the place for people to go for guidance and inspiration. There are no questions that are too simplistic. The purpose is to get everyone to be able to become familiar and comfortable with their instrument so that they can enjoy playing and share their musical talents! Thank you Joe Natoli for creating this wonderful experience. Laura Jean Niland: IDEAS Symposium 4.0 Teaches All Accordionists: I just finished attending the 10-day online International Digital Electronic Accordion Society (IDEAS) Symposium 4.0 with Joe Natoli at the helm. You might ask: What are you doing there… you are an acoustic player right? Well, yes I am an acoustic player, but I also love learning and this is the place to be if you want to experience great teachers, thinkers, and performers for all things accordion both digital and acoustic as well as audio/video editing peripherals. There were outstanding presentations on everything regarding digital accordions (Roland, Concerto, Bugari-EVO, Proxima) as well as instruction on video and audio editing for video presentations (glitzy shows too). Master instructors included: Bob Donovan, Joe Natoli, Dr. Angela Natoli, Mike Soloway, Paul Pasquali, Gordon Kohl, Don Gerundo, Uwe Steger, Lenny Feldman, Don Hall, Alex Chudolij, Michael Bridge, Cory Pesaturo, Eddie Monteiro, Mitchell White, and Marco Cinaglia. Two major Concerts included these performers: Cory Pesaturo, Eddie Montiero, Joe Natoli, Michael Bridge, Kevin Solecki, Valeriya Grechenkova, Don Gerundo, Gordon Kohl, Bob Donovan, Julie Wisniewski, Uwe Steger and Annie Gong, In addition, there were online Happy Hours with performances from participants and Attendees Concert as well. For ten days Jan 20-30, 2022 there was a plethora of wonderful workshops and online chats with the BEST instructors in the digital world sharing ideas with attendees from across the globe! Yes, folks from Australia, New Zealand, Germany and Canada too! I loved the demonstrations of Resolve software (Donovan & Steger) to create professional video and audio editing. It is amazing what these programs can do on your own computer! All you need is the time to learn and apply your knowledge. Many attendees demonstrated their skills at creating videos, as they submitted these for presentation at the Attendees Concert. What I learned is that there is so much more that I can learn. Learning can be fun, especially when you meet a cadre of individuals at the Symposium with the same interests. Help is just a click away, especially in the technology age. There was so much information about electronics too, and how to resolve problems and most importantly, how to work with your new purchase, a digital accordion. Believe me, you need tutorial and once you have it, you are on your way to GREAT experiences with the instrument. Although I am an acoustic player, I have great respect for the digital accordion and its incredible applications. As Mitchell White would say: "Laura, we may convert you yet!”. Maybe… I am certainly thinking about it! Many thanks to all the presenters and to Joe Natoli for his organizational skills in presenting this outstanding Symposium. I look forward to attending IDEAS Symposium 5.0. Congratulations on another successful IDEAS Symposium. I loved every aspect of the Symposium. Now it’s time to go back and review the 90.2 hours of recordings from the Symposium! More fun! For inquiries about Symposium 5.0, Nov 6-16, 2022, please reach out to Joseph Natoli: thegr8.ideas@gmail.com. |
 |
Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat: Big Successby Stas Venglevski |
| Video: Houston Accordion Event event was reported by local TV, KPRC2 Houston Life Another Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat event successfully ended with the gala concert at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Houston under the leadership of Stas Venglevski. This year’s theme was “A Spectacular Collage of European Music.” Orchestra members were challenged with outstanding orchestral arrangements of worldwide folk tunes and classical music from around the world - Finland, Russia, Azerbaijan, France, etc. This year included the Youth Scholarship Ensemble with string instruments violin, cello, also marimba/percussion and soloists performing - Gabrielle Peck (cello), Shirley Johnson (vocal), Ali Haghshenas (garmon) and Gail Campanella (accordion). The enthusiasm and excitement of the young musicians pushed the orchestra members and audience to a high energetic level. The live performance was also streamed and promoted by local TV stations. To conclude the event, the orchestra was offered a NASA tour which ended with the pleasant experience to explore and see the achievements and history of space science. Next year’s event has already been planned and set up with the theme “An Exploration of Modern Movie Music” and already has been sold out! Nothing but a huge thanks goes to the entire orchestra for their dedication and serious preparation which made the entire event so successful! Next year’s event is just around the corner! Let’s shake the bellows and the world! |
