NORTHWEST ACCORDION NEWS
At the Gazebo Emmanuel Gasser Five Pieces of Musical Fruit Remembering Shirlee Joyce Holmes Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration!
VOL. 26 NO. 3 Northwest Accordion Society Fall Quarter 2016
Northwest Accordion News
NWAS News Deadlines NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY February 1, May 1, August 1, November 1 The Northwest Accordion News is a quarterly newsletter published by the Northwest Accordion Inquiries, questions, suggestions, etc. Society for and by its members. The purpose of Contact Doris Osgood, 3224 B St., the NWAS News is to unite the membership by Forest Grove, OR 97116. (503) 357-0417. providing news of its members, and articles that E-mail: [email protected] instruct, encourage, and promote the playing of the accordion.
NWAS PUBLICATION PRIORITIES ♦ Advertising Mail letters & articles to: ♦ Original Compositions Northwest Accordion Society ♦ News from Our Members 5102 NE 121st Ave. #12, ♦ Instructive/Technical Articles Vancouver, WA 98682 ♦ Summaries from Regional Socials and Or e-mail to: [email protected] Events ♦ Coming Events ADVERTISING Articles will be printed if received prior to Full page $120.00 the publishing deadline. Should space be an Half page $65.00 issue, articles will be printed in the order in which Quarter $35.00 they are submitted. All decisions regarding Business card $15.00 publication will be made by the editors of the Prices are PER ISSUE. US Funds NWAS News. To submit articles for publication, mail Photo-ready Advertising (with accompanying check) them to the Vancouver, WA address listed. It is for this publication may be sent to: preferred that articles be submitted via e-mail as Northwest Accordion Society attached WORD documents or on a disc. Typed, PO Box 687, La Pine, OR 97739 paper copy needs to be dark and clear to allow or e-mail [email protected] scanning and to minimize errors. Photographs sent for publication will be returned if they are accompanied with a SASE of Northwest Accordion News Staff correct size and adequate postage. Photographs Doris Osgood...... (503) 357-0417 may be sent electronically or on disc. To reprint articles or photographs from [email protected] Judith Ames ...... (360) 904-1524 magazines and newspapers, written permission [email protected] from the publisher is required. Please submit Colleen Halverson (Advertising) .....(503) 649-0724 the necessary “permission to print” with material [email protected] sent. NW Accordion Society Offi cers Views in the articles and information printed Bonnie Birch, President/Treasurer ...... (206) 622-4786 are those of the contributors and not necessarily Doris Osgood, Vice President/Communications ...... (503) 357-0417 those of the Northwest Accordion Society or its Judith Ames, Secretary/Technology ...... (360) 904-1524 advertisers. Advisory Board John Giuliani, Jr...... (425) 271-2239 Dick Myking ...... (253) 537-0136 Is your membership renewal due? Birgit Ages ...... (206) 947-8393 Check your mailing label. A membership Cooksie (Kaserzon) Kramer ...... (425) 828-9104
application/renewal form is included on the Membership: last page. Send your renewals or change of Doris Osgood...... (503) 357-0417 address to: [email protected] Judith Ames ...... (360) 904-1524 Northwest Accordion Society [email protected] 5102 NE 121st Ave. #12 Vancouver, WA 98682
Fall Quarter 2016 1 Northwest Accordion News Table of Contents Quarterly Update 2 Letter from the Editors Dear Members, 2 Quarterly Update Summer is in its fi nal days. It’s hard to believe 3 Letters to the Editor 4 At the Gazebo how quickly the time has passed since 6 LIAC 2016 Sponsors Leavenworth. The accordion celebration in 7 LIAC Competition 2016 Results Leavenworth was a great time. We thank Bonnie 7 LIAC BURSARY AWARDS 2016 Birch, the LIAC chairman, for her business 8 Celebrating the Accordion in Leavenworth expertise and planning skill to create another 10 Congratulations Emmanuel Gasser successful event in Leavenworth, Washington. 11 Chester Pietka Scholarship Recipients In this issue you will fi nd a lovely little waltz 13 Gary Blair in Concert written by Emmanuel Gasser. Emmanuel 14 Remembering Bill Cosby 14 Scandinavian Midsommer resides in Ontario, Canada – north of Michigan. 15 Five Pieces of Low Hanging He’s a very hard working young man of 19 years 15 Musical Fruit and is a serious accordion student. He placed 16 Emmanuel Gasser fi rst in the original composition class at the AAA 16 Accordionist – Extra Ordinaire! competitions playing a very complex original 16 Remembering Jackie Cedarholm composition entitled Spring Blizzard. The waltz 17 Day of The Accordion Recap he shared with us is much more manageable for 18 Sequim Accordion Social most of us. I believe that you will enjoy this little 19 Keeping Up with Gary Blair jewel. I intend to add it to my O’fest notebook! 20 Remembering Gwendy Paulson Marjorie Rombauer, our FAITHFUL reporter 21 Remembering Bill Cosby from the Seattle Socials, has decided that it 22 In Remembrance - Shirlee Joyce Holmes 23 Kudos to Michael Bridge was time to retire. She’s been submitting text 23 Accordion Club of Roseburg with Gary Blair. and photos for the NWAS News since 2004. We 23 Reported by Karen Cordell, President, understand, but regret that the time has come for 24 By the Way – her departure. 25 Thank you, Marjorie Rombauer This issue has reports of fun events and good 26 Spokane Accordion Ensemble News times. Regrettably it also has a number of very 27 Memories of “Mama Stella” Allison sad items to share. Great accordionists and 28 Tour of Castelfi dardo friends of the accordion have passed away. 29 Photos from LIAC In the Pacifi c Northwest, we lost another pillar 34 Seattle Symphony with Jamie Mashler of the accordion community. Shirlee Holmes 35 Accordion Events Calendar along with Ken and Barbara Olendorf launched 37 Entertainers in the Northwest 39 Ask a Teacher the Northwest Accordion News about a year 39 Tacoma Accordion Social after the beginning of the Northwest Accordion 39 Welcome New Members Society. The NWAS News was intended to be a “newsletter” for the region and it remains so Letter from the Editors today. In the early days, everything was done manually: a true “cut and paste”, photos needed Greetings! “half toning”, the sheets were collated in Ken’s Summer is about over and the temperature here living room, then bound and labeled for the mail. is HOT! This past summer has been productive in It was a job! They worked like that for about 2 many ways. (My tiny garden is producing an abun- years. Shirlee also worked hard on beginning the dance of tomatoes). It has been a busy summer for Day of the Accordion in Seattle. She performed at many accordionists. This issue is packed with articles and LOTS of pictures! Socials continue as well. Are you participating? Take There are many more events coming up, from your cameras with you and send us your photos and Oregon’s Alpenfest, Coupe Mondial, and many reports. This is YOUR newsletter! Oktoberfest celebrations. The Accordion Clubs and Judith Ames ([email protected]) 2 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News DOTA in the early years; jazz was her thing. We Letters to the Editor give our heartfelt condolences to her husband, Monty, and to the rest of her family. Losing Dear NWAS, Shirlee was a very painful loss for them all. We continue to thank our faithful advertisers. I Thank you for reminder of my overdue dues. Thanks especially thank Colleen Halverson for her work for keeping the membership magazine coming my way. with those who advertise. Remember to support Sincerely, Marge White, Yacolt, WA the businesses and individuals as you can who place ads in this publication. We’re beginning the Thank you for ALL that you are doing that the holiday season; shop at home and save! accordion may remain alive and vibrant. What a great Ron Ostromecki, our engraver in Erie, PA, works instrument continuing the tradition of the me-man-band, his magic on our print music. With permission etc. I for one am very grateful for all of my engagements. from Emmanuel, he simplifi ed the chord structure Gary Malner, Union Gap, WA in the waltz; it’s easier for most of our members to read. We thank him for always providing a Dear NWAS, quality product. I can’t believe I am late again! Time fl ies by so fast. Enclosed are dues for 2 years. Thank you for your Oktoberfest season is nearly here. One of the consideration. fi rst big events is in Mt. Angel, Oregon September Karen Cordell, Roseburg, OR 15 – 18. Outstanding professional musicians as well as amateurs like me will be there to make (Editor: You are always welcome to pay for more than one the event festive. I hope that you can support year. Even with our busy schedules, we try to remind you in our accordionists. Let those in charge know a timely manner.) how much you appreciate live music. This is my favorite time of year. Sausage, pretzels and Thank you! I’m not due until September but didn’t want accordions – it’s an instant party! Enjoy the to forget! autumn. Cathy Cowley, Gig Harbor, WA Doris Osgood [email protected] Dear NWAS, Jean and I (76 and 77) attended the LIAC, and I have decided to take up the accordion I set down 62 Many of our members have requested being able years ago (upon discovering girls!) to listen to the music in our newsletter. Toby We greatly appreciate the good spirits and friend- Hanson has recorded the lovely little waltz in this ship at LIAC and I hope to be back next year, ready to issue, At the Gazebo. We are so thankful that join Jim O’Brien’s Band in the Gazebo. Toby was able to fi t this project into his very busy Pierre Sundborg, Seattle, WA schedule. You can hear the waltz at the link listed. https://youtu.be/jXrWWwziFWw Greetings! Now that I have a permanent address, I’d like to begin Accordion subscription again. Been going to accordion clubs here - Also attended NAA Convention in Dallas in March. Thanks for adding my name, Reminder! Nancy Kaye, Halton City, TX Membership rates increased to $20 for Student, (Editor: Welcome back! Please send us pictures and reports $25 for regular members and $40 for Patron of the events you attend!) (Canada add $10 and outside North America add $15 - All US funds) Dear NWAS. Thanks for your hard work and dedication to the ac- Are your membership dues due? cordion community. Check our mailing label! Wil Knoop, Columbia City, OR We appreciate those who renew without reminders.
