Highlights |
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Highlights |
2015 CIA Coupe Mondiale Website Launching Next Wednesday - Finlandby Kevin Friedrich, CIA Ambassador |
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![]() This major event will be hosted by the CIA member in Finland – the Suomen Harmonikkaliitto (SHL - Finnish Accordion Association). SHL Chairman and CIA Secretary General Kimmo Mattila (picture left) writes: "The SHL extends a very warm invitation to accordion competitors and enthusiasts from around the world, to come to Turku in October. This is the 2nd Coupe Mondiale in Finland (the previous in Helsinki, 1975) and the 2015 Coupe Mondiale in Turku is sure to be a wonderful event." The 2015 Coupe Mondiale will feature eight international categories of competition – Coupe Mondiale – Junior Coupe Mondiale – Masters Coupe Mondiale – Virtuoso Entertainment – Junior Virtuoso Entertainment – Digital – Chamber - Classical – Chamber - World Music as well as superb concerts and important meetings of the CIA Executive Committee, CIA Music Committee, the General Assembly of Delegates, where members will decide the business and future plans of the CIA. The 2015 Coupe Mondiale website, online next Wednesday, has full details including, category requirements, links to hotel information, draft schedule, all at: Coupe Mondiale. |
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Video of V International Competition & VI International Festival 'Accordion Plus' - Russiaby Harley Jones |
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![]() We will broadcast live video of the 4 major concerts of the Accordion Plus festival. Among the performers are: - Russian Honoured Artist Yuri Shishkin - Romanian virtuoso Emi Dragoya - World champion Alexander Poeluev - Ukrainian Honoured Artist Vladimir Murza - Harmonika ensemble from Saratov - international contest laureate Lev Lavrov - the grand prize winner of “Accordion Plus” 2012 Anna Kryshtaleva - the singer Olga Chirkova - 2014 Coupe Mondiale laureates - duet “Fantasy” These are supported by the Rostov Symphony Orchestra, folk orchestras and jazz bands. View the colorful concert posters and video concert information at: 2015RostovPlus Video concerts are: - Thursday 26th March, from 11.40 hours Moscow time - Concert of Anna Kryshtaleva ("Accordion Plus" grand prix 2012 winner). - Thursday 26th March, from 19.00 hours Moscow time - Opening Concert of VI International Festival "Accordion Plus" - Saturday 28th March, from 18.00 hours Moscow time - "Jazz Glow". - Sunday 29th March, from 18.00 hours Moscow time - Closing Concert "In Love With Don" The competitions includes solo categories for children to adults for classical, entertainment, folk (harmonica) and digital types of music. There is several categories of ensemble from children to no age limit. Some competition winners will be performing on the videos. For further information email to: info@accordionplus.ru or on the website: 'Accordion Plus' View the colorful concert posters and video concert information at: 2014RostovPlus |
Foster & Allen Tour – South Africaby Rob Howard |
![]() The very popular Irish duo Foster & Allen Tour will be on a concert tour of South Africa, late March and early April as part of a World Tour. March 27th - Sand du Plessis Theatre, Bloemfontein March 28th - GrandWest Arena, Cape Town March 29th - Feather Market Centre, Port Elizabeth April 2nd - Emnotweni Casino, Nelspruit April 4th - Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, Johannesburg April 7th - ABSA KKNK – Musiekplaas, Oudtshoorn Foster & Allen are accordionist Mick Foster and singer/guitarist Tony Allen. They began performing together in 1975, playing ‘easy listening’ songs and tunes with some traditional Irish music. In 1979 they released the single ‘A Bunch of Thyme’ in Ireland, which entered the Irish charts and became their first top-selling No. 1 single, soon afterwards repeating the feat in the UK. Several other hit singles and albums followed, and the duo became internationally popular. They have to date achieved album and video sales in excess of 22 million worldwide. Mick Foster was taught to play the accordion by a Sr Anges Murray, a nun of the Mercy Order in Ballymahon, County Longford, and Frankie Gavigan. Other influences on his playing included Jimmy Shand and Will Starr. In 1968 and 1970 Mick Foster won the All Ireland Piano Accordion Championship at the Fleadh Cheoil. He has often stated that his accordion would probably be the last thing in life he would be prepared to give up. |
Queen’s Service Medal for Heather Mitchell-Gladstone, Christchurch – New Zealandby Heather Masefield |