Ksenija Sidorova Performs Piazzolla with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO)by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Ksenija Sidorova will perform concerts in the USA during February 2022 as follows: • February 3rd & 5th, 2022 concert series, European based Ksenija Sidorova will perform Piazzola’s Aconcagua at the Atlanta Symphony Hall in Atlanta, Georgia, USA with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra as part of the Delta Classical series. • February 12th & 13th: Concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra conducted by John Storgards at the Cincinnati Music Hall, Cincinnati, OH. Their program will include works by Glass, Piazzolla and Adams. Ksenija Sidorova is passionate about showcasing the vast capabilities of the accordion. Her repertoire spans from Bach to Piazzolla, from Efrem Podgaits and Václav Trojan, to Erkki-Sven Tüür and George Bizet, as well as new accordion concertos composed especially for her, plus a multitude of chamber projects. Tickets are available online. |
Updated Composers Guide to the Piano Accordion on the AAA Siteby Robert Young McMahan CCC Chair, Professor Emeritus, The College of New Jersey Music Department |
 |
 The updated and expanded “Composers Guide to the Piano Accordion,” by Prof. Robert Young McMahan is a free download on the AAA site at: http://www.ameraccord.com/commissions/ComposersGuide.pdfThe guide is to help accordionists encourage composers who may not play the accordion, to compose for our favourite instrument. A shorter version of the guide was published in 2016 in the 4th edition of the widely used textbook The Study of Orchestration, by Samuel Adler. |
ATG Festival in Julyby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Join the ATG July 20-24, 2022 in the Chicago area as the ATG’s 80th anniversary is celebrated. Reserve your seat for the 80-piece ATG Festival Orchestra! This special orchestra is in honor of the ATG's 80th anniversary, and will be directed by Joan C. Sommers. The fee to hold your seat in the orchestra is $25 and will be applied towards your festival registration. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, so don't drag your feet and take a seat! Please see the 2022 Festival page for the latest information regarding the festival. Registration will be available soon on the website: www.atgaccordions.com. |
Try Something New as a Way to Become a Better Musicianby Sharon Seaton, Ed.D. |
 |
| Week 48 Challenge:Try something new as a way to become a better musician: I love getting comments from you about our Challenges! We can learn so much from each other, and I enjoy passing on hints to you that I have received through email responses. Last week’s Challenge was about how to improve as a musician. One of my regular readers gave a simple tip: You don’t have time to practice? Then don't! Simply go to your instrument and play something. That’s pretty easy and could be no more than five minutes of your time. You could choose anything you like; make it something fun and not a piece that you struggle with. And you may find yourself playing for a longer session than you intended because of the enjoyment you get from the experience. The above-mentioned reader suggested joining an accordion ensemble/club. Playing in an ensemble or even a duet (not just a jam session) does require practice, not only with the group rehearsals but also practicing your own part at home alone. While you are learning new music, you are also gaining experience in playing with precision as you rehearse with the group. In a good ensemble, there is no room for sloppiness! I also received a response this past week from Dr. Mitchell White in Austin. Mitchell has retired from a long technical career in science, math, and engineering. He chose the field of music as a new venture (sure, why not music?). Actually, he is returning to the accordion after a long hiatus. (This is not at all unusual; we all know folks who are doing this.) Mitchell says: “What am I doing these days to get better? 1. I practice between 90 min and 240 min each day. I break this up into focused pieces, of course. 2. I play with other musicians when I can. Usually 2-3x a week. Farmers markets, music clubs, etc. 3. I’m taking online group "discussion" classes with the Cory Pesaturo (CPez) Academy, 2x/mo. 4. I play along with YouTube videos and other recorded sources. 5. I spend some time each week analyzing sheet music and trying new bits. 6. I teach a couple of beginners. Yes, teaching sharpens the learning! Want to really learn? Teach!” Spend some time practicing your accordion and finding some new tidbits of information to share with others. Remember that one of the most popular activities each year is getting to play with others, for others, and picking up hints to become a better musician. See you in Richardson at the NAA Convention 2022, Wednesday, March 16th to Saturday, March 19, 2022. NAA President Norman Seaton says, “The 2022 NAA convention registrations are rolling in! Have you registered yet?” |
