AMERICAN ACCORDIONISTS’ ASSOCIATION Newsletter A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association JULY 2012 From the Editor Here’s What’s Welcome to the July 2012 edition of the AAA Newsletter. My sincere thanks to you all for your continued support and submissions of information highlighting the won- derful activities across the USA. My special thanks to Rita Davidson, Editor Happening at of the online USA National Accordion News, for her wonderful collaboration and shar- ing of information for the AAA publications. AAA in 2012 In this Newsletter we have launched a new section called “Coast to Coast” profiling some of the diverse accordion activities being held across the country. JULY 11-15 I wish you a wonderful summer highlighted by the 74th AAA Competition and Festival in Balti- AAA Annual Festival more, and I look forward to hearing from you all very soon with your accordion news. Sheraton City Center Sincerely, Kevin Baltimore, Maryland Kevin Friedrich – AAA Newsletter Editor Workshops • Exhibits Concerts • Competition Spotlight on AAA Governing Board Member, Manny Bobenrieth Guest Artist: Compiled by Joan Grauman, AAA Historian Stas Venglevski On the AAA Governing most of whom studied music in Coordinators: Frank Busso, Board since 2001, Manny their youth. Manny began tak- Mary Tokarski Bobenrieth has been an adjudi- ing accordion lessons at age 5. and Linda Reed cator and Master of Cere- When the family moved to the monies for the AAA festivals United States and settled in the JULY 27-29 and has worked on numerous Washington, D.C. area in 1968, committees. He brings his Manny and all of his siblings Master Class and Concert warmth and delightful humor began studying at Carmelo Series – The Seminars into every meeting and event Pino’s Biviano School of Redemption: The Radar – and, this year, he will once Music in Silver Spring, MD. Off the Radar again bring his superb skills on His siblings studied guitar, ac- See page 2 the accordion to our annual cordion and trumpet. Nine- Tenri Cultural Institute festival. Manny Bobenrieth year old Manny stayed with and the U.S. Army Strolling the accordion and studied with 43A W13th Street, NYC Strings will be performing at Carmelo Pino, who became his Moderator/Curator: the AAA Festival banquet in lifelong mentor and friend. Dr. William Schimmel Association of Greater Wash- Baltimore, Maryland on Satur- In 1970, with Carmelo’s en- ington (AAGW) and then in day, July 14. couragement, Manny began the AAA. He enjoyed the hard SEPTEMBER 8 Born in Concepcion, Chile, entering accordion competi- work and discipline and did Manny is one of eight children, tions, first in the Accordion Noon to 5:00 pm continued on page 2 Valtaro Celebration Wine tasting, dinner Joe Soprani Entertains for Artist Martin Varnedoe and dancing Philadelphia presented an traits are his paintings of Center and now hang in the Magnanini Farm Winery Art Exhibit of Philadelphia's renowned pianist Lili Kraus Kraus family permanent col- 172 Strawridge Rd. own Martin Varnedoe. Varne- that were show at the Lincoln continued on page 2 Wallkill, NY doe's recent collection at- See paes 8&9 tempts to capture moments of Chairman: Mario Tacca vibrancy, intimacy and mys- tery of Italy, everyday situa- Join us as we pay tribute to tions of ordinary activity in the Magnanini Family for extraordinary settings as seen their continued support of through the eyes of the artist. live accordion music! Varnedoe's works may be found in both private collec- tions and in public spaces throughout the United States and abroad. Varnedoe has a Master of Fine Arts from Pratt Institute of New York and among his most notable por- Joe (center) is pictured here with Martin Varnedoe amd Joseph Robert Colletti. For further information, please visit www.joesoprani.com A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 2 JULY 2012 Manny Bobenrieth, continued from page 1 18th Annual AAA Master Class and Concert Series well in the competitions. five presidents at numerous Manny has very fond memories White House State Dinners, in Remember to mark July 27-29 on your calendar. Those are the of being judged by such greats honor of foreign dignitaries three days for the 2012 Accordion Master Class and Concert Se- as Charles Magnante, Mad- such as Margaret Thatcher, ries “The Seminars” sponsored by the American Accordionists' dalena Belfiore, Dr. Jacob Neu- Mikhail Gorbachev, Prince Association (AAA). It will be moderated by Dr. William Schim- pauer and Joe Biviano. One Charles and Princess Diana, mel at the Tenri Cultural Institute of New York located at 43A memory that stands out for him Boris Yeltsin, King Hussein and West 13th, Street in New York City. was the 1976 Coupe Mondiale, many others. In 2001, Master This year’s event is Redemption: The Radar off the Radar. Cu- a huge gala event that took Sergeant Manny Bobenrieth rator and Moderator of the event Dr. William Schimmel tells us place at the historic Shoreham was promoted to Sergeant “it's a new kind of Radar!! Yes, and trust me, it's a new way of Hotel in Washington, D.C. Major. In 2004, Sergeant Major Redemption! It's the Radar off the Radar! The Seminars are 18 Manny played in Carmelo’s Bobenrieth became a non-com- years old this year and they have found their own place in the student ensemble, competed in missioned officer in charge of marketplace of ideas in a new zone – off the Radar!! Yes, I say the duet category and truly en- the U.S. Army Strings. He is again – The Radar off the Radar!! It's a new kind of Radar – and joyed being a part of the accor- responsible for, and oversees all it's looking for you!! It really is!! Yes!” dion world. of the commitments for this 22 The weekend events will include Master Classes at 3 p.m. and In 1982, Manny graduated member group. Manny has also Concerts in evening at 7 p.m. featuring a distinguished lineup! with a Bachelor’s degree in written many of the arrange- Music Performance from Installations in the lobby include Books, CDs, DVDs and other ments that are performed by the merchandise. ■ Catholic University of America Strolling Strings. in Washington, D.C., becoming Manny and his wife, Mau- the first accordionist to gradu- ate with such a degree from that reen, live in Potomac, MD and institution. He performed in are very proud parents of two restaurants, on SS Norway’s grown children, Emily and Vin- Caribbean cruise lines, with the cent. Emily is a 2011 West legendary jazz guitarist, Charlie Point graduate and is now 2nd Byrd, in Broadway musicals Lieutenant with the 82nd Air- and with the Kennedy Center borne at Fort Bragg, NC. Vin- Opera House Orchestra. cent is going into his senior In 1986, Manny became the year at the University of Pitts- accordionist for the U.S. Army burgh, majoring in English. Band “Pershing’s Own” Vincent enrolled in ROTC and Strolling Strings. With the will be a Commissioned Officer ■ Strings, he has performed for in the U.S. Army next year.