![]() Picture left is Heather Mitchell-Gladstone entertaining in Christchurch and the lower picture is singing and playing for the Farewell Dinner at the NZAA 2013 South Pacific Accordion Championships, pictured with NZAA Treasurer Amber Masefield. From the age of 11, Heather has played piano and accordion, and sung for live audiences. After leaving school she obtained her music degree from the University of Canterbury and in later years returned to the university to teach extension courses in accordion. Heather has performed both nationally and internationally as a soloist, as well as in bands, groups and orchestras, including the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and three tours of Australia with the 2nd Battalion Army Band. She has toured extensively in Australia, Europe, England and America. She has also spent some time as a music specialist and touring musician in schools in the South West of England and in Finland. A founding member of the Canterbury Accordion Association (CAA), in 2005 Heather received a Merit Award from the Accordion Examination Board of New Zealand (AEBNZ) in recognition of outstanding services to the accordion movement and this was followed by Lifetime Membership from the CAA in 2013. In 2007 Heather received a Community Services Award from the Christchurch City Council for services to music in the Community. This award recognised her work running numerous choirs through the years including the Christchurch Star Children’s Choir and the St Alban’s Community Choir. In 2012 Heather was awarded the Vernon Griffiths Prize in Musical Leadership from the University of Canterbury in recognition of her outstanding contribution to music. “Heather has a philosophy of music for all,” says Doug Lamb, a choir member for over eight years. “I went along one evening to see what the choir was all about. I was in my early 50s and had no singing experience. As soon as I arrived I was welcomed into the group and had music thrust into my hands with the clear message to join in. Since that day I have had nothing but encouragement.” Heather is always working on a variety of musical projects, volunteering, leading musical tours through Europe, playing in folk bands and currently running the choir along with her own music school, teaching accordion, singing, and piano. |
Reports for Concerts, Masterclasses, Competitions, Festivals, etc. |
‘Shirley’s Wild Accordion’ on ‘Magical Mystery Tour’, London – UKby Rob Howard |
![]() In 1967 the Beatles filmed ‘Magical Mystery Tour’, their third movie. Merseyside-born accordionist Shirley Evans (1932 - 2010) appeared in a scene on board the coach, accompanying some lively sing-along numbers with the Beatles. Another scene showed her playing ‘Shirley’s Wild Accordion’, written for her by John Lennon, on which she was backed by Paul McCartney on maracas and yelling "Go on, Shirl!", and Ringo Starr on drums. However, the accordion playing scene in the above video was left out during final editing, and until now this unique recording has remained unissued in the vaults at EMI in Abbey Rd, London. The latest DVD/Blu-ray re-issue of ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ includes ‘Shirley’s Wild Accordion’ in the bonus material. ‘Shirley's Wild Accordion’ was recorded on October 12th 1967 at EMI Studios, Abbey Road, London, in eight takes, with Evans playing from an arrangement written by Mike Leander from a tune composed by John Lennon. Shirley Evans was a world travelled professional accordionist, composer, dancer, presenter/writer of a children’s TV show in Hong Kong, and latterly was involved in show business agency work in Florida, USA. She entertained on cruise ships, and in the 1970s performed as a duo with CIA Coupe Mondiale winner Donald Hulme. |
Video: Buckwheat Zydeco "Parti de Paris" - USAby Harley Jones |
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John Bonica Communications With Injury Related Accordionists - USAby Harley Jones |
![]() While discussing his book, John told me about the interesting contacts his book has ocassioned, so I asked him to write, as there may be many other accordionists very interested. John Bonica wrote: "In the process of writing my book for accordionists exclusively, I have been contacted by several readers with pain and issues which are hindering their ability to manage the left and right hand keyboards. Most contacts are from my readers, and many are from those who have heard of my book through friends. The provision of my email address has prompted direct contact with me, and with the aid of the internet, they have provided me with digital pictures and or video (via Skype) and direct phone contact. With calls coming from England, New Zealand, the USA, and other countries, I have been able to solve most issues and give helpful advice, which has made a positive change. Interestingly enough, most issues involved a slight change to the right hand / wrist / elbow position together with altering straps to align the keyboard correctly to fit the individual’s body type. Some were