Cory Pesaturo on Jimmy Fallon’s New Musical Game Showby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Accordionist Cory Pesaturo was a guest performer on January 31, 2021, on the new NBC Jimmy Fallon show, “That’s My Jam” which features celebrity guests on every episode. Jimmy Fallon is adding to his resume of hosting jobs with his new show “That’s My Jam”. Fallon is famous for making his celebrity guests on The Tonight Show play cute games like Lip Sync Battle and Drinko. Now, Fallon has a whole new medium to continue his endearing playfulness, and showcase his love for music. Cory Pesaturo (“C Pez”) is revolutionizing the Accordion. The only person to ever win the trio of World Championships on Acoustic, Digital & Jazz Accordion, and the only Accordion graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. In 2017, Pesaturo became a Guinness World Record Holder, as RedBull® flew him to Austria to break the Marathon Accordion Record, in which Cory played for 32 Hours & 14 Minutes. His performances at all 3 of his World Championships were played on accordions which were not his, and were generally 90% improvised; both aspects are unheard of in the accordion world. CPez has given 2 TED Talks, 2 Google Talks, an EG Talk, and spoken at various other conferences on the accordion. Pesaturo's extensive resumé includes appearances at the White House for President and Mrs. Clinton on 4 different occasions, starting at age 12, and 8 other appearances for the Clintons. On one of those occasions, he became the youngest person to ever perform at a State Dinner. Some TV appearances include the Late Show with David Letterman, performing with Johnny Depp, and Nationally televised programs in New Zealand, Canada, Italy, Tunisia, France, and Finland. On an NYC broadcast, CNBC/FOX host Maria Bartiromo once said “No one is currently doing more for the Accordion than Cory”. He has judged accordion competitions in the US, Canada, and Europe, in addition to other music competitions, and currently gives masterclasses at various universities throughout the US and Europe on Accordion and Improvisation. For his Classical side which is lesser known, a win in a concerto competition at 16 years old gave Pesaturo the rare opportunity to perform with the Brockton Symphony Orchestra as a featured soloist, where he became the youngest accordionist to ever solo with a symphony orchestra in the US. Pesaturo is also involved and respected in the weather and motor sports worlds as well. He composed the Official list of records set by the record-breaking 2005 Atlantic Hurricane season, and has done reports on Winter Seasons which have been featured on Accuweather & other sites. In sports, he has written sports blogs for sites such as Bleacher Report, articles in MESH Magazine, and has collaborated with members of the Red Sox on the Fenway 100 Album. His music has been played on Formula 1 broadcasts, and additionally has an ongoing musical relationship with 98.5 The Sports Hub in Boston. Congratulations, Cory! |
L’Art En Voyage with Anna Lumière and Finn Manniche on February 12 in Canadaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
 Excerpts from the website L’Art En Voyage: Société francophone de Maillardville, in partnership with Le Relais - The BC Francophone Immigration Program, presents L’Art En Voyage, a musical trip around the world on Saturday, February 12, 7:30 PM at Evergreen Cultural Centre, 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, BC, Canada. Performances are free and available both in-person and via live stream. In-person Event: 7:30 – 9:45 PM / Doors open at 6:30 PM. Artists from all over the world have journeyed and settled in British Columbia over the years, bringing with them their talent, skill, traditions, and fresh energies — enriching BC culture and sharing their extraordinary arts with us all in the process. At L’Art en Voyage, you’re invited to join in an evening that celebrates some of these artists and their contributions. Together we’ll experience the gifts of some astonishing musicians, a rich array of sounds and cultures, and honour all that these artists have brought to BC’s shores from around the globe. The evening features some of BC’s finest musical artists, showcasing music with roots in traditions from four continents - Asia, Africa, South America and Europe. It’s music that often reflects the sounds and influences of global travel and the rich environs of our own province’s eclectic cultural mix. Welcome to a special night to sit back, experience some extraordinary music, and marvel at the treasures in our midst! L’Art en Voyage presents the music of Anna Lumière and Finn Manniche, Celso Machado, Yoro Noukoussi and Silk Road Music. Pianist, accordionist, and composer, Anna Lumière, came to BC from Switzerland at the age of 17. Alongside her background in classical piano, Anna’s interested in improvisation led her into the realm of jazz. For L’Art en Voyage, Anna, on piano, is accompanied by Finn Manniche on accordion, cello, and guitar. Together they’ll perform Anna’s original compositions, including an accordion waltz and a vocal jazz song in French, as well as selections of their favourite music - a composition by Richard Galiano and another by Enzo Enzo. Finn and Anna have collaborated on other projects, but this concert will be the first time they play together on stage. Silk Road Music is a Vancouver-based, award-winning ensemble celebrating 3 decades of performance around the globe. Their rich and colourful music ranges from ancient Chinese scores to contemporary compositions, and from foot-tapping Scottish reels to heartfelt Chinese melody. For this their L’Art en Voyage concert, the ensemble features Qiu Xia He (pipa), André Thibault (guitar, oud), Phil Belanger (percussion), and special guest, Chinese wind player Zhong Xi Wu (suona - a reed instrument, and sheng – an instrument in the accordion family). Yoro Noukoussi born in North Benin, Africa to the chief of the Waama people, this multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter learned the art of storytelling and drumming from his family as they traveled the region sharing their cultural traditions. Now in Canada, Yoro is in great demand as a performer, having mastered