2005 News Archive
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
January 12, 2005
Meeting Notes
Falls Church may be far from Paris, but if you closed your eyes during last evening's meeting you might have been able to imagine yourself in another place and time. In the handout he distributed before his program, Steve Tchamouroff wrote: "Welcome to the tree-lined boulevards of Paris and the heyday of the Bal Musette. Sit back with your cafe au lait and croissant and relax as Steve Tchamouroff and other performers ... serenade you with a collection of the finest accordion classics ever made."
(Click here to read Steve's history of the Bal Musette. Mara, especially, is thankful for the information, since she attended a Bal Musette in France a couple of years ago and wanted to know more about the event's origins.)
The tunes flowed so freely out of Steve's accordion that the 40-some members of the audience barely had a chance to become aware of one before it had turned into another. From his huge repertoire, we heard the following:
From France:
Pigalle
Jalousie
La Seine
La Petite Valse
Sur les Ponts de Paris
Sous le Ciel de Paris
Domino
Retour des Hirondelles
La Vie en Rose
Milord
Un Homme et une Femme
Can Can
From Russia:
Midnight in Moscow
Gary Gary
Those Were the Days
Kazatchok
Plain ma Plain
From Italy:
The Godfather
Traveglio e Sogno
Tarantella
Finiculi Finicula
O Solo Mio
That's Amore
Quando Quando
Let's Forget Domani
From Spain:
Gatitos Negros
Viva Espana
Espana Cani
Limon Limonero
Morena de mi Copla
El Relicario
From Portugal:
April in Portugal
Lambada
From Austria:
The Count of Luxembourg
Princess Czardas
From Hungary:
Hungarian Dance #5
From Turkey:
Ushkidara
From Greece:
Never on Sunday
Thank you, Steve, for transporting us to such lovely and exotic places. We look forward to hearing more from you another time. Thank you, also, Jim Vandelly and Peter DiGiovanni for playing a few selections at the end of Steve's program.
Next Meeting
Next month we will be celebrating our second anniversary with a Polka Night. If you haven't signed up to play a polka or two, please do so by emailing Mara.
So far we have:
Elise Malouf - Can Can Polka & Parade Polka
Ken Yegelski - a couple of tunes on the Chemnitzer concertina
Karen - Julida Polka
Lee Paulson & Barbara Lockett - Just Because, untitled Lithuanian Polka & Sakijarven
Phil Fox - Helena Polka & Mama's Pajamas
Paul Przedpelsi - Pennsylvania Polka & TBA
Joan & Stella - Kitty Whiskers Polka & Achtung Los Polka
Paul Aebersold - Hoop-de-do & TBA
Jim Vandelly - Koketka Polka
Vic Aijala - Finnish & Swedish polkas
Rick & Mara - Hupaj Siupaj Medley & Sophie Polka
Ellen Sellers - Vijando en Polka
Barbara Lockett - Viva Seguin (Mexican), Rain Rain (Bohemian) & Finger Polka (Lithuanian)
Dave Ball - tunes on the Chemnitzer concertina
Leone & Mara - Broken Reed Polka
Bob Duca - Tic Toc Polka
Anne & Ellen - Village Tavern
In addition, Mike Rubin has agreed to give polka lessons. Bring your friends and family, and also your dancing shoes!
It's Membership Renewal Time!
It's that time again. Please mail your $15 dues for 2005 to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Washington, DC 20010, or pay at the next meeting.
Accordion Day
This was news to us, but we've learned that January 13 is Accordion Day! Send your friends and loved ones a special accordion card by going to this Web site:
http://www.123greetings.com/events/accordian_day/. You can also find this link on the Miscellany and Links pages of this site.
AAMS 18th Annual Festival and Symposium
The American Accordion Musicological Society will hold its anual festival March 4-6 at the Wyndham Valley Forge Suites in Wayne, Pa. Jim Vandelly is a regular participant in this event, and, by all accounts, it's a load of fun. It will be even better if a lot of WMAS members show up. For more information, contact Joanna Arnold Darrow at (856) 854-6628 or see http://www.aamsaccordionfestival.com.
The Golden Age of the Accordion
The publisher of the book The Golden Age of the Accordion has contacted us to say he now can ship five books in a single box by "flat rate" priority mail for only $7.70. If five of us (or multiples of five) want to order copies of the book, we can do it jointly and save some money. Each individual's cost would come to $37.49, versus $44.95 if the books were shipped separately by standard priority mail (a savings of $7.46 per book). Please reply to this email if you are interested, and send a check for $37.49 to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Apt. 8, Washington, DC 20010. Write the check to WMAS.
The contact information for the publisher is:
Edwin Davison, Co-author, "The Golden Age of the Accordion "
[email protected]
http://home.earthlink.net/~flynnpub
Marvin Cohen (not Merv Conn) Dies
Joan Grauman reports that the accordionist Marvin Cohen, of Silver Spring, died New Year's Eve. Marv Cohen performed regularly in the area, mostly in nursing homes and senior centers. He was only 65 years old.
**********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
January 12, 2005
Meeting Notes
Falls Church may be far from Paris, but if you closed your eyes during last evening's meeting you might have been able to imagine yourself in another place and time. In the handout he distributed before his program, Steve Tchamouroff wrote: "Welcome to the tree-lined boulevards of Paris and the heyday of the Bal Musette. Sit back with your cafe au lait and croissant and relax as Steve Tchamouroff and other performers ... serenade you with a collection of the finest accordion classics ever made."
(Click here to read Steve's history of the Bal Musette. Mara, especially, is thankful for the information, since she attended a Bal Musette in France a couple of years ago and wanted to know more about the event's origins.)
The tunes flowed so freely out of Steve's accordion that the 40-some members of the audience barely had a chance to become aware of one before it had turned into another. From his huge repertoire, we heard the following:
From France:
Pigalle
Jalousie
La Seine
La Petite Valse
Sur les Ponts de Paris
Sous le Ciel de Paris
Domino
Retour des Hirondelles
La Vie en Rose
Milord
Un Homme et une Femme
Can Can
From Russia:
Midnight in Moscow
Gary Gary
Those Were the Days
Kazatchok
Plain ma Plain
From Italy:
The Godfather
Traveglio e Sogno
Tarantella
Finiculi Finicula
O Solo Mio
That's Amore
Quando Quando
Let's Forget Domani
From Spain:
Gatitos Negros
Viva Espana
Espana Cani
Limon Limonero
Morena de mi Copla
El Relicario
From Portugal:
April in Portugal
Lambada
From Austria:
The Count of Luxembourg
Princess Czardas
From Hungary:
Hungarian Dance #5
From Turkey:
Ushkidara
From Greece:
Never on Sunday
Thank you, Steve, for transporting us to such lovely and exotic places. We look forward to hearing more from you another time. Thank you, also, Jim Vandelly and Peter DiGiovanni for playing a few selections at the end of Steve's program.
Next Meeting
Next month we will be celebrating our second anniversary with a Polka Night. If you haven't signed up to play a polka or two, please do so by emailing Mara.
So far we have:
Elise Malouf - Can Can Polka & Parade Polka
Ken Yegelski - a couple of tunes on the Chemnitzer concertina
Karen - Julida Polka
Lee Paulson & Barbara Lockett - Just Because, untitled Lithuanian Polka & Sakijarven
Phil Fox - Helena Polka & Mama's Pajamas
Paul Przedpelsi - Pennsylvania Polka & TBA
Joan & Stella - Kitty Whiskers Polka & Achtung Los Polka
Paul Aebersold - Hoop-de-do & TBA
Jim Vandelly - Koketka Polka
Vic Aijala - Finnish & Swedish polkas
Rick & Mara - Hupaj Siupaj Medley & Sophie Polka
Ellen Sellers - Vijando en Polka
Barbara Lockett - Viva Seguin (Mexican), Rain Rain (Bohemian) & Finger Polka (Lithuanian)
Dave Ball - tunes on the Chemnitzer concertina
Leone & Mara - Broken Reed Polka
Bob Duca - Tic Toc Polka
Anne & Ellen - Village Tavern
In addition, Mike Rubin has agreed to give polka lessons. Bring your friends and family, and also your dancing shoes!
It's Membership Renewal Time!
It's that time again. Please mail your $15 dues for 2005 to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Washington, DC 20010, or pay at the next meeting.
Accordion Day
This was news to us, but we've learned that January 13 is Accordion Day! Send your friends and loved ones a special accordion card by going to this Web site:
http://www.123greetings.com/events/accordian_day/. You can also find this link on the Miscellany and Links pages of this site.
AAMS 18th Annual Festival and Symposium
The American Accordion Musicological Society will hold its anual festival March 4-6 at the Wyndham Valley Forge Suites in Wayne, Pa. Jim Vandelly is a regular participant in this event, and, by all accounts, it's a load of fun. It will be even better if a lot of WMAS members show up. For more information, contact Joanna Arnold Darrow at (856) 854-6628 or see http://www.aamsaccordionfestival.com.
The Golden Age of the Accordion
The publisher of the book The Golden Age of the Accordion has contacted us to say he now can ship five books in a single box by "flat rate" priority mail for only $7.70. If five of us (or multiples of five) want to order copies of the book, we can do it jointly and save some money. Each individual's cost would come to $37.49, versus $44.95 if the books were shipped separately by standard priority mail (a savings of $7.46 per book). Please reply to this email if you are interested, and send a check for $37.49 to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Apt. 8, Washington, DC 20010. Write the check to WMAS.
The contact information for the publisher is:
Edwin Davison, Co-author, "The Golden Age of the Accordion "
[email protected]
http://home.earthlink.net/~flynnpub
Marvin Cohen (not Merv Conn) Dies
Joan Grauman reports that the accordionist Marvin Cohen, of Silver Spring, died New Year's Eve. Marv Cohen performed regularly in the area, mostly in nursing homes and senior centers. He was only 65 years old.
**********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
February 15, 2005
Meeting Notes
February marks our second anniversary as a club, and what better way to celebrate than with a polka or two!
Our Polka Night February 8 drew 65-70 people, including many who came just to dance and who looked like they'd been practicing for quite a few years! Our members played a wide variety of polka music on the piano accordion, bayan and Chemnitzer concertina, and the dancing definitely pumped up the mood and added to the entertainment.
After a couple of opening numbers by Elise, our youngest member, Mike Rubin instructed the uninitiated in some basic polka steps to Ken Yegelski's concertina accompaniment. With that, the evening took off (see the program below).
A big thank you to everyone who contributed with a tune, a turn on the floor, refreshments, a hand in setting up or cleaning up, or two hands brought together in applause. One new member, Oak, contributed a big pot of kielbasa and sauerkraut, along with a humongous loaf of bread, and many others brought snacks to share. In addition, Karen and Luis ordered us a delicious tres leches birthday cake.
Polka Night will definitely happen again, but we also want to try an evening of waltzes or other types of dancing.
WMAS Business
In the business portion of the meeting, we recognized Joan Grauman as the new vice president. Other officers for this year are Karen as president, Mara as secretary/treasurer, Paul Przedpelski as membership chair, Jim Vandelly as communications chair, and Anne Johnson as special events chair.
We distributed a draft copy of the WMAS bylaws (and also emailed copies). Please review these so we can vote to accept them at the March meeting. In answer to one member's question: specifics about dues amounts, payment timeframe and the membership list -- which may change regularly -- will be separate policies rather than bylaw provisions. The dues policy is posted here, and the bylaws will be posted as soon as they're accepted.
Your 2005 dues are payable now. Please send your $15 to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Apt. 8, Washington, DC 20010, or pay at the next meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
At our next meeting, March 8 , Jim Vandelly will present a workshop on bellows techniques. If you've seen Jim play, you'll know his bellows shake is out of this world. Bring your accordion.
In April , Peter DiGiovanni will present part 2 of his "playing by ear" program. The first part was excellent, but we ran out of time, so this is the follow-up.
In May we'll hold our second annual spring concert . We'd like to limit the concert to about 90 minutes, so the number of players/selections will have to be limited. Signup starts now.
Announcements, etc.
The Maryland Accordion Society meets this Saturday, Feb. 19, from 2 to 5 pm at the Bloomsbury Community Center (2nd floor auditorium),106 Bloomsbury Avenue, Catonsville, Md. 21228. Also, MAC is raffling off two certificates for a weekend at the Willard Hotel in downtown Washington. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20. A weekend at the Willard (two nights) is worth $1,000! Think what a great gift this would make. For more information or directions, email [email protected] or call Joe Fertitta at (410) 744-3352.
The 18th Annual American Accordion Musicological Society Festival and Symposium will be held March 4-6 at the Wyndam Valley Forge Suites in Wayne, Pa. For more information, see www.aamsaccordionfestival.com. Several WMAS members will be attending the festival; contact us if you would like to arrange a ride.
Russian bayanist Viacheslav Semionov will perform at a house concert in Potomac, Md., on Sunday, March 13, at 7 pm. Admission is $20, payable in advance, and seats are limited. For more information, please contact Dan or Joan Grauman at (301) 279-8716 or [email protected].
Ms. Marti Hamlet has asked if any of us would be interested in playing the accordion at the McLean Retirement Home. It would be a volunteer position. For more information, please call the office administrator at (703) 442-8660.