Fall Quarter 2016 3 Northwest Accordion News At The Gazebo (Dedicated to my friend Doris Osgood)
Emmanuel Gasser 1 = 160 % V V V ^ VV V V V V V V b VV V V V V V V V V V V V V V V ^ V V V V V V M ! c C V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V 7 V V V V V ^ V ^ V V V V V b VEV ^ V V V V V V 7 V ^ V V VV V V V V V V V ^ V V V V V V V V V V V V V V ! c V V V V V V V 14 V V V V V V V VV ^ V V V ^ V V V V V V V V V V ^ V b 7 7 V V V V V V V V V M M M ! V V c V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V 21 V V ¦V
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4 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
At The Gazebo page 2
35
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56 V V V¥ V V V V¥ ;V V V V V V¥ V; V V V V V V V V VVV V V V V V V V V V V V V b M V 7 7 ! V V V V V V c V V V V V V V ¦V V V V V ¦V V V 63 1. 2. D.S. al Fine V¥ V V¥ V; V V V V V V V V V¥ V; V V V V V V ;V V V V V F V E V b M V 7 M V V ! c V V V V EE EE ¦V V V V ¦V V V V V ¦V Fall Quarter 2016 5 Northwest Accordion News LIAC 2016 Sponsors Thank you for a VERY Successful Accordion Celebration in Leavenworth, Washington Virtuoso Sponsors $2,000 or more Northwest Accordion Society - www.nwasnews.com Projekt Bayern - www.projektbayern.com Major Sponsors $500 or more Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce www.leavenworth.org Petosa Accordions - www.petosa.com Tempo Trend Music – www.tempotrend.ca Andreas Keller/Heidi Forchemer - www.andreaskellerrestaurant.com Drs. Jim and Shirley O’Brien Slight Confusion 4tet with the fi nancial help from Canton of Geneva and cities of Geneva and Bernex (CH) Business Sponsors Oregon’s Alpenfest - www.oregnalpenfest.com Climb for Fun - www.climbforfun.com Buff alo Rose Productions/Accordions Rising movie - www.accordionsrising.com Accordion Players, Accordion Clubs, Friends of the Accordion (These donations sponsor competition and the bursary program for young accordion players)
Bonnie Birch in memory of Esther Birch Terry Ranstad James Brylsk Randall & Marlys Tron Terra Cross Glea Trulove Char Davis/donated accordion Lois Yale Tom & Caryl Dowell Accordion Club of Roseburg David Emter Accordion Music Tri Cities Rhea Forum NWAS Day of the Accordion John R. Giuliani Sr. Memorial Scholarship NWAS - Forest Grove Socials Fund NWAS Socials - Seattle Irv Hogland/donated accordion NWAS Socials - Sequim Arne Holmquist Northwest Accordion Teachers Jeanne Olson NW Accordionaires Leif & Sunnie Accordion Duo Petosa Accordions in memory of Papa Ann Marocco in Memory of Frank Marocco Gianna Giotta Andy Mirkovich
6 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration 2016 Results Variety 1 LIAC BURSARY AWARDS 1. Emmanuel Gasser 2016 2. Diane Guffi n 3. Gary Malner Caleigh Baertlein Variety 2 Mackenzie Baertlein 1. Rebecca Bracewell Rebecca Bracewell 2. Evangeline Schmitt 3. Helen Kuzmenkov Trenton Blair Bridges Alexander Erickson Variety 3 1. Orla Scott Ivy Eyer 2. Anthony Kuzmenkov Adam Fundak 3. Derek Yuan Graydon Hall Variety 4 Anthony Kuzmenkov 1. Evan Yuan Christine Kuzmenkov 2. Anja Milojevic 3. Adam Fundak Helen Kuzmenkov Aleksej Milojevic Classical 17 + Under 1. Holden Tubbs Anja Milojevic 2. Orla Scott Evangeline Schmitt 3. Anthony Kuzmenkov Orla Scott Old Time Open Holden Tubbs 1. Emmanuel Gasser Derek Yuan 2. Forrest Crain Evan Yuan 3. Einar Tapio
Diatonic 1. Max Kyllonen 2. Kory Tideman 3. Forrest Crain Duets Classical Open 1. Thomas/Smith 1. Emmanuel Gasser 2. Bracewell/Scott 2. Sam Thomas 3. Tapio/Miller 3. Rebecca Bracewell Band Leavenworth Open 1. Rag Tag 1. Sam Thomas 2. Squeeze Riot 2. Barry Smith 3. Fisarmonicats 3. Rebecca Bracewell
Fall Quarter 2016 7 Northwest Accordion News
Celebrating the Accordion stellar. LIAC always provides great learning experi- in Leavenworth 2016 ences provided by master accordionists. They are By Doris Osgood always worth the trip. Mornings had workshops and afternoons had free concerts at the grange. While I When my husband and I pulled into town, we was freezing at the gazebo, the indoor venue for free were commenting on the snow left on the peaks and entertainment was packed for each performance. the cooler temperatures. Ordinarily, heat is a factor Shirley and Jim O’Brien served as emcees. There during our stay. Not this year! The cooler tempera- was an outstanding button box program with Max tures were ideal the fi rst couple of days. Conditions Kyllonen, Kory Tideman and Alpenfolk. There were were perfect but I’d been naïve enough to think that seasoned players like Bonnie Birch, Lyle Schaefer, they would remain even after more tech savvy friends Charlie Brown, Bev Fess, the O’Brien’s along with the were remarking about the satellite images and the exciting new duo, Sam Thomas and Barry Smith. The weather forecast. Saturday we awoke to VERY low grange programs were the best ever. hanging clouds and drizzle. Real rain came after that! Nightly, the entertainment at the festhalle drew Visitors were telling me that they came through snow large audiences; the weather wasn’t a factor there. squalls on the mountain passes leading to town on Thursday evening’s program started with Mike Zam- Saturday. I fully expected to see snowfl akes from the piceni. After a moment, I realized that I have music gazebo. (I’ve never been so cold…) arranged by Joe Zampiceni. Mike confi rmed that it The show went on at the gazebo Saturday. The was his dad. He said that his dad’s music surfaces temperature continued to drop throughout the day. every few years. Mike’s dad was an accomplished We had some of the fi nest entertainment anywhere accordionist. His portion of the evening highlighted in spite of it, if I do say so myself. The new gazebo is his Italian heritage. Mike was followed by Mary Ross. enclosed with glass on the north side and performers Many Canadians are well acquainted with her but this are protected from the elements. People performing was her fi rst trip to Leavenworth. She delighted the at the gazebo are the most faithful players ever. They audience with Scottish dance music and explained the played beautifully. Only the bravest Japanese tourists diff erent elements of the music introducing the danc- clad in rain gear and warm clothes were cheering us ers and the close of the dance. The fi nal portion of the on. Another fi rst was that the parade moved indoors. program was provided by the Spokane Accordion En- Rather than cancel the event, the players planning to semble, under the direction of Beverley Fess. Two of parade met at the festhalle and our parademeister, the founding members of the ensemble participated. Rod Miller, led the parade around the hall. Though Ilmar Kuljus and Helen Eldenburg have played with we missed the horse carts and the adulations of the the group from the beginning. Rick Webber served as crowd downtown, the players had a great time. emcee for the evening’s program. He introduced each As most know, my perspective of the accordion selection, complete with appropriate attire, as the celebration is from the gazebo stage. Our accordion- orchestra moved through some delightful, interesting ists on stage really knocked themselves out and did arrangements of American favorites. I’d never heard so even at the times when few visitors braved the The Fifth of Beethoven before. The group skillfully elements. The large ensemble played Friday and Sat- performed this very complex, interesting piece. I won’t urday afternoons. Under the direction of Jim O’Brien, list the entire program, but the play list was wonderful. the group moved through some old and new music. Hearing a large ensemble play together is a musical The participants enjoyed the experience and the treat. group sounded polished. By the time the ensemble’s Friday’s concert started with our Scottish friend, performance was coming to a close on Saturday, the Gary Blair. Bonnie Birch noted that both Mike Zam- clouds lifted and the sun started shining. Sunday’s piceni and Gary Blair had fathers who were master gazebo performances had ideal conditions. The music accordionists. What rich heritage. Some people had was outstanding too. Charlie Brown started the morn- traveled from California just for Gary’s concert that ing and then we had Gary Blair, Emmanuel Gasser, night. He didn’t disappoint his fans. The audience ap- Lyle Schaefer and friends, fi nishing with Einar Tapio. preciated his nimble, fast fi ngers. He’s the master of He had his nephew and family visiting from Finland; it the repetitive note! Gary’s solo program was followed was a special conclusion to our accordion celebration. by the Slight Confusion 4tet. This group traveled from The weather may have been “diff erent”, but no Switzerland to perform in the United States. They one came away from Leavenworth feeling that the played with jazz accordionist, Frank Marocco, on his performances and workshops were anything less than Freedom Flight CD. Two of the original members with
8 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Frank’s quartet were on stage in Leavenworth. I have musicianship from the young players. I look forward to come to realize that Europeans are keen on Ameri- their returning next year. can Jazz. Years ago, Stas Venglevski was invited to The Leavenworth International Accordion Cel- play in Europe and was requested to play jazz. He is ebration requires a lot of work and support. We thank was a classically trained accordionist and jazz wasn’t our faithful vendors, Tempo Trend from Victoria and on his radar. He’s a quick study, of course, and has Petosa Accordions from Seattle. Our donors exceed- added the genre to his skill set. A fi rst time LIAC at- ed our expectations. Bonnie Birch spends hours and tendee thought that the jazz portion of the weekend’s hours putting the schedule together. It’s a giant jigsaw music was worth the trip and the best program of the puzzle to start and she masterfully makes everything celebration. The Swiss jazz quartet was an ensemble fi t. Rick and Eileen Webber worked their magic on of very skilled musicians. Their music style may have preparing name tags, pins, T-shirts, seat cushions been a stretch for some but their superb musicianship and posters. Eileen received all of the entry forms and was apparent. They played beautifully. presale ticket requests. Frank Bruckner and Gayle Saturday evening Jelena Milojevic took the stage Lewis manage the volunteer schedule. Additionally, for a solo performance. She played both familiar and Gayle made a gorgeous bird house with a bird music less familiar pieces. I was pleased that her person- motif on it for the raffl e along with fi nding an accordion ality showed from the stage. Not only is she a gor- purse. Both made the sale of raffl e tickets brisk. Rod geous young woman, she’s a master musician. We Miller is our parademeister and moves the competi- were dazzled by her Vivo by John Gart, Flight of the tions along. Einar Tapio worked at the competition Bumble Bee, Czardas and Dark Eyes among others. table for two days too. The ubiquitous Toby Hanson Next, the Accordion Orchestra of Victoria under the helped where needed as well as give a workshop. direction of Alex Milojevic took the stage. They started Sue and Ken McCauley managed the grange and with music by Bizet, then Djorzak, Rossi’s William Tell, Sue used her talents to prepare extra posters. Tom but they had me when they concluded with Piazolla’s and Caryl Dowell sorted T-shirts and manned the Liber Tango. The orchestra, which included Mary front desk. Paul and Judy Bria managed the informa- Ross, Jelena Milojevic, and Martin Hergt was a skilled tion and sales at the gazebo. Many faithful volunteers musical unit. I enjoyed it thoroughly. For those who worked to ensure our success. The O’Brien’s, Web- have experience with accordion orchestras, you may ber’s, Bruckner’s, and Dowell’s traveled to Leaven- be interested to know that Martin played a Roland as worth early to spread fl iers around town. One day we the “bass accordion”. Bass accordions are slow to re- must log the hours spent in preparation and work at spond and require a special touch and lots of muscle. Leavenworth. It would be a real gee-whiz exercise! He said that the Roland made the bass accordion’s The accordion celebration in Leavenworth is part much easier. meant to showcase all styles of music that can be Saturday’s program ended with the Leavenworth played on instruments with bellows. That goal was Dance Band, under the direction of Bonnie Birch. achieved. The Leavenworth International Accordion John Giuliani on string bass, with volunteers and con- Celebration is set for next year. Mark your calendars scripted musicians like Toby Hanson, Mike Zampiceni, today: June 15 – 18, 2017. Make your reservations Jim and Shirley O’Brien, Rod Miller and Nick Heiting. early; it’s time to begin preparing! See you there, for The group played like a well oiled orchestra and was the love of the accordion. worth our staying just to listen. The dancers enjoyed it very much. It was a perfect end to the concert series for LIAC. Nightly accordionists gathered in Andreas Keller for the LIAC jam! Everybody loves to wedge into the Oregon’s Alpenfest crowded restaurant. It’s a fun time. The competition portion of the accordion celebra- The only Swiss-Bavarian Festival tion is dear to me. We had young people who trav- in the West! eled long distances to participate. Emmanuel Gasser commented that he lives 3,000 miles East Northeast Wallowa Lake of Leavenworth! First time players traveled from other September 22 -25, 2016 parts of Canada, Washington, and California. This Schedule and tickets: year we had donations allowing our increasing the Oregonalpenfest.com prize money and increasing the amount of the bursary awards. We were all encouraged by the quality of the Fall Quarter 2016 9 Northwest Accordion News
Congratulations Emmanuel Gasser ing cadenza followed by the animated, blizzardy fi rst theme and concluded with a virtuosic Coda.” Award winning accordionist, Emmanuel Gasser, nineteen years old, lives on a beautiful dairy farm in St. Charles, Ontario, Canada. He is recognized one of the top accordionists in North America winning numer- ous trophies and awards in many North American and International competitions, as well as representing Canada at the Coupe Mondiale, Klingenthal Germany, IAC Reinach Switzerland and FIF Castelfi dardo. Emmanuel has been playing accordion since he was ten years old and practices 3 to 8 hours a day. His musical talents have been nourished and devel- oped by the assistance of several world renowned accordionists. He is currently studying privately with the great Emmanuel Gasser from Ontario, Canada won 1st accordion virtuoso Alexander Sevastian based in Prize in the Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition Toronto, Canada. Emmanuel has also completed vari- sponsored by the American Accordionists’ Association ous internet and survey courses on Classical Music held at the 2016 AAA Festival in Buff alo, New York, and Music History with Prof. Robert Greenberg (San July 6-10, 2016. The general purpose of the composi- Francisco Conservatory of Music) and on Classical tion competition is to add to the solo concert reper- Composition with Prof. Peter Edwards (University of toire of the acoustic accordion. Singapore). Emmanuel shares his thoughts on his great ac- Despite being young in years, Emmanuel has complishment: “Winning 1st prize with my fi rst free exceptional musical maturity, having recorded 3 CD’s bass composition “Spring Blizzard” means A LOT to and composed over 40 original pieces. In the future me. It is very encouraging that I, as a young com- Emmanuel hopes to develop a career as composer poser, can write a piece that gets appreciated by the and performer; performing solo, with bands, ensem- judges of the competition and the audience. bles and orchestras. All the compliments that I have received regard- Sheet music for Spring Blizzard is for sale at ing this composition have encouraged me even more $9.00 order at: [email protected]. Pay to develop my skills as a composer. My wish is to pal is accepted. strike anyone with musical sensitivity with my compo- sitions.” Emmanuel’s description of his composition: “Spring Blizzard” is in Scherzo form with a fast fi rst The Chester Pietka Scholarships are part in F minor written for free bass that invokes the available for young accordionists. Young feel of a snowstorm with glowing technical passages. people ages 18 and under, taking lessons from The second part is introduced with a cadenza that a recognized teacher, or wishing to do so, may serves both as divider and connector that resolves to submit a written request for scholarship funds a more hopeful and positive waltz theme written for for the purpose of taking lessons. Requests stradella representing Spring. are to be submitted to Doris Osgood, 3224 An embellished version of the “Spring” theme B St., Forest Grove, OR 97116 or e-mail follows. The fi rst half of this variation although being in [email protected]. 3/4 has a march-like feel that is metaphorical for the In addition to giving personal information, strength of life that overpowers the dead of Winter. The second half of the “Spring” variation, written for students are to share their age, interest and free bass, is dreamy and “twitter-pated”. their goals for playing the accordion. These The listener is ready for a happy-ending but Old scholarships are open to the young people Man Winter wishes to show himself one more time within the Pacific Northwest, not just the and sneaks into the scene with another modulat- greater Portland area.