the donga (talking drum), kokomba (congas), and djembe. On stage, both solo and with his band, he is a dynamic and mesmerizing performer, drawing you in to the sights, sounds, and rhythms of West Africa. Virtuoso Brazilian guitarist and composer, Celso Machado’s music is rooted in Brazilian rhythmic and melodic styles, such as samba, chôro, baião, and frêvo, but it also reflects his incurable fascination with other world music traditions. Celso incorporates these influences into his own sound; his own unique Canadian-based contribution to the ongoing evolution of Brazilian music. This concert is presented by Société francophone de Maillardville, the producers of Festival du Bois (April 2022 1, 2 and 3 2022 at Mackin Park) in partnership with Le Relais - The BC Francophone Immigration Program, and with generous support from the Department of Canadian Heritage. |
Dee Langley Performs for “La Boheme” in Minnesotaby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Accordionist Dee Langley shares, “The world is opening up again! Proud to be the accordionist for Theater Latte Da's production of "La Boheme". They are selling out at most performances so if you're in the Twin City area and want to attend, get your tickets now.”Excerpts from a review: “This passionate, timeless, and indelible story of love among young artists in Paris, can stake its claim as the world’s most popular opera. Theater Latté Da brings Peter Rothstein’s innovative, award-winning staging to the intimate Ritz Theater. Lyrical and touchingly beautiful, La Bohème is the definitive depiction of the joys and sorrows of love and loss, and a celebration of art in the face of adversity.” The performance takes place from Jan 20 - Feb 27, 2022 at the Ritz Theater. Music by Giacomo Puccini Libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa New orchestration by Joseph Schlefke Directed by Peter Rothstein Music Direction by Sonja Thompson The band includes: Music Director/Piano: Sonja Thompson† Guitar: Anthony Titus† Woodwinds: Ryan Golden† Violin: Renata Steve† Accordion: Dee Langley† †Member of Twin Cities Musicians Union, American Federation of Musicians La Bohème runs through February 27, 2022, at the Ritz Theater, 345 13th Avenue NE, Minneapolis MN. Tickets: $35.00 - $49.00. Student and educator rush tickets, $15.00, subject to availability, one hour before curtain, two tickets per ID. Members of Actor's Equity Association (AEA), the Union of Professional Actors; the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC); and the Twin Cities Musicians Union - $20 with union member ID card, two tickets per member. Excerpts from her website: When Dee Langley first played the accordion at the age of four, she could not have known that her love for the instrument and her passion for music would eventually reap her numerous first place honors, take her to Europe, and earn her several guest appearances as accordionist with the Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. As a professional, Dee has participated in seminars and symposiums on accordion styles and techniques in Chatel, France and Klingenthal, East Germany. She also has performed with the Dolina Polish Folk Dancers and Ethnic Dance Theatre as well as officiating as Director of The EDT Folk Orchestra. Concert tours of Poland, France and the Czech Republic, respectively, being a few of the highlights of her tenures with these companies. A founding member of the award winning Balkan group, Orkestar Bez Ime, Dee has enjoyed a wide variety of ethnic festival venues across America. Her tutors for specific folk styles include Nikolai Gueorguiev through Ethnic Dance Theatre (Bulgaria) and Boris Kostic (Rromani--Gypsy) at Amala School, Valjevo, Serbia. On several occasions, she has been asked to perform accordion works not only with the Minnesota Orchestra and St. Paul Chamber Orchestra but also the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra, Philomusica, The St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra and the Northwoods Classical Players (members of the Chicago Symphony). She has also premiered compositions with the Ancia Quartet, the Minneapolis Philharmonic and Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra and has worked with contemporary composers including, Peter Blauvelt, Mary Ellen Childs, Becky Dale, Shelley Hanson, Mark Hellem, Daniel Kallman, and Carleton Macy, to expand the visibility of classical accordion with other instruments. Dee Langley is winner of the 2011-2012 McKnight Artist Fellowships for Performing Musicians (Orkestar Bez Ime) administered by MacPhail Center for Music and the 2012 American Composers Forum Minnesota Emerging Composer Award (World Music – Orkestar Bez Ime). She is the President of the Mill City Accordion Association, a past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International. Dee currently performs a wide variety of music in Metro area of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota where she teaches accordion both privately at her studio and for Minneapolis Community and Technical College. Dee will be a presenter at the National Accordion Associations’ (Norman Seaton) convention March 16-19, 2022 in Texas. http://www.accordions.com/naa/. For further information and tickets: Theater Latté Da // 345 13th Ave NE // Minneapolis, MN 55413 Phone: 612-339-3003 Email: info@latteda.org For further information about Dee Langley: squeezermn@yahoo.com |