Joe Soprani, continued from page 1 A sampling of Concert and Master Class lection. The artwork of Robert vention Center in Philadelphia presentations include: Colletti, also a Philadelphian, in 1995. He also appeared with were also on display. Peter Nero and the Philly Pops Concert No. 1 on July 27, 2012 at 7 p.m. includes: Joe provided entertainment playing a special arrangement • "New interactive video" by Micki Goodman with Ms. Good- throughout the evening and ac- by Nero with Soprano Evelyn man, video, dance and choreography, music, Dr. Schimmel companied tenor Tony Affi- de LaRosa. In November of • "Star Twinkle - Mix" by Mozart, Cage, Telstar, Doo Wop and gato in a variety of Italian 1997, Soprani became the first "Sonata for two (accordion and )" by Mozart selections including "Parlami accordionist to perform in "La performed by Dr. Hugo Goldenzweig, piano and Dr. Schim- d'Amore Mariu" and "On An Traviata" by Verdi presented mel Evening in Roma" as well as by the Opera Company of • "St. John Coltrane!" by Dr. Mark Birnbaum/William Schim- classic Neapolitan songs and Philadelphia, at the Academy mel, performed by Dr. Birnbaum, piano – Dr. Schimmel other Italian favorites. of Music in Philadelphia. • "Kensington" by Dr. Art Bailey "Romp III" by Robert Young In addition to performing in Klaus Arp, the opera conduc- McMahan performed by Dr. McMahan - Johanna Cho, Broadway shows such as "Fid- tor from Germany, decided to piano dler on the Roof", "Zorba", use the accordion in the small • "The Minimal Accordion" by Michael Century "Cabaret" and "Irma la ensemble on stage during "La • Plus more! Douce", Joe has performed in Banda" sections. Master Class No. 2 on July 28, 2012 at 3 PM includes: world premieres of "Frida,” a Joe has also performed with • Occupying Wall Street musical that called for a virtu- Russell Watson on Good • Song Writing at the Accordion oso accordionist and "Another Morning America, and contin- • Don't Just Get Them, But Keep Them (Julio Giulietti) Kind of Hero,” a musical ues to promote the accordion • How I Achieved Salvation Through The Accordion Without which featured him on stage as a serious instrument at vari- Playing It for an entire scene. ous clubs and organizations. Joe, who appeared on the Ed His workshops at schools and • A Bellows Pleated World/Full of Ins and Outs Sullivan Show and won the colleges, where he demon- • Merton/Bhudda/Pussycat (William Schimmel) Arthur Godfrey Show, ap- strates his skills as performer • The Reality Chord/Money/Exhibit peared with TV Star Nell and arranger to young com- • Fire And Worship Carter in a "Colors of Free- posers and arrangers, have • Installation In Lobby – Please Don't Go Away (William dom" production at the Con- been well received. ■ Schimmel) • Music: Gregorsphere (William Schimmel) A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 3 JULY 2012

Tribute to Sam Fire, by Marilyn O’Neil Long Island AccordionRonny Alliance Setnicker (LIAA) It's May 6th, 2012, and the ac- Summer Concerts cordion world is celebrating the The June 5th edition of the Long Island Accordion Alliance fea- 183rd anniversary of the day the tured the internationally acclaimed concert accordionist and AAA accordion was patented. I am in Board of Director Mary Tokarski. a tiny corner of the world, Philadelphia, PA., celebrating World Accordion Day and me- morializing the life of my cousin, accordionist Sam Fire, along with his wife, Ruth, his niece, Teresa, Teresa's husband, and several very special friends. Born on December 14, 1931, Sam had passed away a mere 8 weeks ago on March 5, 2012. Nine years prior, at this very time Sam Fire in Korea of year in 2003, I'd bought a new accordion and reconnected with my cousin on the phone. I, like many of us, had been away from my beloved instrument since I was 16. Now, at age "50 something," and remembering that Sam Pictured are from left to right: was a professional and a family member, I called him. Mary Tokarski, Dominic Karcic and Don Gerundo Thus began a series of conversations during which Cousin Sam gently ushered me back to my first musical love; encouraging, edu- Mary performed a wonderful program of concert solos which in- cating and sharing his life history with me. cluded “Ave Maria” by J. S. Bach / Charles Gounod, “March of the Sam started playing the accordion at age 9, studying the original Toys” by Victor Herbert, “Malaguena” by Ernesto Lecuona and “Tea Pietro Deiro method with Silvio Micucci for about 5 years. He re- for Two” by Vincent Youmans. The packed house of accordionists called that the Junior Band was rehearsing on the day Pearl Harbor and accordion music lovers treated Mary to a rousing standing ova- was attacked in 1941. When he was about 13, Sam met Deiro at tion at the conclusion of her performance. The videos and pictures Silvio's school and shook the Maestro's hand. from the event are posted at: trietsch.smugmug.com He noted that his teacher placed him on a trailer at a war bonds The July 3rd event featured Don Gerundo and guitarist Dave rally playing a 48 bass accordion. By the age of 15, he was playing Hirschman. Don is an active accordionist and pianist performing in a 120 bass instrument with his name on it. Silvio got Sam his first the New York metropolitan area. He is a versatile keyboardist who paying job in a bar on Frankfort Avenue in Philadelphia. This plays various styles ranging from popular standards from the Ameri- would be the first of many gigs with a mix of various musicians. can Songbook, jazz and rock ‘n roll. He works with the Bensen-Scott Sam played accordion in his high school band, but had to stop Big Band, an 18 piece jazz band and has also worked with a rocka- because his father wouldn't allow him to play his new accordion billy small group as well as society combos and “top 40 groups.” He in the rain. He was studying Academic Music in high school. has performed and accompanied Lenny Welch (hit record “Since I This involved 7 hours of music training in addition to regular Fell For You”), Joe Piscopo and has performed at Swing 46 in New academics. There he met John Felice, a man Sam would eventu- York City, White Plains Theatre for the Arts, Coney Island Park and ally teach for at Felice's other large venues. Music School. Sam her- Don starting playing the accordion at age 10. During his later teens alded Felice as the "best he studied with Tony Mecca (a native from Waterbury, CT.) Tony in- player of all time." Sam troduced him to popular and jazz music and worked with him on har- graduated high school in mony, theory and improvisation. During this time he started to 1949, one year before the perform club dates with some of the local leaders in the New York Korean War began. metropolitan area as well as work at resorts in the New York Catskill After high school, Sam area. This “on the job” training helped hone his jazz skills, as well as continued accordion les- build his repertoire. sons with Andy Arcari, an For the last several years Don has focused on the “free bass accor- entertainer in Philadelphia. dion” and exploring its use in the pop and jazz Idioms by utilizing its He described Mr. Arcari as flexibility in chord voicings, bass lines and general accompaniment. a "Dick Contino type." Don is also an experienced user of Finale (music notation software) He'd also begun work as a and has used it almost from its inception (1992). He uses it to create surveyor, first privately and arrangements, generate materials for