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  28 October 2005 This weeks news | Past News  | Send news
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Editor's Note

As this week's AWW news goes online, the 2005 Coupe Mondiale in Castelo Branco, Portugal, draws to a close. These championships not only bring together many of the world's best players in friendly competition, they also serve as the zenith of a great worldwide fraternity of music-making using accordions. In a world that all too often seems a gloomy place as a result of widespread human malevolence and natural disasters, making music is a vitally important antidote to our troubles. Those of us involved with the accordion are fortunate inasmuch as we play and listen to an instrument that crosses all cultural divides, and adapts easily to most musical genres. Look out for the results of the Coupe Mondiale on AWW.

Rob Howard

Coupe Mondiale Daily Reports
 


  25 years of international accordion concerts, Neunkirchen - Austria
William Schimmel Performs in New TV Film, New York - USA
Maria Kalaniemi's Activities, Helsinki - Finland
Grammy Award Nomination for New CD, San Francisco - USA
56th All-Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival, Perth - UK
Eric Bouvelle and Jacky Delance CD Available, Paris - France
Accordions Break the Age Barrier and Form Balkan Village, Minneapolis - USA

  North West International Accordion Festival, Blackpool - UK

  Zero Sette Akordeoi Orkestra Concerts, Gipuzkoa - Spain
Arte di Musica Concerts, Eltville - Germany
Recitals and Seminar, Valladolid - Spain

Fundación Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata, Valledupar - Columbia

 

Macdonald
25 years of international accordion concerts, Neunkirchen - Austria
Contributed by Dr.Herbert Scheibenreif of Friedrich Lips Productions

When the Warsaw accordion duo Jerzy Lukasiewicz and Robert Strombek made its appearance in Neunkirchen on April 11th 1980 nobody could have forseen that this concert would be the beginning of a remarkable history of success. Herbert Scheibenreif had become acquainted with the duo at international accordion events and finally invited them to perform at a concert in Neunkirchen.

The long list of accordion artistes who have visited Neunkirchen since those days itself reads like a WHO'S WHO of the international accordion world: Vladimir Dolgopolov, Aleksander and Vitaly Dmitriev, Peter Gerter, Frédéric Guérouet, Friedrich Lips, Frank Marocco, Jean-Marc Marroni, Elsbeth Moser, Joachim Pichura, Georg Schulz, Skiff, UMKC Accordion Ensemble (Joan Cochran Sommers, MD), Hrolfur Vagnsson, Mika Väyrynen, Warschauer Akkordoonquintett, Trio NATA BENE, Viatcheslav & Natasha Semionov, Trio ARS HARMONICA, Aidar Gainullin, Stas Venglevski and John Simkus, Dobrek Bistro, and Vladimir Zubitsky.

Thus, during the past 25 years, Neunkirchen became an important venue in the international accordion world and appears constantly in international accordion newspapers like 'Harmonika International' or 'Intermusik' as well as on 'Accordions Worldwide'. Often a concert in Neunkirchen was the starting point for a tour all over Austria. In such a way, thanks to the great development of the accordion internationally, various new possibilities of the instrument could be demonstrated to an interested local public, many prejudices could be reduced and new impulses be given for the future to the instrument.

In order to celebrate this special anniversary of '25 years of international accordion concerts in Neunkirchen', the co-operation with the local cultural society succeeded in bringing 'Dobrek Bistro' to Neunkirchen for a celebration concert on October 21st. Further events of this celebration include: Duo Semionov (bayan/domra) on November 16th and 'Klaus Paier Trio, featuring Frank Marocco' (American jazz legend) on March 3rd 2006.
 
Edition Harmonia
William Schimmel Performs in New TV Film, New York - USA
Contributed by Rob Howard

New York-based accordionist William Schimmel recently recorded a new soundtrack for the upcoming cable television film: 'Tango MacNorton'. It is produced by and will air on the Nickelodeon channel Schimmel comments: "'Tango MacNorton' is about a 12 year old lad who saves his lunchroom at his local middle school. He seems like a 'geeky' sort of lad with not too much going for him. But he's able to stop the culprits of the lunchroom staff from serving slop. He uses the only talent he possesses. He knows how to tango. He tangos the bad dudes out of the school (the tango becomes a kind of martial art) and saves LUNCH- PERIOD."

Wade Tonken composed an unusual, novel and creative tango dominated score and called on Schimmel for his expertise. He allowed Schimmel to use his creative skills as an improviser as well as interpreter - the accordion performing throughout the entire score. 'Tango MacNorton' is a short film, but it will be enjoyed my many people for a long time, especially those who possess unappreciated skills - and for those who know the difference between a good lunch and bad cafeteria slop.
 