10 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Chester Pietka Scholarship Recipients
Accordion Extravaganza 2016
September 23 - 25
Featuring: Gordon Kohl and Stas Venglevski
St. John’s Cultural Centre 10611 – 110 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta
(GP HW\ RQWRQ$FFRUGLRQ6RFL www.edmontonaccordion.com
Fall Quarter 2016 11 Northwest Accordion News
Bring your friends and family to the Seattle Accordion Social TREATS! MMonday, September 12, 2016
7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Admission to listen to our talented performers at the at door: Senior Center of West Seattle, 4217 S.W. Oregon St., Seattle. $5 206-932-4044 FEATURING Lennyny Luccicci Lyle Hear Lenny perform songsny Schaefer gs from his A professional repertoire ofs musician for more Italian, Frenchf than 50 years, and American he plays a wide swing. range that includes dance and ethnic tunes. COMING SOON! October10 Dan Newton DickDi Ted Lunka MMyking Bonnie Birch November 14 DickDi will play Folk Voice Band allal of your Toby Hanson standardst The Bavarian Beer favorites,f Garden Band includingi Einar Tapio Mike Marinkovich Norwegian A long-time tunes. December 12 favorite player Jim Tobler at our socials. Nordic Spirit If you would like to play your accordion at future socials, contact: Holiday Sing-a-Long John Giuliani 425-255-2121, Birgit Ages 206-947-8393 All Socials are held the second Monday or Bonnie Birch 206-622-4786 (backup) of the month (except July and August) Visit www.nwasnews.com to join the NWAS at the Senior Center of West Seattle.
12 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Gary Blair in Concert Sequim, WA June 22, 2016 By Ilse Osier
train that runs from Edinburgh to London com- plete with choo-choo sounds. This had the most extreme fi ngering techniques I have ever seen. A French Musette was next and then “Whistling Ru- fus” an American tune with a suspenseful ending (he said) of “Baby Face”. “Those were the days” another Russian piece in minor and the 3 tunes written by his father in 3 diff erent rhythms. Waltz, jig and schottische. “Red Rose Cafe” which I love so much and What a treat for accordion lovers in Sequim “Bicyclette de Versailles”, Blue Bell Polka” and to have Gary Blair again performing a concert. the fi nal was “American Express” a medley of This was the third time Gary visited Sequim. We tunes he put together himself. had a large audience of nearly 100. Emcee Tom What an evening. The audience was en- Dowell did the introduction and from then on it thralled and the applause was immense. Gary was all music, music. loved every minute and he sure loves to come to Gary started with a lively Italian Polka and Sequim. We hope for another concert in the near the movie theme from Jungle Book. Several self- future. Maybe we can make him an honorary composed waltzes followed. “Heidi’s waltz , and Sequimite. “Waltzing home” a memorial waltz for Gallipoli. On the next day Gary was kind enough to Gary also showed us what he calls “fi ngering play music for a private house dance that is held busters” and we all know what that means. He every other month by a couple that is one of the must have motors in his fi ngers. best supporters of our accordion socials. So, He played several Scottish tunes and “Jaque- instead of the usual waltz, polka and schottische line’s Waltz” which has an alpine sound and then dances we had an authentic Gary Blair Ceilidh the beautiful “Cuckoo Waltz”. Is there a bird in Dance. Gary taught and demonstrated the danc- his instrument? It sounded like it. Followed by es so the dancers caught on quickly. A great time “Salamanca Polka” an Italian polka. was held by all. Now for some slow down. Gary played a song he wrote for the funeral of a famous Scot- tish accordion player Jean Brown. “Flick-Flack another fi nger buster came next and then we all needed a break. Refreshments were served. Several people requested pieces written in minor. I was one of them because I just love Russian music. He played “Volga Boatmen” including wonderful bellow shakes and extra fast fi ngering speeding up toward the end. “The Flying Scotsman” imitating the steam
Fall Quarter 2016 13 Northwest Accordion News Remembering Bill Cosby Scandinavian Midsommer AWW is very sad to report that the accordion world lost a great man and world class accordion- Birgit and Phil Ages, along with the Folkvoice ist. Bill Cosby passed on July 7, 2016. Bill was Band attended this Scandinavian celebration. Pictures National Champion (ATG, 1964, 65, 66, 67) win- are thanks to Kathy Bruni who is Editor of Northwest ning the Silver Medal at the Coupe Mondiale in Folkdancer, Skandia and Folklore Society Newsletters. 1964 and the Bronze Medal in 1965. William Cosby, Cosby, an accordionist since 7, was the winner of three Accordion Teachers Guild national titles and two American Accordion- ists Association titles. He was also the Instructor of Cadet of Music and the Music Director and Conductor of the West Point Glee Club during his time at the United States Military Academy. Cosby played both pop and classical jazz styles as an accordionist. He also played the piano, conducted symphony orchestras and produced demos for Warner and Atlantic record labels. Originally from California, Mr. Cosby was an organist, pianist, and fi ve-time National Cham- pion Accordionist. In 1971 COL William Shempf, Professor of Music at West Point, turned the Cadet Glee Club over to Mr. Cosby, and he continued to serve as director for the next 17 years. He then moved on to become the Founding Musical Director of the West Point Alumni Glee Club in the D.C. area, and returned to playing his beloved Knowlton ac- cordion in recordings and live concerts. The William H. Cosby Award—was estab- lished by the West Point Alumni Glee Club and presented for the very fi rst time at the Glee Club Graduation Concert in May 2015. This award highlights another unique con- nection between the band and glee club, which is that William H. “Bill” Cosby was himself a former band member. He joined the West Point Band as the accordion world. More information and videos a specialist in 1970. will be included in the August www.accordionusa. Mr. Cosby infl uenced hundreds of United com news. States Military Academy graduates with his zest “ for life, music, fun and support of the military. “Mephisto Waltz, Franz Liszt” “Mephisto The William H. Cosby Award is awarded an- Waltz, Franz Liszt” performed by William Cosby, nually by the West Point Alumni Glee Club to the Accordionist. Published on Mar 15, 2014: The Most Valuable Member of the West Point Cadet arrangement was done by Anthony Galla-Rini Glee Club. Selected by the members of the Ca- and William Cosby. William Cosby was a student det Glee Club, it is awarded to the individual who of both Tito Giudotti and Galla-Rini. Recorded best exemplifi es the spirit of the motto: “No fun March 14, 2014 without music; no music without fun!” For further information: [email protected]. Bill will be greatly missed both in and beyond
14 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Five Pieces of Low Hanging Air-Release Button: Most accordions have an air-re- Musical Fruit lease button for closing the bellows without sounding By John Martin any notes. Yes, I know it is faster to grab a handful of bass buttons and push the bellows closed. And while you can certainly use this technique at home, it is not an acceptable technique when performing. Using the air-release button is extremely low-hanging fruit. Pick a Song: Open microphone times can make club meetings fun. If you are going to participate, however, have your song in mind before you stand up to per- form. There are times to be spontaneous, but if you stand up and wonder out loud what you should play, your audience knows that you haven’t given your performance much thought—let alone much practice. It is more professional, and much more fun for the audience, if you know what song you will play and take time to introduce it. When you do this, your audi- ence knows that you are taking seriously your role as entertainer. The fourth low-hanging musical fruit is knowing what you are going to play before you stand up to perform.
Look Up Once In A While: I know that many of us Free and easy! Like low-hanging fruit on a musical are “paper trained” musicians… we really depend on tree, just reach out and pick it. Here are 5 easy things reading the notes on the paper. And, in all fairness, that you can do to improve your musical performance. some arrangements are complex and require concen- These are easy, low-hanging fruit, and the results are tration. It is also true that your audience would like to guaranteed! see your face once in a while. Musical performance Change Registers: Most accordionists have instru- is more than playing the right notes. It is connecting ments with several sets of reeds that can be played with the audience. Eye contact is one of the important alone or in combinations. Some players simply press ways that we connect. Pick a spot in your musical the Master switch and leave it there. If you observe score where the notes are slow and your fi ngers are accomplished musicians, however, you will see them confi dent and write a smiley face on the score. Then, changing reed combinations all the time and very sel- look up and smile! So, the fi fth low-hanging musical dom using the Master switch. Multiple reed sets are fruit is simply to look up once in a while when you are a strength of the accordion and a wonderful tool for performing. expressing and interpreting music. This low-hanging So there you have it. Five easy things that you can do fruit for improving your musical performance is just a to improve your performance—the low-hanging fruit button-push away. on the musical tree! Bellow Dynamics: One of the unique features of the accordion is its bellows. You can read about bellowing (Graphics are printed with permission) techniques or attend bellowing workshops at most ac- cordion conventions. You can learn about accenting, phrasing, bellow shaking, and a lot more. My bellow- ing tip, however, is very simple. Use your bellows to make a diff erence in the volume somewhere during a song—louder here and softer there. This may sound too simple, but honestly there are a lot of folks who are so focused on playing the right notes that they are happy just to not run out of air. So, the second low- hanging musical fruit is to add some dynamics with your bellows.