Smorgasbandet Performs for the Long Island Accordion Allianceby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) sponsored by La Villini Restaurant presents an evening of accordion music featuring guest artists, the well known Scandinavian group “Smorgasband, on February 2, 2022. If you play the accordion bring your instrument and play a set. Smorgasbandet are a lively accordion band based on Long Island New York, performing in the Tri-State area and Beyond! Theyspecialize in German and American Music & More! For Bookings Call or Text: 718-415-0602 Email: Dragspel@aol.com Jeanne is the daughter of the late maestro Walter Eriksson and was brought up in the very Scandinavian community of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. She has been dancing since age 5 and playing accordion and piano since childhood. Swedish-American of the Year 2005, Jeanne was knighted by the King of Sweden in 1996 with the Order of the Polar Star medal. A member of the Vasa Order of America, she is emcee & ringleader at the annual Swedish Midsummer in Manhattan with thousands attending, and is a member of Sons of Norway, SWEA, FAWN, and Society Åland of NY. Her grand-parents immigrated to America in the early 1900s from Sweden and Finland. Wayne Söderlund´s paternal grandparents were from Sweden, and Wayne has been playing accordion all his life. Specializing in jazz, Wayne discovered Scandinavian music through the Scandinavian Accordion Club of NY, where he met Jeanne and Chad. Chad Widman is Jeanne´s son and is a “natural”. A very animated percussionist. He creates all of their Video & Social Media & Website Creations – “Widman Productions”. Johnny Soderlund is Wayne’ Son and he too is a “natural”. A percussionist and guitar player for Smörgåsbandet since he was a very young boy. He is the SRS Sound Engineer for the latest recordings of Smörgåsbandet. Walter Ericsson Jr. is the son of the late maestro Walter Eriksson. Walter was brought up in the very Scandinavian community of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. “Wally” has been involved in the Scandinavian community since childhood and plays several instruments, Nyckelharpa, Drums, Guitar and the violin. Ingrid Olson was a specialist in Scandinavian folk music and art song. She began performing in the Scandinavian community in Brooklyn when she was four years old. She was a life long friend of Jeanne. Sadly, Ingrid passed away in 2016. They continue to play the Scandinavian music she loved to be a part of. Come out and join them for a fun filled evening of accordion music on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at 6:PM: La Villini Restaurant 288 Larkfield Road East Northport, NY 11731 (631) 261 – 6344 Reservations recommended. |
"A is For Accordion": New Book for Childrenby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
 This board book was written by accordion wielding wild man, Jake Kouwe. His zany approach to life is carried over to the pages of this cleverly constructed childrens book. Geared towards toddlers, these board books are near indestructible! And if you have no toddlers in your family… it still makes a fine conversation piece or coffee table book. The price is $15.Excerpts from his website: Jake Kouwe unknowingly steered his life in a new direction when at age fourteen, he saw Weird Al Yankovic on VH1 and announced to his parents that he wanted to obtain an accordion. In response, Jake’s parents bought him his first accordion at a local thrift shop. Shortly after taking up lessons on the instrument, Jake was introduced to polka: a genre that currently defines his musical career. Jake’s first band, which he played in during middle school, was not a polka group by any stretch of the imagination. The poor-sounding but ambitious punk band was called Alan’s Ugly Girlfriend. Though the band did not play polka, or perhaps even anything with a melody, it launched Jake’s ongoing passion for the performing arts and band work. Jake’s skills were honed and practiced at great lengths while performing with his father, Phil Kouwe. Phil’s own musical endeavors helped inspire Jake to pursue performing as career. From providing the polka band with their first sound system to performing onstage wherever needed, Phil continues to be an active part of the band. Though Jake has played with and been a part of many bands over the years, The Chardon Polka Band remains his primary musical outlet. Jake founded the group in 2003 with the help of a four other Chardon High School teens and has been leading the group ever since. As the story goes, “There was no room for an accordion in the marching band…. so he started a polka band.” With long hair usually held in check with a bandana or signature CPB trucker hat, Jake Kouwe is not your average polka front man. His energetic playing and quirky sense of humor helped to define The Chardon Polka Band early on. Jake’s eccentric style, kinetic playing, and love of polka continue to be trademarks of The Chardon Polka Band. For further information: Chardonpolkaband@gmail.com |
Mario Tacca and Mary Mancini in December Concertby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
Video 2:
 Video 1: “Be Still My Soul” {J.Sibelius} performed by Mario TaccaVideo 2: “The Bright Seraphim” - (“Samson” - G. F. Handel) Mary Mancini, Soprano Mario Tacca, Accordionist Peter Blume, Trumpet Enjoy the videos from the December 2021 Christmas Concert presented by accordionist Mario Tacca and singer Mary Mancini. The trumpet player is Peter Blume. For further information: marytmancini@msn.com) |
