Public Notice:

All activities conducted herein, including but not limited to the performance and reproduction of copyrighted material, are undertaken exclusively for educational purposes and in accordance with applicable copyright law to avoid potential infringement or entanglement.

2026 Fun Band Information & Music

Fun Band Director Dick Albreski writes:

Fun Band is exactly what it sounds like—a Fun Band. The accordion takes center stage as the undisputed King, and every member—regardless of experience—is treated like royalty. It’s a guided jam session, where the music flows with purpose, rhythm, and expression, all built around arrangements tailored for every skill level.

Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, you'll find meaning and satisfaction in being part of something bigger. It’s a place where you can play freely, grow musically, and enjoy the camaraderie—without fear of judgment or missteps.

So come on—join the FUN BAND. Because when the accordion rules and everyone’s royalty, the only thing serious is the joy.

You select the Music!:

Check out our growing collection of Fun Band arrangements—it's been building since 2012, one toe-tapping tune at a time!

From October 1 until December 1, 2025, everyone with a hotel reservation for the 2026 Forney Accordion Conference gets to take the conductor’s baton and vote for up to 10 favorite musical selections they'd love to play in March. It’s your chance to set the tempo for the big event!

Once the votes are in, the top selections will be posted right here—so you can start practicing, polishing your parts, and making sure your accordion is in pitch-perfect shape. Let’s make this concert one for the record books (vinyl technology, of course).

2026 Orchestra Music and Information

Orchestra Director Gordon Kohl writes:

Gordon Kohl has arranged music to ensure everyone feels welcome and at ease, with pieces thoughtfully matched to each skill level—just enough to stretch and inspire without overwhelming.

Emphasis: Accordion orchestra emphasizes precision, structure, and musical depth.
Setup: Designated parts similar to chamber orchestra divisions.
Philosophy: Music as craft—showcasing the accordion’s versatility and sophistication.
Role of the accordion: Each player contributes to layered harmonies and dynamics; often divided into registers.

We’ll be making music, memories, and maybe a few joyful mistakes—because that’s how we learn! Join us as we continue our accordion journey with great tunes, good company, and a steady beat.

For the orchestra, I’ll be focusing on timing, meter, tempos, musicianship study, and—of course—audience appeal. After all, we want toes tapping and hearts humming!

Mark your calendars:

Musical selections will be posted on this page by December 1, 2025.

The arrangements will include: Three accordion parts (because one just is not enough!) Digital Accordion charts (for the tech-savvy squeezers) Bass parts (to keep us grounded and grooving)

“I have used these selections in past accordion camps, and players had a blast exploring rhythm patterns on both treble and bass. There’s something here for every style and skill level!”

1. City of Stars: La La Land – pop with sparkle
2. Edelweiss – a waltz that with grace
3. España cañí: Spanish Gypsy Pasodoble,
4. Feather Theme: Forrest Gump – sentimental
5. Fly Me To The Moon – great harmony
6. God Bless America – patriotic and powerful
7. Just Because – polka fun
8. Love Me Tender – a ballad to melt hearts
9. My Melody Of Love – Polka with personality
10. Sophomore Blues – a left-hand workout
11. Take Me Home, Country Roads
12. Yellow Bird – tropical Cha-Cha with flair

“Some of these tunes are perfect for musicianship study and audience appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just getting your bellows warmed up, there’s something here to make your accordion sing.”

So tune up, show up, and let’s orchestrate some accordion magic together!

2026 Presenter Information

Roy Helsing

Programming Basics for Digital Accordions

Understanding the Language of Sound Design

Sharon Seaton

Accordionists' Collaborative Circle

A small, supportive group of accordionists will gather to exchange insights and constructive feedback on works in progress. Each participant will perform one or two pieces they are currently refining—or feel are nearly performance-ready.

As each musical selection is shared, fellow musicians will listen attentively and offer thoughtful suggestions for improvement, while also highlighting the strengths and positive elements they observe. The goal is to foster a collaborative environment where encouragement and shared expertise help each player grow artistically.

Darryl Malloy

Daryll is an Art Collective specializing in Artist Representation, Buyer Education, and Collector Consulting. (469) 649-6274 or RenaissanceArtCollective@gmail.com

Custer's Roundtable Discussion Groups:

An accordion-related round table discussion is typically a collaborative forum—either in person or virtual—where enthusiasts, musicians, educators, and instrument makers gather to explore topics related to the accordion. These discussions can be informal jam sessions or structured panels, depending on the setting.

Common Themes in Accordion Roundtables:

Technique/Style:
Comparing approaches across genres like folk, classical, Cajun, or conjunto
Instrument Craftsmanship:
Insights from builders and tuners on reed choices, bellows, and digital innovations
Cultural Preservation:
Exploring how accordion music sustains regional traditions (e.g., Texas conjunto or French musette)
Education/Outreach:
Sharing teaching methods, lesson plans, and youth engagement strategies
Performance/Collaboration:
Opportunities to showcase playing, swap arrangements, or form ensembles