A to Z of the Accordion
Maria Kalaniemi's Activities, Helsinki - Finland
Contributed by Rob Howard

On September 1st The Arts Council of Finland appointed accordionist Maria Kalaniemi Artist Professor, one of four new Artist Professors for a five-year term alongside composer Kaija Saariaho, writer Olli Jalonen and artist Juho Karjalainen. Meanwhile, in Helsinki, the Finnish National Theater production of 'Niskavuoren Nuori Emäntä', featuring various Kalaniemi compositions, continues to run. This show premiered in December 2004 and continues through November 2005 with a massively successful run of showings.

The Accordion Tribe film 'Music Travels', featuring Maria Kalaniemi, is now released on DVD and can be obtained directly from the producer Maximage. For further information email: info@maximage.ch

On November 2nd, Maria Kalaniemi will release her new solo album 'Bellow Poetry', with a launch concert at the Sibelius Academy Chamber Music Hall.
 
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Grammy Award Nomination for New CD, San Francisco - USA
Contributed by Rob Howard

'Legends of the Italian Lounge', the new CD by the Italian-style band Bella Ciao led by accordionist Tom Torriglia, has been nominated in the first nominating round for a Grammy in the Pop Vocal Album category. Bella Ciao play the classic Italiano music from the late 1950s as well as today's hottest Italian-American hits, and are very popular in California.

For further information email: tom@ladyofspain.com
    

56th All-Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival, Perth - UK
Contributed by Rob Howard

The 56th All-Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival takes place in the New Concert Hall, Perth, on October 29th, organised annually since 1949 by Bill Wilkie - a record breaking continuous run. Contests begin at 9am, and the festival incorporates the All-Scotland Accordion Championships, including sections for all ages and levels of ability.

On October 29th, there is the annual pre-festival Ceilidh Dance, held at the Queens Hotel in Perth from 8pm and featuring the music of John Carmichael and his Scottish Dance Band.

The festival itself concludes with an all-star concert (6.45pm), held in the New Concert Hall, starring Danielle Pauly, from France. The concert has been a sell out for several weeks.
 
Benetoux
Eric Bouvelle and Jacky Delance CD Available, Paris - France
Contributed by Rob Howard

Accordionist Eric Bouvelle and pianist Jacky Delance have performed together for several years, since meeting on the set of the French television show 'La chance aux chansons', hosted by Pascal Sevran.

Their 1998 highly rated CD 'Le Duo', which includes such pieces as 'La Danza' (Rossini), 'Arabesque' (Debussy), 'Valses de Paris', 'Caprice Mazurka', plus several original compositions by the players themselves, continues to be available.

For further information email: mss@organ.co.uk
 
Yehuda
Accordions Break the Age Barrier and Form Balkan Village, Minneapolis - USA
Contributed by Rob Howard

The following report has been submitted by Dee Langley (left): "On November 5th, from 10am until midnight, accordionists spanning seven decades (ages 15 to 82) play Jazz, Roots, Rock, Bavarian, Bulgarian, Euro-dance, Swing, Balkan, Café, and Classical music at the Eighth Annual North East Accordion Festival in NE Minneapolis. For one day, the California Building Gallery is home to a multitude of bellows driven music ending in a Balkan Dance with music by Orkestar Bez Ime. November is National Accordion Month, live accordion, one day, all day."

Artistes involved include: Larry Malmberg, Dee Langley, Dan Newton, Orkestar Bez Ime, Patrick Harrison, The Osacho Sisters, Eric Ray, Tom Sullivan, Dan Turpening, and special guest, Mike Alongi (Chicago). Also appearing is The Ethnic Dance Theatre. At 10am, the event begins with "SQUEEZ-IN', a massed accordion band. The venue is the California Building Gallery, 2205 California St NE, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

For further information email: squeezer@nwmconsortium.org
   
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North West International Accordion Festival, Blackpool - UK
Contributed by Rob Howard

The North West International Accordion Festival, held at Pontins Holiday Centre, Blackpool, was a great success for all concerned. Organisers Loretta Rolston and Gina Brannelli opened the festival with a reception in the Sandpiper Bar, followed by an introduction to the workshops. The workshops commenced, including a 'buskers free and easy welcome' in the Dunlin Suite.

The trade show included Accordions of London, Geoff Holter Accordions, The Accordion Shop, Accordion Exchange and Music World UK, and Charnwood Music. Representatives from the NAO and BCA and the editors of the Accordion Times International Magazine were present at the event.

There were at least 12 workshops a day for Orchestra, Group, Duet and Solo. Leaders included, Mr Raymond Bodell, John Leslie, Jack Emblow, Tony Compton, Gina Brannelli, Jean Hanger, Tracey Middleton, David Garwood, The Heath Family - led by John Wilton and Robert Heath, Brenda Webster, David and Elaine Batty, Alastair Cameron, David Vernon, and Junior Leaders, William Langton and Stefan Bodell. The workshops were varied and interesting, with each of the Leaders showing their skills, and sharing their knowledge to a very appreciative audience.

Two monetary awards were given, with Certification, for the Best Accordion Club 2005, judged on its presentation of a portfolio supporting the activities, promotions, etc. This was presented to David Batty, who received it on behalf of Leyland Accordion Club. The second award was for Young Performer of the Year, and went to Stefan Bodell, who appeared in concert at the festival.

