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Yellow Pages Events
Highlights |
October Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) News
NAA: Week #32: Evaluate Your Playing, continued . . . .
IDEAS Symposium 4.0 Re-Scheduled for Jan 21-30, 2022
Jaimie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues in “En Canto” Forró Music Concert
Ludovic Beier to Perform at Django Reinhardt Festival at Birdland NYC
2021 AAA Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition Winner
Brooklyn Accordion Club Presents Charlie Giordano Workshop
ZOOM Online with the San Antonio Accordion Association on October 12
Dr. Henry Doktorski III: Accordionist, Educator and More!
"Have Accordion, Will Travel" (2021)
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Alex Meixner on Accordion at Peppermint Productions
Oktoberfest, October 10, A World of Accordions Museum, Superior, WI
Cotati's Future Accordion Stars
”Squeeze This!: A Cultural History of the Accordion in America”: Conversation with Dr. Marion Jacobson
13 year old Levi Burroughs, RCAC Scholarship Recipient 2021
Rob Reich to perform at The Maybeck Studio in November
Rose City Accordion Club Camp 2021 Enjoys Successful Event
Northwest Accordion Social on October 11
Long Island Accordion Alliance Presents Oktoberfest at La Villini
Children's Corner |
Future events |
NAA Convention 2022
Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat Includes 6 Talented Young Artists
“Flogging Molly” Included in 2022 Salty Dog Cruise
Highlights |
Editor's Noteby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Welcome to the October USA News! Each month there are so many fascinating events to report! Now we are having more live events for you to enjoy. And, of course, the ZOOM events and prerecorded concerts are a great convenience for everyone. It is very encouraging to see so many young people learning and enjoying the accordion. Remember that it is never too late to begin to study the accordion at any age! Please remember that the USA News is here for you! If you as an individual or your accordion club, band, group is planning an event, please send the information and photos to me at Ritabelll@aol.com. If you have questions, please call me at 201-675-4861. I will be happy to include an article in future editions. It really isn’t a big secret, just send the info to me. We want to know what YOU are doing out there in the accordion world! So, enjoy the October edition of the USA News and best wishes for continued successes in all your accordion endeavors! |
October Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) Newsby Mary Ann Covone, ATG President |
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 Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) is launching a new quarterly Professional Development Series for Accordion Teachers in November. The first event will be presented on November 7 from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Central time, via zoom, with presenters Prof. Joan C. Sommers and Mary Ann Covone. Prof. Joan Sommers will discuss “First Lessons for the Beginner.” Mary Ann Covone will discuss “Business Operations of a 21st Century Accordion Studio.” Enrollment will be capped at 15 attendees to allow ample time for discussion and questions. There will be a second presentation if necessary. The cost is $60 for ATG members and $85 for non-members. Scholarships are available based on financial need. Please write to Mary Ann Covone for more details.” Please contact Mary Ann Covone, ATG President, at maryanncovone@gmail.com for enrollment information and watch the website www.atgaccordions.com for further information. Wednesday Workshops have resumed via zoom for our membership. Our first workshop featured Murl Allen Sanders on September 22 discussing Accompaniment techniques and considerations for effective ensemble playing with your accordion. Listen, Listen, Listen Dr. Helmi Harrington will offer presentations on diatonic accordions on September 29 and October 6. Gordon Kohl Will present new Oktoberfest music on October 29. All previous workshops, including Michael Bridge, Joan Sommers, Liz Finch, Herbert Scheibenreif and more are available to members on our website. Membership for a year costs only $60. Any one of these workshops would be well worth that investment! ATG will present a special one-time online workshop by Professor Friedrich Lips of Moscow on December 12th at 2:00 pm Central Time, US. Professor Lips will discuss the role of accordion in today’s general music culture. Globally, how does it interact with other instruments and groups? Plans for our 2022 Festival are shaping up – July 20-24 at the Lisle Hyatt in the Chicago area. Featured artists are Michael Bridge, Stas Venglevski and Murl Allen Sanders. We are celebrating our 80th anniversary, so we have rented a beautiful facility on the nearby campus of Wheaton College for our Friday and Saturday concerts. We are planning for an 80-member Festival accordion orchestra to celebrate 80 years. The orchestra will be conducted by Joan Sommers. Registration will soon be available on our website. This is not a function of Wheaton College. Be sure to check the ATG website regularly for news: www.atgaccordions.com. We can also be found on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/74309904892/ and on Instagram. To become an ATG member: https://www.atgaccordions.com/new-member. You will receive notices of all events. |
NAA: Week #32: Evaluate Your Playing, continued . . . .by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 National Accordion Association (NAA) Challenge: As an extension of last week’s Challenge, this week’s assignment is to video yourself again. Plan to play the same piece of music that you did last week. Put on the accordion and either sit while you play or stand, whichever you normally do. You could look in a mirror as you hold the accordion but watching yourself on the video should let you examine the position without worrying about the playing.Control Your Accordion: It’s important to note whether the accordion is held correctly throughout the piece. One of our readers, a seasoned accordion teacher, sent a suggestion for checking the placement of your instrument as you play. “Keyboard too far right or left? Can you position yourself so that your right arm is bent at the elbow and held such that you can control your movement on all keys/buttons on the keyboard?” This teacher also points out that your fingers should be curved as you play. In other words, play on the tips of your fingers. (Uh oh, long fingernails??) Making Music With Your Accordion?: Now let’s briefly (very briefly) consider the actual playing of your piece. Of course, making music with the accordion or any instrument is a whole world in itself. Today’s weekly concentration, however, will be on articulation of the bass notes. Place your recorder facing the left side of the accordion. Pay Special Attention to Your Bass Techniques: Play the same piece again and then listen and watch your performance. Pay attention to the bass notes! Different types of music will require a different touch on the bass notes. Another reader responded to last week’s Challenge to evaluate your playing: “Thanks, this is very helpful. I got my first accordion paying gig recently and wanted to represent the instrument well.” Congratulations to this musician for moving into the professional realm and for promoting the accordion to the public in such a positive manner! For further information: Sharon Seaton accordionsharon@yahoo.com. |