Fall Quarter 2016 15 Northwest Accordion News
Emmanuel Gasser Remembering Jackie Cedarholm 1923 – 2016 Accordionist – Extra Ordinaire! Jackie had music in her blood! From age 12 she studied violin. She played with the Jackie Souders Dance Band, the Seattle Symphony, The Broadway Symphony (now Orchestra Seattle), and the Cascade Symphony. She played for 53 years with the Seattle Philharmonic Orchestra and served several times on the board. She is one of the founders of the Puget Sound Welsh Association and was on the board for many years. She is found of Band y Ddraig Goch (The Red Dragon Band), a band which performed folk music of Wales. Besides playing fi ddle in this band, she also played the Crwth (Welsh fi ddle), an instrument which was made by Toni Pace who, with his wife, lived at the Hearthstone. Jackie also fi ddled in Seattle Skandia Spelmenslag for Scandinavian folk dancing. She was a member of the Puget Sound Theatre Organ Association and was on the board. Her goal The 19-year-old award winning accordionist Em- was to interest students in learning to play the theater manuel Gasser lives on a beautiful dairy farm in St. organ, and to make the theater organ at Franklin High Charles, Ontario, Canada. He is recognized as one of School available for concerts for students and the the best young accordionists in North America win- public, and lessons for students. ning numerous trophies and awards in many North Jackie volunteered weekly for 10 years at the American and International competitions, as well as Black Diamond Museum working with the archivist. representing Canada at the Coupe Mondiale, Klin- Black Diamond interested her because her mother genthal Germany, IAC Reinach Switzerland and FIF was raised there and her grandfather was in charge of Castelfi dardo. As he recently won fi rst place in the putting the machinery in one of the mines there. Elsie M. Bennett Composition Competition hosted by Through her Scandinavian connections, Jackie the American Accordionists’ Association with his clas- introduced many people to the accordion socials in sical composition “Spring Blizzard” in July, received Seattle. She was a special friend to Gino Piccini. the following comments from the judges: “(Score 98) - Congratulations on a really wonder- ful composition as well as a wonderful performance of that original piece. The usage of both free bass enthusiasm since the age of ten years and practices and Stradella systems provided very nice contrasts 3 to 8 hours a day. Although mainly self-taught, his between those sections and their use was appropriate musical talents have been nourished and developed and crafty for each. After the more hopeful and posi- by the assistance of several world renowned accor- tive Stradella section, the cadenza-like way in which dionists. He is currently studying privately with the you inched your way back into the more animated 2007 Coupe Mondiale champion Alexander Sev- minor theme was really very excellent. You are very astian based in Toronto, Canada. Emmanuel has also talented both as a composer and performer, and we completed various internet and survey courses on certainly hope that you continue to submit new of- Classical Music and Music History with Prof. Robert ferings to this competition into the future. We would Greenberg (San Francisco Conservatory of Music) love to hear more. In the meantime, keep up the great and on Classical Composition with Prof. Peter Ed- work and continue to develop your talent!” wards (University of Singapore. Despite being young He also won fi rst place in the LIAC Old Time in years, Emmanuel has exceptional musical matu- Open, Variety 4 and Classical Open categories at rity, having recorded 3 CD’s and composed over 40 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration in original pieces. In future he hopes to develop a career June. as composer and performer; performing solo, with Emmanuel has been playing accordion with great ensembles and orchestras.
16 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Day of The Accordion Recap from NW Students who played on the Rising Stars Stage Accordionaires By Ray Kujawa
The “Day of the Accordion” (February 27, 2016 at Crossroads Mall in Bellevue, WA, presented by NWAS) is always looked forward to as a chance to Daniel Houshyari share our unique music with our fans close to home. This year was noteworthy for both our Market Stage appearance as well as for the very well attended events in the Community room besides, where our Di- rector Cooksie Kramer (and Dick Myking) helped new and prospective accordion students try an accordion on and take a free lesson. Accordion students also performed a mini-recital for their parents, friends and hopefully future accordion enthusiasts. On the Market Stage, it felt this year that we brought our “A” game to the event. Joining the NW Accordionaires from Pierce College was Mark Ja-
Danny Volpone
sinski , violinist and conductor of the Pierce College Orchestra, on a new arrangement of Three Waltzes (Albinoni, Piazzolla, Shostakovich). New York trained Sydney Goodner singer Tova Dodge joined the band in singing on Car- men. NW Accordionaires director, Cooksie Kramer, writes that DOTA is A very special day. Last few years our venue has been the Crossroads Mall in Bellevue WA. We feature Accordion Music for 10 hours from 11 AM to 9 PM. The featured artists range from Full Time Professionals to new beginners. There are solos, duets, ensembles and even an Accordion Orchestra. The Northwest Accordionaires are proud to be that orchestra! In the Community Room there are free Accordion Lessons (run by Dick Myking and myself) one – check the website of the North West Accordion and also a Concert of Rising Young Accordion Players Society (www.nwasnews.com) or you can call me. from the age of 7 years and up. Don’t miss the next 425 828 9104 or email [email protected].
Fall Quarter 2016 17 Northwest Accordion News
Sequim Accordion Social July 10, 2016 Tyrolean dance by Frosini. Submitted by Ilse Osier Roger Brown fi nished the fi rst part of our social with Good Night Irene and he sang along. Our social began with a trio consisting of Elsy Right after the break we had one last trio Laresser, Ken Lillagore and Susan Kidd. Susan play for us. Cathy Crowley from Gig Harbor joined and her husband are living more than half the year Frank Bruckner and Caryl Dowell for Janet’s Waltz, now in the Phoenix area, so we rarely have the Schneewalzer and a Patriotic Medley. opportunity to have her attend our socials. They Then it was time for our featured players. This started with the beautiful waltz Erinnerung played in time we had two featured players, David Emter on 3 voices, then Slowenischer Bauerntanz and they his Steirische button box accompanied by Sally Irish ended with a musette Kir Royal. Lovely, lovely music. on her key board. They played so many diff erent Then Elsy and Susan, now as a duo, played the selections and I was not able to get the names. Dave Blue Danube waltz by Joh. Strauss. plays mostly European music and he and Sally played Ken Lillagore performed An Aff air to Remember so lovely. It was relaxing and made me remember my and Anema E Core. Ken likes to play show tunes and vacations in Austria. By the way, both David and Sally he is good at it. also had to drive the extra miles around the Hood Our sing-along gal Helen Bucher had chosen 4 Canal. The bridge was fi nally back opened for traffi c patriotic songs for the month of July. She started with after 3 pm. God Bless America and the audience sang it twice. What a wonderful afternoon and I can’t wait for You’re A Grand Old Flag and This Land Is Your Land our next social in September. where next and Helen ended her program with In the Good Old Summertime. We all hope that summer will eventually arrive on the peninsula too. Paul Lamarche always plays a diff erent tune. He started with Nature Boy in a jazz style and My Funny Valentine. He then played some jazz improvising theory and Remember Michael with a swing section. He fi nished with a polka Linda’s Bavarian Bouquet. Ruby Wiggins and Dan King were up next. Ruby plays by ear only, she does not read music and Dan has just started learning this instrument for about 5 months. He also showed us a really small old diatonic button box and he played TAPS for all the victims in Dallas. Then he played from the beginner accordion book Down in The Valley, Alouette and a German children’s song. Ruby entertained us with It’s a Sin to Tell a Lie and It’s Now or Never. You can see that she loves her the accordion because she is so energetic playing it. The audience gave her a big applause. Cami Apfelbeck is a new student at Elsie Laresser’s. She came all the way from Poulsbo and because of the Hood Canal bridge being closed for car traffi c this day she had to drive all the way around the Hood Canal to get to Sequim. She and Elsy played a March and then Beautiful Brown Eyes a tribute to her mother whose accordion she inherited. Cami was so nervous as it was her fi rst time in front of an audience. Elsy Laresser was next and she played Poet and Peasant composed by F. von Suppe. Elsy sure knows how to enthrall an audience with her fi ne rendition. Ilse Osier performed a polka Zillertaler Schurzenjager and Waltz Of The Mountaineers, a 18 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Keeping Up with Gary Blair Gary had a busy schedule in the spring and played several times at his “haunt”, Avant Garde in Glasgow. In May he traveled with 55 other accor- dion players from England, Scotland, and the USA to Castelfi dardo. They visited several accordion facto- ries (Beltuna, Pigini, Bugari, Zero Zette) and had the privilege of visiting the Gallazzi bellows factory and the Binci reed factory. Gary and a few others stayed up to the wee hours to have a jam session; the hotel Tualatin Valley Accordionists, staff loved it. Forest Grove, OR He fi t in a few engagements before his trip to Leavenworth, WA. He was able to leave on June 12 which allowed some vacation time in town before the accordion celebration started. He gave a workshop, adjudicated competitions, and had a large audience for his Friday evening concert. Of course, there were long jam sessions at Andreas Keller and performanc- es at the gazebo during his stay. After LIAC he traveled to Seattle and held a workshop at Petosa Accordions. He was pleased at the response to his workshop there. Others orga- “Jam” in Newport, OR with Shirley & Jim O’Brien, nized performances and R and R for the next couple Paul Bria. Gary Blair, Geoff Levear and Joan Coleman of weeks. Caryl and Tom Dowell organized a concert and BBQ in Sequim. Thanks to the Dowell’s advertis- ing, there was a large audience. Karen Cordell orga- nized a concert, BBQ and excursions in Roseburg. Karen really knocked herself out to ensure a great event. On the Oregon Coast, Gary relaxed with Geoff and Joyce Levear, his American parents. He was able to stop off in Forest Grove to be with the Tualatin Val- ley Accordionists during his stay in Newport, OR with the Levears. Geoff organized a jam in Newport includ- ing Paul Bria, Jim and Shirley O’Brien, Joan Coleman. Allie Glover and her husband, Jeff , from Leaven- worth talked Gary into a road trip down the Oregon and California Coast to San Francisco. They had a wonderful time together and the trip capped a very Gary and Allie in busy time in the U.S. As soon as Gary returned to San Francisco Scotland, he was busy with ceilidh dances and other performances.
We Survived Gary Blair Ceilidh Band
Fall Quarter 2016 19 Northwest Accordion News ACCORDION AUTUMNFEST Remembering Gwendy Paulson FOREST GROVE, OR June 24, 1919 – May 16, 2016 Sunday, October 23, 2016 It had been a long time since there was news of 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM Gwendy and Cliff Paulson. Cliff called recently to re- por t that Gwendy passed away after a lengthy illness. At her request, there was no memorial service or obituary. Gwendy had a collection of about 20 accor- dions. Cliff is looking to fi nd buyers and new homes for them. He said, “She never saw an accordion she didn’t like!” Gwendy was a champion of the accordion and supported the Northwest Accordion Society since its beginning. She will be missed. Cliff can be reached at [email protected].
Accordion Repair Sergei Teleshev – featured Lance Curkendall accordionist St. Helens, OR Forest Grove Senior and Community 503-267-4580 Center [email protected] 2037 Douglas Street Forest Grove, OR
Admission: adults $5.00 Hosted by Doris Osgood And the Tualatin Valley Accordionists For the Northwest Accordion Society For Sale Lovers of accordion music Always Welcome! You are invited to bring your accordion and your friends to an afternoon of accordion music. We sign in to play and perform in the order in which we register. Young players are always guaranteed a slot and could change the order. Prepare knowing that our guests have come for the program. Play 2 of your favorite selections or one lengthy piece. Players will not exceed 7 minutes for their performances. There will be a 50/50 drawing benefi ting our scholarship fund, light refreshments, and visiting. Remember to join 72 bass Zero Sette us, just for the fun of it! Excellent Condition For information contact Doris Osgood Soft case with wheels at 503-357-0417. Will sell for $2500 OBO. [email protected] Accordion Socials in Forest Grove are always the (503) 649-0724 4th Sundays in April and October.