The 2022 Accordion Seminars - Dr. William Schimmel, curatorby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Dr. William Schimmel’s Accordion Seminars are scheduled for July 29, 30 and 31, 2022. This will be the 28th year. And like the last two years, they will be virtual.The Theme is: “Too Much Information, Too Little Time, But We Do It Anyway!” The Seminars will be presented by a new organization, The Accordion Global Association. The Master Classes will be from 3 to 4:PM. The concerts from 4 to 5:PM The distinguished list of participants include: MIcki Goodman, Paul Stein, Dr. Robert Young Mc Mahan, Will Holshouser, Godfrey Nelson, Lorraine Nelson Wolf, Dr. Denise Koncelik, The Main Squeeze Orchestra, Doug Makofka, Jeanne Velonis, Sari Kalin, Brian Dewan, Erica Marie Mancini, Mary Spencer Knapp, Benjamin Ickies, Dan Cooper, Peter Flint, William Komaiko, Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, Gene Pritsker, Peter Jarvis, Bachtopus, Mayumi Mayoaka, Robert Duncan, David First, Bob Goldberg, Carl Riehl, Rachel Quirbach, Melissa Elledge, Dave Soldier And more to follow ……….. Here is a list of topics that will be presented - more to follow In your face Out of your face The New Professional The Vague Panther - dealing with navigation of rough waters The technique of ideas The technique of chops Ideas and chops The Accordion as Homing Pigeon Accordi yoga Zen Phrasing revisited Accordio meditation De stressing with your accordion Fun with a purpose Fun with a porpose Hard work - with payoff (instant gratification) Hard work with delayed payoff (the art of patience) Contraction and release Aught Culture and Reverse Irony New works Old works - new angles Nothing new, but how we look at it The Accordion as Smile - La - Phone Morality and the Accordion Dr. William Schimmel’s versatility is evident by the many musical projects that he is involved in. He has devoted his life to musicianship particularly utilizing the accordion. William Schimmel holds a BM, MS and DMA degrees Doctorate from The Juilliard School. He performed with virtually every ensemble in New York from The New York Philharmonic, The Metropolitan Opera, Jazz at Lincoln Center, most contemporary ensembles, Broadway as well as numerous European tours. His Tango Project CDS have reached #1 on the Billboard charts along with Stereo Review Album of the Year and Grammy nominations. He has performed in many movie soundtracks and can be seen and heard in “Scent of a Woman” starring Al Pacino (who received an Oscar). His current CD, “The Theater of the Accordion” features trumpeter Wynton Marsalas and has reached #2 on the Amazon charts (They perform a 6 minute version of Mahler 9). He has performed with rock stars as diverse as Sting and Tom Waits who stated: “Bill Schimmel doesn’t play the Accordion, He IS the Accordion”. NPR regarded him as “The World’s Greatest Accordionist” and The New Yorker named him: “Gotham’s Happy Warrior of the Accordion” Dr. Schimmel resides in Manhattan with his wife, Micki Goodman, a dancer/choreographer and video artist. Together they have produced numerous videos that can be seen and heard on YouTube. Dr. Schimmel’s works are currently being archived at the Lincoln Center Performing Arts Library. For information - 212 876 0827 Email: accordionbill@gmail.com More information will follow. |
Lou Jacklich and Colette Ogata Perform for Silicon Valley Accordion Societyby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| The Silicon Valley Accordion Society invites all to their ZOOM meeting on Sunday, February 6, 2022, at 3:15pm PST, for an afternoon of great music featuring Lou Jacklich, and his student Colette Ogata. Colette shares, “Lou Jacklich has been a professional accordionist for over 75 years. Over the course of his career, Lou received his union card at age 17, taught for the Meni-Ketti studio and toured vaudeville. In the 1950s he founded the Lou Jacklich School of Music with 450+ students and 9 teachers. By the late 1950s he had become a pioneer on the electronic accordion and was in high demand with his virtuoso artistic arrangements. Today, Lou teaches out of his studio in the Bay Area and is an active member of several local accordion clubs. He performs his own jazz arrangements to the delight of audiences. Lou has received local and international acclaim, including Cotati Accordion Festival Honorary Director in 2016.” Colette Ogata began accordion lessons at age 11 with Sam Totaro in Hayward, CA. In 1979 she joined the International Accordion Band, directed by Lou Jacklich, and performed with them for two years. Colette started formal lessons with Mr. Jacklich and has studied with him off and on ever since 1998. Colette is President of Silicon Valley Accordion Society where the club has hosted Zoom meetings with fantastic performers throughout the pandemic. She is most passionate about American Standards, Latin, and Italian music, and absolutely loves performing duets with Mr. Lou Jacklich. The mission of the Silicon Valley Accordion Society (SVAS): To promote the accordion in all its various manifestations. To enjoy its versatility and uphold the beauty of the instrument. Please RSVP to: Colette.ogata@gmail.com to receive a link to the meeting. Please note member dues are due for the year. For those who are not members, please consider a $5.00 donation to help SVAS keep the music coming. |