IDEAS Symposium 4.0 Re-Scheduled for Jan 21-30, 2022by Joseph Natoli |
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| The International Digital Electronic Accordion Society (IDEAS) would like to announce that its normal November Symposium has been moved to a new set of dates, January 21-30, 2022. Like last year, this year’s all-virtual Symposium is an extremely great value for anyone who performs and enjoys digital accordion. Every single workshop, concert, and special event over the 11 days will be completely recorded and available online well into the foreseeable future for all registrants and attendees for continued viewing and learning anytime one’s schedule permits. Last year’s Symposium produced approximately 103 hours of available video, and this year’s event will most likely produce a similar compendium and resource of knowledge. Don’t forget, if your schedule will not permit you to attend in person, that really doesn’t matter, because a registration fee will allow you to access all this available material and it is just like being there live. This year’s IDEAS Symposium will be highlighting the Concerto Digital Accordion, manufactured by Paul Pasquali and Accordions International. Additionally, we will be revisiting the Proxima Digital Accordion with workshops by Marco Cinaglia of Proxima Digital Accordion. There are a whole host of workshops planned on Roland (FR4X and FR8X), Bugari-evo, Concerto, and Proxima MIA digital accordions, with a substantial focus as well on digital peripherals (like the Ketron SD-90, music display software on tablets, OBS video presentation software, Resolve video creation software, and much more). Don’t miss this now globally recognized and globally attended event. More information available at the International Digital Electronic Accordion Society (IDEAS) website or write directly to thegr8.ideas@gmail.com. Registration is now open. |
Jaimie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues in “En Canto” Forró Music Concertby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 “En Canto” will perform a concert of Forró Music at The Royal Room Outdoor Ave venue in Seattle, Washington on October 1st, 2021 at 8.30 PM. Doors open at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $15 in advance. $20 at the door,“En Canto's sound is fueled primarily by twin accordions and tinged with the jazz backgrounds of several of the musicians. Anchored in the classics and contemporaries of Brazilian Forró, they pay tribute to influences Luiz Gonzaga, Mestrinho, Dominguinhos, Sivuca and many others.” The group features accordionists Jamie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues. Jamie is based in Seattle, WA where she studied accordion under three-time Latin Grammy Nominee, Jovino Santos Neto at Cornish College of the Arts. Her main projects are Seattle’s only Brazilian forró band, En Canto, with Gabe Hall-Rodrigues. They also perform together as Creosote. The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) has featured Jamie in their Museum of Making Music exhibit titled “Accordions: Expanding Voices in the USA”. She recently accompanied the Seattle Symphony’s live scoring of “Lord of the Rings”, and played the accordion part in Tchaikovsky's “Suite No.2” with the Seattle Philharmonic. In October 2019, Jamie was "Nellie Friedman" in Seattle Repertory Theater’s run of Paula Vogel’s Tony award winning play, "Indecent". Jamie is a frequent guest performer and presenter of stylized Brazilian and Tango music at numerous festivals. She works for accordion manufacturer Petosa Accordions, where she is able to share her passion and actively participate in the reinvention and face of the traditional Instrument. Gabe also loved music from an early age. He started with piano lessons at age seven. “My teacher was perfect for me as he allowed me to play by ear as well as with music”. He studied with the same teacher from age 7 to 18. In school, he sang in the choirs and played baritone saxophone in the band. Gabe attended Arizona State University (ASU) where he received his bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy in 2011 and his master’s degree in Jazz Piano Performance in 2013. He studied under the award-winning pianist and composer, Mike Kocour. Gabe taught in the Arizona school system and at a private school for ten years, spent a year in Recife, Brazil where he studied Brazilian music and performed with local musicians, and toured the US with the folk rock band “Jared and the Mill” as their accordionist. While in Seattle touring with Jared and the Mill, he visited Petosa Accordions where he and Jamie met each other. Both loved Brazilian music and Jamie invited Gabe to open for her band EnCanto. They began a musical association and fell in love with each other. A multi-ethnic female-led sextet, En Canto, is Seattle's only Forró band. Forró music is a combination of multiple Brazilian rhythms including baião, xote and arrasta-pé. The word refers to both the musical genre and the accompanying partner dance party events where it is heard. Attendees must bring proof of vaccination to enter the venue, masks worn unless actively consuming food or drink. For further information: jamie.maschler@gmail.com |
Ludovic Beier to Perform at Django Reinhardt Festival at Birdland NYCby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Video: The Django Festival All-Stars: NPR Music Field RecordingsMusicians: Samson Schmitt, lead guitar; Ludovic Beier, accordion; Pierre Blanchard, violin; DouDou Cuillerier, rhythm guitar; Brian Torff, bass Birdland will feature the Django Festival Allstars including Samson Schmitt, Pierre Blanchard, Ludovic Beier, DouDou Cuillerier and Antonio Licusari. They will be performing from October 26-30, 2021 at the Birdland Jazz Club, 315 W 44th St., New York, NY 10036, New York. The Django Reinhardt Festival is going into is in its 20th successful year with packed houses at its home, the legendary music club BIRDLAND, in New York City-and tours prestigious halls across the country such as Rose HALL/Jazz at Lincoln Center, Disney Hall in LA, The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, The San Francisco Festival, and many more.These world class musicians, who come mostly from France, now called the DJANGO FESTIVAL ALLSTARS, are the best players to come out of the Festival. They return to New York twice a year, Summer and Fall, for 6 days, 12 sold out shows and tours. The Django Reinhardt NY Festival brings the music of the great gypsy guitarist, Django Reinhardt, into the 21st Century. The high energy performances pay tribute to Reinhardt who is considered one of the greatest jazz guitarists of all time. Reinhardt’s driving, swinging style became known as ‘HOT JAZZ’. The Django Festival Allstars add their own interpretations and arrangements to some of Reinhardt’s greats, as well as create new and modern compositions of their own. I have attended the Django Reinhardt Festival for over 10 years at Birdland, located on 315 West 44th Street, NYC which is an exciting and very comfortable venue. I highly recommend the evening! The Django Reinhardt NY Festival continues at Birdland for the 20th successful year. Excerpts from Birdland website: The Django Reinhardt Festival carries on the legacy of legendary gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt, with original music keeping it fresh, exciting, cutting-edge! .