playing instruments way too small for them, while others were struggling with slanted keyboards and accordions too big for their body type. Other issues involved bass straps being too loose, incorrect seating height, and of course the troubles that occur for those that play standing, or professionals that stroll. One thing that came out frequently was that as we age (or change shape) the position we wear the accordion must change somewhat as we grow from childhood to adulthood, or if weight and body size changes, it is necessary to adjust instrument positioning accordingly. As we age, going to a lighter instrument is not always the correct solution. (I personally witnessed Galla-Rini playing a full sized accordion way into his 90’s with ease.) Keep the enquiries coming. My email address is bonicael@teleport.com I welcome your questions and the advice I provide is free. These consults are given free in appreciation for all the help and advice I have received from many people musically over my career." This exciting eBook by John Bonica (PT CMP NZRP) is being published chapter by chapter, with about one chapter being released each month. For more information, and to purchase: John Bonica |
Video: Motion Trio Performs Little Storyby Harley Jones |
Motion Trio in a recently released video of their very famous composition Little Story. Video published by Motion Trio on 12 March 2015 |
Vency Lobo Just Loves to Entertain, Mumbai – Indiaby Harley Jones |
![]() Working as a senior auditor in the defence accounts department during the day, the nights are reserved for his red accordion. "I play it while going to work in the train from Bandra to Churchgate, and also on my way back," said Lobo. Lobo added that he plays waltzes, tangos, and other popular music besides hymns and Christmas carols. On being asked if SRK's popularity has got anything to do with him getting public attention, he said: "He's human, just like anyone else, but it is possible that people who have come to see him may drop in to listen to me." |
‘14 Years Ago’: Italian Accordionists visit Mexico in March 2001by Rob Howard |
![]() Italian Accordionists in Mexico Contributed by Holda Paoletti-Kampl A series of musical events featuring exponents of the Italian accordion scene took place recently in Mexico. On March 10th a ‘Noche Italo-Mexicana’ was held in Leon City, and on March 11th the ‘Diva Y Divinas’ concert featured Massimiliano Pitocco on classical accordion and Cemex's Valentino Lorenzetti on MIDI accordion. The musical evening (which also featured a colourful orchestra of Mariachis) was organised by the Italian political and commercial authorities and inspired by Dismamusica, an organization based in Milan, Italy. A carefully selected public (attendance was by invitation only) responded with enthusiasm to the pieces performed by the two soloists, whose programme was concluded by Astor Piazzolla's ‘Oblivion’ and ‘Libertango’, played jointly by the artists. The enthusiasm surrounding this event was so intense that the start of the concert had to be brought forward by half an hour. The event was a major success with the two accordionists filling the audience with "colourful" enthusiasm. |
Future events |
Stanislav Angelov and Christopher Duigan Concert, Natal – South Africaby Rob Howard |
![]() ![]() Bulgarian-born Stanislav Angelov has lived in South Africa for many years, and has done a great deal to promote the accordion there through his frequent performances, recordings, and his publicity website. For further information email: music@goodmusic.co.za |
‘Musical Integration Concert’ - Curacaoby Rob Howard |
![]() ![]() Performing as a quartet, visiting from Colombia, are Lácides Romero (picture left - accordion and piano), Valentina Gómez (guitar) Carlos Vásquez (guitar), and Chepe Ariza (bass guitar). Also performing are Curacao musicians Grupo Serenada, Dushi Corsu, and Raices de Colombia. For further information email: lacidesromero@gmail.com |
Mirko Satto Recital, Mantova - Italyby Rob Howard |
![]() The program includes music by Vivaldi, Albinoni, Couperin, Daquin, Rossini, Solotarjow, Fancelli, Lecuona, Rota, Galliano, and Piazzolla. |
Matthew MacLennan Trio @ Lockerbie Accordion & Fiddle Club, Scotland – UKby Rob Howard |
![]() Matthew Maclennan, a winner of several accordion competitions, has recently released his debut CD ‘Traditionally Inspired’, a mixture of music from throughout Scotland and beyond her borders. |
Jac & Co’s 2015 American Tour – USAby Rob Howard |