Frank Toscano Performs for the Long Island Accordion Allianceby Dominic Karcic |
 |
 The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) on January 5, 2022 ushered in the new year with another very successful evening of great accordion music at La Villini Restaurant in East Northport, NY. The featured guest artist for the evening was accordionist Frank Toscano who recently was featured in the movie “The Many Saints of Newark.”Frank presented a very diverse program performed in “his very original and unique style.” The program included “Chitarra Romana” ("Roman Guitar"), “Wave”, “Nearness for You”, “Volare”, “Reginella Campagnola” ("Ferry Boat Serenade") and “No More Blues”. Frank was also joined by accordionist Dominic Karcic in the renditions of “Valzer Francaise”, “Girl From Ipanema”, “Manha De Carnaval”, “Happy Dreamer Waltz” and “El Pastiador” "Paso Doble". The “open-mic” segment of the evening included great sets performed Joe Campo, Joe DeClemente, Lino Guglielmo and Gregory Zukoff. The next meeting of the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) will take place on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 starting at 6:PM and will feature the very entertaining Scandinavian ensemble “Smorgasband.” Reservations are recommended. La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731 Phone: 631.261.6344. |
Future events |
Kim and Dan Christian Organise the Albuquerque Accordion Extravaganza and Band Camp 2022by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
Video 2:
| Video 1: “Snow Train Shuffle” This is a fun, fast, showy number by John Gart. Duet arrangement by Dan Christian. Video 2: “Superman” This is an epic accordion arrangement of the "Superman: March." Dan Christian has taken the entire John Williams symphonic score and arranged it for just 2 accordions!! Amazing! This piece represents just one song from the Squeeze Play Premier Virtual Concert. Kim and Dan Christian invite all to their Albuquerque Accordion Extravaganza and Band camp from May 12-14, 2022. Come and be a part of this fun, interactive 3 day event where you will be working together with people all over the USA to perform an awesome and entertaining set of music in front of an appreciative and energetic audience in Albuquerque, New Mexico! When you get signed up, you will be sent the music to seven great band pieces. This is a very fun event where Kim and Dan promise that you will definitely notice an improvement in your technical playing skills, articulation, and performance skills and you will be very proud to be part of this impressive Accordion Orchestra! The audience absolutely loved this orchestra performance in 2019 and it was covered and applauded by the Albuquerque Television News team! The band will be accompanied by the famous Las Vegas drummer, Rich Delabio! Song List to be performed: "Gimme Some Lovin’" (Blues Brothers) "Peter Gunn" (Groovin' Detective Series Tune) "Cotton Candy Twist" (An original accordion chart - Swing) "Somewhere Out There" - James Horner "Pilgrim's Chorus" - Wagner "Danse Macabre" - St. Saens (Easy version) "Ombo" – Palmer-Hughes Schedule: Thursday, May 12: Rehearsal 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 13: Lunch with fellow accordionists, a fun activity, and an open mic for anyone who would like to perform: Rehearsal 6-9:PM Saturday, May 14: Workshops 9:30 - 11:30 AM Saturday, May 14: Dress Rehearsal from 4:00- 5:PM at First Unitarian Church Concert from 7:00 - 9:PM – First Unitarian Church Registration Fee: $135 which Includes: Music, workshops, and the ability to work directly with Dan and Kim in a band setting which will help improve your playing skills and most importantly, you will be part of a performance that you can be proud of for a large crowd. On the back end, the fee helps pay for the rental of the facilities, marketing and other expenses. If you would like to schedule a private lesson before the event to make sure you understand and are playing your parts correctly, this can be arranged with Dan or Kim Christian for a discounted lesson price. This is suggested, but not mandatory. Hotel Information: Rooms have been reserved for the Albuquerque Accordion Camp Attendees at Hampton Inn University Midtown for May 12-13-14, 2022 The nightly rate is just $91.00 + tax! Call (505) 837-9300 and tell them it is for the Albuquerque Accordion Club to get this great rate! You must call the local # to acquire this rate. Payment for the event can be made here, or if you prefer to pay via check and snail mail, contact Kim Christian (719) 459-2061. Registration closes April 1, so there is still plenty of time to learn the band parts. Their Virtuoso Bands and orchestra have won many, many awards across the Nation including the National Champion Accordion Orchestra. For further information: kdcstudios@gmail.com |
Sergei Teleshev and Maria Telesheva to Perform for San Francisco Accordion Club in Marchby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