20 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Remembering Bill Cosby
AWW is very sad to report that the accordion world lost a great man and world class accordion- ist. Bill Cosby passed on July 7, 2016. Bill was National Champion (ATG, 1964, 65, 66, 67) win- ning the Silver Medal at the Coupe Mondiale in 1964 and the Bronze Medal in 1965. William Cosby, Cosby, an accordionist since 7, was the winner of three Accordion Teachers Guild national titles and two American Accordion- ists Association titles. He was also the Instructor of Cadet of Music and the Music Director and Conductor of the West Point Glee Club during his time at the United States Military Academy. Cosby played both pop and classical jazz Cheese Days in Wisconsin styles as an accordionist. He also played the piano, conducted symphony orchestras and produced demos for Warner and Atlantic record labels. Originally from California, Mr. Cosby was an organist, pianist, and fi ve-time National Cham- pion Accordionist. Deadline for submitting articles, In 1971 COL William Shempf, Professor of pictures, advertisements, etc. Music at West Point, turned the Cadet Glee Club February 1 (Spring) over to Mr. Cosby, and he continued to serve as director for the next 17 years. He then moved on May 1 (Summer) to become the Founding Musical Director of the August 1 (Fall) West Point Alumni Glee Club in the D.C. area, and returned to playing his beloved Knowlton ac- November 1 (Winter) cordion in recordings and live concerts. The William H. Cosby Award—was estab- lished by the West Point Alumni Glee Club and presented for the very fi rst time at the Glee Club best exemplifi es the spirit of the motto: “No fun Graduation Concert in May 2015. without music; no music without fun!” This award highlights another unique con- Bill will be greatly missed both in and beyond nection between the band and glee club, which is the accordion world. More information and videos that William H. “Bill” Cosby was himself a former will be included in the August www.accordionusa. band member. He joined the West Point Band as com news. a specialist in 1970. “ Mr. Cosby infl uenced hundreds of United “Mephisto Waltz, Franz Liszt” “Mephisto States Military Academy graduates with his zest Waltz, Franz Liszt” performed by William Cosby, for life, music, fun and support of the military. Accordionist. Published on Mar 15, 2014: The The William H. Cosby Award is awarded an- arrangement was done by Anthony Galla-Rini nually by the West Point Alumni Glee Club to the and William Cosby. William Cosby was a student Most Valuable Member of the West Point Cadet of both Tito Giudotti and Galla-Rini. Recorded Glee Club. Selected by the members of the Ca- March 14, 2014 det Glee Club, it is awarded to the individual who For further information: [email protected].
Fall Quarter 2016 21 Northwest Accordion News In Remembrance - the USA Shirlee was the navigator, cook, nurse, Shirlee Joyce Holmes negotiator, and talked Monty out of some wild goose chases (like driving 500 miles out of the way looking for an antique car). After partici- Shirlee passed away on pating in every level of the antique/classic car August 4, 2016 bravely and cou- events and winning awards on a national level, rageously battling the unforgiv- they joined the Classic Yacht Association. They ing challenges of ALS. enjoyed cruising with their many friends in the Lovingly supported by her “WAHOMA” with their English bulldog “Winston”. family through her journey. Born Together they started Ebey Island Christmas Tree in Spokane, WA on October Farm after retiring from Athletic Awards in 1990; 3, 1931. Only child of Cyril F. she kept it running like a fi ne tuned machine. In McGee (“Cy”) and Rozelle Mary a R/V they crossed the USA and Canada, seeing Dion McGee. At age 8 she start- relatives and friends ed learning the accordion. At 15, Shirlee served as treasurer for the “No Seat- she began teaching after school tle Commons” 2 winning campaigns in 1994 and at Sickler Accordion Studios. 1995 that helped save jobs in South Lake Union. Shirlee graduated from North Central HS in June She came up with the logo for the campaign that 1948, From 1948-1949 she attended EWU. saved over 100 businesses from certain condem- In 1949 Shirlee moved to Seattle attending nation. We should thank Shirlee for all the jobs classes at the UW while working at the phone that are in SLU today. company. She continued teaching accordion She also was secretary of South Lake Union at Joe Spano Studios 1950-1955 with a class Neighborhood Planning Committee. Shirlee was load of 50 students while living on a Lake Union a member of the Music Performance Group as a houseboat. She met Loren “Monty” Holmes when Composer and Accordionist from 1983 to 2016. he came to repair the logs under her houseboat She composed many classical songs for vocalists with his Houseboat Repair Service; they fell in and piano and wrote several pop music songs. love and were married on June 19, 1953 in 1958 She was one of the founding members of the they built a home above the Government Locks. Washington Accordion Teachers Association and In 1958, she left her accordion teaching job was in charge of accordion competitions. She to concentrate on raising their 2 children and was in the Russian Balalaika Orchestra for 2 engraving at her husband’s business where he years as the accordionist. At age 39 she attended managed the trophy department. In 1983 to- Cornish College studying music theory and ma- gether they founded their own business, Athletic joring in jazz composition and ensembles. Awards Company. She was both the secretary She studied privately with Ken Olendorf, a and bookkeeper. well-known jazz accordionist, formed a quartet Shirlee was the 1st Mate/MOM on family called the “Mellowdees”, formed the musical cruising adventures aboard their 32’ converted group “The Swinging Grandmas”, performed at Navy hull, the “BACKWASH”. The family explored the Folklife Festival. the Canadian San Juan Islands hanging diapers Shirlee was preceded in death by her parents on the boat to dry while enjoying the beautiful Cy and Rozelle McGee. She is survived by her scenery and teaching her children the skills of husband of 63 years, Loren “Monty” Holmes of boating life. In 1960 Monty got the bug for antique Seattle. Son, Monty Holmes and Katie Nolan of cars and joined the Horseless Carriage Club. In Seattle, daughter Rani Thorning and son in law 1961 he found and restored a 1911 Stevens Dur- Tim Thorning of Issaquah. Grandchildren Brett yea. The family went on many antique car tours Holmes, Jason Thorning, Benjamin Holmes, and taking Best in Show, not only for the car but also Chelsie Thorning, sister-in-law Lorraine Ring and by dressing in period costume and winning Best husband Richard Ring deceased; nephew Rich Dressed Family on several occasions. On camping and traveling adventures across Continued on page 23 22 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Kudos to Michael Bridge Accordion Club of Roseburg members had a blast with Gary Blair. CBC Radio Cana- Reported by Karen Cordell, President, da is pleased to present Accordion Club of Roseburg. the 2016 edition of their annual list of Canada’s emerging classical mu- sic talent. Yearly since 2013, they have been polling conservatories, mu- sic competitions and Left to right: Lavonne Knapp, Francis Hair, Jeanette Dewey, professional training Charles Stayer on the bucket, Tim Juett, Gary Blair, Karen programs from coast Cordell, Rey Ellen Wanamaker, and Robin Fox. to coast, and creat- Excitement ran high on June 29, 2016 for our ing a who’s who of the small accordion club. Gary Blair allowed us to share nation’s next classical the stage with him for the opening of his concert. We music stars. had worked hard to practice our pieces just right. Something new this year: all of the young musi- What an experience! He made us sound so good! cians being celebrated are newcomers to the 30-un- der-30 list. Twenty-three-year-old Michael Bridge from Canada is the fi rst accordionist ever to be on the “30 under 30” list. Excerpts from the CBC website: “Music is not a job, it’s a lifestyle.” says Michael Bridge. He dedicates all his waking hours to performing, teaching and studying his instrument, and it’s paying off . In May he received an Emerging Artist Award from the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. Last season, he performed as soloist with the Ontario Philharmonic String Quartet, the Lethbridge Philharmonic Orches- The audience consisted of family members, friends tra, the University of Toronto Symphony Orchestra and many people from the community. When I in- and Soundstreams. quired who may have traveled the farthest, Gary Blair Michael also toured Ecuador, Poland, France quickly raised his hand. Laughing out loud besides and Canada with Double Double Duo, the group he Gary one couple traveled 10 hours from Burns Or- co-founded with clarinetist, Kornel Wolak. Bridge was egon just to be at the concert. With great delight the subject of a radio documentary on CBC Radio children wiggled and danced while many tapped their One’s The Sunday Edition. Through all of that, he toes to Gary’s distinctive sound. gave the world premiere of 15 new works. Upcoming After the concert folks were invited to try on the do- in 2016-17, Michael will complete his master’s degree nated accordions for a real time experience. in accordion performance at U of T and play music by Astor Piazzolla and William Bridges with the Greater Toronto Philharmonic Orchestra.
Shirlee Holmes - continued from page 22 Ring and daughter Sabrina Casperson, niece Richelle Slater and husband Chip Slater son Chris Slater In lieu of fl owers contributions can be made This was an experience of a life time for the Accor- to The ALS Association Evergreen Chapter web- dion Club of Roseburg and many are ready to do it all site or mailed to, 19226 66th Ave S, Suite L-105, again. Thank you Gary for such a wonderful time. Kent, WA 98032. Fall Quarter 2016 23 Northwest Accordion News By the Way – Paul Rogers. TDA also performs an extensive repertoire of covers, ranging from traditional accordion standards and polkas to hard rock, funk and new wave songs. Emmanuel Gasser placed 1st with his original composition, “Spring Blizzard” at the Elsie M Bennett competition, which is part of the original composition category at the AAA Competitions. He also performed this piece using his free bass accordion at the AAA Awards Concert. Congratulations, Emmanuel. David Locke writes, “A thoughtful and cheeky friend from the morning coff ee group sent me this link.... I don’t know if it’s of any use, except to demonstrate yet another way the accordion is superior to the bagpipes.” http://wapo. Congratulations, Sam Thomas! Sam Thomas st/2bdwofq?tid=ss_mail is the winner of the Leavenworth Open at the competition during the Leavenworth International The lovely little waltz, At the Gazebo, in this Accordion Celebration 2016. issue is an original composition by Emmanuel Gasser. It has been simplifi ed slightly from his Robynne Snow writes, “I have had occasion to original. With his permission, Ron Ostromecki watch the fi lm, Accordions Rising, in front of changed the chord notation for the bass to a several audiences, mainly accordionists. People single note rather than the full chord provided. laughed, they clapped, they nodded, and they This piece is copyrighted; Emmanuel has given were rapt with attention. This is a movie about permission to print his waltz in the Northwest art and the accordion: about musicianship, about Accordion News. If anyone is interested, diff erent genres of music and styles of playing, the original music is available for $4; Spring about the past and about the present revival Blizzard, his award winning original composition, of accordion playing. It captures the lure of the is also available for purchase for $9. Contact accordion as a folk instrument and its versatility Emmanuel directly at: emmanuel_gasser@ as an instrument of classical and contemporary yahoo.com. music. It is a remarkable achievement as Roberta Cantow is not an accordionist. She has a keen Accordionist Sergei Teleshev with the Trio eye for what appeals to people of all walks of life Voronezh will perform at the Coupe Mondiale in about music and art in general and specifi cally September. The Eugene based trio is one of the how the accordion engages that appeal. Bravo!” jewels of the Pacifi c Northwest. This will be the fi rst time that the Coupe Mondiale has been held Those Darn Accordions, commonly abbreviated in Russia. as TDA, are an American accordion band from San Francisco, California, originally formed Singer, Josh Groban, will make his long-awaited in 1989 by Linda “Big Lou” Seekins. Boasting debut on Broadway in November. Natasha, several accordionists whose numbers have Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812 played fl uctuated over the years and rounded out by a “off Broadway” for a few years but has been bassist and a drummer, Those Darn Accordions “reinvented” to play on the proscenium stage play a multi-genre mix of rock, pop and polka in Manhattan. Groban will include playing the originals, characterized by the unusual use accordion in this new Broadway Musical! of eff ects and distortion on their accordions After about a 20 year hiatus, Barry Smith and the humorous lyrics of current front-man returned to Leavenworth in June. He, along with
24 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