students, create transcriptions, then for the City of as well as composition. Don will be presenting a workshop on the Philadelphia. use of Finale at the upcoming AAA Festival in Baltimore. At the age of 20, Cousin The LIAA holds their events at La Villini Restaurant, located at 288 Sam was drafted into the Larkfield Road in East Northport, NY, phone: (631) 261-6344. ■ Army. He went on to Korea, which he consis- AAA 75TH ANNIVERSARY tently described as a "hell- hole." He spent 16 months Sam Fire AUGUST 14-18, 2013 The accordion "is more than a polka instru- The New Yorker Hotel continued on page 4 ment. It's anything you want it to be." A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 4 JULY 2012 A Tribute to Sam Fire, cont’d. AWAM Museum Corner - An Early American Free-Bass of a 2 year Army stint in Korea. the accordion did. Sam enjoyed Piano Accordion There, he worked in a prison many years playing with various by Helmi Strahl Harrington, Ph.D. camp, guarding prisoners and bands, some formal combos that preparing them to be exchanged lasted for years, others just one A World of Accordions Museum had a very happy Thanksgiving for U.S. Prisoners of War. Even- night stands that he played while celebration when we brought home 74 accordions and concertinas, tually, he was promoted to Divi- serving as a union musician. 40+ harmonicas, and a bass myrba (sansa). A well-known instrument sion Artillery. The last 6 weeks Among the formal bands were museum had invited us to accept their de-acquisitioned free reed in- struments that included rare, beautiful, and valuable examples of all of his tour of duty, he got hold of the "Viscounts," "Four Men types of accordion-family instruments obtained over decades from an accordion. Joined by a bass from Swing," and the "Regals." around the world. To accommodate our new pieces, ten additional and clarinet player, the young We spent hours laughing to- displays were erected, our previous 140 racks became crowded with soldiers played in the officers' gether at the mishaps and unex- more dazzling examples, and our number of exhibited instruments club that he described as a pected occurrences that he rose to over 1,300. "MASH-like" atmosphere. They encountered during his various Particularly fortunate inclusions among the piano accordions are were treated "like gold." No gigs. He was also self taught as two nearly identical, entirely complete instruments apparently con- more guard duty! Sam spoke of an accordion repairman. structed in close sequence, allowing a rare opportunity for compari- those last 6 weeks as a "nice Sam was a proud member of son. The one presumed older is finished with a dark brown wood ending to a really bad experi- the American Accordionists' As- façade, retains a trumpet horn, one shoulder and bass strap, black ence." He often said he was sociation since the 1970's, and cheesecloth lining fabrics, and is generally less well preserved with saved by the accordion at that was honored by The American evidence of water damage. Its partner is finished with black wood time. Accordion Musicalogical Soci- veneer and has undergone modernizing effects. These include re- One of the highest points of ety in 1997 for his contribution taped and patterned bellows, silver lame grill cloths, bellows frame his Army career came when he to the accordion. He said many screws and strap closures (instead of latches), pressed aluminum dec- happened upon another accor- times that he played to please orations which cover trumpet-horn holes, and newer shoulder and dionist, Mr. Joseph Soprani, who people, portraying emotion in bass straps. It weighs 16 lbs. 2 lbs. less than its brown partner, pre- was playing with a USO show. his music that would make a sumably resulting from use of newer aluminum reed plates. Sam introduced himself to So- room go silent. He preferred prani, and the 2 boys realized "pure accordion" over synthe- they were both from Philadel- sized music, and always stressed phia!! Sam, full of excitement that the accordion "is more than and awe, wrote to his parents a polka instrument. It's anything about the meeting. you want it to be." Soprani had made it through He encouraged me to "get the his own trials while on tour, hav- accordion out there" as I, along ing survived a plane crash carry- with Mary Tokarski, started the ing a group of musicians over Connecticut Accordion Associa- Japanese waters, nearly losing tion (CAA) in 2004. He wrote his life. Soprani's accordion, as an arrangement of "In The well as all of the other instru- Mood" that the CAA orchestra ments on that plane, were lost in played at its debut concert in the sea. Luckily, the musicians 2005. made it to shore, Soprani hold- Back to May, 2012. Among Both instruments share certain features: unusually narrow width of ing on to a lifeboat that towed the group gathered in Sam's liv- the 54 treble keys set diagonally for easy view by the player, close him 4 miles in freezing waters to ingroom are two beloved spacing of 31 single-pitch bass buttons positioned as insets to the safety. Joe went on to enlist in friends. One is Joseph Soprani, bass-plate and arced to fit fingers of the hand without more than the Air Force and, with the Air who Sam reunited with in 2003. wrist angle movements, a spring-held air lever near the left hand Force Band, enjoyed a stellar 4 The other is a former devoted thumb, simple polished wood veneer, Viennese style scroll-cut décor, year long career as a musician student of Sam’s,Dr. Helmi Kurt StrahlMartin. a box-like structure of 16”x7.5” size and wood bumpers that serve as playing the accordion. He also The two men pickedHarrington up two of feet. continued accomplishing, com- Sam's most prized instruments Both instruments are outfitted with octave couplers affecting the ir- peting in world events and play- and, in the presence of people regular five treble and four bass reed banks. The treble sections have ing for famous singers and who loved him, played an im- two coupled sliders on the grill that engage the LMMM(M) reed banks; the bass sections have one pincer-action shift at the palm that musicians, among them Luciano promptu concert in his memory, controls the C1 C2 C2 C3 reed banks. Double-tongue reed plates are Pavarotti and Bon Jovi. a compilation of classical, jazz attached by turnstiles over leather sealant strips; zinc and steel After Korea, Sam returned favorites, and familiar Italian palates and rods have an unrefined presentation suggesting small- home and continued his musical tunes. I realized that while the workshop assembly. studies with Lenny Payton, whole world celebrated World In researching the origin of these instruments, no maker’s name, learning chord structure, arrang- Accordion Day, I celebrated the logo, internal script or stamp identifies company or country of origin. ing, harmonies, etc. He married life of a man, my cousin, whose No reference books found in the museum library came close to iden- the love of his life, Ruth Drasdis, world was the accordion. ■ tifying the salient features. But there are clues yet to be tracked, such a woman he described as some- Rest In Peace, dear Cousin. one who calmed him, just like Love, Marilyn continued on next page JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE AAA’s 75th ANNIVERSARY IN 2013! A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 5 JULY 2012 AWAM Museum Corner, continued Music Under New York (MUNY) features Accordionists as, where the