A message from Al Meixner: Just a little note to let you know that our 2005 #1 catalog is now online and in effect. We have lots of new items, grammy nominees and my personal note, of course. Hard copies were sent out last weekend to all of our "snail mail" music family. Remember, the quickest way to order is by phone, using your credit card - Monday through Friday, 9 am to 7 pm Eastern time, (610) 261-3881. Hope you find something that you like.
est wishes, AL MEIXNER
Silvia Eberly regretfully missed Polka Night because she was playing German and Zydeco music for a film opening . In "SCHULTZE GETS THE BLUES," a retired German man spends his plentiful free time playing the accordion in a polka band at the local pub. Bored with his life, he becomes reinvigorated when he hears zydeco music. Inspired, his passion for this non-traditional music alienates him from the locals and sends him on a trek to the swamps of Louisiana to find the heart of zydeco. Paramount Classics (1hr 54min). Opens soon at E Street Cinema.
CAST: Horst Krause, Harald Warmbrunn, Karl Fred Müller, Ursula Schucht, Hannelore Schubert. DIRECTOR/WRITER: Michael Schorr
Story submitted by Paul Aebersold (preceded by commentary): This story is just wrong; in no way could an accordion player earn more than twice the income of a stripper, even in Canada.
Stripper Wins Damages After Tiger AttackJan 30, TORONTO (Reuters) - A stripper mauled by a tiger in an Ontario safari park
has won $650,000 in damages because her scars meant she could no longer
work, Canadian media said on Friday.
Jennifer-Anne Cowles was driving through the park nearly nine years ago
with her then boyfriend when a tiger jumped into their car and tried to drag
them away. The two insisted their windows had been shut when the tiger charged,
although the park had challenged that.
The judge accepted the couple's testimony that the power windows had been
inadvertently lowered when one of the big cats bumped against the car,
frightening them.
In a ruling delivered on Thursday and reported in a number of Canadian
newspapers, Justice Jean MacFarland said she could only imagine the "stark
terror experienced by these young people during this horrendous event."
She awarded Cowles some $650,000 in damages, almost half of it to
compensate for income she would have made as a stripper.
Her musician boyfriend, David Balac, won C$1.7 million, because his
injuries left him unable to work as an accordion player.
African Lion Safari, near Hamilton, Ontario, west of Toronto, said it is
reviewing the ruling, but it insisted the park was safe.
"Hundreds of millions of people drive through safari style parks worldwide
every decade and there are very few incidents causing injury," it said in a
statement. "It is one of the safest activities you can do with your
family."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Polka Night Program
Elise Malouf - Can Can Polka & Parade Polka
Ken Yegelski - tunes on the Chemnitzer Concertina
Karen Malan-Uribe - Julida Polka
Phil Fox - Helena Polka & Mama's Pajamas
Lee Paulson & Barbara Lockett - Just Because, a Lithuanian Polka & Sakijarven
Joan Grauman & Stella Allison - Kitty Whiskers Polka & Achtung Los Polka
Paul Aebersold - Hoop-de-do
Vic Aijala - Finnish & Swedish polkas
Rick Nunno & Mara Cherkasky - Hupaj Siupaj Medley & Zosia Polka
Ellen Sellers - Vijando en Polka
Barbara Lockett - Viva Seguin, Rain Rain & Finger Polka
Leone Monticone & Mara Cherkasky - Broken Reed Polka
Bob Duca - Tic Toc Polka
Anne Johnson & Ellen Sellers - Village Tavern
Ken Kunec - Too Fat Polka
Jim Vandelly - Koketka Polka
Dance instruction by Michael B. Rubin
************************************************************************************************************************
February 15, 2005
Meeting Notes
February marks our second anniversary as a club, and what better way to celebrate than with a polka or two!
Our Polka Night February 8 drew 65-70 people, including many who came just to dance and who looked like they'd been practicing for quite a few years! Our members played a wide variety of polka music on the piano accordion, bayan and Chemnitzer concertina, and the dancing definitely pumped up the mood and added to the entertainment.
After a couple of opening numbers by Elise, our youngest member, Mike Rubin instructed the uninitiated in some basic polka steps to Ken Yegelski's concertina accompaniment. With that, the evening took off (see the program below).
A big thank you to everyone who contributed with a tune, a turn on the floor, refreshments, a hand in setting up or cleaning up, or two hands brought together in applause. One new member, Oak, contributed a big pot of kielbasa and sauerkraut, along with a humongous loaf of bread, and many others brought snacks to share. In addition, Karen and Luis ordered us a delicious tres leches birthday cake.
Polka Night will definitely happen again, but we also want to try an evening of waltzes or other types of dancing.
WMAS Business
In the business portion of the meeting, we recognized Joan Grauman as the new vice president. Other officers for this year are Karen as president, Mara as secretary/treasurer, Paul Przedpelski as membership chair, Jim Vandelly as communications chair, and Anne Johnson as special events chair.
We distributed a draft copy of the WMAS bylaws (and also emailed copies). Please review these so we can vote to accept them at the March meeting. In answer to one member's question: specifics about dues amounts, payment timeframe and the membership list -- which may change regularly -- will be separate policies rather than bylaw provisions. The dues policy is posted here, and the bylaws will be posted as soon as they're accepted.
Your 2005 dues are payable now. Please send your $15 to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Apt. 8, Washington, DC 20010, or pay at the next meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
At our next meeting, March 8 , Jim Vandelly will present a workshop on bellows techniques. If you've seen Jim play, you'll know his bellows shake is out of this world. Bring your accordion.
In April , Peter DiGiovanni will present part 2 of his "playing by ear" program. The first part was excellent, but we ran out of time, so this is the follow-up.
In May we'll hold our second annual spring concert . We'd like to limit the concert to about 90 minutes, so the number of players/selections will have to be limited. Signup starts now.
Announcements, etc.
The Maryland Accordion Society meets this Saturday, Feb. 19, from 2 to 5 pm at the Bloomsbury Community Center (2nd floor auditorium),106 Bloomsbury Avenue, Catonsville, Md. 21228. Also, MAC is raffling off two certificates for a weekend at the Willard Hotel in downtown Washington. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20. A weekend at the Willard (two nights) is worth $1,000! Think what a great gift this would make. For more information or directions, email [email protected] or call Joe Fertitta at (410) 744-3352.
The 18th Annual American Accordion Musicological Society Festival and Symposium will be held March 4-6 at the Wyndam Valley Forge Suites in Wayne, Pa. For more information, see www.aamsaccordionfestival.com. Several WMAS members will be attending the festival; contact us if you would like to arrange a ride.
Russian bayanist Viacheslav Semionov will perform at a house concert in Potomac, Md., on Sunday, March 13, at 7 pm. Admission is $20, payable in advance, and seats are limited. For more information, please contact Dan or Joan Grauman at (301) 279-8716 or [email protected].
Ms. Marti Hamlet has asked if any of us would be interested in playing the accordion at the McLean Retirement Home. It would be a volunteer position. For more information, please call the office administrator at (703) 442-8660.
A message from Al Meixner: Just a little note to let you know that our 2005 #1 catalog is now online and in effect. We have lots of new items, grammy nominees and my personal note, of course. Hard copies were sent out last weekend to all of our "snail mail" music family. Remember, the quickest way to order is by phone, using your credit card - Monday through Friday, 9 am to 7 pm Eastern time, (610) 261-3881. Hope you find something that you like.
est wishes, AL MEIXNER
Silvia Eberly regretfully missed Polka Night because she was playing German and Zydeco music for a film opening . In "SCHULTZE GETS THE BLUES," a retired German man spends his plentiful free time playing the accordion in a polka band at the local pub. Bored with his life, he becomes reinvigorated when he hears zydeco music. Inspired, his passion for this non-traditional music alienates him from the locals and sends him on a trek to the swamps of Louisiana to find the heart of zydeco. Paramount Classics (1hr 54min). Opens soon at E Street Cinema.
CAST: Horst Krause, Harald Warmbrunn, Karl Fred Müller, Ursula Schucht, Hannelore Schubert. DIRECTOR/WRITER: Michael Schorr
Story submitted by Paul Aebersold (preceded by commentary): This story is just wrong; in no way could an accordion player earn more than twice the income of a stripper, even in Canada.
Stripper Wins Damages After Tiger AttackJan 30, TORONTO (Reuters) - A stripper mauled by a tiger in an Ontario safari park
has won $650,000 in damages because her scars meant she could no longer
work, Canadian media said on Friday.
Jennifer-Anne Cowles was driving through the park nearly nine years ago
with her then boyfriend when a tiger jumped into their car and tried to drag
them away. The two insisted their windows had been shut when the tiger charged,
although the park had challenged that.
The judge accepted the couple's testimony that the power windows had been
inadvertently lowered when one of the big cats bumped against the car,
frightening them.
In a ruling delivered on Thursday and reported in a number of Canadian
newspapers, Justice Jean MacFarland said she could only imagine the "stark
terror experienced by these young people during this horrendous event."
She awarded Cowles some $650,000 in damages, almost half of it to
compensate for income she would have made as a stripper.
Her musician boyfriend, David Balac, won C$1.7 million, because his
injuries left him unable to work as an accordion player.
African Lion Safari, near Hamilton, Ontario, west of Toronto, said it is
reviewing the ruling, but it insisted the park was safe.
"Hundreds of millions of people drive through safari style parks worldwide
every decade and there are very few incidents causing injury," it said in a
statement. "It is one of the safest activities you can do with your
family."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Polka Night Program
Elise Malouf - Can Can Polka & Parade Polka
Ken Yegelski - tunes on the Chemnitzer Concertina
Karen Malan-Uribe - Julida Polka
Phil Fox - Helena Polka & Mama's Pajamas
Lee Paulson & Barbara Lockett - Just Because, a Lithuanian Polka & Sakijarven
Joan Grauman & Stella Allison - Kitty Whiskers Polka & Achtung Los Polka
Paul Aebersold - Hoop-de-do
Vic Aijala - Finnish & Swedish polkas
Rick Nunno & Mara Cherkasky - Hupaj Siupaj Medley & Zosia Polka
Ellen Sellers - Vijando en Polka
Barbara Lockett - Viva Seguin, Rain Rain & Finger Polka
Leone Monticone & Mara Cherkasky - Broken Reed Polka
Bob Duca - Tic Toc Polka
Anne Johnson & Ellen Sellers - Village Tavern
Ken Kunec - Too Fat Polka
Jim Vandelly - Koketka Polka
Dance instruction by Michael B. Rubin
************************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
March 11, 2005
Meeting Notes
Those who scraped the ice off their cars and ventured out on a blisteringly cold night March 8 were rewarded with an excellent workshop by Jim Vandelly on bellows techniques. Jim demonstrated his famous triple bellows shake, as well as the double bellows shake and the "ricochet," and provided numerous tips on bellows control.
But anyone looking for magic tricks may have been disappointed. After a one-half hour lesson from a Russian musician on the triple bellows shake years ago, Jim spent the next eight months practicing before he got it down, he said.
Among the audience were a couple of new faces, including a visitor from the Russian embassy.
In the business portion of the meeting, we approved the new WMAS bylaws developed by the executive committee. Phil Fox moved that they be accepted and Lee Paulson seconded the motion. The bylaws will be posted soon on the Web site.
Our membership chairman has been working hard. Paul Przedpelski has created new business cards with directions to the church on the back, pursuant to a suggestion from Betty Chreky. Paul is collecting 2005 membership dues ($15) and plans to send out reminder letters to members who haven't yet paid for the current year. You could help Paul -- and WMAS -- out by paying up promptly. And thank you -- the money helps cover the routine expenses of running our group. Please write your check to WMAS and mail it to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Apt. 8, Washington, DC 20010.
AAMS Festival March 4-6
WMAS was well represented at last weekend's American Accordion Musicological Society festival near Philadelphia. Notably, Peter DiGiovanni, Ellen Sellers and Betty Chreky took home awards.
Peter placed first in the Festival Advanced Adult Solo category with his own arrangement of the "Gypsy Love Waltz" by Franz Lehar. The piece is a sequence of waltz themes, about eight minutes total, taken from Lehar's operetta by the same name. Peter said: "I heard it about a year ago on a CD and fell in love with it. I had no score to follow, not even a piano reduction. I put the melody and chords into a notation program to give to the judge to refer to as a roadmap. Fortunately, he wasn't looking for note-perfect sight-reading and just listened to what I was playing. It's not flashy, but it has nice chord changes, bass patterns and gorgeous melodies, and opportunities for expressive playing. I honestly didn't think it was technically difficult enough to place, let alone win -- I figured others at the advanced level would be playing Czardas and other technically difficult pieces." There were about six other entrants in the category.
Ellen played "Second Hungarian Rhapsody" by Liszt from P&H Book 4 and took second in her Open Adult Solo Level A3 (intermediate) category. She had seven competitors. Number one played Two Guitars; number three played Roman Overture. "I made lots of mistakes but KEPT GOING!" she said.
Betty came in third in Intermediate Adult Ethnic Solo, playing "Star of the County Down." She competed against eight other accordionists. The person who placed first played a German piece called Waltz Continental.
In addition, Jim Vandelly performed in the Sunday afternoon concert, and Dan and Joan Grauman sold their SqueezinArt wares. Lee and Ron, Mara, and Karen and Luis also attended. Karen said: "I was so proud to wear my WMAS T-shirt." Everybody had a wonderful time.
Upcoming Events
Bayan Concert
This Sunday, March 13th, Russian bayanist Viacheslav Semionov will perform at a house concert in Potomac, Maryland. Admission is $20, and seats are limited. For more information, please respond to this email (or you can try contacting Dan or Joan Grauman at (301) 279-8716 or [email protected], but they're out of town until Sunday). You can pay the Graumans at the door.