…along with some old favorites.. the music, Hot Jazz, 'swiging and romantic' has exploded across the US and it all started at Birdland in 2000, with the launching of the Festival with tours now 2X a year at prestigious venues...to standing ovations: Kennedy Center, Disney Hall in LA, SF JAZZ, to name a few. Dorado Schmitt, legendary Manouche gypsy guitarist from the Strasbourg region of France, a Django look-alike with pencil thin mustache, returns to Birdland to adoring fans. Schmitt started coming to the US in 2002 and is now a star attraction at major festivals as well as at Birdland. He is joined by his son, Amati Schmitt, a brilliant young guitarist, plus other talented musicians appearing regularly as part of the Festival: Virtuoso accordionist/accordina player Ludovic Beier, violinist Pierre Blanchard. Each year, they present their newest compositions/arrangements filled with technical brilliance and emotion. If you want to hear more, check them out on Youtube. Accordionist Ludovic Beier is amazing in his virtuosity and sensitivity in performing. Born in 1978, Ludovic Beier learned the accordion from his father and benefited from being part of a musical family. He was brought up in the French tradition of the instrument and developed his jazz accordion skills. He has a spirited, adventurous style which strays into all kinds of byways. He performs on the French and European scene with some of the top players of the Django/Swing Jazz style including Angelo Debarre, Dorado Schmitt, Florin Niculescu. Along with his virtuoso playing, Ludovic composes and arranges, and has his own band, Ludovic Beier Quartet, to perform his "cool and latin" French jazz. He has an impressive technique and also a great dose of lyricism with a band that keeps him at full stretch. Besides performing in Europe at top festivals and clubs, he appeared in the States with the Django Reinhardt Project, performing at Birdland (NYC) with guests such as Paquito D'Rivera, at Lincoln Center with Joe Lovano, at Yoshis (CA) with David Sanchez, and last summer at the Montreal International Jazz Festival with Angelo Debarre and James Carter where he brought the house down. He also had the honor to perform at Carnegie Hall with Toots Thielemans among a prestigious line up including Herbie Hancock, Ivan Lins and Eliane Elias. Festival sponsors have included AIR FRANCE, RD Wright Inc, and John Pearse Strings. ABSOLUT, GRANDE ABSENTE, FUJITSU who presented it at Jazz at Lincoln Center, WILD TURKEY (5 years), and many more. For further information: patmusic2@gmail.com |
2021 AAA Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition Winnerby Mary Tokarski |
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 The AAA runs an annual Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition and the 1st place winner in the Open Division was Kinga Broslawska, 24 years old, of Poland. Video above is winning compositiion title "XYZ" composed and performed by Kinga Broslawska. "XYZ" sheet music is available as a free pdf file from the composer on the AAA website at: http://www.ameraccord.com/bennett.php |
Brooklyn Accordion Club Presents Charlie Giordano Workshopby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The Brooklyn Accordion Club will present a free workshop entitled “An Approach to Playing Accordion in the Band” by accordionist Charlie Giordano and Emily Duff. The workshop will be held in Prospect Park, Brooklyn on October 3, 2021 from 1.30 to 3:PM and will be limited to 15 fully vaccinated individuals only. All participants will be required to wear a mask during the meeting, and asked to sit on their own blanket to maintain 3 ft social distance. Charlie Giordano has played with Bruce Springsteen, Julie Andrews, James Taylor, Pat Benatar, The Bacon Brothers and many others. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, The Kennedy Center, The Obama White House, The Bottom Line, The Russian Tea Room, Jalopy and Sunny’s. And of course, with the great Emily Duff. Emily was born in Flushing Queens, NYC . Her Mama taught her 4 perfect chords and then ran off, leaving Emily to figure the rest out on her own. Emily has released 5 records in the past 6 years, plays with her band at Cowgirl the 3rd Monday of every month and has a tour to the UK coming up in May 2022. Emily Duff resides in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village with her husband, two teenage children, a hound dog named Banjo, and at least dozen guitars, all in 340 square feet of 3rd floor walk-up, tenement style living. She is grateful to play music with beautiful legends and when this pandemic is all over she would like to have all her friends over for lunch and a strum. To feel the moment of normalcy, and bring back the BAC gathering tradition, the program will begin with a casual open mic. If you'd like to perform a piece or two, please include in your email when you RSVP. Beginners and non-professionals are especially welcome to perform! Admission is free. To book your spot email: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com |
ZOOM Online with the San Antonio Accordion Association on October 12by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 San Antonio Accordion Association President Laura Niland ensures that the San Antonio Accordion Association always maintains a busy, educational, and entertaining schedule of online events for October 2021. Her expertise and dedication to the accordion is obvious in all she efficiently organizes. Be sure to consider joining the San Antonio Accordion Association for a fun, musical event. Details below. Any questions? Contact Laura at her new email address as of October 1, 2021: LauraJNiland@outlook.com The ZOOM Meeting on Tuesday October 12, 2021 takes place at 7-8:30 PM Central Time. Join at 6:45 PM Central Time to check in. To participate, you should email : LauraJNiland@outlook.com for your music list to practice, and the zoom instructions and information. San Antonio Accordion Association Zoom Sessions are now held on the second Tuesday of the month! Live meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month (Except Nov,Dec-May) and live meetings began in July 2021 at Chesters Hamburgers on NE Loop 410 between Nacogdoches & Broadway in San Antonio, Texas. Stay tuned for any changes or cancellations due to COVID. Contact Laura Niland for details: 210-651-4359 NOTE: Laura’s New Email: LauraJNiland@outlook.com which will be effective OCT 1, 2021 |