colorful abstract design of the bellows lining paper At present, more than 350 individual performers and music ensem- was made. Clearly some German connections exist: penciled on the bles participate in over 7,500 annual performances in approximately reed block spines of both instruments are pitch names written in old- 25 locations throughout the New York City transit system. Through German script by the same hand. The word “Oben” (above) is found Music Under New York (MUNY), a variety of performances are on the older example along with entirely German spellings of available to the public within pitches. On the spines of the younger, names are mixed between the transit network in a variety German and English. Perhaps the writer was becoming American- of genres, with instruments ized. ranging from Gambian kora and In our patents library we found U.S. patent No. 268,819, taken by Korean drum to our beloved ac- Karl Stiegelmayer of New York on April 10, 1928, to describe an in- cordion. strument named “Jazz Organ” as follows: The main object of this in- Some 75 soloists and groups vention is to provide a musical instrument of the accordion type… auditioned to join the roster for having an inclined keyboard on which a full set of keys may be MUNY at the recent open audi- mounted. The keys, due to the shortness of the key-board, are quite close together and are specially constructed … so that they may be easily manipulated by the fingers. Pictured above, Matt Dallow at Grand Central Station. At right, Julie Change, Fox News Anchor tions held at Grand Central Station. Among the hope- fuls were accordionists Marin Ciotoi, Matt Dallow (pictured) and Mellisa Elledge. Fox News Channel 5 News Anchor Julie Chang who delighted in taking Mellisa’s instrument during coverage of the event to try her hand at the accordion. Starting in 1985, MUNY is one of the many visual and performing arts programs administered by the Metropolitan Transportation Au- thority’s Arts for Transit office that increases the attractiveness of transit facilities for customers. Performers accepted into the program are scheduled at locations in subway and commuter rail stations in- cluding the Long Island Railroad (LIRR), and Metro North. Sites have been selected with the approval of the station managers, police With this accordion design I think we see yet another convergence and NY City Transit Stations and system safety departments. Cur- of elements from different accordion-family instrument types that rently on the 2012 MUNY roster are accordionists Yuri Zak and Mitu run throughout the history of our organology. The Encyclopedia of Busuioc. ■ New York City mentions that by the 1920s thousands of immigrant German families had settled in the area, including musical instru- ment makers and performers. From German sources we are told that New York Also Features Accordion ‘Above Ground’ both the Franz and Arnold families emigrated from Germany and At Bryant Park settled on the East Coast; both were known to produce experimental In 1686, the area now known as Bryant Park in the heart of New instruments of concertina/bandoneon square-box types with single- tone bass sections. It was also the time and place that spurred Piaz- York City, was designated public property by New York Colonial zolla’s bandoneon style. With the area’s strong influence on jazz, Governor Thomas Dongan. After being routed by the British in the and from the patent name, we may presume these accordions were Battle of Long Island, at the start of the Revolutionary War, General intended to participate with a free-bass order familiar to players. Washington's troops raced across the site. In continued on next page

Some of the pitches of our piano accordions’ bass sections are yet difficult to determine and will require careful reed restorations be- fore accuracy of the sequence can be asserted. At this point, the logic of bass pitch arrangement remains unclear, but comparison to charts developed by Maria Dunkel on the evolution of bandoneons and concertinas appears promising. Readers with additional insights are encouraged to contact us. ■ A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 6 JULY 2012 Accordion at Bryant Park, cont’d. Cory Pesaturo Joins Red Sox for New CD 1807, the grid system of streets was laid out in what is now consid- 2012 is the 100th anniversary of ered midtown, expanding north from the already cosmopolitan the Boston Red Sox’s famous downtown Manhattan. Fifteen years later, in 1822, the land came Fenway Park. The baseball team under the jurisdiction of New York City, and one year later, was has put together a festive and fun turned into a potter's field. The city decommissioned the potter's album of songs recorded by cur- field in 1840, in preparation for construction of the Croton Reser- rent and former players, along voir on the adjacent plot of land (now the Central branch of the with the help of some notable New York Public Library). guest musicians including Cory Jump forward some 150 years, and in 1992, Bryant Park Corpora- Pesaturo, accordionist. tion (BPC) completed one of the world's most dramatic urban pub- Officially sanctioned and li- lic space transformations. Now in 2012, celebrating the 20th censed by MLB, the recording is anniversary of being New York City's town square, Bryant Park at- a collection of songs familiar to tracts more than 6 million annual visitors featuring hundreds of free Red Sox fans, the type of music events, programs, activities, and year-round amenities. commonly heard at games, as well as some songs from iconic Some of those 6 million visitors enjoy the sounds of accordion Boston-area acts. music during its summer Bryant Park Accordion concert series Red Sox players who participated in the project include David when New York accordionists are featured from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. “Big Papi” Ortiz, who provides background vocals and improvises in the main Plaza at the peak lunch hour. Upcoming performances on “Sweet Caroline.” Ryan Kalish and Darnell McDonald can also include: July 2, 3, 6, 2012: Tony Kovatch, August 6, 7, 10: Suzanne be heard on background vocals. Additionally, Clay Buchholz plays Davenport and August 13, 14, 17: Bob Goldberg. Other performers acoustic guitar on the track. Jarrod Saltalamacchia lends some addi- on the Bryant Park Accordion Lunchtime Concert Series are Ben- tional guitar licks to “Dream On” and Alfredo Aceves handles co- jamin Ickies, Rachelle Garniez, Matthew Fass and Harlan Muir. lead guitar on “Dirty Water.” Also on the CD are Jacoby Ellsbury, Bryant Park is situated behind the New York Public Library in Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis who provides percussion on the midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and track, “2007 a musical celebration of the team’s most recent World Sixth Avenues. For more information, please visit: http://bryant- ■ Championship. Daniel Bard plays acoustic guitar on the album’s park.org/plan-your-visit/accordion.html debut single, “Let the Good Times Roll,” Former pitcher and fan favorites Curt Schilling and Kevin Millar, Studio Jams to Visit AAA Festival in Baltimore both key members of the team’s 2004 World Series run, are on the Studio Jams is a creative, up-close and inside look at the art of CD. Musical guests include one-time Van Halen vocalist Gary making music. It’s a program that is dedicated to presenting interest- Cherone, Extreme guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, Ken Casey of the ing and innovative music education. Each 1-hour episode features a Dropkick Murphys, International Accordion Champion Cory Pesat- diverse group of talented musicians. uro, J. Geils Band keyboardist Seth Justman, Mike Mushok of Their upcoming featured festival will be the AAA Competition Staind, Dicky Barrett of Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and MLB jour- and Festival in Baltimore, MD (USA) where they will film and in- nalist Peter Gammons. terview participants of the four day gathering profiling the many Cory won the CIA International Competition for Digital Accordion workshops, exhibits, seminars, competitions and concerts given by in Auckland, New Zealand in 2009 while representing the AAA and accordionists of all ages. more recently the International Primus Ikaalinen VII, a live televised international competition held in Finland. For further information: The AAA will view and approve the program prior to release and ■ is very excited to have this opportunity to work with Studio Jams for [email protected] their upcoming presentation. USA Provides Most Viewers For Live World For more information on their work, please visit: http://studio- jams.com ■ Accordion Day Broadcast Eddie Monteiro The Confédération Interna- AAA. "Whether you were inter- tionale des Accordéonistes viewed, a performer, sent in a (CIA) World Accordion Day video, commented on the live Live Video featuring 24 hours of chat or even just watched, this accordion music from around event couldn’t have been possi- the world was a huge success ble without you. Thank you to with viewers from around the the Confédération Internationale world watching contributions des Accordéonistes (CIA) for from many different nations, creating World Accordion Day performers, teachers and associ- in 2009 and their continuous ations. The show was directed support and promotion of the ac- and produced by Grayson Mase- cordion around the world. Also field, Frédéric Deschamps and we must mention the members Mike Rossi, and is available for of the CIA Executive Board that viewing in 24 separate hours of took part with in this event: archived video coverage. Raymond Bodell, Kevin Coordinator and Co-Presenter Friedrich, Kimmo Mattila, Joan Grayson Masefield and co-host Sommers, Herbert Scheibenreif, Frédéric Deschamps offer their Harley Jones and Mirco Patarini sincerest thanks to all the partic- plus members of the CIA Music ipants of this year’s World Ac- Committee: Viatcheslav Semi- cordion Day 2012, including the continued on page 7 A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 7 JULY 2012

World Accordion Day, cont’d. from page 6 Pauline Oliveros Receives $50,000 Award! onov, Andreas Nebl and Li Cong. There must of course be a very “Through Pauline Oliveros meditation, electronic music, sincere thank you to our technical director Mike Rossi. His efforts and Deep Listening, I finally myth and ritual. In addition to and improvisation are greatly appreciated, especially as we were know what harmony is… It’s the John Cage Award, Oliveros receiving videos throughout the live 24 hours and thanks to Harley about the pleasure of making was honored with the William Jones (creator of www.accordions.com ) for his promotion and sup- music.” - John Cage, 1989 Schuman Award in 2010. She port of the event. As she celebrates her 80th was honored in 1985 with a ret- birthday year, accordionist and rospective at the Kennedy Cen- composer Pauline Oliveros has ter for the Performing Arts in been named the winner of the Washington, D.C., and repre- 2012 John Cage Award, given sented the United States at the biennially by the Foundation for 1970 World’s Fair in Osaka, Contemporary Arts (FCA). This Japan. prestigious $50,000 award was Oliveros has built a loyal fol- established in 1992 in honor of lowing through her accordion the late composer, who was one concerts, recordings and publica- of FCA’s founders. Selected by tions, and musical compositions FCA’s Directors, the John Cage that she has written for soloists Award is made in recognition of and ensembles in music, dance, outstanding achievement in the theater and inter-arts companies. arts for work that reflects the She has also provided leadership spirit of John Cage. Pauline re- within the music community ceived the award in a ceremony from her early years as the first in New York City. "FCA is director of the Center for Con- pleased to honor Ms. Oliveros' temporary Music (formerly the many accomplishments in Tape Music Center at Mills), di- music/sound with the 2012 John rector of the Center for Music Cage Award,” says Stacy Stark, Experiment during her 14-year executive director of FCA. “She tenure as professor of music at joins a distinguished and small the University of California at The mammoth undertaking, the first of its kind in the accordion group of artists who have been San Diego, and acting in an ad- world, was a worldwide success with over 310,365 minutes viewed recognized for their ground- visory capacity for organizations and over 20,160 connections from over 87 countries. Congratula- breaking work in the performing such as The National Endow- tions must be given to the countries with the highest viewers: 1. arts and who reflect the spirit of ment for the Arts, The New York USA, 2. France 3. UK 4. Chile 5. Russia 6. Germany 7. Canada 8. John Cage." Founded and State Council for the Arts and guided by artists, FCA’s mission many private foundations. Italy 9. Greece and 10. Finland. It proves that the accordion world is to encourage, sponsor and pro- Through her work at universi- is a real family no matter what level, whether beginner or profes- mote innovative work in the arts ties and colleges, including sional or what genre they choose to play (Classical, Traditional, and the nonrestrictive award is Oberlin College Conservatory of Jazz, Arabic, Contemporary, Ensemble etc.) available for use at the recipients Music and Bard College, she has The videos are available for viewing at discretion. influenced generations of young www.accordions.com/cia/cia_wad_directory_2012.htm ■ “I am honored and delighted to composers. Additionally, Oliv- receive the John Cage Award,” eros is a Distinguished Research says Pauline Oliveros. “May the Professor of Music at Rensselaer Dr. Robert Young McMahan in ‘Il Postino’ freedom that Cage inspired with Polytechnic Institute and a Dar- his work continue to spread, sus- ius Milhaud Composer-in-Resi- (The Postman) tain and open minds throughout dence at Mills College in In May, Dr. Robert Young the world.” Oakland, CA. McMahan performed on stage Oliveros is a senior figure in Please visit http://www.pauli- and in costume with the contemporary American music neoliveros.us for the variety of Philadelphia-based Center City and founder of the Deep Listen- activities held throughout 2012 Opera, in the East Coast pre- ing Institute of Kingston, NY. in celebration of her 80th Birth- miere of Il Postino (“The Post- Since the 1960s, Oliveros has day. ■ man”), by Daniel Catán worked with improvisation, (1949-2011). The production took place at the Prince Music Theater, near City Hall. The opera is based upon a popular 1994 Italian film di- Furio Scarpelli, Giacomo rected by Michael Radford. It is Scarpelli, and Massimo Troisi a fictional story in which the real from the novel “Ardiente pa- life Chilean poet Pablo Neruda ciencia” by Antonio Skármeta. (temporarily