The word bayan was taken after the name of the ninth/tenth-century poet, artist and musician (The Bayan) who first appeared in a troubadour poem, The Story of the Igoreve Regiment. At first the name was used to refer to the ancestor of the modern bayan, the Russian harmonica. The instrument developed with the addition of bellows, register stops, a left-hand manual which later became standardized to include both stradella and free-bass (convertor), and a right-hand manual which increased the number of button rows from three to five.
Thanks to Wayne Kahn for the bayan research. Wayne took the concert announcement off a WMAS update, added this information, and included the announcement in his own weekly email newsletter of music listings throughout the area. If you would like to subscribe to that very useful resource, email Wayne at [email protected] or check out his web sites, http://www.rightonrhythm.com and
http://www.rormusic.com.
AAA Festival in July
The American Accordionists' Association has sent out its festival packets for this year's event in Dearborn, Michigan, July 6-10th. Our own Joan and Stella will be playing during Thursday's luncheon, and they would love to see some of us in the audience. The festival is always a lot of fun and a great place to hear some good music and meet other accordionists. All the festival information, and more, has been posted to AAA's Web site, http://www.ameraccord.com.
4th of July Parade in Fairfax
Joyce Palmer and Lee Poulson have received an invitation for WMAS to participate in the Fairfax Fourth of July parade. Lee is checking into the details of the parade and will keep us posted. WMAS and Maryland Accordion Club members have played in the Catonsville Fourth of July parade the past two years.
WMAS Web Site Disappearing Act
You may have noticed that our Web site has been down since the first of the month. The reasons are complicated and beyond our control, but the site should be back up soon -- on a new server. Sorry about any inconvenience, but technology is like that sometimes. Also, once it's up, the site may have some bugs. Please be sure to report these to the webmaster so we can fix them.
April & May WMAS Meetings
Next month, Peter DiGiovanni will present part 2 of his excellent "playing by ear" workshop. Then, in May we will hold our second annual spring concert, so please think about what you would like to play. We will limit each person to two short pieces or one longer one. Please send your selections to Karen or Mara.
News on Dale
One last thing: Dale Wise will be undergoing prostate surgery the week of March 21, and then will be out of commission for several weeks. He'll be happy to hear from you; his address is 10161 Palmer Drive, Oakton, VA 22124 or [email protected].
**********************************************************************************************************************
March 11, 2005
Meeting Notes
Those who scraped the ice off their cars and ventured out on a blisteringly cold night March 8 were rewarded with an excellent workshop by Jim Vandelly on bellows techniques. Jim demonstrated his famous triple bellows shake, as well as the double bellows shake and the "ricochet," and provided numerous tips on bellows control.
But anyone looking for magic tricks may have been disappointed. After a one-half hour lesson from a Russian musician on the triple bellows shake years ago, Jim spent the next eight months practicing before he got it down, he said.
Among the audience were a couple of new faces, including a visitor from the Russian embassy.
In the business portion of the meeting, we approved the new WMAS bylaws developed by the executive committee. Phil Fox moved that they be accepted and Lee Paulson seconded the motion. The bylaws will be posted soon on the Web site.
Our membership chairman has been working hard. Paul Przedpelski has created new business cards with directions to the church on the back, pursuant to a suggestion from Betty Chreky. Paul is collecting 2005 membership dues ($15) and plans to send out reminder letters to members who haven't yet paid for the current year. You could help Paul -- and WMAS -- out by paying up promptly. And thank you -- the money helps cover the routine expenses of running our group. Please write your check to WMAS and mail it to Mara Cherkasky, 1801 Park Road, NW, Apt. 8, Washington, DC 20010.
AAMS Festival March 4-6
WMAS was well represented at last weekend's American Accordion Musicological Society festival near Philadelphia. Notably, Peter DiGiovanni, Ellen Sellers and Betty Chreky took home awards.
Peter placed first in the Festival Advanced Adult Solo category with his own arrangement of the "Gypsy Love Waltz" by Franz Lehar. The piece is a sequence of waltz themes, about eight minutes total, taken from Lehar's operetta by the same name. Peter said: "I heard it about a year ago on a CD and fell in love with it. I had no score to follow, not even a piano reduction. I put the melody and chords into a notation program to give to the judge to refer to as a roadmap. Fortunately, he wasn't looking for note-perfect sight-reading and just listened to what I was playing. It's not flashy, but it has nice chord changes, bass patterns and gorgeous melodies, and opportunities for expressive playing. I honestly didn't think it was technically difficult enough to place, let alone win -- I figured others at the advanced level would be playing Czardas and other technically difficult pieces." There were about six other entrants in the category.
Ellen played "Second Hungarian Rhapsody" by Liszt from P&H Book 4 and took second in her Open Adult Solo Level A3 (intermediate) category. She had seven competitors. Number one played Two Guitars; number three played Roman Overture. "I made lots of mistakes but KEPT GOING!" she said.
Betty came in third in Intermediate Adult Ethnic Solo, playing "Star of the County Down." She competed against eight other accordionists. The person who placed first played a German piece called Waltz Continental.
In addition, Jim Vandelly performed in the Sunday afternoon concert, and Dan and Joan Grauman sold their SqueezinArt wares. Lee and Ron, Mara, and Karen and Luis also attended. Karen said: "I was so proud to wear my WMAS T-shirt." Everybody had a wonderful time.
Upcoming Events
Bayan Concert
This Sunday, March 13th, Russian bayanist Viacheslav Semionov will perform at a house concert in Potomac, Maryland. Admission is $20, and seats are limited. For more information, please respond to this email (or you can try contacting Dan or Joan Grauman at (301) 279-8716 or [email protected], but they're out of town until Sunday). You can pay the Graumans at the door.
The word bayan was taken after the name of the ninth/tenth-century poet, artist and musician (The Bayan) who first appeared in a troubadour poem, The Story of the Igoreve Regiment. At first the name was used to refer to the ancestor of the modern bayan, the Russian harmonica. The instrument developed with the addition of bellows, register stops, a left-hand manual which later became standardized to include both stradella and free-bass (convertor), and a right-hand manual which increased the number of button rows from three to five.
Thanks to Wayne Kahn for the bayan research. Wayne took the concert announcement off a WMAS update, added this information, and included the announcement in his own weekly email newsletter of music listings throughout the area. If you would like to subscribe to that very useful resource, email Wayne at [email protected] or check out his web sites, http://www.rightonrhythm.com and
http://www.rormusic.com.
AAA Festival in July
The American Accordionists' Association has sent out its festival packets for this year's event in Dearborn, Michigan, July 6-10th. Our own Joan and Stella will be playing during Thursday's luncheon, and they would love to see some of us in the audience. The festival is always a lot of fun and a great place to hear some good music and meet other accordionists. All the festival information, and more, has been posted to AAA's Web site, http://www.ameraccord.com.
4th of July Parade in Fairfax
Joyce Palmer and Lee Poulson have received an invitation for WMAS to participate in the Fairfax Fourth of July parade. Lee is checking into the details of the parade and will keep us posted. WMAS and Maryland Accordion Club members have played in the Catonsville Fourth of July parade the past two years.
WMAS Web Site Disappearing Act
You may have noticed that our Web site has been down since the first of the month. The reasons are complicated and beyond our control, but the site should be back up soon -- on a new server. Sorry about any inconvenience, but technology is like that sometimes. Also, once it's up, the site may have some bugs. Please be sure to report these to the webmaster so we can fix them.
April & May WMAS Meetings
Next month, Peter DiGiovanni will present part 2 of his excellent "playing by ear" workshop. Then, in May we will hold our second annual spring concert, so please think about what you would like to play. We will limit each person to two short pieces or one longer one. Please send your selections to Karen or Mara.
News on Dale
One last thing: Dale Wise will be undergoing prostate surgery the week of March 21, and then will be out of commission for several weeks. He'll be happy to hear from you; his address is 10161 Palmer Drive, Oakton, VA 22124 or [email protected].
**********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
April 18, 2005
Meeting Notes
In the second part of his workshop on "Playing by Ear," at the April 12 meeting, Peter DiGiovanni challenged us to pull out our accordions and leave the secure music stand in its case. The presentation was structured as follows:
- Laying down the musical grid
- Hearing home base
- Hearing scale degrees
- Hearing notes on and off the scale
- Hearing other intervals
- Hearing the circle of fifths
- Cadences
- Playing a song
We'll post the handouts from both parts of Peter's Playing By Ear workshops on the Web site. Click here for the Circle of Fifths chart.
During the break after the workshop, a few people got out their instruments and tried out what they'd learned.
The next order of business was a little entertainment. Barbara and Lee played "Indifference," a French musette, and "Sprint," by Martin Weyde. Joan, Mara and Peter played "The Lovers' Waltz," by Jay Ungar and Molly Mason. This was a fiddle and piano duet transformed into an accordion trio. Finally, Jim and Peter played "Oh, My Porch," "Bright Moon," "Take Me Out to the Ball Game," "Bei Mir Bist Du Shein," and "Show Me the Way to Go Home."
Karen announced a couple of events: Jim Vandelly's performance at the April 16 Maryland Accordion Club meeting and a concert by Stefan Hussong at the Spencerville Seventh Day Adventist Church the same afternoon.
Jim mentioned that the competitions at the American Accordionists' Association festival this summer in Dearborn, Mich., pay large cash prizes.
NEW MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
After two years of devoted service to WMAS, Paul Przedpelski announced he would like to be relieved of his membership chair responsibilities. This position is critical to the success of WMAS. Lee Paulson offered to make nametags, and Peter DiGiovanni subsequently offered to take over the rest of Paul's tasks. Many thanks to all three of you!
FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
Lee and Ron Paulson have taken on the job of organizing a WMAS float in the Fourth of July Parade in Fairfax. Here's a message from Lee: "I heard from Dale Wise about the availability of the trailer and truck for the Fourth of July parade in Fairfax; although there is no problem getting the trailer, we cannot use his truck (I'm assuming it's promised to the Catonsville parade), so we are in need of someone to give us a pull! Dale says, 'You will need to find someone in WMAS who has a trailer hitch on their vehicle with a 2-5/16" ball (anything smaller would be unsafe).' If we can find someone who is willing to go out practically at the crack of dawn on the Fourth (the parade starts at 9 am), we will be forever grateful. Otherwise, it looks like we may have to scrap the idea." The float with people and accordions on it will weigh about 3,500 pounds.
Provided this obstacle is overcome, Lee also will need players and float assistance. Appearing in a parade is a fun and rewarding experience, not to mention a good opportunity to get some publicity for the club, and the accordion. The music is very easy, and Lee will get it to you well in advance so you can learn it. Contact her at [email protected].
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FROM KAREN
I would like to thank everyone for all they do for WMAS. We have had a successful membership drive and, from all the announcements, participation, performing that went on at last week's meeting, I realized again that this is a wonderful organization that offers an opportunity for all of us accordionists to get together and share our love for our music.
However, the group is only able to function well because we have a small group of hardworking people who are members of the Executive Committee. Together we hammer out the financial responsibilities, business operations and other boring activities outside of the monthly workshop/fun activities. If you have any concerns related to expenditure of funds, membership dues and so on, please email them to Mara or me and the Executive Committee will address them. That way we can spend all of our time together on the second Tuesday enjoying the music.
MAY CONCERT
We still have room in the May concert for more performers. At this point it looks we'll have time for everyone to play two pieces, but we can always adjust the schedule at the last minute. This is an informal concert and mainly meant to give more people a chance to play for the group than we usually have time for. Also, if someone would like to serve as master of ceremonies, we'd appreciate it. This is your chance to test your stand-up skills! Also, if anyone is playing a song that would work as a sing-along, please send the words to Karen.
So far, the list looks like this:
Elise Malouf - Military Medley: Marine's Hymn/Army Song
Paul Przedpelski - Swingin' Shepherd Blues
Peter DiGiovanni - Gypsy Love
Potomac Ensemble - TBA
Ron Charvet - TBA
Elizabeth Nelson - Venezuelan Folk Tunes
Anne Johnson & Ellen Sellers - TBA
Dan & Joan Grauman - Cat's Ball
Vic Aijala - La Vie en Rose & Besame Mucho
Joan & Stella - TBA
Karen Malan-Uribe - La Bikina (perhaps the Toccata)
Ellen Sellers - Liszt's Second Hungarian Rhapsody
Phil Fox – Godfather medley
Stella - TBA
Betty Chreky – Star of the County Down
Michael B. Rubin - Russian Medley: Dark Eyes, Moscow Nights, and The Russian Two Step
CONCERT ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Washington Balalaika Society will present "Balalaika 2005," two performances:
Saturday, May 14, at 7:30 pm
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale Campus
Ernst Cultural Center
8333 Little River Turnpike (Route 236)
Annandale, VA
Sunday, May 15, at 3 pm
F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre at Rockville Civic Center Park
603 Edmondston Drive
Rockville, MD
Tickets $20 ($18 seniors and students)
Credit cards: visit www.balalaika.org
Checks to WBS Concert, 7421 Calamo St., Springfield, VA 22150
The Washington Saengerbund will hold a Spring Concert and Tea Dance at 3 pm on Sunday, April 24, with the concert followed by a reception and three hours of dancing.