Dr. Henry Doktorski III: Accordionist, Educator and More!by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: Dr. Henry Doktorski III presents "The Life and Music of the Brothers Deiro" at A World of Accordions Museum, September 2019Accordionist Dr. Henry Doktorski III has just accepted an invitation to perform a one-hour solo accordion recital for the Manzanita Concert Series at Mission Trails Church in San Diego at 4:PM Sunday November 14, 2021. Please come and support your local accordionist! Henry will play classical transcriptions, a few popular folk tunes, and classic works by the two early 20th-century piano-accordion pioneers: Pietro and Guido Deiro. Henry Doktorski will also be the accordionist for the Simpson College, Iowa production of “The Enchanted Pig” October 22-24, 2021. Music by Jonathan Dove and Lyrics by Alasdair Middleton. Plot Summary: The Book of Fate announces Princess Flora must wed a Pig from the North. Drawing on Romanian and Norwegian folk tales with their origins in the myth of Cupid and Psyche, The Enchanted Pig is a fantastical musical story that is funny and tender, miraculous and ridiculous. Henry is very versatile as an Organist, Pianist, Accordionist, Composer, Conductor, Author, Educator, and Chess Instructor. He shares, “No rest for the wicked, nor the foolish, such as Yours Truly. As if I didn't have enough to do, what with Sundays and Wednesdays at House of Prayer, and teaching Chess4Kidz classes Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I accepted an invitation to play accordion and piano for the performances of Jonathan Dove's opera, "The Enchanted Pig," at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa the third week in October. The plot is based on a Romanian fairy tale. I'm already kicking myself, as I have to learn 142 pages of music on accordion and piano in the next four weeks. And some of it looks darn difficult. Yikes! And now to find a substitute teacher for my classes. Especially for my accordionist friends, and those who love Swedish folk music: I am happy to report that Archeophone Records' latest release, "Swede Home Chicago," is available, and that I served as one of the consultants for this double CD compilation. A few months ago, Richard Martin, owner and producer for Archeophone Records asked me to listen to seven different tracks which featured accordion, to check to see if remastering was done properly. The original records were recorded from 1923-1927. The double CD features Swedish folk music including accordion, violin, piano, handbells, plus vocal soloists and choir singing in Swedish. This is the third project I’ve had the pleasure of working on with Richard. Our first collaboration was the four-CD series, "The Complete Recorded Works of Guido Deiro (1911-1928)" in which I served as the writer of the CD booklet notes. More recently, I also served as consultant for Archeophone’s 2018 release: "Alpine Dreaming (1920-1924)," which also included tracks with accordion.” Henry Doktorski became a professional accordionist at the age of twelve when he played his first paying gig: a birthday party in Menlo Park, New Jersey (1968). He was the first-place winner in the American Accordion Musicological Society Virtuoso Solo Competition (1990: King of Prussia, Pennsylvania) and has performed with dozens of orchestras including the Pittsburgh, Detroit, Fairbanks Alaska symphonies, and the Tanglewood Festival Orchestra. For more, see http://henrydoktorski.com For further information: Henry Doktorski, M.Mus., C.A.G.O. Phone: 951-435-9209 Email: henrydoktorski@gmail.com |
"Have Accordion, Will Travel" (2021)by Joe De Clemente |
 I don’t know about you, but if I can, I always try to bring an accordion on a road trip with me. You ask “Why”? Even though it takes up some extra space in my car, I like to bring it so I can connect with other musicians along the way or possibly do some solo performances when I can. Prior to my trips, I usually try to find other musicians that will be in my planned path by using the social media, such as Face Book. I contact them and let them know I’m heading their way.Back in 2016, my wife (Janet) and I took a 31 day road trip across America (8,300 miles) and had the opportunity to play in St. Louis, Old Fort Worth Texas, Las Vegas, San Francisco, as well as jamming with a small group of guys I met down in the French Quarter area of New Orleans, LA. In 2020, when the virus began, we didn’t let that stop us. I packed up my “Travel Accordion” (an IORIO 4 Star Accordion) and we drove to South Dakota. That was about a 4,000 mile trip. Along the way I played a couple of gigs with Frank Rossi and Tom Dorigatti, both from just outside of the Chicago, Illinois area. We had a ball and we got to meet new friends along the way. This past summer (2021), I took a 19 day road trip (about 3,800 miles), where I left NYC and drove down to Nashville and then headed to Florida. Of course, my IORIO accordion came along. My first stop was in the Tarpon Springs area (just outside of Tampa) to see my brother Rich De Clemente and his wife, Mary. Rich is not accordion player, but he does like to play the guitar and sing, so on August 26th, we both drove to Craig Park by the Spring Bayou, where we played a duet together, as other people passed by and listened to us. My brother’s singing voice is about a 3rd higher than mine, which gives us the opportunity to harmonize. I loved seeing my brother and taking the time out to share our talents together. Our next stop was Ft. Myers, FL, where I met Richard Messina, who was in the Military’s Special Services Unit when he was younger. He has been playing the accordion since he was 9yrs old and used to play up to 8 gigs a week. He did that for about 20 years. He has a collection of about 6 accordions, his favorite being the Roland FR-8X which he used when we played together. From time to time, Richard still does a gig or two. Our next stop was in a Motel by Lake Okeechobee where we stayed a couple of nights. Close by was a Park on the south end of the Lake, so my wife and I parked by a picnic table there to chill out a little. I pulled my IORIO out of the car and started playing. Within a few moments, a guy named Mark Holland stopped by us and asked if I could come over to his picnic table and play for his mom, Berly Holland, which I obviously did. I always love seeing the glow in older women’s eyes as I play and sing songs to them. From there we drove to West Palm Beach to meet my old friend, Jimmy Petrone, who was originally from the Long Island area. Jimmy has been playing for over sixty years and both of us went to the Lou Bolognese School of Music in North Bellmore, NY. Prior to moving to Florida, Jimmy performed at one of the monthly meetings of the Long Island Accordion Alliance. Jimmy loves to play “Light Jazz” and does it very well. So before we decided to go out for a bite to eat, Jimmy and I decided to do a little jamming together. What a blessing he is. Our Next stop along the way was Cocoa, Florida which I was able to get together with the Central Florida Accordion Club, headed by Corky Wisneiwski Hall, who has been playing the accordion