many students from Ilmar Kuljus’ Accordia Thank you, Marjorie Rombauer Nova studio, participated in the competition the fi rst years of LIAC before going off to college. Marjorie Rombauer is an accomplished, legal He was a fantastic accordionist as a young scholar; she retired from the University of Washing- teen. He’s a great accordionist still, but he has ton. She is also a fi ne accordionist! Over the years, matured into a wonderful musician. He and Sam Marjorie has studied with Diane Schmitt, competed Thomas teamed to play duets for Ilmar’s concert at Leavenworth, has played with a quartet and with last summer and they have continued to play the Northwest Accordionaires. She and her friend, together. The two are a real dynamic duo! Louise North were duet partners too. Since 2004, Marjorie has faithfully and skillfully reported the The Rose City Accordion Club Camp at Silver action at the Seattle monthly socials. Marjorie will Falls is set! Camp will be June 4 – 9, 2017. retire from that responsibility. Though we under- Stas Venglevski and Murl Allen Sanders stand her need to step down, we are very sorry to return as directors along with Beverley Fess have her go. We wish Marjorie good health and and Mary Tokarski. Joining them for workshops best wishes. We certainly don’t want to lose touch will be John Simkus and Jim Bianchi. Contact with this lovely woman. RCAC President, Wayne Tiusanen for details: [email protected] “My parting advice to ambitious accordionists is that nothing can be accomplished without hard work. Even geniuses must study and work, so if you ever expect to attain heights, remember that we only get out of a study what we put into it, so work hard. I did.” -Pietro Frosini. Players were invited to entertain at the Gingerbread House in Leavenworth this year. Friday was great and the players enjoyed the experience. Saturday was a wash out… we’re looking forward to playing their next year. The Gingerbread House made LIAC Accordion New accordion student, Gunawan Muhadi in Tiergarten, cookies for the weekend. I had the manager hold Schonbrunn, Vienna, Austria one for me. I can’t get away from the gazebo easily and didn’t want to miss out. Too, too cute! Toby Hanson writes that he will be taking his band to Las Vegas in February. They will be playing for a Southwest Polka Party at the Mark your Calendars! Orleans Hotel and Casino. He’s pretty excited! Colleen Halverson, our advertising editor, resides in La Pine, Oregon. Her email address is: Leavenworth International [email protected] Accordion Celebration Remember to submit your articles and other information to our magazine address: NWAS News 5102 NE 121st Ave Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682 June 15 - 18, 2017 Check the web site, www.nwasnews.com for current events and updates. www.accordioncelebration.org
Fall Quarter 2016 25 Northwest Accordion News Spokane Accordion Ensemble News playing “Over the Rainbow” on our By Cheryl A. McGinley, Secretary Facebook page. It was Our ensemble has grown this past year, and a great concert and a we are pleased to welcome our newest members: lot of fun for all of us. Pam Thomas, Barry Smith, Rod Miller, and Margaret The proceeds from the Graham. There are currently 15 of us who come event were donated to from various parts of the state, out of state and a local hospice center. from Canada to play in this group of dedicated The next day accordionists. Our President, Eileen Webber we went to Calgary rehearses the group on a weekly basis, but when not where we played available, Barry Smith, Henry Peden and Ilmar Kuljus another concert with fi ll in. We rely on Conductor Bev Fess for concerts Bev conducting and and fi ne tuning. Michael Bridge playing In early May several a couple of solos. Bev of us traveled to Alberta, and Michael performed Canada for two concerts. the overture to The It was Conductor/teacher Marriage of Figaro as Beverley Fess’s 50th year a duet. We were well of teaching accordion, and received and sold several of our CD’s. part of the celebration was It was here in Canada that we met Margaret a concert held in her honor. Graham who had agreed to fi ll in for one of our Beverley is a wonderful, members who could not attend; she enjoyed it so knowledgeable conductor, with so much experience and musicality that has helped our ensemble. We did not hesitate to join in her event when asked. After the fi rst day of rehearsals [see photo above], we attended an evening reception with great food, drink and accordionists jamming. Kathleen and Anne, our Tarantella dancers were soon joined much that she asked to join the ensemble, and is now by other dancers on the fl oor, and everyone enjoyed our newest member. We also send a big thank you to themselves. Michael Bridge for fi lling in for Sam Thomas in both of The fi rst concert was in Okotoks, which is just our concerts. On the evening of June 16th we played a concert as part of the Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration, in the lovely Bavarian themed town of Leavenworth, Washington. Beverley Fess conducted us in a variety of songs, many of them our members’ favorites. They ranged from an Abba medley, Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, “Stars & Stripes Forever”, “Black & White Rag” and Mozart’s “Serenade” to name a few. It was a fun concert and well attended. We received many compliments from our audience, and often with the exclamation that, south of Calgary. Our Rick Webber was the emcee they “did not know an accordion orchestra could that evening. Bev played a solo and two duets, and sound like so many diff erent instruments.” some of her students, including Michael Bridge We will take a brief summer break and start up performed. Beverley’s ensemble, Fess & Friends, in early fall preparing for a sing along Christmas played as did ours, then we combined both for two concert, and with new music for a spring concert with numbers: “Over the Rainbow” and “Rock Around a European fl avor to it. the Clock”. There is a video of the combined group 26 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Then, Stella met me. I was “retired” from play- Memories of “Mama Stella” Allison ing for close to twenty years in a Balkan/Gypsy band By Joan Grauman and was basically not playing the accordion anymore. Someone put an accordion on me at a party and Stel- la listened. “I like the way you play and I want you to be my duet partner”, said the forceful, lovable Stella. I hemmed and hawed, Stella’s husband Roy put some sheet music in front of me, and Stella said, “Stop that FRITZIN’ AROUND, and let’s play!!” From that moment on, our lives were never the same, and I feel very blessed! We toured the country together for 4 ½ wonderful years, playing our duets and making the audiences laugh at accordion camps, festivals, for the Northern Virginia Ragtime Society and many other venues and private parties. Actually, Stella made everyone laugh, as her sense of humor was totally delightful!! When Maddalena Belfi ore and Stella Allison and Joan Grauman Linda Reed asked the two of us to play at the 2005 AAA Luncheon Concert in Dearborn, Michigan, we On Monday, August 8, my former duet partner worked very, very hard to do our best at this event. and dear friend Stella Allison passed away after a Even at that time, Stella’s physical health was declin- lengthy illness. For all who knew Stella (and if you ing, so we decided to do a live concert CD while we were ever in her presence, you knew and loved her!), were “at the top of our game”. In November 2005, we She will be remembered for her joyous laugh, her taped our concert live and the CD from that fun-fi lled great jazz renditions, and her total love for being with evening sold out within months. We two “mediocre her friends in the accordion world. accordion ladies” were thrilled! This CD was recently Stella Werner Allison was born in 1929 in Mary- re-released and can be obtained by contacting me at: land and remained a loyal resident of the state her [email protected]. entire 87 years. She began studying the accordion as Stella had to put down her accordion by the end a child with the celebrated Washington, DC accordion of 2008. We stayed close until the end, and enjoyed teacher, Sylvia Kaplowitz, and was the youngest girl reminiscing about our magical years together making to be invited to perform in Sylvia’s all girl band at the wonderful friends from all over the country and Cana- age of 12 (she is pictured with this band at age 13 in da. I must add that the beautiful duet compositions by Stas Venglevski, to which Stella introduced me, were what motivated us to work for hours weekly during our fi rst couple of years together.
1942. She is the third from the left). In their gowns, these young girls performed constantly during World War II to raise money for War Bonds. After graduat- ing with a degree in music education from American University in Washington, DC, Stella took a 40-year break from the accordion to raise a family of four, and to serve in many political, community and church or- ganizations. In her early 60s, Stella dusted off her old accordion, studied with Dr. Carmelo Pino and began soloing, mostly on the west coast, where her son Tom Gary Blair and Stella Allison lives, for over ten years.
Fall Quarter 2016 27 Northwest Accordion News
Tour of Castelfi dardo
Dear Accordion Friends, Gaylynn and I just returned from a trip to of approval of that set. Also explained was the engrav- Italy where we toured the accordion factories in ing “BINCI” on some reeds which they apply only to a Castelfi dardo. The fi ve-day tour was organized and limited quantity of the very best reeds. led by Peter Le Geyt (PLG Marketing Associates) of That afternoon we visited the bellows factory the Guilford (London, UK) accordion club. Most tour and marveled at their use of water-jet & laser cutters members were of the aforementioned club with some to produced bellows. I also had a chance to visit the from this side of the Atlantic. We were delighted in Musitech showroom next to the hotel and tried their the presence of Gary Blair, the famous Scottish ac- reedless, MIDI accordion. It is similar to Roland’s but cordionist who thrilled us with his fl ying fi ngers. The requires it to be connected to a MIDI module, speak- following report outlines the highlights of this trip. ers, and an electric socket (no Battery). It is very We joined the tour in Bologna for the three-hour lightweight and produces wonderful MIDI sounds. bus trip to the beautiful hill-top town of Castelfi dardo, Our fourth day was mostly dedicated to visiting birthplace of the accordion where we stayed at the the large Zero Sette factory, makers of Bugari, Gi- 4-star Parco Hotel for the duration of our tour. ulietti, Petosa, and other high-end accordions. They First on our agenda was the accordion museum have recently bought the rights to the Roland digital which houses a feast-for-the-eyes collection of vin- accordions and are building a successor to the FR-8X tage and antique accordions, many dating back to the under the Bugari-EVO name, using the same compo- turn of the 19th century and all in pristine original or nents, with potential for upgrades in the future such restored to like-new condition. as adding blue tooth and remote control by i-phone. It This was followed next day by a visit to Victoria is identical to the FR-8x except for a wooden (as op- accordions, the late Frank Marocco‘s favorite brand posed to plastic) body and a wood-backed keyboard and home of the world’s biggest accordion, a behe- allowing faster action and a more upscale look and moth the size of a mini-van. Surprisingly, it is a fully feel worthy of the Bugari name. operational box with real accordion reeds, except for I understood that production has not commenced the bellows being operated by an electric motor due to yet, awaiting the electronic components from Roland the accordion’s weight. A few of us ventured to play it, in Japan. They did have a few units at their impres- having to climb a ladder to get to the top keys - much sive showroom and we were privileged with a fan- to the delight of those watching. tastic demonstration by a top local accordionist. We We then stopped at the Beltuna and Pigini fac- were then invited for a hands-on trial. As the owner of tories, both makers of high-end instruments. It was an FR-8X unit myself, I was able to feel the improve- interesting seeing how a work of art can emerge out ments in the keyboard. of a pile of wood, glue and lacquer. We saw an Excel- On the way back to Bologna, we spent the day in sior assembly line at Pigini. the micro-state of San Marino, the world’s 5th small- What was perhaps the highlight of the tour came est republic where we enjoyed the breathtaking views the following day when we visited the well-known from the mountain top as well as the great shopping. BINCI reed factory where we were treated by a Our tour was enhanced with nightly outings to demonstration of how a “hand-made (Tipo A Mano) restaurants in nearby towns, carrying several accordi- reed is made. BINCI is one of four reed factories in ons on the bus for us to take turns playing during our Castelfi dardo that produce high-end reeds. It was in- music-fi lled dinners. Needless to say, the enjoyment teresting to see the process of making a set of reeds, and new knowledge acquired during this tour could starting with cutting the block from an aluminum strip not have been achieved without the dedication and and the reed tongues out of Swedish blue steel, after hard work of Peter Le Geyt, our tour conductor, as which the two are riveted together and hand-worked well as the wonderful camaraderie of all participants. by fi ling and hammering until a perfect fi t is made with The same tour to Castelfi dardo is being planned the smallest tolerances between the two. When one by PLG for May, 2017. Stay tuned if interested. of our tour members inquired about the much debated Joe Brikha subject of double vs. single rivets, we were informed President that a single rivet is suffi cient to produce the highest Houston Bay Area Accordion Club quality reed, however, a double rivet is BINCI’s stamp May 29, 2016
28 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
Photos from Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration
“Jam Band” under the direction of Jim O’Brien at the Gazebo. The group had a new repertoire of music prepared by Jim O’Brien and Rick Hatley.
Castiglione Accordions We are one of the principle people in selling the new “Virtual Roland Reedless” Accordions Please visit our web site, www. castiglioneaccordions.com Click on Roland and then look and listen to the Audio-Visual demonstration of the instrument.