Meridian House, 1630 Crescent Place, NW, Washington, DC
Limited concert seating for first arrivals
RSVP by April 20 Mrs. Robert Bocek (703) 528-0487
Checks payable to THIS, 1630 Crescent Place, NW, Washington, DC 20009
$40.00 Valet Parking
For further information or questions: [email protected] or http://www.saengerbund.org.
***********************************************************************************************************************
April 18, 2005
Meeting Notes
In the second part of his workshop on "Playing by Ear," at the April 12 meeting, Peter DiGiovanni challenged us to pull out our accordions and leave the secure music stand in its case. The presentation was structured as follows:
- Laying down the musical grid
- Hearing home base
- Hearing scale degrees
- Hearing notes on and off the scale
- Hearing other intervals
- Hearing the circle of fifths
- Cadences
- Playing a song
We'll post the handouts from both parts of Peter's Playing By Ear workshops on the Web site. Click here for the Circle of Fifths chart.
During the break after the workshop, a few people got out their instruments and tried out what they'd learned.
The next order of business was a little entertainment. Barbara and Lee played "Indifference," a French musette, and "Sprint," by Martin Weyde. Joan, Mara and Peter played "The Lovers' Waltz," by Jay Ungar and Molly Mason. This was a fiddle and piano duet transformed into an accordion trio. Finally, Jim and Peter played "Oh, My Porch," "Bright Moon," "Take Me Out to the Ball Game," "Bei Mir Bist Du Shein," and "Show Me the Way to Go Home."
Karen announced a couple of events: Jim Vandelly's performance at the April 16 Maryland Accordion Club meeting and a concert by Stefan Hussong at the Spencerville Seventh Day Adventist Church the same afternoon.
Jim mentioned that the competitions at the American Accordionists' Association festival this summer in Dearborn, Mich., pay large cash prizes.
NEW MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
After two years of devoted service to WMAS, Paul Przedpelski announced he would like to be relieved of his membership chair responsibilities. This position is critical to the success of WMAS. Lee Paulson offered to make nametags, and Peter DiGiovanni subsequently offered to take over the rest of Paul's tasks. Many thanks to all three of you!
FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
Lee and Ron Paulson have taken on the job of organizing a WMAS float in the Fourth of July Parade in Fairfax. Here's a message from Lee: "I heard from Dale Wise about the availability of the trailer and truck for the Fourth of July parade in Fairfax; although there is no problem getting the trailer, we cannot use his truck (I'm assuming it's promised to the Catonsville parade), so we are in need of someone to give us a pull! Dale says, 'You will need to find someone in WMAS who has a trailer hitch on their vehicle with a 2-5/16" ball (anything smaller would be unsafe).' If we can find someone who is willing to go out practically at the crack of dawn on the Fourth (the parade starts at 9 am), we will be forever grateful. Otherwise, it looks like we may have to scrap the idea." The float with people and accordions on it will weigh about 3,500 pounds.
Provided this obstacle is overcome, Lee also will need players and float assistance. Appearing in a parade is a fun and rewarding experience, not to mention a good opportunity to get some publicity for the club, and the accordion. The music is very easy, and Lee will get it to you well in advance so you can learn it. Contact her at [email protected].
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FROM KAREN
I would like to thank everyone for all they do for WMAS. We have had a successful membership drive and, from all the announcements, participation, performing that went on at last week's meeting, I realized again that this is a wonderful organization that offers an opportunity for all of us accordionists to get together and share our love for our music.
However, the group is only able to function well because we have a small group of hardworking people who are members of the Executive Committee. Together we hammer out the financial responsibilities, business operations and other boring activities outside of the monthly workshop/fun activities. If you have any concerns related to expenditure of funds, membership dues and so on, please email them to Mara or me and the Executive Committee will address them. That way we can spend all of our time together on the second Tuesday enjoying the music.
MAY CONCERT
We still have room in the May concert for more performers. At this point it looks we'll have time for everyone to play two pieces, but we can always adjust the schedule at the last minute. This is an informal concert and mainly meant to give more people a chance to play for the group than we usually have time for. Also, if someone would like to serve as master of ceremonies, we'd appreciate it. This is your chance to test your stand-up skills! Also, if anyone is playing a song that would work as a sing-along, please send the words to Karen.
So far, the list looks like this:
Elise Malouf - Military Medley: Marine's Hymn/Army Song
Paul Przedpelski - Swingin' Shepherd Blues
Peter DiGiovanni - Gypsy Love
Potomac Ensemble - TBA
Ron Charvet - TBA
Elizabeth Nelson - Venezuelan Folk Tunes
Anne Johnson & Ellen Sellers - TBA
Dan & Joan Grauman - Cat's Ball
Vic Aijala - La Vie en Rose & Besame Mucho
Joan & Stella - TBA
Karen Malan-Uribe - La Bikina (perhaps the Toccata)
Ellen Sellers - Liszt's Second Hungarian Rhapsody
Phil Fox – Godfather medley
Stella - TBA
Betty Chreky – Star of the County Down
Michael B. Rubin - Russian Medley: Dark Eyes, Moscow Nights, and The Russian Two Step
CONCERT ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Washington Balalaika Society will present "Balalaika 2005," two performances:
Saturday, May 14, at 7:30 pm
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale Campus
Ernst Cultural Center
8333 Little River Turnpike (Route 236)
Annandale, VA
Sunday, May 15, at 3 pm
F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre at Rockville Civic Center Park
603 Edmondston Drive
Rockville, MD
Tickets $20 ($18 seniors and students)
Credit cards: visit www.balalaika.org
Checks to WBS Concert, 7421 Calamo St., Springfield, VA 22150
The Washington Saengerbund will hold a Spring Concert and Tea Dance at 3 pm on Sunday, April 24, with the concert followed by a reception and three hours of dancing.
Meridian House, 1630 Crescent Place, NW, Washington, DC
Limited concert seating for first arrivals
RSVP by April 20 Mrs. Robert Bocek (703) 528-0487
Checks payable to THIS, 1630 Crescent Place, NW, Washington, DC 20009
$40.00 Valet Parking
For further information or questions: [email protected] or http://www.saengerbund.org.
***********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
May 16, 2005
Meeting Notes from the President
Our members continue to astound me with their enthusiasm, professionalism, consideration and supportive attitudes. The concert at the May 10 meeting included a wide variety of music and levels of abilities, but the wonderful thing was that everyone sounded great, no matter how simple or difficult their song was. Here's the program:
Paul Przedpelski - Swingin' Shepherd Blues
Michael B. Rubin - Russian Medley
Peter DiGiovanni - Gypsy Love
Rob Roy - Country Song
Elizabeth Nelson - Venezuelan Folk Tunes
Daniel V. Darrikhuma - Panis Angelicus
Anne Johnson/Ellen Sellers - Poor People of Paris & Humoresque
Ellen - Liszt's Second Hungarian Rhapsody
Bob Johnson - Tick-Tock Polka
Karen Malan-Uribe - La Bikina & Bach's Toccata in D minor
Victor Aijala - La Vie en Rose & Besame Mucho
Phil Fox - Godfather Medley
Betty Chreky - Star of the County Down
Dan & Joan Grauman - Cat's Ball
Wei Wei - Chopin's Watlz Opus 64 No. 2
Potomac Ensemble - Marushya & Beautiful Island
Ron Charvet -
It was especially nice to see Sid Kowalczyk and Lou Coppola (of Stereo Strings; see www.loucoppola.com) enjoying the concert. Lou has been very generous with our group, and now he has offered to provide 15-minute evaluations for any member who wants one. The cost will be $10 per person, with the money going to the club. If you are interested in having Lou evaluate your playing, please email me so we can determine a good time for both Lou and the club.
Hope to see everyone soon,
Karen
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dale Wise at the June Meeting
Dale Wise will present a workshop on "How To Improvise" at the June 14 meeting. Don't miss it!
Dale Wise's Spring Concert
The annual concert takes place Wednesday, June 15, at 8 pm at Oakton Methodist Church on Route 123 in Oakton, Virginia. The Potomac Ensemble (Joan's small group) will be the featured musicians! Details will be on the calendar.
Waltz Night at the July Meeting
Polka Night a few months ago was such a success we decided we should hold dances on a regular basis. At the July 12 meeting the focus will be on the waltz. Our own dance instructor Mike Rubin will help people get started, and then members are invited to play their favorite waltzes for dancers. If you'd like to play, make yourself known, and tell your family and friends to come join us. Karen has already grabbed Skaters Waltz (anyone up for a duet?)
Washington Balalaika Society/Accordionist Search
The Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra will be holding an Open House at their rehearsal on Wednesday, May 25, at 7:00 pm at the Rock Springs Church, 5010 Little Falls Road in Arlington (one block west of Old Dominion Drive). The social room is at the east end of the church complex (closest to Old Dominion Drive). All are invited. For those who would like to see what goes on during a rehearsal, this is a great opportunity.
The orchestra is always looking for new members, and instruction is available. Of particular interest to WMAS is a vacancy in the accordion section (accordion II - the easier part to play). All the accordion music is right hand only. Rehearsals are every Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm at the Rock Springs Church in Arlington. Svetlana Nikonova, the music director, is a professional musician, trained at the Rimsky Korsakov Institute in St. Petersburg, Russia. She is a highly skilled conductor, arranger, pianist, domra and balalaika player, and creates playable, meaningful parts for all of the sections of the orchestra. The music is captivating and abundantly varied. There is a wealth to be learned from Svetlana and the whole experience about the full scope of playing music -- notes, dynamics, tempo changes, conducting, performing and teamwork -- and the discipline of playing in an orchestra, for anyone who has the time to invest and the desire to be a part of this unique group. If anyone wants more information about this position, contact Peter DiGiovanni.
Fourth of July Parade
We have been invited to participate in the prestigious Fairfax Fourth of July parade, and Lee and Ron Poulson are putting together a WMAS float. They also are looking for musicians (children or adults) to ride on it and play a tune chosen by Lee -- she says it will be easy to learn. There is room for about 10 people, plus someone is needed to drive the truck. Parades are a lot of fun and a great opportunity to publicize our club. Please contact Lee if you are interested.
The Crawdaddies
The Crawdaddies -- that great band that several WMAS members heard at the AAMS festival in early March - will be playing Saturday, June 4th, at 1:30 at the 24th Annual Vintage Virginia Wine Festival. The festival takes place at the Historical Long Branch Farm, 830 Long Branch Lane, Millwood, Virginia 22646; phone (888) 435-9746.
Marjamaan Pojat CD
Vic Aijala has created a CD of the work that he and Lee Simonson played together as Marjamaan Pojat: Finnish and Other Scandinavian Folk Songs. The CDs are $15 each, and Vic hopes to have them ready by the June meeting.
***********************************************************************************************************************
May 16, 2005
Meeting Notes from the President
Our members continue to astound me with their enthusiasm, professionalism, consideration and supportive attitudes. The concert at the May 10 meeting included a wide variety of music and levels of abilities, but the wonderful thing was that everyone sounded great, no matter how simple or difficult their song was. Here's the program:
Paul Przedpelski - Swingin' Shepherd Blues
Michael B. Rubin - Russian Medley
Peter DiGiovanni - Gypsy Love
Rob Roy - Country Song
Elizabeth Nelson - Venezuelan Folk Tunes
Daniel V. Darrikhuma - Panis Angelicus
Anne Johnson/Ellen Sellers - Poor People of Paris & Humoresque
Ellen - Liszt's Second Hungarian Rhapsody
Bob Johnson - Tick-Tock Polka
Karen Malan-Uribe - La Bikina & Bach's Toccata in D minor
Victor Aijala - La Vie en Rose & Besame Mucho
Phil Fox - Godfather Medley
Betty Chreky - Star of the County Down
Dan & Joan Grauman - Cat's Ball
Wei Wei - Chopin's Watlz Opus 64 No. 2
Potomac Ensemble - Marushya & Beautiful Island
Ron Charvet -
It was especially nice to see Sid Kowalczyk and Lou Coppola (of Stereo Strings; see www.loucoppola.com) enjoying the concert. Lou has been very generous with our group, and now he has offered to provide 15-minute evaluations for any member who wants one. The cost will be $10 per person, with the money going to the club. If you are interested in having Lou evaluate your playing, please email me so we can determine a good time for both Lou and the club.
Hope to see everyone soon,
Karen
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dale Wise at the June Meeting
Dale Wise will present a workshop on "How To Improvise" at the June 14 meeting. Don't miss it!
Dale Wise's Spring Concert
The annual concert takes place Wednesday, June 15, at 8 pm at Oakton Methodist Church on Route 123 in Oakton, Virginia. The Potomac Ensemble (Joan's small group) will be the featured musicians! Details will be on the calendar.
Waltz Night at the July Meeting
Polka Night a few months ago was such a success we decided we should hold dances on a regular basis. At the July 12 meeting the focus will be on the waltz. Our own dance instructor Mike Rubin will help people get started, and then members are invited to play their favorite waltzes for dancers. If you'd like to play, make yourself known, and tell your family and friends to come join us. Karen has already grabbed Skaters Waltz (anyone up for a duet?)
Washington Balalaika Society/Accordionist Search
The Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra will be holding an Open House at their rehearsal on Wednesday, May 25, at 7:00 pm at the Rock Springs Church, 5010 Little Falls Road in Arlington (one block west of Old Dominion Drive). The social room is at the east end of the church complex (closest to Old Dominion Drive). All are invited. For those who would like to see what goes on during a rehearsal, this is a great opportunity.