since she was 10 years old. She did quit playing for a spell, but later re-kindled her love for the instrument and started playing many gigs. Corky loves to play her Modern Accordion and she won First Place in the Michigan Accordion Association and Second Place in the AAA. At the club, I had the great opportunity to meet some of the other accordionists: Clayton Moore, Skip Walters, Klaus Kolb, Quentin Picheco, Carlos Reyna and Buck Cowen. Each of them played several selections, lasting about 10 minutes each. Since I was the visitor, I played last and put on a 40 minute performance for them. After the Florida tour we drove up to Myrtle Beach, SC to meet up with Michael DelGardo Mike started taking lessons when he was 4 years old and has been playing for 58 years. Mike plays at The Villa Romana Restaurant, in Myrtle Beach, six days a week and he has been playing that gig for over 36 years. Mike like to add a humor to his gigs so he include a number of short jokes he tells the customers there. When he plays the Theme from the Phantom of the Opera, he puts on a Face Mask to add to his performance. The owner of the restaurant, Renaldo Montrosse, gave his permission for me to play a number of duets with Mike. The customers loved it and thought we had been playing together for years. They had no idea that Mike and I had just met for the first time that day. I had a great time playing with him and the owner treated my wife & I to a great meal. From South Carolina we headed up north to Maryland where we met Brandy Cox Hughes DePhillip andPastor Dan Darrikhuma at his church. Dan and his family traveled from India, back in 1964, and eventually settled in Takoma MD. Dan took lessons from the Biviano School of Music and some other accordion teachers along the way. He has been playing the accordion since he was 11 years old and for the past 31 years he has been a pastor of a church where he periodically plays his accordion during the services. Brandy has been playing the accordion since she was 10 years old, and has been playing for a number of years. Brandy likes to play her FR-8X accordion while her husband sings to the tunes. In the summer of 2019, Brandy took First Place with her performance at the AAA festival in PA. I was fortunate enough to be at the festival and sit in the back row to listen to her excellent performance. This past year Brandy has increased her repertoire to include some German songs so that she could play for a number of Oktoberfest gigs that she got booked for. At Dan’s church and we spent a couple of hours playing songs, including some Gospel songs as well. What a blessing it was for all of us. Afterwards, I attended a family BBQ picnic, which was held by Brandy’s family. While there, Brandy and I got the opportunity to play some duets together. We received many compliments while we were there. After Maryland, Jan and I headed back to New York to conclude our 2021 road trip. For further information: joedeclemente@yahoo.com |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
Bridge & Wolak October 2021 Concertsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: “Digital Stardust” - J.S. Bach / Bridge&WolakMichael Bridge shares, “"Digital Stardust," as we like to call it, is a completely abstract take on Bach's famous “Sicilienne” that we created during the summer of the pandemic. Our arrangement portrays an emotional journey with all of the images vaguely representing various emotions that one could be going through during lockdown. The Sun (or the brightest star) is always there to represent hope as the lonely soul travels through the cosmos of feelings. We hope you'll enjoy the journey. Grab a drink and sit relaxed; let's take off.” Kornel Wolak - piano Michael Bridge - digital accordion All sounds played live. Filmed at the Isabel Bader Centre for Performing Arts, Kingston, ON. Produced by Bridge & Wolak Director of Graphics - Jean-Phillip Finkelstein Director of Photography - Robert DiVito Lighting Engineer - Sonja Niedermayer Cam 1 - Ash Taylor Cam 2 - Chris Barnard Audio Engineer - Noah Sullivan Hair & Makeup - Kim Gudlauski Arranged by Bridge & Wolak and Jonathan Scott Bridge & Wolak return to the stage with 4 concert in the USA this October: Oct 5 - Seaford, Delaware Oct 6 - Willow Street, Pennsylvania Oct 12 - Olney, Illinois Oct 14 - Ponca City, Oklahoma Michael Bridge (digital accordion & piano) and Kornel Wolak (clarinet & piano) are a 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 wit, Bridge & Wolak have been called the “Victor Borges of the 21st Century.” Fun-loving gentlemen (with seven degrees in music), they are both fun loving musicians and educators. They were nominated for the BC Touring Artist of the Year award in 2019. “Watch and be amazed!” — CBC For tickets and full details, email Info@CadenzaArtists.com or T: (310) 896 8527 |
Alex Meixner on Accordion at Peppermint Productionsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Video: “Squeezer's Polka” - Alex Meixner on Accordion at Peppermint ProductionsAlex Meixner shares, “Squeezer’s Polka was the lead track on Joe Fedorchak’s “Second Time Around” album recorded in the late 1970s at Peppermint Productions in Youngstown, Ohio. (The site of our recording session today!) Getting in the mode of playing some good ol' and new polkas today!! Listen for legendary engineer Gary Rhamy at the end of the video!!” Alex Meixner is one of the most dynamic accordionists on the scene today. Meixner has performed around the world, notably at American festivals like The National Folk Festival and Central Park SummerStage, as well as at uncountable community celebrations and accordion-centric events. His virtuosic yet delightfully quirky style has made him a sought-after collaborator (he worked alongside Jack Black in the 2017 Sundance pick The Polka King), spokesperson (Hormel and Ford have used his music and performance to promote their products) and educator. As a recording artist, he has worked with renowned avant garde accordionist/ composer Guy Klucevsek, popular Irish entertainer Seamus Kennedy, Texas indie rockers The Krayolas. His recording “Polka FreakOut” with Brave Combo’s Bubba Hernandez won him a GRAMMY nomination. Meixner’s formative musical studies were on piano and piano accordion, but he quickly branched out on drums, diatonic button accordion, bass and trumpet, his college major. This instrumental versatility is combined with a musical background that has included intense studies and performance of jazz, classical, pop, polkas and many ethnic folk music genres with some of the leading artists in the world. His talents in music and comedy were featured on the Tonight Show on NBC. Alex’s reputation for professionalism and quality performance attracted additional commercial opportunities including performing on radio commercials for Ford Trucks and the soundtracks for numerous episodes of Moonshiners on the Discovery Network. Alex has performed on over 50 albums, including 17 as a leader or soloist. His performance with his Father on Canadian Polka King, Walter Ostanek’s, “Music and Friends” won a Grammy Award. Future October 2021 performances include: * Oct. 2 - Clark, NJ, Deutscher Club Oktoberfest * Oct. 3 - Franklin Square, NY, Plattduetsche Park Restaurant & Biergarten * Oct. 4 - Paterson, NJ, The Brownstone - Ace In The Hole Oktoberfest Daytime Show * Oct. 7 - West Palm Beach, Fl, Clematis By Night Music Series With Jan Lewan * Oct. 9 & 10 - Lake Worth, FL, The German American Club of the Palm Beaches Oktoberfest * Oct. 11 THRU 17 - Helen, Georgia, Helen Oktoberfest * Oct. 20 THRU 24 - Tulsa, OK, Tulsa Oktoberfest For details email: info@alexmeixner.com |