![]() The French magazine ‘Le Progrès’ said: “They bring back almost a century of the traditional French 'chanson' songs like those of Édith Piaf, Yves Montand and Francis Lemarque. With just voice and accordion, Jacques & Co captivate audiences and transport them to the dance halls and street side cafés of France's yesteryears!” Dates: April 3rd, 7th, 10th, 15th, 17th (with the Star chef George Perrier), 21st, 24th, 28th - French restaurant ‘A la Maison’, Ardmore, Philadelphia April 19th - with Andrea Carlson & Love Police, Café Vivaldi, New York April 26th - Corinthians Yacht Club, April 30th and May 1st - Auberge chez François, Great Falls (VA), near Washington May 2nd and 3rd - Wine & Food Festival, National Harbour May 5th to 10th - Jac & Co recording session & concert in C.A.S Studio, Vineland, New Jersey May 11th - French restaurant ‘Pot au feu’, Providence, Rhode Island May 14th - Gateway Lodge, Pennsylvania May 29th – concert at Cooperage project, Honesdale |
‘Les As de L’accordeon’ on TV, Phillipeville – Belgiumby Rob Howard |
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National Accordion Trophy, Montrond-les-Bains – Franceby Rob Howard |
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This year’s annual National Accordion Trophy takes place at the Auditorium, Montrond-les-Bains, on Monday April 6th, 4pm. This national competition is a transitional step towards the major international accordion competitions. The Montrond-les-Bains National Accordion Trophy follows the logical continuation of regional contests (11 levels - from Beginner to Superior). For the National Accordion Trophy 2015 Montrond-les-Bains, candidates will represent the prestigious accordion schools, including the CNIMA J.Mornet. |
Charity Accordion Concert, Northern Ireland – UKby Rob Howard |
![]() The concert also features the Larne Seniors Accordion Orchestra (MD Clyde Johnston), East Antrim Juniors Orchrestra, and NAO UK Polka Champion Johnny Wilson. Tickets are available from any Orchestra member, Larne Tourist Information Centre, and Larne Leisure Centre. For further information email: clyde.johnston@hotmail.co.uk |
‘Open Mic’ @ Brooklyn Accordion Club, New York – USAby Rob Howard |
![]() The Spring issue of the club magazine SqueeZine! will be available at this meeting. Contributors include Dr William Schimmel Charita Patamikakorn, Patrice Escandon, Jeanne Velonis, Benedikt Neuroth, T.C. Costello, Rebecca, Rob Reich, Tony Kovatch, Joe De Clemente, Andrew Cordle, Denise Koncelik, Evan Perry-Giblin, and Robert Duncan. Brooklyn Accordion Club meets at 61 Local, 61 Bergen St., Brooklyn, New York. For further information email: brooklynaccordionclub@gmail.com |
Santa Maria Accordion Band Concert, Mosta – Maltaby Rob Howard |
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On Sunday April 19th, 10am until 12pm, the Santa Maria Accordion Band (MD Marthese Busuttil Cassar LBCA.B.C.A) performs a morning concert, during which they will be accompanying Mr. Mario Borg during his artistic exhibition. This event takes place at Ir-Razzett tal-Markiz Mallia Tabone, Centru ta’ kultura Nazzjonali, Triq Wied il-Ghasel, il-Mosta, Malta. |
Video: Alain Musichini Trio and Digital Duo Performing at 20th Anniversary - Franceby Nathalie Boucheix, Director CNIMA J.Mornet |
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![]() Video 2: Alain Musichini Trio and guests perform for dancing in Chatellerault, November 2014. Video by Alexandra Astorg. The Digital Duo of Musichini and Savoie and the Alain Musichini Trio are both performing at the CNIMA J.Mornet 20th Anniversary Festival National d’Accordéon, 29th to 31st May in Saint-Sauves. The festival also includes an amazing list of former CNIMA students who have gone on to become famous accordion performers and teachers. Download the full program and information: 2015CNIMA.pdf |
Eric Bouvelle and Matthieu Chaussalet Course, Haute-Savoie - Franceby Rob Howard |
![]() In a beautiful setting, in Haute-Savoie (in the heart of the Aravis) Eric and Matthew will guide you and meet your expectations in a friendly atmosphere. So you can hone your musical and technical knowledge. Whether ‘acoustic’ or ‘Digital’, they teach you how to run your songs, the bagpipes to jazz, to the variety, according to your preferences. You will have the chance to spend a few days alongside two popular names of accordion, and meet them through a pleasant evening in their company. The course includes a visit to the nearby Cavagnolo factory and concert by Eric Bouvelle and Matthieu Chaussalet. |
CD Reviews |
CD Review: Let Me Tell You A Story CD by Random Encounterby Joan C. Sommers |
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New and Updated Sites |
New Site: Tango Reaction CD by Buttons & Bellows Duo - Serbiaby Harley Jones |
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Updated Site: Franco Cambareri New Work Cocolito Beachby Franco Cambareri |
![]() Catalog No: cfranco194 - Cocolito Beach (solo) as an eSheet, able to be purchased online with credit card and sent to you by email. Cocolito Beach is a happy Latin beach party dance. |
Updated Site: Silvio De Pra (1925 to 2012) - New Zealandby Harley Jones |
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