The orchestra is always looking for new members, and instruction is available. Of particular interest to WMAS is a vacancy in the accordion section (accordion II - the easier part to play). All the accordion music is right hand only. Rehearsals are every Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm at the Rock Springs Church in Arlington. Svetlana Nikonova, the music director, is a professional musician, trained at the Rimsky Korsakov Institute in St. Petersburg, Russia. She is a highly skilled conductor, arranger, pianist, domra and balalaika player, and creates playable, meaningful parts for all of the sections of the orchestra. The music is captivating and abundantly varied. There is a wealth to be learned from Svetlana and the whole experience about the full scope of playing music -- notes, dynamics, tempo changes, conducting, performing and teamwork -- and the discipline of playing in an orchestra, for anyone who has the time to invest and the desire to be a part of this unique group. If anyone wants more information about this position, contact Peter DiGiovanni.
Fourth of July Parade
We have been invited to participate in the prestigious Fairfax Fourth of July parade, and Lee and Ron Poulson are putting together a WMAS float. They also are looking for musicians (children or adults) to ride on it and play a tune chosen by Lee -- she says it will be easy to learn. There is room for about 10 people, plus someone is needed to drive the truck. Parades are a lot of fun and a great opportunity to publicize our club. Please contact Lee if you are interested.
The Crawdaddies
The Crawdaddies -- that great band that several WMAS members heard at the AAMS festival in early March - will be playing Saturday, June 4th, at 1:30 at the 24th Annual Vintage Virginia Wine Festival. The festival takes place at the Historical Long Branch Farm, 830 Long Branch Lane, Millwood, Virginia 22646; phone (888) 435-9746.
Marjamaan Pojat CD
Vic Aijala has created a CD of the work that he and Lee Simonson played together as Marjamaan Pojat: Finnish and Other Scandinavian Folk Songs. The CDs are $15 each, and Vic hopes to have them ready by the June meeting.
***********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
June 17, 2005
Meeting Notes
Despite the heat and humidity (weren't we just saying "despite the cold"?) we had a very good turnout for Dale Wise's improvisation workshop at Tuesday's meeting.
The goal of the workshop was to encourage us to embellish and not just play the notes written in the sheet music. Dale first laid out the building blocks of embellishment -- steps (neighboring notes), skips and repeated tones -- and explained how to use these in various nonharmonic functions to add color to a piece of music or transition from one note to another.
[Because some of the material Dale presented was a little complicated, we consulted WMAS member Anne Johnson, who has been studying music theory, and have supplemented Dale's information with material taken from Northern Virginia Community College class materials (developed by Dr. Barbara Ryland Wells) and the textbook "Music in Theory and Practice," vol. 1, B. Benward and M. Saker, McGraw-Hill Higher Education Publishing.]
A Non-Harmonic Tone (NHT), by the way, is a tone that does not fit with the surrounding harmony.
Suspension: an NHT that is held over from a previous chord tone and is followed by (resolves by) step down.
Retardation: an NHT that is similar to a suspension except that it resolves up instead of down.
Anticipation: an NHT that anticipates a chord tone in the following chord. It is usually preceded by step, and the anticipated tone is repeated in the following chord. It is usually accompanied by a dotted rhythm.
Upper Auxiliary (aka Upper Neighboring Tone): an NHT that is preceded by step and resolves by step in the opposite direction.
Lower Auxiliary (aka Lower Neighboring Tone): an NHT that is preceded by step and resolves by step in the opposite direction. The difference is that the LA steps down then up, while the UA steps up then down. A grace note is an example of a UA or LA.
Passing Tone: an NHT that is preceded by step and resolved by step in the same direction. (A run is an example of this.)
Appoggiatura: an NHT that is preceded by skip and resolved by step.
Escape Tone: an NHT that is preceded by step and resolved by skip.
Other NHTs:
Cambiata: an NHT between chords that is preceded by skip and resolved by step.
Changing Tone: two successive NHTs between chords. The first leaves the chord by step, then skips in the opposite direction to a second NHT that is then resolved by step in the opposite direction.
Pedal Tone: a tone that is held throughout a series of chord changes and is sometimes harmonic and sometimes non-harmonic.
Obviously, these techniques are better demonstrated than explained. If you can't figure them out, we can revisit them at a future meeting.
By the way, this is what Webster's has to say about "appoggiatura": a rhythmically strong dissonant grace note used melodically and resolving to a principal harmonic tone, usually by a single scale step. And about "passing tone": a note part of a harmonic scheme but introduced for ornamentation or for smoother transition from one tone or chord to another. And about "suspension": the continuing of one or more tones of one chord into a following chord while the other tones are changed, so that a temporary dissonance is created.
Some people commented that they know and use these techniques but didn't know the terms or theory. Now we do!
Thanks, Dale, and it's wonderful to see you back on your feet!
Joan Grauman
Our thoughts are with Joan, whose mother died June 15. We thank her for turning up that evening to conduct the Potomac Ensemble's performance in Dale's concert, and for performing herself and with her husband, Dan.
Fourth of July Parade
There is still room for musicians on the WMAS float in the Fairfax Fourth of July parade. It's an honor to have been invited to participate, and it's a LOT of fun to ride in a parade instead of watching from the sidelines. It is also FREE advertising for the group! Please contact Lee and Ron Paulson if you're interested. Lee has a simple medley that, after a couple of tries or just listening to it, you will be able to play without any trouble.
Waltz Night July 12th at 7:30
Our next regular meeting will be Waltz Night. If you haven't already signed up, please pick a waltz or two and send the name(s) to Mara at or Karen.
We already have the following tunes on the list:
Mike Rubin - The Anniversary Waltz
Ron Charvet - TBD
Peter DiGiovanni - Danube Maiden
Karen & Peter - Skaters' Waltz
Mara & Leone - Cajun Waltz & Swiss Boy Waltz
Phil Fox - Let Me Call You Sweetheart
Robert Ford - Under Paris Skies
Bob Juszczyk - Sunrise Waltz & In Warsaw Waltz
Sergio Fresco - Il Valzerone
Joan Grauman - Scandinavian Waltz
Joan, Peter & Mara - Lovers' Waltz
Mara & Rick - Mon Parnasse & Shannon Waltz
Bob Duca - Big Mamou
Dick Dangel - Someday My Prince Will Come
Jim Vandelly - Berioska Waltz (Birch Tree Waltz)
Eric Schwarz - TBD
Elizabeth & Fred Nelson - Kentucky Waltz, Lonesome Moonlight Waltz & Waltz of the Whippoorwill (maybe)
Clay - Georgia on My Mind, Carolina Moon & Good Night My Love
Polka Night drew a lot of dancers, so despite the summer heat we expect a good crowd. Mike Rubin will provide dance instruction.
Refreshments
Thanks to the people who have been helping with food every month. For the July meeting, because it is Waltz Night, please bring a bottle of soda or some snacks if at all possible. Would anyone like to take charge of a food sign-up list?
Accordion Events
There are accordion events almost every week this summer. Be sure to check the calendar for the current listings.
New Year's Eve 2005
Gary Koerner is already thinking about New Year's and would like a group to perform at First Night in Charlottesville. If you are interested in finding out more about this please contact him at [email protected].
Dale's Concert
Dale's concert Wednesday night was wonderful - full of laughter and music. It is always inspiring to see so many young people playing jazz, classical and other music on the accordion. It was a well attended event and everyone sounded great!
Verne Meisner
In case you didn't hear, Verne Meisner has died. The June 15 Washington Post carried an obituary, and you can also see one in Meisner's hometown paper, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on June 11th.
**********************************************************************************************************************
June 17, 2005
Meeting Notes
Despite the heat and humidity (weren't we just saying "despite the cold"?) we had a very good turnout for Dale Wise's improvisation workshop at Tuesday's meeting.
The goal of the workshop was to encourage us to embellish and not just play the notes written in the sheet music. Dale first laid out the building blocks of embellishment -- steps (neighboring notes), skips and repeated tones -- and explained how to use these in various nonharmonic functions to add color to a piece of music or transition from one note to another.
[Because some of the material Dale presented was a little complicated, we consulted WMAS member Anne Johnson, who has been studying music theory, and have supplemented Dale's information with material taken from Northern Virginia Community College class materials (developed by Dr. Barbara Ryland Wells) and the textbook "Music in Theory and Practice," vol. 1, B. Benward and M. Saker, McGraw-Hill Higher Education Publishing.]
A Non-Harmonic Tone (NHT), by the way, is a tone that does not fit with the surrounding harmony.
Suspension: an NHT that is held over from a previous chord tone and is followed by (resolves by) step down.
Retardation: an NHT that is similar to a suspension except that it resolves up instead of down.
Anticipation: an NHT that anticipates a chord tone in the following chord. It is usually preceded by step, and the anticipated tone is repeated in the following chord. It is usually accompanied by a dotted rhythm.
Upper Auxiliary (aka Upper Neighboring Tone): an NHT that is preceded by step and resolves by step in the opposite direction.
Lower Auxiliary (aka Lower Neighboring Tone): an NHT that is preceded by step and resolves by step in the opposite direction. The difference is that the LA steps down then up, while the UA steps up then down. A grace note is an example of a UA or LA.
Passing Tone: an NHT that is preceded by step and resolved by step in the same direction. (A run is an example of this.)
Appoggiatura: an NHT that is preceded by skip and resolved by step.
Escape Tone: an NHT that is preceded by step and resolved by skip.
Other NHTs:
Cambiata: an NHT between chords that is preceded by skip and resolved by step.
Changing Tone: two successive NHTs between chords. The first leaves the chord by step, then skips in the opposite direction to a second NHT that is then resolved by step in the opposite direction.
Pedal Tone: a tone that is held throughout a series of chord changes and is sometimes harmonic and sometimes non-harmonic.
Obviously, these techniques are better demonstrated than explained. If you can't figure them out, we can revisit them at a future meeting.
By the way, this is what Webster's has to say about "appoggiatura": a rhythmically strong dissonant grace note used melodically and resolving to a principal harmonic tone, usually by a single scale step. And about "passing tone": a note part of a harmonic scheme but introduced for ornamentation or for smoother transition from one tone or chord to another. And about "suspension": the continuing of one or more tones of one chord into a following chord while the other tones are changed, so that a temporary dissonance is created.
Some people commented that they know and use these techniques but didn't know the terms or theory. Now we do!
Thanks, Dale, and it's wonderful to see you back on your feet!
Joan Grauman
Our thoughts are with Joan, whose mother died June 15. We thank her for turning up that evening to conduct the Potomac Ensemble's performance in Dale's concert, and for performing herself and with her husband, Dan.
Fourth of July Parade
There is still room for musicians on the WMAS float in the Fairfax Fourth of July parade. It's an honor to have been invited to participate, and it's a LOT of fun to ride in a parade instead of watching from the sidelines. It is also FREE advertising for the group! Please contact Lee and Ron Paulson if you're interested. Lee has a simple medley that, after a couple of tries or just listening to it, you will be able to play without any trouble.
Waltz Night July 12th at 7:30
Our next regular meeting will be Waltz Night. If you haven't already signed up, please pick a waltz or two and send the name(s) to Mara at or Karen.
We already have the following tunes on the list:
Mike Rubin - The Anniversary Waltz
Ron Charvet - TBD
Peter DiGiovanni - Danube Maiden
Karen & Peter - Skaters' Waltz
Mara & Leone - Cajun Waltz & Swiss Boy Waltz
Phil Fox - Let Me Call You Sweetheart
Robert Ford - Under Paris Skies
Bob Juszczyk - Sunrise Waltz & In Warsaw Waltz
Sergio Fresco - Il Valzerone
Joan Grauman - Scandinavian Waltz
Joan, Peter & Mara - Lovers' Waltz
Mara & Rick - Mon Parnasse & Shannon Waltz
Bob Duca - Big Mamou
Dick Dangel - Someday My Prince Will Come
Jim Vandelly - Berioska Waltz (Birch Tree Waltz)
Eric Schwarz - TBD
Elizabeth & Fred Nelson - Kentucky Waltz, Lonesome Moonlight Waltz & Waltz of the Whippoorwill (maybe)
Clay - Georgia on My Mind, Carolina Moon & Good Night My Love
Polka Night drew a lot of dancers, so despite the summer heat we expect a good crowd. Mike Rubin will provide dance instruction.
Refreshments
Thanks to the people who have been helping with food every month. For the July meeting, because it is Waltz Night, please bring a bottle of soda or some snacks if at all possible. Would anyone like to take charge of a food sign-up list?
Accordion Events
There are accordion events almost every week this summer. Be sure to check the calendar for the current listings.
New Year's Eve 2005
Gary Koerner is already thinking about New Year's and would like a group to perform at First Night in Charlottesville. If you are interested in finding out more about this please contact him at [email protected].
Dale's Concert
Dale's concert Wednesday night was wonderful - full of laughter and music. It is always inspiring to see so many young people playing jazz, classical and other music on the accordion. It was a well attended event and everyone sounded great!
Verne Meisner
In case you didn't hear, Verne Meisner has died. The June 15 Washington Post carried an obituary, and you can also see one in Meisner's hometown paper, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on June 11th.
**********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
July 15, 2005
Meeting Notes
Waltz Night this past Tuesday, July 12, left us with some great images: Jim Vandelly leading his accordion through a few steps and Dick Dangel's little granddaughter in the middle of the room dancing to her own beat. And there were so many sweet sounds. Thanks to all who turned out to play, dance or listen on a hot July night. Thanks, also, to Michael B. Rubin for the dance instruction. The program is below.