Oktoberfest, October 10, A World of Accordions Museum, Superior, WIby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Let’s Celebrate ! Oktoberfest with Music on Sunday, October 10, 4:00-7:00 PM at A World of Accordions, 1401 Belknap St., Superior, WI.Admission is free. Program includes: 1. Renowned Former Senator Florian Chmielewski and friends. 2. Accomplished artist Paul Vargason will perform on Lorren Lindevig’s PanCordion, Ronny Setniker’s Half-Chromatic, Helmi-designed Slovenian Button Diatonic, and maybe more! 3. Cheryl Husby’s Ukulele Band 4. Accordion Concertina Music Studio Band Helmi Harrington founded A World of Accordions Museum and Harrington ARTS Center and also established the curriculum for and teaches accordion repair. She has been recognized in various Who’s Who listings, through regional awards and the Confederation des Accordeonistes Internationale (CIA) (2006). She is writer of accordion-related articles for Groves New Dictionary of Music (London, 2000 Edition), the American Accordionists’ Association Newsletter and various scholarly journals, compiled and edited Charles Magnante: America’s Great Accordionist, and has ca. 60 music books and recordings available through Harrington ARTS Center Publications. Helmi completed a Ph.D. dissertation in Musicology on composer Hugo Herrmann under Dr. John Grubbs of the University of Texas, a double Master of Music degree from the University of Houston in Music Literature and Applied Piano under Dr. Elmer Schoettle, a Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Piano and Performer’s Certificate from the University of Houston under Prof. Albert Hirsh. She studied with Dr. Armin Fett of the Staedtische Musikschule Trossingen, from which she received an honorary degree, and Dr. Albert Feil of the Universität Stuttgart. Her many awards include a Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst scholarship. She holds certificates as Master teacher in accordion and piano from the National Music Teachers’ Association and the Minnesota Music Teachers’ Association. Future classes pertaining to antique accordions will include Tuning, Bellows Work, Bass Mechanics and general aesthetics and restoration. For more information about A World of Accordions Museum, please visit www.worldofaccordions.org. For more information: aworldofaccordions@gmail.com |
Cotati's Future Accordion Starsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 During the 30th Cotati Accordion Festival, future accordion stars performed on the main stage on September 25, 2021. The young accordionists included: Stars: Evan Yuan (16), Luke Stenger (15), Giada Filici (14), Dee Gomes (15), Colin Kennedy (10), Nicholas Plasichuk (14), Joe Matella Jr. (16), and Joey Manfredi (15). The musicians were happy and grateful for the very appreciative audience.Everyone enjoyed the Cotati Festival. Many people attended for the first time and enthusiastically praised the event for the fun and educational times they experienced there. Some of the featured performers included: Bella Ciao, Sourdough Slim, Nuevos Aventureros, The Great Morgani, Gail Campanella, The Alpen Band, Sergei Teleshev & Maria, Cory Pesaturo, The Mad Maggies, Junk Parlor, Nathan & Jessie, Hernandez Hideaway, Culann’s Hounds Mike Zampiceni, Paul Betken, Kugelplex, Intuitive Compass, Pistoleros Famosos, Bellow Shakes,and Those Darn Accordions.Zydeco: Mark St. Mary, Motordude, Wild Catahoulas, Les Amis, Polka Tent: Steve Balich Band, Sheri Mignano & Jim Lehmann. Scott Goree, the Executive Director of the Cotati Accordion Festival said, “Vendors are already pressing me to set a date for the 2022 festival because they plan on coming back to Cotati to attend the festival again.” Photo by Tracy Si |
”Squeeze This!: A Cultural History of the Accordion in America”: Conversation with Dr. Marion Jacobsonby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  On Sunday, October 24, 2021 from 2 - 3:PM via Zoom, the Brooklyn Accordion Club will present a conversation with author Dr. Marion Jacobson of "Squeeze This!: A Cultural History of the Accordion in America”. She will be interviewed by Dean Olshur, podcaster and BAC member.Dr. Marion Jacobson brings attention to the accordion with her book, "Squeeze This, A Cultural History of the Accordion in America". The University of Illinois Press calls it: "Everything you wanted to know about piano accordions in America--but were afraid to ask.” Dr. Jacobson is an ethnomusicologist, educator, and author who has written hundreds of reviews and features of live concerts and events of all the major world music traditions. Dr. Jacobson earned her PhD in music from New York University and has taught at NYU, SUNY New Paltz, and the City University of New York. She began digging for the fossilized remains of lost American accordion cultures in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Squeeze This! A Cultural History of the Accordion (University of Illinois Press, 2012/2015) is the first comprehensive scholarly book on the piano accordion, and winner of the Society for Ethnomusicology’s Klaus P. Wachsmann Prize for Outstanding Monographs in Organology (the historical study of musical instruments). Marion has been a guest on WNYC’s Soundcheck (an NPR affiliate), the Bob Herbert Show on XM/Sirius Radio, and has given book talks at the Library of Congress, the College of New Jersey, and most of the major accordion festivals. She was the first staff folklorist at ArtsWestchester, staff folklorist at Staten Island Arts, and consulting folklorist for Brooklyn Arts Council, the Bronx Council on the Arts, and Long Island traditions. She lives in West Orange, New Jersey with her husband, two teenagers, three accordions and a bunch of other noisy world instruments. Marion has sparked great interest in and brought much attention to the accordion with her book. Whether you agree or disagree with her thoughts or are reading it to learn about the accordion, it makes us all think about the accordion, how it has influenced our culture, our lives, and how it is part of a new generation of musicians who realize and greatly appreciate its value in the world of music. Dean Olshur shares, “I write words and music. I play instruments, mostly the accordion. For much of my life I've made my living talking and writing about music on the radio and in print. I wrote a book that was ostensibly about crossword puzzles, but really it is about music and the mind. When I’m not playing on the street or a park I work as a music therapist. For further information: jerseyfolkarts@gmail.com |