| Video: ”Berceuse" by Finnish Composer Armas Järnefelt. Our version for Duo Two Accordions, Sergei and Maria Teleshev Duo Two Accordions (Sergei Teleshev and Maria Telesheva) will play a 75 minutes virtual concert for San Francisco Accordion Club on March 20, 2022. Maria Telesheva was six years old when she started to play the accordion. Maria’s teacher is her father, Sergei Teleshev. Two months after Maria started playing, she won her first International Competition. Since then, she has won several International Competitions in the United States, Canada, Australia, Italy, and Belarus. Maria’s talent is not limited to her exceptional duet and solo accordion performances. She’s also a talented singer. She sings in both Russian and English. In November 2021, Maria got the title "Prodigy of the Year" and was selected to grace the cover of the "Accordion Stars Illustrated" Magazine, Time Press, New York (December/January Issue). Mario is now 14 years old and in 8th grade. It is a special treat to listen to the duo of Sergei Teleshev an Maria Telesheva. Their performances are entertaining, virtuosic, and delightful to watch. Classically trained at the Academy of Music in Voronezh, Russia, Sergei Teleshev is a winner of many International Accordion Competitions and the US V-Accordion Champion of 2013. Being founding member and accordion player of Trio Voronezh (Russia/USA), Classic Klezmer Trio (Sweden), Valinor Quartet (USA/UK), East-West International Project (USA/Japan), Sergei & Nati (USA/Russia) and Duo Two Accordions (USA), he collaborates with many internationally recognized artists, ensembles, and orchestras, composing and arranging music, participates in recording projects of different genres. Sergei is a jury member at International accordion competitions in Russia, Canada, USA, France, Italy. He is also the Founder and President of the Accordion Star International Competition and Festival based in the USA. Sergei is providing online accordion lessons, master classes and educational school programs. For further information: steleshev@yahoo.com |
ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition April 8 - 10by Anna Latulippe |
 |
| The ATAM 60th Annual New England Music Festival & Competition takes place April 8-10, 2022 in Newton, MA & Virtual. The New England Music Festival is an annual musical competition sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts, Inc. Typically there are more than 3000 entries and 800 contestants from all across New England. Competitive and noncompetitive categories for contestants of all ages including solo categories for all instruments and voice, duets, Battle of the Bands, entertainment categories, virtual categories and more! All accordionists are eligible to particiatpe in the virtual competition. For further information contact Chairperson Peggy Falcetti: Email: peggyf1944@gmail.com |
Powell River’s First Annual Accordion Fest May 6-7, 2022by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 |
  Powell River’s First Annual Accordion Fest directed by Walter Martella and Karina Inkster takes place from May 6-7, 2022. It is project of the Powell River Academy of Music. Featuring two days of diverse events, you do not want to miss our celebration of the accordion. Including a concert performance by an accomplished and outstanding accordionist, workshops for beginners and advanced players alike, and a wide range of musical genres for our audiences to enjoy, mark your calendars for May 6-7, 2022! Featured performer, Jelena Milojevic, is an internationally highly regarded performer. She studied both in Croatia and Serbia and ultimately received her Master’s Degree in Accordion Performance and Education, in one of the most recognized accordion centres in the world, Music Academy (FILUM) in Kragujevac, Serbia, where she is now completing her Doctoral Degree in accordion performance. As a versatile musician with an extensive performing history, she has played numerous concerts in Europe, North America and Asia as a soloist, chamber musician and a soloist with various orchestras. She performed in some of the most prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and Berlin Philharmonie. She is the winner of many prestigious international accordion competitions, such as the CMA World Trophy, International Accordion Competition in Castelfidardo, Italy, International Accordion competition in Pula, Croatia, Roland V-Accordion Competition etc. Her performances have been acclaimed as “an explosion of cosmic sensuality” and she has been praised for her “brilliant virtuosity.” As an educator, Jelena has been contributing greatly to the accordion development in Canada by organizing International Accordion Festivals, hosting major accordion events; Trophee Mondial de l'Accordéon (2013), CIA Coupe Mondiale (2018), inviting numerous international accordion artists to Victoria and by pioneering the acceptance of the accordion at the Vancouver Community College, Camosun College and University of Victoria. With more than 20 years of teaching experience, her students have won numerous prizes at various competitions, have played with symphony orchestras and developed successful performing careers. She is the Artistic Director of the World Accordion and Tango Festival in Victoria and a frequent adjudicator at the biggest international accordion competitions. Tickets for Powell River's first annual Accordion Fest, directed by Walter Martella and Karina Inkster and hosted by the Powell River Academy of Music, are now on sale! The Powell River Academy of Music is a dynamic not-for-profit community music school offering excellence in arts education to students of all ages since 1981.Their programs in music, dance, theatre, and visual arts enable infants, youth, adults and seniors alike to develop individual talents and skills while acquiring a lifelong love of the arts. For further information: Karina@karinainkster.com j.milojevic1@yahoo.com |