Mike Surratt, who turned up unexpectedly, borrowed an accordion and opened the program. In addition, he brought us a new arrangement for the holiday concert. Joan took the music home and will organize a few musicians to demonstrate the piece next month so Mike can decide whether he needs to tinker with it. After that we will start rehearsing it. The rehearsal schedule is already posted on the WMAS calendar, by the way.
Lee Paulson reported that the WMAS float in the Fairfax Fourth of July parade was a great success. The ensemble played "America" before the judging stand, and the judges stood up, appearing quite moved. Thanks to Lee and everyone who worked on the float and performed in the parade, and helped get out the word about our group.
We look forward to next month's meeting, which will feature Merv Conn recounting his life as an accordionist. There will also be an opportunity for other members who have attended accordion events this summer to share their experience and perhaps demonstrate something they learned.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Accordion Survey
From Ken Kunic: A grad student at Columbia University (who also is an accordionist originally from Arlington) is surveying accordionists and others about the instrument. Please help her out by logging onto www.theaccordionproject.com and completing the survey. It will only take a few minutes.
My Favorite Things
Several people asked about the amusing parody of "My Favorite Things" that Dick Dangel played and sang Tuesday night. Here is more information:
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY JULIE ANDREWS
FOR AARP MEMBERS
To commemorate her 69th birthday on October 1, actress/vocalist Julie Andrews made a special appearance at Manhattan's Radio City Music Hall for the benefit of AARP. One of the musical numbers she performed was "My Favorite Things" from the legendary movie "Sound Of Music." However, the lyrics of the song were deliberately changed for the entertainment of her "blue hair" audience. Here are the lyrics she recited:
My Favorite (Senior) Things
Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
Bundles of magazines tied up in string,
These are a few of my favorite things.
Cadillacs and cataracts and hearing aids and glasses,
Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.
When the pipes leak,
When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.
Hot tea and crumpets, and corn pads for bunions,
No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,
Bathrobes and heat pads and hot meals they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.
Back pains, confused brains, and no fear of sinnin',
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
When we remember our favorite things.
When the joints ache,
When the hips break,
When the eyes grow dim,
Then I remember the great life I've had,
And then I don't feel so bad.
WMAS Web Site
The WMAS calendar lists events almost every week this summer. Please check www.washingtonaccordions.org.
Waltz Night Program
Mike Surratt -- Artist's Life, Forever & Ever
Peter DiGiovanni - Danube Maiden (Strauss)
Karen Malan-Uribe & Peter - Skaters' Waltz
Ron Charvet - Merceditas (Peruvian)
Dick Dangel - Someday My Prince Will Come, My Favorite Things
Bob Duca - Big Mamou
Anne Johnson & Ellen Sellers - Barcarole (Offenbach)
Mike Rubin - The Anniversary Waltz
Joan Grauman - Scandinavian Waltz
Joan, Peter & Mara Cherkasky - Lovers' Waltz
Leone Monticone, Mara & Clare Cherkasky - Cajun Waltz Medley, Swiss Boy Waltz
Rick Nunno & Mara - Mon Parnasse, Shannon Waltz
Robert Ford - Under Paris Skies
Bob Juszczyk - Sunrise Waltz, In Warsaw Waltz
Elizabeth & Fred Nelson - Kentucky Waltz, Lonesome Moonlight Waltz, Waltz of the Whippoorwill
Eric Schwarz - Pigalle, a waltz from Hamburg
Jim Vandelly - Ramona, Charmaine
Merv Conn - Sunrise, Sunset
Betty Chreky & Merv - Domino
Merv - Beautiful Blue Danube and others
***********************************************************************************************************************
July 15, 2005
Meeting Notes
Waltz Night this past Tuesday, July 12, left us with some great images: Jim Vandelly leading his accordion through a few steps and Dick Dangel's little granddaughter in the middle of the room dancing to her own beat. And there were so many sweet sounds. Thanks to all who turned out to play, dance or listen on a hot July night. Thanks, also, to Michael B. Rubin for the dance instruction. The program is below.
Mike Surratt, who turned up unexpectedly, borrowed an accordion and opened the program. In addition, he brought us a new arrangement for the holiday concert. Joan took the music home and will organize a few musicians to demonstrate the piece next month so Mike can decide whether he needs to tinker with it. After that we will start rehearsing it. The rehearsal schedule is already posted on the WMAS calendar, by the way.
Lee Paulson reported that the WMAS float in the Fairfax Fourth of July parade was a great success. The ensemble played "America" before the judging stand, and the judges stood up, appearing quite moved. Thanks to Lee and everyone who worked on the float and performed in the parade, and helped get out the word about our group.
We look forward to next month's meeting, which will feature Merv Conn recounting his life as an accordionist. There will also be an opportunity for other members who have attended accordion events this summer to share their experience and perhaps demonstrate something they learned.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Accordion Survey
From Ken Kunic: A grad student at Columbia University (who also is an accordionist originally from Arlington) is surveying accordionists and others about the instrument. Please help her out by logging onto www.theaccordionproject.com and completing the survey. It will only take a few minutes.
My Favorite Things
Several people asked about the amusing parody of "My Favorite Things" that Dick Dangel played and sang Tuesday night. Here is more information:
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY JULIE ANDREWS
FOR AARP MEMBERS
To commemorate her 69th birthday on October 1, actress/vocalist Julie Andrews made a special appearance at Manhattan's Radio City Music Hall for the benefit of AARP. One of the musical numbers she performed was "My Favorite Things" from the legendary movie "Sound Of Music." However, the lyrics of the song were deliberately changed for the entertainment of her "blue hair" audience. Here are the lyrics she recited:
My Favorite (Senior) Things
Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
Bundles of magazines tied up in string,
These are a few of my favorite things.
Cadillacs and cataracts and hearing aids and glasses,
Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.
When the pipes leak,
When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.
Hot tea and crumpets, and corn pads for bunions,
No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,
Bathrobes and heat pads and hot meals they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.
Back pains, confused brains, and no fear of sinnin',
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
When we remember our favorite things.
When the joints ache,
When the hips break,
When the eyes grow dim,
Then I remember the great life I've had,
And then I don't feel so bad.
WMAS Web Site
The WMAS calendar lists events almost every week this summer. Please check www.washingtonaccordions.org.
Waltz Night Program
Mike Surratt -- Artist's Life, Forever & Ever
Peter DiGiovanni - Danube Maiden (Strauss)
Karen Malan-Uribe & Peter - Skaters' Waltz
Ron Charvet - Merceditas (Peruvian)
Dick Dangel - Someday My Prince Will Come, My Favorite Things
Bob Duca - Big Mamou
Anne Johnson & Ellen Sellers - Barcarole (Offenbach)
Mike Rubin - The Anniversary Waltz
Joan Grauman - Scandinavian Waltz
Joan, Peter & Mara Cherkasky - Lovers' Waltz
Leone Monticone, Mara & Clare Cherkasky - Cajun Waltz Medley, Swiss Boy Waltz
Rick Nunno & Mara - Mon Parnasse, Shannon Waltz
Robert Ford - Under Paris Skies
Bob Juszczyk - Sunrise Waltz, In Warsaw Waltz
Elizabeth & Fred Nelson - Kentucky Waltz, Lonesome Moonlight Waltz, Waltz of the Whippoorwill
Eric Schwarz - Pigalle, a waltz from Hamburg
Jim Vandelly - Ramona, Charmaine
Merv Conn - Sunrise, Sunset
Betty Chreky & Merv - Domino
Merv - Beautiful Blue Danube and others
***********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
August 16, 2005
Meeting Notes
What a wonderful, energizing and entertaining meeting we had last week, thanks to Merv Conn. With a career spanning more than 70 years, Merv had lots to tell - and he illustrated each step with music. It all began in 1932, when Merv appeared as a vocalist on Joe Brown's Kiddies show on WOL radio and saw accordionist Matt Winsor strolling. The rest is history: Merv took a trial accordion course at Kitt's Music Store and then studied with Sylvia Kaplowitz.
In 1938 he played "Dark Eyes" with a Gypsy act that opened for Red Skelton at the Capital Theatre. Graduating from Benjamin Franklin University in 1940, Merv wrote the school song.
In 1945 he started an accordion school with three teachers. By the early 1950s, 300 students per week took lessons from six teachers, and the D.C. Recreation Department sponsored a concert each June.
In 1949-50 Merv taught the children of Major General Wallace Graham, President Truman's physician. One day the two children and their teacher played a concert for the Trumans in their White House living room. Several years later, Tricia and Julie Nixon were Merv's students. One day, Pat Nixon remarked, "Julie is my little jitterbug," and Merv went home and wrote "Jitterbug Rock," which Pietro Deiro published.
Between 1964 and 1969, Merv played "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" on the Cordavox for the Senators games. "It was a very good arrangement but the public didn't appreciate it - that's why I have 500 copies left," Merv said. Club members relieved him of a few copies.
Between 1970 and 1980
Merv was the music director for various beauty pageants in the Washington area. "They used to pay me with the third-place winner," he joked.
These days, Merv plays every Tuesday for the Kiwanis Club and the Scottish Rite Masons. He also plays occasional other gigs and continues to teach.
Following Merv's program, Joan's group (the Potomac Ensemble) played a few pieces, including two Christmas arrangements by Mike Surratt, so Mike could decide if the pieces needed more tinkering. Dale Wise and others played a few pieces as well.
Don't miss next month's meeting, when Kraig Greff of the great Baltimore band the Crawdaddies will be on the program. Some of us were lucky enough to hear this band at the AAMS festival in Wayne, Pa., in March.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Michael B. Rubin will be offering swing and salsa classes at George Washington University's Marvin Center, Room 307, starting Saturday, August 20, from 7 to 9 pm. The first class is $5 per person; subsequent classes will be $12.50 per person. (Part of the proceeds will benefit an NYU charity.) You MUST sign up with Mike ahead of time ([email protected]).
Mike Surratt and the Continentals will be opening for Brave Combo August 31 at Blob's Park. If people are interested in going as a WMAS group, Karen and Luis will be attending and will be glad to save a table. Just email them at [email protected] so they know how many people to expect.
Brave Combo/Mike Surratt and the Continentals
Wednesday, August 31, 2005, 7 pm
Blob's Park
8024 Blob's Park Road
(MD Rt. 175 @ Baltimore-Washington Parkway)
Jessup, MD 20794
(410) 799-0155
http://www.blobspark.com
$25.00 per person, includes buffet dinner
By the way, Mike has a new CD called "The Accordion Project" and he's selling it for only $5. Email Mike at [email protected] if you'd like a copy.
Holiday Concert
Please be sure to mark your personal calendar for the December 4 concert. Rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays in November. Everyone is welcome to join the concert orchestra -- there will be music for every level -- but you must attend the rehearsals so we can shape the pieces together.
Besides the orchestra pieces, we will have our usual solos, duets, trios and small groups. So figure out what you'd like to play in the concert and send the information to Karen so she can start to compile a program.
Also, if you have any Christmas music that you think would be appropriate for the full orchestra to play, please get it to Joan ASAP.
HALLOWEEN PARADE
Last year we won second place for adult bands in the Vienna, Va., Halloween Parade. Now they have invited us back; this year's event will be October 26 at 7 pm. We will need people to play, set up the float and break it down. The theme this year is "Best Town in America-Fourth in the USA, #1 In Our Hearts." If you have ideas for music or decorations, please contact Lee Paulson at [email protected]or Karen at [email protected].
For the Fourth of July parade in Fairfax we took third place for musical groups and received a beautiful white ribbon. This was outstanding -- we were not even aware the floats would be judged. Way to go, Lee and Ron!!!
WMAS Calendar
September 13 meeting: Kraig Greff of the Crawdaddies on "Expanding the Functionality of the Accordion"
October 11 meeting : Oktoberfest - This will be another dance night when everyone will have a chance to play. Please let Karen know what you will be playing, and, if it will be a piece people can sing along to, please bring copies or send the words to Karen at [email protected] so she can include them in the program.
November 1: rehearsal for holiday concert at 7:30
November 8 meeting: Stella Allison & Joan Grauman at 7:30, rehearsal
November 15: rehearsal for holiday concert at 7:30
November 29: rehearsal for holiday concert at 7:30
December 4, Sunday: Holiday Concert at 4 pm (rehearsal beforehand)
************************************************************************************************************************
August 16, 2005
Meeting Notes
What a wonderful, energizing and entertaining meeting we had last week, thanks to Merv Conn. With a career spanning more than 70 years, Merv had lots to tell - and he illustrated each step with music. It all began in 1932, when Merv appeared as a vocalist on Joe Brown's Kiddies show on WOL radio and saw accordionist Matt Winsor strolling. The rest is history: Merv took a trial accordion course at Kitt's Music Store and then studied with Sylvia Kaplowitz.
In 1938 he played "Dark Eyes" with a Gypsy act that opened for Red Skelton at the Capital Theatre. Graduating from Benjamin Franklin University in 1940, Merv wrote the school song.
In 1945 he started an accordion school with three teachers. By the early 1950s, 300 students per week took lessons from six teachers, and the D.C. Recreation Department sponsored a concert each June.
In 1949-50 Merv taught the children of Major General Wallace Graham, President Truman's physician. One day the two children and their teacher played a concert for the Trumans in their White House living room. Several years later, Tricia and Julie Nixon were Merv's students. One day, Pat Nixon remarked, "Julie is my little jitterbug," and Merv went home and wrote "Jitterbug Rock," which Pietro Deiro published.