exiled from his Skármeta himself had previ- country) forms a relationship ously adapted his novel for the with a simple Italian postman screen in 1985 as “Ardiente pa- who learns to love poetry. The ciencia” ("Burning Patience"). screenplay was adapted by Anna Pavignano, Michael Radford, continued on page 8 A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 8 JULY 2012 Joan C. Sommers to Direct World Accordion Orchestra VI in Italy Following the very successful inaugural World Accordion Orchestra debut per- formance at the USA AAA/ATG hosted Coupe Mondiale 2007 under the Musical Direction of Joan C. Sommers, the magnificent staging of the CIA World Accor- dion Orchestra (WAO) II in Scotland in 2008, WAO III in Auckland, New Zealand, WAO IV in Varaždin, Croatia, WAO V in Shanghai, China, the CIA is delighted to announce that World Accordion Orchestra VI will be held during the 65th Coupe Mondiale in Spoleto, Italy at the Gala CIA Concert on August 24, 2012. The World Accordion Orchestra VI, made up from members of the CIA Execu- tive and Music Committees, CIA member nation delegates and fellow orchestra members of groups from Germany to Brazil, will perform two pieces: Paragon March by Anthony Galla-Rini and “Selections from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”) by John Williams, arr. by Joan Cochran Sommers. The “Paragon March” is a 1947 original work by the renowned accordionist, one of the founding members of AAA and former CIA Vice President Anthony Galla-Rini, while the magnificent blockbuster arrangement by current CIA Vice President Joan Cochran Sommers of “Selections from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' is a large symphonic one and includes the main themes from the motion picture with various reprises of the "Flying" Theme and the "Bike Race." Joan C. Sommers has held positions in several music organisations, includ- ing the Accordionists & Teachers Guild International (ATG) and the Con- fédération Internationale des Accordéonistes (CIA – IMC-UNESCO). She continues to adjudicate, coach soloists, prepare accordion orchestra arrange- ments, and conduct accordion orchestras regularly, and currently proudly serves as a CIA Vice President. ■ McMahan in ‘Il Postino’, cont’d from page 7 AAA Valtaro Celebration - Sept. 8th The accordion appears in the last scene of Act 2, depicting the postman’s wedding reception, and accompanies Neruda (portrayed by tenor Hugo Vera in this produc- Magnanini Farm Winery tion) in a love song. This is followed by a tango played by both accordion and or- The AAA Valtaro Celebration on September 8th, chestra in which the entire wedding party participates both in dancing and singing. 2012, at the Magnanini Winery in Wallkill, NY, will Though the film was in Italian and the story takes plays in a remote island off the honor the Magnanini Family for their continuous sup- southern end of Italy in the mid-1950s, the libretto is in Spanish, reflecting the port of live accordion music at their establishment. Princeton University educated Catán’s Mexican origins and his desire to reach Great food, wine, company and great accordion Latino-American audiences. music was the vision of Rick's father, Galba Mag- The world premiere took place in Los Angeles in 2010, with the famed tenor nanini. and he made it a successful reality. Today the Placido Domingo playing Neruda. Nick Ariondo was the accordionist for that pro- family tradition is continued with devotion and dedi- duction, which may be seen in its entirety on the PBS webiste, scroll to 1 hour, 31 cation by Rick and Rachel Magnanini along with minutes to see the accordion scene). The Center City Opera production was a their two sons, Robert and David. smaller-scaled, lower budgeted one than that of the Los Angeles one, again fulfilling The family background is fascinating. The Mag- the late composer’s wish that his operas get out to more of the rank-and-file audi- nanini family is originally from the Emilia-Romagna ences on a wide scale via smaller companies. Catán’s widow was present at one of region in Northern Italy. The Magnanini farm in Wal- the Center City evenings to promote this passionate wish of her husband, who sadly lkill, NYwas obtained in 1951. It was originally an died suddenly in 2011. old apple orchard and dairy farm, on 35 acres . In As a classical artist, Dr. McMahan, a member of the AAA Board of Directors and 1970, the Chair of the AAA Composer’s Commissioning Committee, has dedicated a major land was part of his career to the promotion of the accordion in serious contemporary music cleared and through recitals, concert appearances, teaching, recordings, publication of his music, the vine- journal articles, participation in contemporary music organizations, and including it yard was in many of his own compositions. He has been instrumental in convincing other composers, such as Dr. Samuel Adler, Lukas Foss and Robert Hall Lewis, to use it planted. in their music and has, himself, been commissioned to write works for it by various Richard, individuals and organizations, including the American Accordionists’ Association Galba's and the New York State Council on the Arts. He will be contributing to the first-time son, who chapter for the accordion in the new edition of Dr. Adler’s celebrated textbook on was gradu- orchestration. He has recorded on the CRS and Orion labels, was accordionist for ated from the Baltimore Symphony during his years of residence in that region and has re- SUNY Magnanini Winery Founder, cently served in a similar way with the Princeton Symphony and the American Delhi for Galba Magnanini Symphony. ■ continued on page 9

Coast to Coast New Feature. …a sampling of accordion events across the USA! See pages 10 and 11 A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 9 JULY 2012 AAA Valtaro Celebration - Sept. 8th, cont’d. agriculture, works closely with year. Over the years, Richard Cornell University on Viticul- has won numerous awards for ture and Enology practices. In his wines, of which he is very 1976, Gov. Mario Cuomo proud. Today Richard's work at passed "The Farm Winery" bill the winery revolves around which allowed small grape bottling, processing their own farmers, who made wine, to meats, preparing food for the sell it on their premises. In restaurant, making their own 1976, Galba and Richard pasta and sauces, all vegetables started making wine from their locally grown and hand picked. own vineyards, for home and The Restaurant opened on friends and the rest was sold to Easter Sunday 1985, with a full Brotherhood Winery. In 1980, house. There was live accor- they started to build the restau- dion music played by the rant from a two car garage. "Good Time Band" consisting Many people were skeptical of Richard Magnanini and but they pursued their dream. Danny Coan on accordion and Rachel and Rick Magnanini In 1983, Richard obtained his Jack Ragazzi on bass guitar. the accordion by his father, Winery is a gathering place of license to sell wine thinking The music was from the Val- Galba, who played by ear. Rick Valtaro musicians and friends what better way to sell their taro region. It is fascinating to took lessons from Steven Harer of the accordion. Anybody that wine than with homemade spe- learn that Galba and Gelso Pel- of Clifton who had studied loves the accordion would cialties such as tagliatelle, ravi- ligrini were from the same part with Pietro Deiro and Frosini. come here. Many heard about