The festival included a Question Time 1, with John Leslie, Raymond Bodell, Harry Hussey and Gina Brannelli, who answered a great range of questions and was enjoyed by all; there was humour as well as expertise in the replies given by the experts. Question Time 2, with Jean Hanger and Gina Brannelli, proved very interesting also, with lots of questions regarding correct tutorial methods for very young children, repertoire and technical points.

The festival concerts were spectacular, with the varied styles and talents of Jack Emblow and Tony Compton, Daniele Ravaglia (Italy), The Flores Brothers (France), Nelson Lebre (Portugal), Gina Brannelli, Harry Hussey, David Vernon, Amaryllis, William Langton, Andrew Figg, Stefan Bodell, the Petulengos (Sarah Jane, William, Julie and Nancy), the 2Js (Jean and Jay), Hannah Heaney, Daizilee Pattison, Santana and Soraya O'Connor, and Alexander Bodell.

The festival was a complete success and the next North West Festivals take place in late March and early November 2006 at the same venue. www.accordionfestivals.co.uk
or www.blackpoolaccordionfestival.com
  
Zubitsky

Zero Sette Akordeoi Orkestra Concerts, Gipuzkoa - Spain
Contributed by Rob Howard

The Zero Sette Akordeoi Orkestra will perform at the following venues:-

October 29th at 8pm - Paranifo Music Concervatory, Jaen
31st at 9pm - Theatre Victoria, Talavera de la Reina, Toledo
November 12th at 8.30pm - Theatre Reina Sofia, Belorado, Burgos

The Zero Sette Akordeoi Orkestra was founded in Lasarte-Oria, Gipuzkoa, in the Basque Region in 1987 with José Antonio Mercero as conductor. Elías Goikouria Erauzkin has been the orchestra's conductor since 1990.

For further information email: zerosette@euskalnet.net
 
 
Tom
Arte di Musica Concerts, Eltville - Germany
Contributed by Holda Paoletti-Kampl

The duo Arte di Musica, accordionists Annegrat Gratz and Thomas Rohoska, are in concert on November 4th and 5th at Vinothek, Rheingauer 38, StraBe, 65343 Eltville. The concerts begin at 8pm, and the duo's repertoire includes classical, baroque, Argentine Tango and French musette.

For further information email: anne@artedimusica.com
   
Gary Dahl
Christmas Accordion Variety Concert, Worthing - UK
Contributed by Rob Howard

Worthing Accordion Club, based in Southern England, presents 'A Christmas Accordion Variety Concert' on December 2nd, featuring Gennaro Fiondella (left) and The Worthing Accordion Orchestra, with Special Guests Lisa-Lee Leslie, Harry Hussey, and Dennis Henley and Friends. The doors open at 7pm, and the venue is The East Worthing Community Centre, Pages Lane, Worthing, West Sussex.

For further information email: gennaro@fiondella3573.fsbusiness.co.uk
  
Lips
Recitals and Seminar, Valladolid - Spain
Contributed by Rob Howard

The Asociatión Musical de Acordeonistas de Vallodilid has organised some events, details as follows:-

December 3rd, at 8.30pm - Teodoro Anzellotti: classical accordion recital at the Church of San Andrés.
December 4th to 6th - seminar led by Teodoro Anzellotti
December 17th, at 8pm - Tango Recital, featuring Fabián Carbone (bandoneon), Blas Rivera (tenor sax) and Diego Pérez (piano).

For further information email: raulalva61@hotmail.com
 
Ferreira
Fundación Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata, Valledupar - Columbia
Contributed by Rob Howard

The annual Fundación Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata takes place from December 15th to 17th. This large-scale competitive festival celebrates the music of Columbia, whose origins are largely Spanish, indigenous Columbian, European and African. Diatonic button accordions are predominant in Columbia, and the festival contains a wide range of sections, amateur and professional, for solo players and bands featuring accordionists, with a range of prizes.

For further information email: prensa@festivalvallenato.com
  
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A new CD Review:

of
Todd Hildreth Accordion Trio.

Review by
Joan Cochran Sommers.
Bernadette

Peter Piccini releases 6 compositions of of 'Movin'', 'Moonlight Rhumba', 'Night in Paris', 'Note's at Play', 'Summer Thoughts' and 'Rio Samba'. Samples of the music are available online. The music is in eSheet format, able to be emailed to your computer. Purchase with credit card.

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Paul Chamberlain releases 2 new compositions: 'Neva' and 'La Meije'. Samples of the music are available online. The music is in eSheet format, able to be emailed to your computer. Purchase with credit card.

Gary Darven
A new site selling a CD titled 'Improvvisazioni Guidate' with sound samples. Music performed by Renzo Ruggieri. Purchase online.

A new site selling a CD titled 'Storie di Fisarmonica Vissuta' with sound samples. Music performed by Renzo Ruggieri. Purchase online.


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