Importers and Exporters Featuring Castiglione, Beltuna, Scandalli, Guerrini, Excelsior, Dallapé, Tyrolean and more All types of accordions - piano, diatonic, chromatic button New and Used - MIDI and Electronics Buy - Sell - Trade - Repair - Tune [email protected] http://www.castiglioneaccordions.com Phone: (586) 755-6050 Fax (586) 755-6339
Fall Quarter 2016 29 Northwest Accordion News Competition After hours at Keller
Bursary Recipients
Leavenworth Open Rebecca Bracewell, Sam Thomas and Barry Smith
LIAC Competition participants
30 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Grange Concerts
Barry Smith
Max, Kory, Tom
Sam Thomas
Bonnie Birch Trio
Lyle Schaefer
Shirley and Jim O’Brien
Fall Quarter 2016 31 Northwest Accordion News Workshops
Charlie Brown
Bev Fess
Come back for LIAC 2017! Toby Hanson June 15 - 18, 2017 32 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Friday Concerts Accordion Celebration Concerts Gary Blair Slight Confusion 4Tet Thursday Concerts: Mike Zampiceni Mary Ross Spokane Accordion Ensemble
Fall Quarter 2016 33 Northwest Accordion News Saturday Concerts Jelena Milojevic Seattle Symphony with Jamie Mashler Victoria Accordion Orchestra LIAC Dance Band The Fellowship of the Ring from The Lord of the Rings, the fi rst fi lm of the beloved trilogy, was shown on a giant screen as the Seattle Symphony performed the score LIVE! This epic score composed and orchestrated by Academy Award-winner Howard Shore was performed live by the orchestra and two full choirs. The orchestration included ACCORDION! Jamie Mashler performed with the Seattle Symphony for 3 sold out perfor- mances. Jamie Maschler is among Seat- tle’s few female lead instrumen- talists. “Jamie Maschler, knows the ver- satility of the accordion bet- ter than most. She has played the instrument since she was four and spent years perfecting and competing..... Talents like her seem to be increas- ingly valuable.” -The Atlantic Magazine Maschler is lead accordionist for the band En Canto, Seattle’s only Brazilian forró group. Hot off the press Solto Por Jeri, their fi rst full length album, is fi lled with wo-pop originals and reimagined clas- sics. Maschler has played in venues all over the world including St. Lucia, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico. Maschler is fresh off a 9 city tour of Alaska with the performance group Letters Aloud. Jamie’s original music has been aired on the Radio in Se- attle, Austin, Canada, and Salvador Brazil! In 2016, her accordion playing will be featured in PopCap games. Maschler most recently performed with the Seattle Symphony during a live fi lm scoring of Lord of the Rings. Jamie has been featured performer and pre- sented workshops on stylized Brazilian, tango and world music for the Leavenworth Accordion Con- vention, National Accordion Association, Seattle Flute Society. Coming up she will be featured at the Port Townsend Accordion Festival as well as the Fairbanks, AK Summer Arts Festival. Visit www.jamiemaschler.com 34 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News
EASTSIDE JAZZ Bellevue, WA Accordion Events Calendar 3rd Tuesday monthly, Courtyard Marriott Hotel, 7:30 By Doris Osgood PM. Contact: Cooksie Kramer 425-828-9104 [email protected] EMERALD VALLEY ACCORDION CLUB NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALS EUGENE, OR nd SEATTLE, WA 2 Monday monthly: 7:00 – 9:30 PM Veterans’ 2nd Monday monthly: West Seattle Senior Center Memorial Bldg. 1626 Willamette St. Secretary Linda Resume Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov 14, Dec. 12 Contact: Gunn John Giuliani 425-255-2121 or Birgit Ages 206-947- 541-726-6330 [email protected] V.P. Lou 8393 Back up contact: Bonnie Birch 206-622-4786. Marzano doors open 6:30 PM, Music begins at 7:00 Music 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. PM NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALS FAIRBANKS ACCORDION CLUB TACOMA, WA FAIRBANKS, AK 2nd Thursday monthly: Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov.10, Mondays weekly 6 – 8 PM Pioneers Home, open to all Dec.8 Lutheran Church 121st & Park Ave. across from free reed instruments. Contact: Christine Upton 907- PLU Library 7:00 – 9:30 PM 457-3392 contact: Dick Myking 253-537-0136 FIVE VALLEY ACCORDION ASSOCIATION NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALS MONTANA FOREST GROVE, OR 5VAA Jams: MST 1 – 4 PM, DST 1- 5 PM 4th Sundays April and October. Forest Grove Pres. Helen Brady 370-8452 Community Center, 2037 Douglas St. Forest Grove, Sept. 11 Rustic Hut Florence OR. 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM. Contact: Doris Osgood Sept. 25 Rustic Hut Florence 503-357-0417. Oct. 9 Rustic Hut Florence April 24, 2016 and October 23, 2016 Oct. 23 Rustic Hut Florence [email protected] ACCORDION CLUB OF CENTRAL OREGON BEND, OR Montana – NW Accordion Association st 1 Saturday Monthly, 10 AM Aspen Ridge Retirement Sept. 18 Eagles, Kalispell Home 1010 NW Purcell Blvd, Bend Members provide Oct. 2 Elks, Polson entertainment one Sunday monthly also. Contacts: Oct. 16 Eagles, Kalispell Lillian Jones, 541-536-1531 [email protected] Nov. 6 Elks, Polson or Karl Kment, 541-548-0495 [email protected] Nov. 20 Eagles, Kalispell ACCORDION CLUB OF ROSEBURG Dec. 4 Elks, Polson ROSEBURG, OR Dec. 18 Eagles, Kalispell 3rd Monday monthly 6:30, 553 Little Valley Rd. Contact: Ken Kenmille 406-407-3514 Roseburg all NWAA Jams 2 – 5:30 PM Pres. Karen Cordell 553 Little Valley Rd. Roseburg, OR 97471 541-784-1911 [email protected] Montana – Great Falls Accordion Players Sept 18 Black Eagle Community Center ACCORDION CLUB OF VANCOUVER Oct. 16 Eagles VANCOUVER, B.C. Nov. 6 Elks www.meetup.com/Accordion-Club-of-Vancouver Dec. 11 Moose contact: Haike Kingma, [email protected] Jan 15, 2017 Black Eagle Community Center ACCORDION INTERNATIONAL MUSIC SOCIETY Contact: Doris Seaton 406-727-2493 SANTA BARBARA, CA Jams are 1 PM – 5 PM nd 2 Sunday monthly 1 – 3 PM Vale Verde Retirement GEM STATE ACCORDION CLUB Theatre 900 Calle de los Amigos, Santa Barbara, CA IDAHO AIMS P.O. Box 4511 Santa Barbara, CA 93140 Caldwell Library Community Rm Caldwell, ID Info: Heinz Trick 805-685-2260 3rd Saturday monthly 1 – 4 PM www.santabarbaraaccordions.com for information contact: Dianne Lansing slansing757@ gmail.com
Fall Quarter 2016 35 Northwest Accordion News HUGO’S ACCORDION BAND 1st Sat. monthly 10 AM – 1 PM Forest Grove Library MT. VERNON, WA Pacifi c Ave. Contact: Paul and Judy Bria 971-205- 2nd and 4th Monday monthly 2:00 - 4:00 PM 4594 [email protected] or Doris Osgood 503-357-0417 Director,Leif Holmes. President: Ron Zentner, 4100 [email protected] S. Wilkes Gary Hts., Camano Island, WA 98282 YUMA ACCORDION CLUB (360)387-8143 [email protected] Yuma, AZ HOUSTON BAY AREA ACCORDION CLUB every Tuesday, November - March at the Yuma Food HOUSTON, TX Bank at 2404 E 24th Street, Yuma, AZ 2ND Wednesday monthly 5 – 9 PM Joe Brikha, Pres President, Coreen Bergholm, bergholm_coreen@ [email protected] www.bayareaaccordionclub. yahoo.com or Ginger Purdy, [email protected] com VICTORIA ACCORDION CLUB MEDFORD ACCORDION CLUB VICTORIA, B.C. CANADA MEDFORD, OR 1st Sunday Monthly 2:30 PM, Victoria Edelweiss Club The group has disbanded until further notice. 108 Niagra St., James Bay District Victoria, BC Contact: John 250-386-7282 or 250-477-3098 OKANAGAN ACCORDION CLUB KELOWNA, BC BUTTON BOX CAMPS JULY AND SEPT Tuesdays weekly Sept. – May, Senior Center on for information contact: Joseph Smiell Jr. 812 Bantry Richter Way Benica, CA 94510, 707-751-0525 - camps held Info contact: Rod Miller 250-317-9088, Lela Bourne at Heildman Lodge, Norden, CA near Donner Pass [email protected] COUPE MONDIALE ROGUE RIVER ACCORDION CLUB September 11 – 17, 2016 ROGUE RIVER, OR in Russia, fi rst time ever! The Trio Voronezh will 2nd Friday monthly. 4 – 6 PM Council Chambers perform during the competition. Rogue River City Hall, 133 Broadway St. Rogue ACCORDON EXTRAVAGANZA River, OR. Pres. Margot Turrell 206 Creekside Grants EDMONTON, ALBERTA Pass, OR 97526 541-479-9409 [email protected] September 23 - 25 , 2016 www.edmontonaccordion.com ROSE CITY ACCORDION CLUB PORTLAND, OR OREGON’S ALPENFEST 3rd Saturday monthly. 1 – 5 PM Milwaukie Public Sept. 22-25 2016 Safety Bldg, SE 32nd & Harrison, Milwaukie, OR. Wallowa County, Oregon Pres. Wayne Tiusanen [email protected] Featuring Hans Rainer Jr. and the Happy Hans www.rosecityaccordionclub.org German Band The only Swiss-Bavarian festival in the West – events SEQUIM ACCORDION SOCIAL in Enterprise, Joseph and Wallowa Lake. Details: SEQUIM, WA oregonalpenfest.com or 541-426-ALPS (2577). nd 2 Sunday, Odd numbered months, 1:00 – 4:00 PM Chuck Anderson Sequim Senior Center 921 E. Hammond St Alpenmeister/President Contact: Frank Bruckner: [email protected] Oregon’s Alpenfest 208-290-4037 or Caryl Dowell: dowellcaryl@gmail. P.O. Box 327 com Joseph, OR 97846 520-369-2550 541-426-ALPS (2577) SIERRA NEVADA ACCORDIONS 541-398-1096 RENO, NV RCAC ACCORDION CAMP- SILVER FALLS John Covarelli, Pres. 775-848-3777, sqeezebox2@ CONFERENCE CENTER June 4 – 9, 2017 near gmail.com Sublimity, OR. Contact: Wayne Tiusanen, 503-919-2962 [email protected] SPOKANE ACCORDION ENSEMBLE SPOKANE, WA LEAVENWORTH INTERNATIONAL ACCORDION weekly rehearsals 6- 9 PM Eileen Webber, Pres. 509- CELEBRATION June 15 - 18, 2017 Leavenworth, 290-6858 [email protected] WA. www.accordioncelebration.org www.nwasnews.com TUALATIN VALLEY ACCORDIONISTS FOREST GROVE, OR Continued on page 39 36 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Entertainers in the Northwest Submit your public performance schedules to Doris Osgood 3224 B St. Forest Grove, OR 97116 [email protected] Gary Dahl Alpiners USA For scheduling information write 509 Valley Ave. NE www.alpinerusa.com with Joe Domitrowich #5 Puyallup, WA 98372 Juan Barco – Band Phone/fax 253-770-9492 Contact: 23091 23rd Ave. W. Brier, WA 98036 [email protected]; www.accordions.com/ 425-775-8150; cell 206-356-1878 garydahl; www.beltuna.com Corky Bennett Tom Demski (Mr. Flash) Wednesdays at Polo Lounge, Fridays w/ 9th St. Band For scheduling information write: 518 9th St. SW Reno Senior Center, Saturdays at Bavarian World Puyallup, WA 98371 253-840-9277 website: www.corkybennett.com [email protected] email: [email protected] Folk Voice Band CB Productions For scheduling: Birgit Ages 206-947-8393 3983 S. McCarran Blvd #226 [email protected] Reno, NV 89502 http://folkvoiceband.com offi ce: 775-870-1509 cell: 775-287-2050 Laura Gardner/Phoenix