oli, capelletti, and provisions; of Italy. Galba would hear In 1990, the Valtaro reunions it through the grapevine. It is a salami, coppa, sausage and Gelso perform at different began. Gelso Pelligrini was in- very relaxing way to spend an cotechino. functions in the NY area and strumental in keeping the Val- afternoon. We were fortunate Joseph Trombetti, a retired they became friends. Gelso taro heritage alive. Along with to have all these wonderful executive chef from The Plaza saw the winery being built and good homemade foods of the people as friends. And this is Hotel in NYC, a good friend of said that he would play there. Emila-Romagna region and what makes the Magninani Gelso and Galba, was the Mag- In 1989, Gelso Pellegrini Valtaro music, everything Winery what it is today….We came together. In 1994 the ad- carry on the tradition of great dition of the dance area and food, music, friendship, and bandstand was completed. wine." Rick met his wife, Gelso continued to perform Rachel, when he was playing with his colleagues at the win- with his band and she was ery until his passing in Jan. waitressing for her nursing de- 2002. Through Gelso, the gree. The beautiful artwork Magnanini's metMario Tacca displayed on the walls are all and Mary Mancini. Other ac- originals painted by Renzo cordionists who have per- Magnanini, older brother of formed there include Frank Galba. Renzo was also a Toscano, Frank Carozza, renowned sculptor and artist Manny Carallo, Angelo Di from Bologna, Italy. Because Pippo, Charles Nunzio, Ray the family is totally involved in Oreggio, and Dominic Karcic. every aspect of the business, Carmen Carrozza , a close the result is an excellent, Valtaro accordionists Gelso Pelligrini, Willy Brunelli, Ugo Nati, friend of Gelso's, also played unique opportunity for all to Peter Spagnoli . Circa 1989 Reunion there. Rick said, "People really have a wonderful time. ■ like the accordion. I, as do nanini's mentor over the years, began to perform at Mag- many other people, have very Join us on Saturday, helping them to acquire excel- nanini's continuing until 2001. fond memories of the accor- September 8th, to cele- lent kitchen skills and methods Gelso, one of the original Val- dion at family functions. Peo- brate the traditions of of efficiently serving large taro accordionists, would per- ple really enjoy the focus on the Magnanini family groups. The restaurant was form there as did Pete the accordion at the Magnanini completed and the wine was Spagnoli, John Brugnoli, and Winery." for an afternoon of ready to sell. The first years Pet DelGrosso. They would all The Magnanini family con- good music, good food, production of 1000 gallons was meet at the Magnanini Winery tinues to keep the tradition of good wine and good sold out! More vines were and play together. Rick said, the Italian cuisine and the ac- times! See information planted. The second year 2000 "Right from the beginning the cordion preserving the family gallons were also sold out. As focus was on the accordion. heritage. Mario Tacca, along regarding this event the vineyard grew so did the The accordion and the food with Frank Carozza, Dominic that is included with sales presently producing 6000 makes it a lively fun event. The Karcic and Frank Toscano this newsletter. gallons, which equals 25-30 accordion makes everyone presently play at the winery. thousand bottles of wine each happy". Rick was introduced to Rick said, "The Magnanini A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 10 JULY 2012 Coast to Coast …a sampling of accordion events across the USA! LISLE, CHICAGO, IL please visit: www.accor- the Sound" opera se- The Accordionists and dions.com/atg ries in Port Jefferson, NY. Her program on Teachers’ Guild, Interna- SOUTH RIVER, NJ tional (ATG), the fellow USA South River, NJ August 7th will feature member of the Confédéra- The Accordion Pops Or- a wide range of songs tion Internationale des Ac- chestra directed by Al Terzo from opera, operetta, cordéonistes (CIA) with the presented their Spring Con- Broadway musicals cert on Sunday June 10, at and ethnic folk melodies. shops, individual one-on- American Accordionists’ As- one instruction, playing sociation (AAA), will hold the Imperial Music Center in Please join us for a terrific South River, NJ. evening of accordion music music as part of an accor- their summer festival from in dion orchestra, jamming and Lisle (Chicago), Illinois - July Renowned accordion and song! champions Beverly Curnow In addition, join us Sep- making new friends. 25-29, 2012. The Rose City Accordion This year, the 72nd ATG and Mary Tokarski per- tember 4th for our Septem- formed as guest artists. Also ber-Octobeerfest! Ein Club of Portland, Oregon, a Competition and Festival will non profit organization was feature renowned Russian featured were Albert Prosit! La Villini Restaurant Manginelli (accordion) and is located at 288 Larkfield formed in 1996 by a group accordionist Ioisf Puritz, of people of all ages who Jazz accordionist Jeff Nicole D'Angelo (piano), Road in East Northport, NY, champions from the recent phone: (631) 261-6344 love playing the accordion. Lisenby, Roland artist Alicia Many of the members go Baker, University teacher 2012 Mid Atlantic Music NASHUA, NH Teachers Guild competition. Nashua, NH out into the community and Marko Petričić and popular volunteer to perform at sen- Milwaukee based artist Stas The largest professional The Fifth Annual ACCOR- accordion orchestra of its DIONS NOW! Music Festival, ior citizen centers, schools, Venglevski. In addition, the and retirement communities. festival will showcase the kind on the East Coast, the co-sponsored by New Hamp- group consists entirely of shire Accordion Association The Rose City Accordion Gene Van Accordion Or- Club is open to all accordion chestra, the UMKC Cham- accordions plus percussion and Accordion Connection instruments. In addition, the LLC, will be held August 17- players, from beginners to ber Accordion Ensemble, professionals, their friends the Soundscape Trio, Betty orchestra often accompa- 18, 2012 at the beautiful nies guest soloists including Courtyard Marriott in Nashua, and families, and to anyone Jo Simon, Amy Jo Sawyer, who enjoys music. Meet- Tony Hermanek, Donna Dee pianists and vocal artists. New Hampshire. It will be a For further information high-spirited weekend filled ings are held monthly on the Anderson, Esther Lanting, third Saturday of each Gordon Kohl and Marion Ja- about engaging the orchestra with warm friendship and for a concert, future concerts great music. Sign up, bring month at the Milwaukie Pub- cobson. lic Safety Building, 3200 SE The 2012 ATG Festival or joining the orches- tra, your accordion, and join the please contact: webmas- fun! Harrison Street (SE 32nd Orchestra coordinated by and Harrison), Milwaukie Joan C. Sommers will unite [email protected] Artists and presenters in- clude: Tony Lovello, Christo- OR, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. all attendees, and will be EAST NORTHPORT, NY For further information joined in concert by the East Northport, NY pher Gorton, Brent Buswell, The Long Island Accor- Jeremiah McLane & Anne- email:squeezebox21@com- renowned Youth Choir from cast.net Chicago ‘ANIMA’. Just re- dion Alliance (LIAA) and La mieke Spoelstra, Gary Morin, Villini Restaurant presents Donna Maria Regis, the AC- LOS ANGELES, CA turning from an exciting Los Angeles, CA Concert Tour of Europe, an evening of