Between 1964 and 1969, Merv played "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" on the Cordavox for the Senators games. "It was a very good arrangement but the public didn't appreciate it - that's why I have 500 copies left," Merv said. Club members relieved him of a few copies.
Between 1970 and 1980
Merv was the music director for various beauty pageants in the Washington area. "They used to pay me with the third-place winner," he joked.
These days, Merv plays every Tuesday for the Kiwanis Club and the Scottish Rite Masons. He also plays occasional other gigs and continues to teach.
Following Merv's program, Joan's group (the Potomac Ensemble) played a few pieces, including two Christmas arrangements by Mike Surratt, so Mike could decide if the pieces needed more tinkering. Dale Wise and others played a few pieces as well.
Don't miss next month's meeting, when Kraig Greff of the great Baltimore band the Crawdaddies will be on the program. Some of us were lucky enough to hear this band at the AAMS festival in Wayne, Pa., in March.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Michael B. Rubin will be offering swing and salsa classes at George Washington University's Marvin Center, Room 307, starting Saturday, August 20, from 7 to 9 pm. The first class is $5 per person; subsequent classes will be $12.50 per person. (Part of the proceeds will benefit an NYU charity.) You MUST sign up with Mike ahead of time ([email protected]).
Mike Surratt and the Continentals will be opening for Brave Combo August 31 at Blob's Park. If people are interested in going as a WMAS group, Karen and Luis will be attending and will be glad to save a table. Just email them at [email protected] so they know how many people to expect.
Brave Combo/Mike Surratt and the Continentals
Wednesday, August 31, 2005, 7 pm
Blob's Park
8024 Blob's Park Road
(MD Rt. 175 @ Baltimore-Washington Parkway)
Jessup, MD 20794
(410) 799-0155
http://www.blobspark.com
$25.00 per person, includes buffet dinner
By the way, Mike has a new CD called "The Accordion Project" and he's selling it for only $5. Email Mike at [email protected] if you'd like a copy.
Holiday Concert
Please be sure to mark your personal calendar for the December 4 concert. Rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays in November. Everyone is welcome to join the concert orchestra -- there will be music for every level -- but you must attend the rehearsals so we can shape the pieces together.
Besides the orchestra pieces, we will have our usual solos, duets, trios and small groups. So figure out what you'd like to play in the concert and send the information to Karen so she can start to compile a program.
Also, if you have any Christmas music that you think would be appropriate for the full orchestra to play, please get it to Joan ASAP.
HALLOWEEN PARADE
Last year we won second place for adult bands in the Vienna, Va., Halloween Parade. Now they have invited us back; this year's event will be October 26 at 7 pm. We will need people to play, set up the float and break it down. The theme this year is "Best Town in America-Fourth in the USA, #1 In Our Hearts." If you have ideas for music or decorations, please contact Lee Paulson at [email protected]or Karen at [email protected].
For the Fourth of July parade in Fairfax we took third place for musical groups and received a beautiful white ribbon. This was outstanding -- we were not even aware the floats would be judged. Way to go, Lee and Ron!!!
WMAS Calendar
September 13 meeting: Kraig Greff of the Crawdaddies on "Expanding the Functionality of the Accordion"
October 11 meeting : Oktoberfest - This will be another dance night when everyone will have a chance to play. Please let Karen know what you will be playing, and, if it will be a piece people can sing along to, please bring copies or send the words to Karen at [email protected] so she can include them in the program.
November 1: rehearsal for holiday concert at 7:30
November 8 meeting: Stella Allison & Joan Grauman at 7:30, rehearsal
November 15: rehearsal for holiday concert at 7:30
November 29: rehearsal for holiday concert at 7:30
December 4, Sunday: Holiday Concert at 4 pm (rehearsal beforehand)
************************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
September 16, 2005
Meeting Notes
Even in this busy back-to-school time we had a good turnout Sept. 13 to hear two members of the great Baltimore band The Crawdaddies. (Actually, the accoustic duo has its own name: The Mudbugs.) Accordionist Kraig Greff, accompanied by guitarist Chris Huntington, demonstrated how to "expand the functionality of the accordion" to simulate the sounds of other instruments: the Hammond B3 organ (by switching from a dry register to musette and increasing the volume); a variety of horn voicings (for example by playing octaves); and the roots rock sounds of an electric bass - or maybe stride piano.
Classically trained, Kraig has been playing the accordion for 45 years, and also plays the Hammond B3 and piano. Never has it been more obvious that the accordion is a portable organ: If you closed your eyes while Kraig and Chris played "Spice It Up," you might have thought someone had sneaked a Hammond B3 into the room.
WMAS members had lots of questions. Some people were unfamiliar with Cajun/zydeco/roots music and wanted to hear more. Others wondered how Kraig's Gabbanelli has held up. First of all, he said, the better the instrument, the better the reeds, but he has blown a lot of reeds playing with the band. Also, he's ripped the entire bass side of the accordion off during a performance. A little duct tape patched it up temporarily, and now Gabbanelli has reinforced the instrument specially for Kraig.
Someone also asked if The Crawdaddies improvise or whether everything is written out. It's generally the latter, Kraig said, but the band does write in lots of time for solos, when each musician can improvise. He and Chris demonstrated "trading 4s," in which the musicians take turns playing four bars until one messes up. (You can trade 8s, 2s, or whatever.)
Kraig recommended learning to play in all the keys so you can work with singers and other instruments. Also, some of the harder-to-play keys are especially beautiful. For example, the Crawdaddies song "Hot Tamale Baby" is easy in G but sounds great in E-flat -- a key requires an uncomfortable hand position, he said.
The Crawdaddies are a loud party band that plays mostly original tunes, but they also mix in tunes by musicians such as Little Richard and Willie Dixon.
If you'd like to hear the band, it has at least two CDs out and also plays around the area; check www.thecrawdaddies.com for more info.
Announcements
Before the program we had a couple of announcements. Clay passed around a book on improvisation by Gordon Kohl, and Joe Kulick mentioned that the National Gallery of Art will be hosting a free accordion concert on Sunday, Dec. 4. Unfortunately this is the same date as our holiday concert, but we'll post the NGA event on our web calendar as soon as the details are available.
Joan announced that the "Coupe Mondiale" -- in which national accordion champions from around the world compete -- will be held in the Washington area in 2007, probably in the second week of August. Our group has been asked to help with advance publicity and registration during the event. It is a great honor for our area to host such a prestigious competition.
Joan distributed music for the holiday concert, but she had to leave right after the program so we didn't get a chance to try it out. We will try to do that next month. Meanwhile, please practice the music at home. If you have a second part, it is a good idea to tape the first part and then play along with it. We rehearse Tuesday evenings in November; check the calendar at www.washingtonaccordions.org for more details. Also, please start thinking about your solo or small group performance in the concert.
Several people have already signed up to play at our Oktoberfest meeting Oct. 11, but there is room for plenty more. All levels of musicians are welcome to play. Here is the list so far:
Peter DiGiovanni TBA
Jim Vandelly TBA
Stella and Joan TBA
Mara and Rick TBA
Mara, Leone & Clare Just Because & Little Gem Polka
Vic Aijala TBA
Karen Malan-Uribe Tick Tock Polka
Miscellaneous
WMAS Web Site
Our web site has been updated recently (after being down for almost a month), so please check it out and let us know if you see anything that needs to be fixed.
Open Mic Night
Gary Koerner would like to organize WMAS members to play at a Jammin Java open-mic night sometime soon (in Vienna, Va.). If you are interested, please contact Gary at [email protected].
Accordion Story
An New York accordion friend sent this story from Australia:
Technology Has Yet to Replace a Man Playing Accordion and Piano Together
By "Retractor"
Technology is truly amazing. Not just the technology that enables us to hit a comet with a probe somewhere in space, but the type that we see in our household and in our pockets.
For instance, take my iPod shuffle. This device is the size of a couple of fags and packs in 14 hours of my favourite music, which I can hear in order or mixed up. The sound quality is good enough for my ears, which are the limiting factor in any sound systems I own.
When my mobile phone died I bought the cheapest replacement I could find. But it had a camera in it -- the marketing people who convince folk they need a camera in their phone are in the same class as those who tell you one brand of bottled water is better than another. I am not big on buying overseas bottled water in restaurants -- if I buy bottled water, I want Australian bottled water. But I digress.
The other night we went to a local RSL club to hear Micheline Van Hautem sing the songs of Jacques Brel -- Jacques has been a favourite of ours since we watched on the ABC Jacques Brel Is Alive And Well And Living In Paris.
But I was probably the only person at the RSL who didn't really go to see Micheline, but to see her accompanist, Frederik Caelen.
Frederik was more than an accompanist -- he was a star in his own right. He has two diplomas -- in piano and in piano accordion -- from the Antwerp Conservatory. He is probably the only accordion player in the world who doesn't have people constantly making rude remarks about his instrument. We accordion players are thick-skinned.
At a kd lang concert, the singer was accompanied by an accordion player on a few songs. She said no woman could say "No" to a man with an accordion. This may apply to a man like Frederick, but playing the accordion hasn't put me in a position of fighting off women.
kd, Bette and Micheline's songs are all in my iPod now, but Micheline song's have five stars by them, so they will be played more often.
When I had a stress test recently, the woman next to me found out I was a doctor and started to talk, but my iPod saved me.
Anyway, back to the Micheline evening -- the startling thing about the night occurred on the way there. As I walked briskly from the station to the venue, my mobile phone took a picture of the inside of my pocket and sent it to someone. I kid you not. Now that is technology for you. For years science fiction writers have been writing tales in which machines begin to act independently -- my mobile phone is probably a spy sent in the advance party. Wow.
My DVD player will not be in the fray when the machines rise up -- for it died.
It cost $570 five years ago, but the cost for a repairman to look at it was $60, and the quote to fix it was $310. At the shops I found a DVD player for about $100 that can do anything mine could do.
It is nice that these things are getting cheaper, but the early-demise-and-discard mind-set is a worry. All those lovely chips and wires landing on the scrap heap after only five years. And not just the high-tech stuff: break the toaster in its warranty period and they bin it and give you another - it's not worth the cost of the labour to fix.
Things aren't made like they used to be. Mrs R's sewing machine was bought second-hand in 1967 -- and still purrs along. The Kenwood cake mixer bought in 1971 just died. And these appliances had serious moving parts that wear and tear. Redundancy is the go today. But you would think we could recycle this stuff in a better way -- God knows, we can do it to our everyday garbage.
Of course, we can still recycle piano accordions. The technology has really changed since the Yanks put the keyboard on the European button accordion. You can get a midi system to plug accordions into and use a computer to make them sound like a symphony orchestra, without even having to squeeze. I can work a piano accordion, but I can't do a delayed recording off the telly when I am out.
But although I love my new technology, I am less impressed by it than I was with Micheline and Frederik live. Especially Frederick -- because he played accordion and piano simultaneously. There is no machine that can do that -- yet.
************************************************************************************************************************
September 16, 2005
Meeting Notes
Even in this busy back-to-school time we had a good turnout Sept. 13 to hear two members of the great Baltimore band The Crawdaddies. (Actually, the accoustic duo has its own name: The Mudbugs.) Accordionist Kraig Greff, accompanied by guitarist Chris Huntington, demonstrated how to "expand the functionality of the accordion" to simulate the sounds of other instruments: the Hammond B3 organ (by switching from a dry register to musette and increasing the volume); a variety of horn voicings (for example by playing octaves); and the roots rock sounds of an electric bass - or maybe stride piano.
Classically trained, Kraig has been playing the accordion for 45 years, and also plays the Hammond B3 and piano. Never has it been more obvious that the accordion is a portable organ: If you closed your eyes while Kraig and Chris played "Spice It Up," you might have thought someone had sneaked a Hammond B3 into the room.
WMAS members had lots of questions. Some people were unfamiliar with Cajun/zydeco/roots music and wanted to hear more. Others wondered how Kraig's Gabbanelli has held up. First of all, he said, the better the instrument, the better the reeds, but he has blown a lot of reeds playing with the band. Also, he's ripped the entire bass side of the accordion off during a performance. A little duct tape patched it up temporarily, and now Gabbanelli has reinforced the instrument specially for Kraig.
Someone also asked if The Crawdaddies improvise or whether everything is written out. It's generally the latter, Kraig said, but the band does write in lots of time for solos, when each musician can improvise. He and Chris demonstrated "trading 4s," in which the musicians take turns playing four bars until one messes up. (You can trade 8s, 2s, or whatever.)
Kraig recommended learning to play in all the keys so you can work with singers and other instruments. Also, some of the harder-to-play keys are especially beautiful. For example, the Crawdaddies song "Hot Tamale Baby" is easy in G but sounds great in E-flat -- a key requires an uncomfortable hand position, he said.
The Crawdaddies are a loud party band that plays mostly original tunes, but they also mix in tunes by musicians such as Little Richard and Willie Dixon.
If you'd like to hear the band, it has at least two CDs out and also plays around the area; check www.thecrawdaddies.com for more info.
Announcements
Before the program we had a couple of announcements. Clay passed around a book on improvisation by Gordon Kohl, and Joe Kulick mentioned that the National Gallery of Art will be hosting a free accordion concert on Sunday, Dec. 4. Unfortunately this is the same date as our holiday concert, but we'll post the NGA event on our web calendar as soon as the details are available.