Underground Bonnie Birch contact: [email protected] website: bonniebirch.com For scheduling information: write 1107 1st Ave. Happy Hans’ Music Hans Rainer, Jr. #1003 Seattle, WA 98101. Sept 23 – 24 Oregon’s Alpenfest Swiss/Bavarian 206-622-4786, email: [email protected] Festival Wallowa Lake, OR Sept 30, Oct 1,7,8,14,15 O’fest Leavenworth, WA Chuck Berger Oct. 21 O’fest Maple Valley 6:30 – 9:30 PM Accordion Repair and Public Performance Oct. 22 O’fest Berliner Pub Renton 6 – 10 PM For information call: 503-254-0996 Oct. 29 O’fest German House Seattle 7 – 11 PM [email protected] Nov. 5 Berliner Pub Renton 6 – 10 PM Michael Bridge Nov. 12 Winefest Lakewood Lodge 7:30 – 11:30 PM Nov. 19 German House Seattle 8 – 11 PM www.michaelbridgemusic.com/schedule Dec. 17 Berliner Pub Renton 6 – 10 PM [email protected] Dec. 31 German House Seattle 8 PM – 12:30 AM 647-823-1501 For scheduling information write Hans Rainer,Jr Charlie Brown 24613 231st Ave. SE Maple Valley, WA 98038 Charlie’s schedule is much too long to print. He has performances nearly 425-413-6562 [email protected] WWW. every day of the year. This is only an excerpt. Check with him for the HAPPYHANSMUSIC.COM complete schedule Sept 9 – Oct. 24 full O’fest schedule Lynn Haldeman Nov. 11 11:30 – 12:30 Willow Gardens Puyallup Leader of Haldeman’s OOM-PAH Boys Der Rheinlander Restaurant Portland, OR Veterans Tribute and 6:30 – 7:30 PM Willows Fri, Sat, Sun. 5 PM – 9 PM Bremerton Veterans Tribute Contact: Lynn Haldeman 1200 NE 199th Ave. Portland, Dec. 1 Christmas Tree Lighting Cedar Ridge OR 97230 503-328-6099 [email protected] Bonney Lake, WA David Locke Dec. 16 Clearbrook Inn Silverdale, WA Fridays 9 – 11 AM Useless Bay Coff ee Company Dec. 22 Claremont Senior Living Bremerton, WA Langley, WA Dec. 26 Narrows Glen Tacoma, WA [email protected] 360-321-6011 Dec. 28 Olympic Azheimers Gig Harbor, WA Dec. 31 Mallards Landing Gig Harbor and the Gary Malner Accordion, piano, keyboard Willows Bremerton, WA 3010 3rd St Union Gap, WA 98903 Contact: [email protected] 509-952-3913 hm 253-857-6557 cell 253-376-5487 Jamie Maschler Frank Calapristi Sept. 9 Port Townsend Accordion Festival 4 PM Winter schedule at King Ludwig’s, Wed, Thurs. Sun. Sept 10 En Canto at Jaam Rek Brazilian nights; tour groups as needed Independence Fiesta For scheduling information write PO Box 1057 Sept. 19 En Canto Rhythm and Rye Olympia Leavenworth, WA 98826 509-548-0155 Contact info: 719-459-1983 www.jamiemaschler.com [email protected] www.encantobrazil.com Fall Quarter 2016 37 Northwest Accordion News Rod Miller Joe Szabo Sept. 11 Sequim Accordion Club Fri – Sat. 6:30 – 9:30 PM Nonna Emilia’s Ristorante Oct. 1 O’fest German Club Kelowna, BC w/ Europa, Aloha, OR Rod’s band. For scheduling information: 13484 SW Devonshire Dr. Dec. 31 German Club Kelowna Beaverton, OR 97005 971-777-0276 Contact: [email protected] [email protected] Andy Mirkovich Sylvia Storaasli-Jorgensen Sept. 24 O’fest Whistle Stop Renton, WA Sylvia’s Arizona Dance Band (Southwest) Oct. 1 Polka Mass and dance St. Philomena’s in Des Sylvia’s Ya Sure Ya Betcha Band (Northwest) Moines, WA Sylvia and Fjordsong (Scandinavian Band) Oct. 8 Polka Mass St. Thomas Moore Fife, WA Sylvias Oktoberfest Band (Bavarian/German) | Thanksgiving: Newcastle Golf and Country Club www.fjordsong.com Twice weekly performances at the Bellevue Square in www.facebook.com/sylviasbands Bellevue, WA solo and with his trio w/ John Giulini on Sept 17 Dakota Club VFW Renton 7-10:00 pm string bass. Sept 22 Oktoberfest Harbor Museum Gig Harbor 12-4 lFull schedule private engagements pm Master Classes by appointment: 425-451-1256 Oct 7 & 8 Oktoberfest Deming Loggers Bellingham 1-6 Murl Allen Sanders pm June 4 – 8, 2017 RCAC Accordion Camp at the Silver Oct 14 Oktoberfest Bruno’s Tacoma 4-9:30 pm Falls Conference Center near Sublimity, OR Oct 15 Oktoberfest Bruno’s Tacoma 4:30-10:00 pm Full schedule private engagements, regular ARIZONA SCHEDULE performances in synagogue and church, composing, Oct 29 Oktoberfest Gethsemane Lutheran Church and teaching. Tempe 5-8 pm www.murlallensanders.com For scheduling information Oct 30 Pulaski Club Polka/Variety Phoenix 2-5 pm write: [email protected] PO Box 30553, Seattle, Nov 8,15,22,29 Country n’ Old Time Dance Greenfi eld WA 98113, 206-781-8196 Village Mesa 1-4 pm Nov 20 Polka Club of Arizona at Greenfi eld Village Lyle Schaefer Mesa 1-5 pm For scheduling information write: 9028-60th Ave Dec 3 St. Scandinavian Dinner Music St Peter’s East, Puyallup, WA 98371-6299 253-848-0778 Church Mesa 1 & 4 pm [email protected]. Dec 6 & 13 Country n’ Old time Dance Greenfi eld Sam’s Variety Gems Village Mesa 1-4 pm Sam Pecorilla: home 541-847-2282, Dec 10 Springhaven Resort (AZTEC) Country/RR cell 541-321-9088 Mesa 7-11 pm Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Sun Valley Resort Apache Smilin’ Scandinavians Junction 8 pm to 12:15 am Sept. 17 O’fest Knights of Columbus, Sacred Heart For scheduling: Sylvia Jorgensen, 749 22nd St. SW Parish Lacey, WA 6:30 PM Puyallup, WA 98371 , cell 253-678-7682 singsongsj@ Sept 24 O’fest Alderbrook Park Brush Prairie, WA 12 gmail.com PM – 12 AM Oct. 1,8,15 O’fest Leavenworth, WA Festhalle 12 PM Sergei Teleshev – 8 PM Sept 11 – 17 Coupe Mondiale w/Trio Voronezh in Nov. 12 Dakota Dance Club Polka Dance VFW Russia Renton, WA 7 – 10:30 PM Oct. 23 Autumnfest in Forest Grove, OR Dec. 4 Swedish Club Breakfast Seattle 11:45 AM – Extensive touring and recording. 1:15 PM Contact: [email protected] Dec. 16 Third Place Books Lake Forest Park 7:30 – http://triovoronezh.com/TrioVoronezh/Concerts.html 9:30 PM Diane Young Dec. 20 – 23 Lights of Christmas Tinhorn Town Stage www.accordionmusictricities.com Stanwood, WA 5:15 PM – 9:45 PM For scheduling information: 509-460-1602 For scheduling information contact: Toby Hanson [email protected] 11123 216th St. E Graham, WA 98338 253-875-8580 [email protected] NW Accordionaires http://smilinscandivanians.com Contact: Cooksie Kramer 425-828-9104 At the time of publication, the professional musicians were
Entertainers Continued on page 39
38 Fall Quarter 2016 Northwest Accordion News Ask a Teacher Tacoma Accordion Social By Cooksie Kramer A.B.C.A – L.B.C.A. Submitted by Eloise Adair Member of ATG, AAA, ABRSM (London). We had a nice summer meeting on 14 July, 2016. Music Teaching - What does that mean to you? We had 46 people and our fi rst player was Michael Barbarossa. He played “Ohio Polka”, “Let’s Play I care about Music, and inspiring Students, new and a Polka”, “Michelle”, “La Cucaracha”, “Nidelven”, existing of all ages, passionately. I fi nd teaching very “Popcorn Polka”, “Spanish Eyes”, “Bach’s Minuet” gratifying and fulfi lling. Each student is an individual – and “Pennsylvania Polka”. Next up was a duet, with diff erent likes and dislikes, but the process is the John Lucas and Eloise Adair playing “America same - to choose Music that they will enjoy otherwise the Beautiful”, “On Top of Old Smokey” and “Oh they will not practice at home. Variety (whether Jazz Suzanna”. Then Eloise played “Lady of Spain”, “Balen or Classical) is also very important. I Karlstad” and “Livet I Finnskogarna” David Emter These are exciting times for Accordion. So many was next playing “Old Timers Waltz”, “Kermitz Waltz” groups on Radio and TV are now incorporating the and “Shoemachers Waltz”. instrument. I have students as young as 9 who state Mark Myking was our next performer playing that the Accordion is “Cool”. This is fantastic to hear “Zydeco Son for Sale”, “Lafayette Waltz”, ‘Tule ton because they are so enamored with the sound that son Tom”, “Jalapeno Luna” and “Bayou Girl”. It was they enjoy their progress. nice to have Diane Crews back singing for us. She sang “You’ve Got to Move”. Tony Fohn was next I encourage all my students to play with others, (the playing many Swiss numbers but I didn’t get the accordion is so versatile) Play with friends, share your names. Our last player was Lyle Schaefer playing interest. Music helps you to develop and express “Cabaret”, “Welcommen”, “Me and My Girl”, “Deep yourself and to gain confi dence. Purple”, “Twilight Time”, “I Don’t Know Schottische”, I am always available for questions please feel free to “Heartaches”, “Chinatown”, “‘Mr. Sandman”, “Tico, phone me at 425 828 9104 or email lionel.kramer@ Tico”, “Swiss Waltz”, “Dark Town Strutters’ Ball”, comcast.net. “Heart of my Heart”, “It’s a Sin to Tell a Lie”, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” and “Yellow Bird”. Calendar Continued from page 36 VICTORIA ACCORDION FESTIVAL Victoria, British Columbia July, 2017 Welcome New Members www.bcaccordion.ca 1-778-433-8700 INTERNATIONAL ACCORDION CONVENTION Colleen Blums, Longview, WA Las Vegas, NV, October 23 – 26, 2017 Mark Eaton, Exeter, CA at the Gold Coast Hotel, Las Vegas, 17th annual convention Nancy Kaye, Haltom City, TX USA: 1-800-472-1695 outside USA: 1-801-486-1695 (Welcome back!) [email protected] Randal Kehrer, Seattle, WA ACCORDION CELEBRATION – Historic Wallace (Welcome back!) Wallace, ID August 2017 Steve Martin, Federal Way, WA new administration and contact: Jamie Baker jbaker5869@ Duane Odenbrett, Sandy Valley, NV gmail.com Topper Smith, Boise, ID COTATI ACCORDION FESTIVAL Pierre Sundborg, Seattle, WA Cotati, CA August , 2017 www.cotatifest.com 707-664-0444 Danny Volpone, Seattle, WA
Entertainers Continued from page 38 Remember, you are welcome to give gift fi lling out their program schedule for autumn and early memberships! winter. Some had confi rmation; so only the confi rmed The membership form is on the last dates are printed. Their schedules change. Most have page of this publication. web sites, so consult them for the most current information. You may request hard copy, PDF Contact the accordionists directly if you are planning a (electronic), or both. You may also pay for special trip to ensure their schedules. Support them when you can. more than one year at a time, if you like.
Fall Quarter 2016 39 Northwest Accordion News
Northwest Accordion Society
5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12 Vancouver, WA 98682
www.nwasnews.com
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40 Fall Quarter 2016
Northwest Accordion Society 5102 NE 121st Ave., Unit 12 Vancouver, WA 98682-6164
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NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY Membership 5102 NE 121st Ave., Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682-6164 www.nwasnews.com