accordion CORDIONS NOW! Festival music and featured guest Orchestra, Dan Mackowiak, Summertime in Los Ange- ANIMA will be featured with les County features a di- the Festival Orchestra on artist vocalist Connie Sam Falcetti, and others to Shakalis accompanied by be announced soon. verse array of accordion the magnificent arrange- related activities as part of ment of ‘Let There Be accordionist Dominic Karcic Be part of the musical ac- on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 tion and bring your accordion! the popular program the Peace on Earth’. J.A.M. Sessions. This pro- The AAA and ATG re- at 7 p.m. You have many opportunities Connie Shakalis is an to participate. For more infor- gram allows participants of cently co-sponsored the CIA all skill level to explore an Coupe Mondiale in Alexan- award-winning vocalist from mation: Accordions Now! Huntington Station, NY. She phone: (603) 216-9582 or e- art form as a community. dria, VA, organized by Move to the beat or explore Faithe Deffner. This co- has sung in many of the top mail: AccordionsNow@ cabarets in New York City yahoo.com a new instrument as you hosted event was the most connect with diverse artists successful International Ac- as well as performing 20 lead roles in musicals SilverSILVER Falls, FALLS, OR OR and cultures at the J.A.M. cordion Festival to have (Jazzed and Motivated) ever been held in the USA. throughout the U.S. She Rose City Accordion Club has performed with Van hosted their Accordion Club Sessions. These free and Currently Faithe Deffner, interactive events take place Kevin Friedrich and Mary Johnson, Edie Adams, and Camp from June 10-15 at Robert Morse (who currently the Silver Falls State Park throughout the summer and Tokarski each serve as are centered around move- members of the Board of Di- appears as the ad agency Conference Center in Ore- boss on the popular TV se- gon. President Wayne Tiu- ment, music and drumming. rectors for both the AAA and All ages and levels of expe- the ATG. ries “Mad Men.” She is a sanen and the Club hosted soloist with the "Music on five days of intense work- rience are welcome and all For more information, events are free. A bi-monthly publication of the American Accordionists’ Association - page 11 JULY 2012

Accordion Night! on June J.A.M. Sessions at Mayberry LINDENHURST, NY ences as a Grammy Award 25, 7 PM is titled ‘Long live Park: Accordion Night, Accordionist Bud Gramer nominee and national enter- the accordion!’ where atten- July 10 at 6 PM tainer on diatonic and piano dees are invited to join in a performs every Tuesday J.A.M. Sessions at the Ford: evening from 5:30 PM – 8:30 accordions, brasses, and fun night with accordion su- Music, July 16 at 7 PM vocals. His repertory covers perstars Otoño Luján (of PM at the Village Lanterne J.A.M. Sessions at East L.A. Restaurant, located at 143 the gamut between ethnic Conjunto Los Pochos) and and pop music. Members of Gee Rabe (of Lisa Haley & Civic Center: Accordion Night, N. Wellwood Ave., in Linden- July 27 at 6 PM the band include Tom Jones the Zydekats). Participants hurst, (LI) New York. For more information and direc- on saxes, clarinet, flute, gui- have the opportunity to try J.A.M. Sessions at Recreation tar and vocals, and Michael out button and piano accor- Park: Accordion Night, tions, please phone (631) 225-1690. Morris on drums and vo- dions and be part of a giant August 4 at 6 PM cals. Paul Vargason (of Su- accordion symphony! Ac- perior) will perform the cordions are provided cour- Big! World! Fun! Family Series: The Dustbowl Revival, opening act. Tickets: Ad- tesy of Hohner, Inc. and this August 25 at 10 AM vance purchase: $20.00, event is recommended for www.brownpapertickets.co ages 12 and up. Concierto Fiesta Mexicana X: m: $23.00 and at the door: September 29 at 7 PM Big! World! Fun! Family $25.00. To reserve tickets Series: A Gaelic Gathering: For more information, or for more information Irish Music and Dance will please visit: http://fordthe- phone (715) 395-2787. be held on Saturday July 7 atres.org or contact Steve at 10 AM. This event fea- Lozier, J.A.M. Sessions tures A Gaelic Gathering: Marketing Coordinator, MILWAUKEE, WI Irish Music and Dance. Stir- phone: 323-610-5912 or by ring melodies, intricate foot- On Monday - July 23, e-mail: [email protected] 2012, Betty Jo Simon will work and the rhythmic step county.gov and Ceili (group) dances perform as the featured make Gaelic Gathering a PRINCETON, NJ SUPERIOR, WI artist at the Milwaukee Ac- Princeton, NJ cordion Club (MAC). Betty feast of exuberant Irish The Alex Meixner Band Dr. Robert Young McMa- Jo brings endless enthusi- tunes and dances. Instru- will in concert at the Har- han, AAA Board of Director asm to the stage. A viva- mentalists including Alice rington ARTS Center and A will perform with the New cious performer who enjoys Ryan, who sings haunting World of Accordions Mu- songs and plays accordion Jersey Symphony Orches- intimate concert settings seum, 1401 Belknap St., accompany the dancers and tra, Mark Laycock, conduc- where she can talk with her Superior, WI 54880 on July perform. Together they tor, and boys chorus, July audience, Betty Jo has a 5, 2012 6:00 PM (Doors guide the audience on an 26, 8:00 PM, Richardson wide repertoire from which open at 5:00 PM). exploration of Ireland’s rich Auditorium, Princeton, NJ, in to choose. Her favorite? Alex Meixner has cultural heritage. a performance of Arrigo "Around the World with the reached star status among Boito’s Prologue to MIDI Accordion." Betty Jo multi-generational audi- Mephistofele.| performs as a soloist throughout the United States and internationally. In 2000 she appeared on a Chinese satellite TV musi- cal variety program aired on Chinese New Year and went on to give concerts in Beijing and Shanghai. In 2007 she won the AAA Maddalena Belfiore Enter- tainment Competition for Female Accordionist and Submitting Your News Item for Publication in the September Issue currently leads a German polka band called The You are invited to submit your news as soon box, so that we don’t miss any items that Alpen Spielers. In August as possible for the September edition of the come in. Text should be sent within the e-mail 2009 she performed as AAA Newsletter. Our AAA members are in- or as a Word .doc attachment. Pictures soloist with the Auckland volved in a diverse array of activities, and I should be sent as a high quality .jpg file, and Symphony Orchestra at thank you in advance for taking the time to the larger the file size the better. We can al- three different venues, one prepare the press information and pictures so ways reduce/crop the picture if necessary, being the opening concert that we can share your work and events with however we are unable to increase the quality of the 64th Annual CIA our readership. from smaller pictures. The deadline for the Coupe Mondiale World Ac- All material for consideration for the Sep- September newsletter will be the August 15.zz cordion Championships. tember newsletter can be sent to me at goac- Thanks again for your help and support, and For more information, [email protected] or to [email protected]. I wish you all a wonderful summer. please visit www.accor- Please include “AAA Newsletter” in the subject Kevin Friedrich, Editor – AAA Newsletter dions.com/mac ■ Jooin thhe Celebbratioon!!!

The Neww Yorkkeeer Hotell 481 Eighthh AvAvenue at 34th3 Stree Neww York, NY 100001 Auggust 14-18, 2201 wwww.ameraccord.com