13 year old Levi Burroughs, RCAC Scholarship Recipient 2021by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
  Congratulations to the youngest SA AA member, Levi Burroughs on receiving the Rose City Accordion Camp Scholarship, a $500 prize plus certificate! Levi loves playing the accordion and has participated on many of the SA AA ZOOM meetings. He just started the accordion this past year. Levi is 13 years old. The Rose City Accordion Camp held their event the last week of August 2021 at the Collins Retreat Center in Eagle Creek Oregon. About 40 people attended. The Camp organizers including Roberto Ferrero and Fran Maddox and others gifted several scholarships to young accordionists from across USA. Levi’s teacher Mike Smetanka is also a member of SA AA and was pleased to hear that Levi had won an award. Levi played “Funiculi Funicula” and “Beer Barrel Polka” for the Sept SA AA ZOOM meeting. President Laura Niland said, “Thank you Levi and keep playing your accordion! And thanks to RCAC too!” The Rose City Accordion Club was formed in 1996 by a group of people who love playing this fantastic musical instrument. They are a non-profit organization created exclusively for educational purposes within the meaning of section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. RCAC membership continues to grow. Currently there are 95 members ranging from teenager through senior citizen, amateur players, professionals and folks who do not play the accordion but love to listen to the music it produces. They publish a monthly newsletter (Accordion Talk) which is provided free to all members and also host an accordion camp each summer which next year (2020) will be held at the Collins Retreat Center, located between Estacada and Sandy, Oregon. Many members go out into the community and play without remuneration at senior citizen centers, schools and retirement communities. The club meeting will be held Saturday, October 16 between 1:00 - 3:00 PM at: Oak Grove Community Hall 14496 SE Cedar Ave. Oak Grove, OR Corner of Maple and Cedar off of River Road |
Rob Reich to perform at The Maybeck Studio in Novemberby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 Rob Reich is pleased to announce an upcoming concert in one of his favorite Bay Area venues. Tickets are available now and are limited to 30, so reserve yours today!The Rob Reich Trio will be live at The Maybeck Studio, Berkeley, California on Sunday, November 14, 2021. Doors open at 2:30PM, show at 3:PM Musicians include: Rob Reich (accordion, piano) Ben Goldberg (clarinet) Daniel Fabricant (bass) They will perform a set of original chamber jazz. Reich's music finds inspiration in circus music and Tin Pan Alley, refracted through a contemporary chamber music lens and weaving free improvisation in with composed elements. Rob is a graduate of Oberlin Conservatory with a degree in Composition. He is best known for his work with Tin Hat, Gaucho, and Circus Bella. Rob Reich has over 15 years experience providing unique, memorable music for events of all kinds: weddings, corporate parties, house concerts, backyard barbecues, etc. Rob can provide everything from solo piano or accordion, to small jazz combos, to large dance bands, and everything in between. Rob works closely with the musicians to ensure the music is of the highest quality. He is based in the San Francisco Bay Area. For further information: rob@robreich.com |
Rose City Accordion Club Camp 2021 Enjoys Successful Eventby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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  Video: Rose City Accordion Club Annual CampAll Accordion Orchestra Concert - Sept. 2021 Video Production by Willamette Falls Studio The Rose City Accordion Club Accordion Camp Concert took place on September 2, 2021 at the Alton L. Colins Retreat Center in Eagle Creek, Oregon. The 2021 Accordion Orchestra, Conductor was Gabe Hall-Rodrigues with performances by Gail Campanella, Toby Hanson, Courtney Von Drehle and Gabe Hall- Rodrigues. RCAC Officers 2021 include: President - Bev Spurgeon Vice President - Bobbie Ferrero Secretary - Marlene Meissner Treasurer - Fran Maddox Board Members Wayne Tiusanen, Susan Schwab, Mark Greathouse, B. Ferrero Camp Director Delette Huffman - Co/Camp The Rose City Accordion Club, located in Portland, Oregon, is a non-profit organization comprised of individuals who share enjoyment of and enthusiasm for the accordion. The Club embraces all styles of accordion music and welcomes all who have an interest in the accordion whether they play or not. Our intent is to promote the future of the accordion and the enjoyment it gives to all. Members play the accordion at various events and venues around town. The club meetings will be held Saturday, October 16 and Saturday, November 20, 2021 between 1:00 - 4:00 PM at: Oak Grove Community Hall, 14496 SE Cedar Ave, Oak Grove, OR Corner of Maple and Cedar Off of River Road For further information: President - Bev Spurgeon Email: bevo925@comcast.net |
Northwest Accordion Social on October 11by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
 The Northwest Accordion Society sponsors the Northwest Accordion Social on October 11, 2021 from 7:30 to 9:30PM PDT at the Senior Center of West Seattle, 4217 SW Oregon St., Seattle, WA.The evening features the Bonnie Birch Trio, Folk Voice Band, and Ted Lunka Polka Band. Admission is $5 at the door. Enjoy great music for listening and dancing. Everyone is welcome For further information: 206-932-4044 |
Long Island Accordion Alliance Presents Oktoberfest at La Villiniby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 La Villini Restaurant presents Oktoberfest music by the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) on Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021 at 6:PM. The restaurant is located at 288 Larkfield Rd., East Northport, NY. For reservation: 631-261-6344 |
Children's Corner |
Children's Corner: Zachary Friedenburgby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
| Zachary Friedenburg and his grandfather, Papa Joe De Clemente, perform together. Zachary is Joe’s 7th (out of 11) grandchild, son of his daughter Susan Friedenburg. He is ten years old and in fifth grade. Papa Joe really enjoys giving Zachary lessons and performing with him! Zachary started studying the accordion January 2020 at age 9. Several of lessons had to be zoomed last year because of Covid. Zach has also done acting, singing and dancing in elementary school. He had about 8 years of dance lessons at a studio in Floral Park, New York. For further information:joedeclemente@yahoo.com |
Future events |
Music with Mary Accordion Academy November 13-14by Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| Do not miss this fun learning experience of one on one lesson opportunities with Mary Tokarski, renowned accordionist. There will be solo, duet, and ensemble opportunities, workshop, orchestra rehearsals and closing concert. This event takes place Nov. 13-14, 2021 at the Best Western Plus in North Haven, CT. Register by October 29, 2021 (Scholarship available) Concert Accordionist, Mary Tokarski, has performed nationally and internationally as a soloist, with Symphony Orchestras and String Quartets. Orchestras include Prince George’s Philharmonic in Largo, Maryland; the Moravian Philharmonic (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 has toured mainland China with the Mantovani Orchestra, performing both in the orchestra and as a soloist, 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, appeared with the Boston Modern Orchestra Project (BMOP) in Gertrude Stein & Virgil Thomson’s Opera, “Four Saints In Three Acts” at Jordan Hall on the New England Conservatory campus in Boston, MA, at the Westport Country Playhouse (CT) production of “Sing For Your Shakespeare”, “Fiddler On The Roof”, and appearing as a featured instrumentalist for “The Spitfire Grill” production at both the Community Theater of Woodbury and the Wien Black Box Theatre at Fairfield University. Mary has released a total of seven CDs – three with The “K” Trio, one with Gary Daverne of Auckland, New Zealand, and three solo CDs, “Music with Mary . . . with my friends!” - “Music with Mary . . . for my friends!” – “Have Yourself A Mary Merry Christmas” – all have received international acclaim. Recently, Gary Daverne released an online recording entitled “Mary Plays Gary” featuring works that Gary has composed with Mary performing. In collaboration with Karen Malan-Uribe and Joan Grauman, Mary narrates and performs the music for the book “An Accordion! What Is That?” The recently re-released book was written as an early childhood reader, with many text features not often found in books for children of this age . . . as well as introducing the accordion to the “next generation” of musicians! After a lifetime of teaching accordion and piano, Mary served as Adjunct Professor in the Music Department at Central Connecticut State University. She teaches virtually from her home in Jackson, TN, on Skype, coaches privately, travels the world presenting Workshops and Master Classes on theory and musical excellence, and is a sought-after adjudicator for national and international juries – frequently at the Coupe Mondiale sponsored by the Confederation Internationale des Accordionists in locations around the world. Mary has had students representing the United States in the Coupe Mondiale over the past years. Sauris, Italy is the location of the prestigious Peter Soave Music Academy where Mary has had the pleasure of being a guest instructor, workshop presenter and artist for many years now. Serving the American Accordionists’ Association for years as the annual Festival Chair, she has held the offices of President, Secretary and Treasurer during her years with AAA. Currently, Mary serves as 1st Vice President of AAA and is a member of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG). Both organizations are members of the Confederation Internationale des Accordeonistes, as well as IMC-UNESCO. For further information: www.accordions.com/mary mary.tokarski@comcast.net 731-300-0334 cell: 203-927-8606 |
NAA Convention 2022by Markus Baggio |
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 National Accordion Association started planning for the upcoming NAA Convention for 2022. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic we are looking forward to an in-person event in Richardson, TX. We see this as a reunion, as many of us hadn’t had a chance to see each other for several years in person. 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. Save the dates: Wednesday March 16th to Saturday March 19th, 2022 Same place as the years before: Hilton Hotel, Richardson, TX (formally a Hyatt facility) Besides many presentations, workshops, and interactive sessions we will have the Fun Band and the Dance Band (in Memoriam of Sheila Lee) allowing you to play with others. There will also be plenty of time for informal meetings and Jam Sessions at night. We will release a preliminary schedule and the presenters some time in November. Registrations will open early December. Here is a glimpse for the evening activities: Wednesday evening: Welcome reception. Meet and mingle with music. 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 final concert. 2022 National Accordion Association Board Members and Planning Team includes: Norman Seaton, Sharon Seaton, Nick Ballarini, Nancy Bernstein, Markus Baggio, Sabine Baggio See future publications for more information. |
Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat Includes 6 Talented Young Artistsby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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| The Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat is pleased to announce the inclusion of six talented young artists. There will be 34 orchestra members at the 2022 retreat which takes place on January 13-16, 2022 under the direction of conductor Stas Venglevski." The accordionists include Ashley Frye (VA), Charlotte Peck (WI), Lorelei Peck (WI), and Sonora Sherman (VA). Also included are Ellina Musatov (VA) on violin and Gabrielle Peck (WI) on cello. Stas Venglevski and the Houston Accordion Orchestra will present a spectacular collage of European Music at the Kemah Boardwalk Inn January 13-16, 2022. Additional artists include Gail Campanella, Ali Haghshenas, and Daniel Hartnett. The event includes: 3 full days of orchestra rehearsals Master Classes with Stas Concert of original music composed by the orchestra members Open Mic and jam sessions eery night Final public concert The retreat will feature the music of Russia, France, Italy, Moldova, Finland, Azerbaijan and the World Premiere of a new orchestral Overture by Stas Venglevski. Bonus selection includes “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Freddie Mercury performed by the orchestra. More info in future publications. For further information: meghada33@gmail.com |
“Flogging Molly” Included in 2022 Salty Dog Cruiseby Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor USA Accordion News |
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 “Flogging Molly” will hold their next Salty Dog Cruise from March 28th to April 1st, 2022. The 4 day floating festival will take place on the cruise ship “Norwegian Pearl”, which will sail from Miami to Nassau and Grand Bahama Island.The festival will include a variety of concerts, on-board activities, a skate ramp with pro skaters and tattoo artists. “Flogging Molly” is a seven piece Celtic punk band, which includes Matt Hensley (accordion, concertina, vocals) along with players of a variety of instruments such as guitar, bodhran, violin, tin whistle, bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, drums, percussion and vocalists. Starting out as the house band at Molly Malone's and building a loyal following through endless touring, Flogging Molly is a staple in the punk scene and is currently supporting “Life Is Good”, their first new LP in over eight years. The album is filled with rousing songs that are timeless in their sentiment but directly related to today's most pressing concerns: politics, the economy, unemployment, planned boomtowns gone bust, immigration policies gone awry, and much more. For cruise details email: floggingmolly@5bam.com |