Joan announced that the "Coupe Mondiale" -- in which national accordion champions from around the world compete -- will be held in the Washington area in 2007, probably in the second week of August. Our group has been asked to help with advance publicity and registration during the event. It is a great honor for our area to host such a prestigious competition.
Joan distributed music for the holiday concert, but she had to leave right after the program so we didn't get a chance to try it out. We will try to do that next month. Meanwhile, please practice the music at home. If you have a second part, it is a good idea to tape the first part and then play along with it. We rehearse Tuesday evenings in November; check the calendar at www.washingtonaccordions.org for more details. Also, please start thinking about your solo or small group performance in the concert.
Several people have already signed up to play at our Oktoberfest meeting Oct. 11, but there is room for plenty more. All levels of musicians are welcome to play. Here is the list so far:
Peter DiGiovanni TBA
Jim Vandelly TBA
Stella and Joan TBA
Mara and Rick TBA
Mara, Leone & Clare Just Because & Little Gem Polka
Vic Aijala TBA
Karen Malan-Uribe Tick Tock Polka
Miscellaneous
WMAS Web Site
Our web site has been updated recently (after being down for almost a month), so please check it out and let us know if you see anything that needs to be fixed.
Open Mic Night
Gary Koerner would like to organize WMAS members to play at a Jammin Java open-mic night sometime soon (in Vienna, Va.). If you are interested, please contact Gary at [email protected].
Accordion Story
An New York accordion friend sent this story from Australia:
Technology Has Yet to Replace a Man Playing Accordion and Piano Together
By "Retractor"
Technology is truly amazing. Not just the technology that enables us to hit a comet with a probe somewhere in space, but the type that we see in our household and in our pockets.
For instance, take my iPod shuffle. This device is the size of a couple of fags and packs in 14 hours of my favourite music, which I can hear in order or mixed up. The sound quality is good enough for my ears, which are the limiting factor in any sound systems I own.
When my mobile phone died I bought the cheapest replacement I could find. But it had a camera in it -- the marketing people who convince folk they need a camera in their phone are in the same class as those who tell you one brand of bottled water is better than another. I am not big on buying overseas bottled water in restaurants -- if I buy bottled water, I want Australian bottled water. But I digress.
The other night we went to a local RSL club to hear Micheline Van Hautem sing the songs of Jacques Brel -- Jacques has been a favourite of ours since we watched on the ABC Jacques Brel Is Alive And Well And Living In Paris.
But I was probably the only person at the RSL who didn't really go to see Micheline, but to see her accompanist, Frederik Caelen.
Frederik was more than an accompanist -- he was a star in his own right. He has two diplomas -- in piano and in piano accordion -- from the Antwerp Conservatory. He is probably the only accordion player in the world who doesn't have people constantly making rude remarks about his instrument. We accordion players are thick-skinned.
At a kd lang concert, the singer was accompanied by an accordion player on a few songs. She said no woman could say "No" to a man with an accordion. This may apply to a man like Frederick, but playing the accordion hasn't put me in a position of fighting off women.
kd, Bette and Micheline's songs are all in my iPod now, but Micheline song's have five stars by them, so they will be played more often.
When I had a stress test recently, the woman next to me found out I was a doctor and started to talk, but my iPod saved me.
Anyway, back to the Micheline evening -- the startling thing about the night occurred on the way there. As I walked briskly from the station to the venue, my mobile phone took a picture of the inside of my pocket and sent it to someone. I kid you not. Now that is technology for you. For years science fiction writers have been writing tales in which machines begin to act independently -- my mobile phone is probably a spy sent in the advance party. Wow.
My DVD player will not be in the fray when the machines rise up -- for it died.
It cost $570 five years ago, but the cost for a repairman to look at it was $60, and the quote to fix it was $310. At the shops I found a DVD player for about $100 that can do anything mine could do.
It is nice that these things are getting cheaper, but the early-demise-and-discard mind-set is a worry. All those lovely chips and wires landing on the scrap heap after only five years. And not just the high-tech stuff: break the toaster in its warranty period and they bin it and give you another - it's not worth the cost of the labour to fix.
Things aren't made like they used to be. Mrs R's sewing machine was bought second-hand in 1967 -- and still purrs along. The Kenwood cake mixer bought in 1971 just died. And these appliances had serious moving parts that wear and tear. Redundancy is the go today. But you would think we could recycle this stuff in a better way -- God knows, we can do it to our everyday garbage.
Of course, we can still recycle piano accordions. The technology has really changed since the Yanks put the keyboard on the European button accordion. You can get a midi system to plug accordions into and use a computer to make them sound like a symphony orchestra, without even having to squeeze. I can work a piano accordion, but I can't do a delayed recording off the telly when I am out.
But although I love my new technology, I am less impressed by it than I was with Micheline and Frederik live. Especially Frederick -- because he played accordion and piano simultaneously. There is no machine that can do that -- yet.
************************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
October 22, 2005
Meeting Notes
It was good to welcome new and familiar faces to our first Oktoberfest -- at our October 11 meeting. Paul Przedpelski started off the evening off with Beer Barrel Polka. Others took it from there:
- Joan Grauman -- 2 schuplattlers on the diatonic accordion: Boarischer mit Plattler and Traunstein Plattler
- Peter DiGiovanni - Prologue from Carousel
- Rob Roy - Polka Polka (short version)
- Jim Vandelly - Hofbrauhaus/O Susana medley and Koketka
- Robert Ford - Liechtensteiner Polka
- Ken Kunec - Too Fat Polka
- Mara Cherkasky and Leone Monticone - Just Because and Broken Reed Polka
- Ron Charvet - My Prettly Little Girl (bolero)
- Karen Malan-Uribe - Tick Tock Polka
- Lee Paulson and Karen - Zum Abschied
- Stella Allison and Joan - Circus Polka and Mice Party Polka, both by Stas Venglevski, and Kitty Whiskers Polka by Joe Morelli
While people sampled the sauerkraut and other snacks, the Potomac Ensemble set up and played Picnic Polka, and that ended Oktoberfest.
Afterwards, the WMAS Orchestra ran through the pieces for the holiday concert , with Joan conducting. We will be rehearsing on the following Tuesday evenings at the church (7:30 pm): Nov. 1, Nov. 8 (after the regular meeting), Nov. 15 and Nov. 29. The concert will be Sunday, Dec. 4, at 4 pm.
By the way!!! It's time to think about what you want to play in the concert, and please let us know. The orchestra will play the two arrangements by Mike Surratt, plus Galla-Rini's arrangements of Silent Night and Joy to the World, plus Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and Frosty the Snowman. Music has been distributed; please practice your parts.
Note from Joan: I don't want anyone to feel that they don't play well enough to join the holiday band. If you want to play just the melodies with single notes, please choose the top notes of each chord. This will give you the melody part. If you can't play the bass, then just leave it out. We want everyone to play and have a good time. The only requirement is that you try to attend as many rehearsals as possible. You MUST attend at least one rehearsal so that you can mark any changes we might make, and be familiar with how I will conduct each piece. Of course, I would hope that you can attend more than one. If you have any questions, please call me at (301) 279-8716.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Washington Balalaika Society Concerts
I know many of you have attended our concerts in the past and have enjoyed them. We play a variety of classical and Russian folk music. Our orchestra consists of nearly 50 members now and growing every year. Our new conductor, Svetlana Nikonova, has been fantastic in arranging new and exciting music for us.
This year we have two concerts with the world's greatest Domra player from Russia. We have been practicing hard again to be able to accompany his fast and difficult music. On Nov. 5, we will be at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore (600 N. Charles St.) and on Nov. 6, we will be at our usual place, NOVA in Annandale, Va.
I hope you can attend.
Regards,
Vic Aijala
Balalaika Society Concert
Sunday, Nov. 6, at 3 pm
Ernst Cultural Center
Northern VIrginia Community College
8333 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, Va.
http://www.balalaika.org
Tickets at the door ($20 general; $18 seniors and students)
Florida Accordion Association Festival
This year's annual event on Nov 11, 12 & 13 is going to be HUGE. What a lineup we've got!!!! You surely don't want to miss this!
Frank Marocco - The Jazz Legend; Tony Lovello - Liberace of the Accordion; Betty Jo Simon (yes, that's right .. former student of JoAnn Cochran Sommers); Denis Novato - International Button-box Champion coming from Italy; Lenny Feldmann - NJ Virtuoso Champion; Maestro Nick Ballarini - Dallas, TX; Walt "K" of the "K" Trio; Super Dick Albreski - OK City, OK; The Accordion Trolls - coming from Norway; Maricarmen Vazquez; Carmen Vitanza; Jerry Tramontozzi, Vince Aleandri; Alex Chudolij, and MORE! (not necessarily in this order)!!!
Our famous Friday night "Cafe Accordeon," in the lounge - where anyone may play. 4:30 PM - ???. Free appetizers, cash bar available. Accordion dealer displays are open, and accordion greats are in attendance. Come & meet these legends! There is a short accordion orchestra rehearsal for those who sign up to participate. Jamming in the lounge after Cafe Accordeon.
Saturday - three dealer displays open: John Gaunt, Accordions & Keyboards, Clearwater, FL; Alex Chudolij, Music Magic Accordions of Clifton, NJ; Nick Ballarini, with a Ballarini & Petosa display. Registration 8:30 a.m, and the day includes lunch & dinner (with accordion entertainment ... of course!). This day is loaded with professional performances, and Frank Marocco will be holding a workshop. Festival accordion band performance conducted by Linda Soley Reed, President of the American Accordionists' Association (we're performing a Tribute to Myron Floren).
Sunday - optional breakfast, concert provided by none other than Jerry Tramontozzi, of Arlington, MA! Great time to kick back & relax, enjoy your fellow accordionists, and enjoy Jerry!
Hotel reservations: contact Holiday Inn Select, 12125 High Tech Avenue, Orlando, FL (UCF area). 407-275-9000. Mention Florida Accordion Association for discounted room rates of $75.00 per nite (plus tax). RSVP to hotel by 10/27 for this rate.
A good time will be had by all! Reservations to Florida Accordion Association for the event must also be received by Thursday, 10/27/05. Online registration at http://www.accordions.com/florida, simply click on the link to "register online". Any questions, please email or call.
Best wishes,
Karen Adam
Florida Accordion Association
2244 Musket Drive
Navarre, FL 32566
(850) 936-8722 (CST)
http://www.accordions.com/florida
WMAS Web Site
Please check out the new additions to the Miscellany page!
************************************************************************************************************************
October 22, 2005
Meeting Notes
It was good to welcome new and familiar faces to our first Oktoberfest -- at our October 11 meeting. Paul Przedpelski started off the evening off with Beer Barrel Polka. Others took it from there:
- Joan Grauman -- 2 schuplattlers on the diatonic accordion: Boarischer mit Plattler and Traunstein Plattler
- Peter DiGiovanni - Prologue from Carousel
- Rob Roy - Polka Polka (short version)
- Jim Vandelly - Hofbrauhaus/O Susana medley and Koketka
- Robert Ford - Liechtensteiner Polka
- Ken Kunec - Too Fat Polka
- Mara Cherkasky and Leone Monticone - Just Because and Broken Reed Polka
- Ron Charvet - My Prettly Little Girl (bolero)
- Karen Malan-Uribe - Tick Tock Polka
- Lee Paulson and Karen - Zum Abschied
- Stella Allison and Joan - Circus Polka and Mice Party Polka, both by Stas Venglevski, and Kitty Whiskers Polka by Joe Morelli
While people sampled the sauerkraut and other snacks, the Potomac Ensemble set up and played Picnic Polka, and that ended Oktoberfest.
Afterwards, the WMAS Orchestra ran through the pieces for the holiday concert , with Joan conducting. We will be rehearsing on the following Tuesday evenings at the church (7:30 pm): Nov. 1, Nov. 8 (after the regular meeting), Nov. 15 and Nov. 29. The concert will be Sunday, Dec. 4, at 4 pm.
By the way!!! It's time to think about what you want to play in the concert, and please let us know. The orchestra will play the two arrangements by Mike Surratt, plus Galla-Rini's arrangements of Silent Night and Joy to the World, plus Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and Frosty the Snowman. Music has been distributed; please practice your parts.
Note from Joan: I don't want anyone to feel that they don't play well enough to join the holiday band. If you want to play just the melodies with single notes, please choose the top notes of each chord. This will give you the melody part. If you can't play the bass, then just leave it out. We want everyone to play and have a good time. The only requirement is that you try to attend as many rehearsals as possible. You MUST attend at least one rehearsal so that you can mark any changes we might make, and be familiar with how I will conduct each piece. Of course, I would hope that you can attend more than one. If you have any questions, please call me at (301) 279-8716.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Washington Balalaika Society Concerts
I know many of you have attended our concerts in the past and have enjoyed them. We play a variety of classical and Russian folk music. Our orchestra consists of nearly 50 members now and growing every year. Our new conductor, Svetlana Nikonova, has been fantastic in arranging new and exciting music for us.
This year we have two concerts with the world's greatest Domra player from Russia. We have been practicing hard again to be able to accompany his fast and difficult music. On Nov. 5, we will be at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore (600 N. Charles St.) and on Nov. 6, we will be at our usual place, NOVA in Annandale, Va.
I hope you can attend.
Regards,
Vic Aijala
Balalaika Society Concert
Sunday, Nov. 6, at 3 pm
Ernst Cultural Center
Northern VIrginia Community College
8333 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, Va.
http://www.balalaika.org
Tickets at the door ($20 general; $18 seniors and students)
Florida Accordion Association Festival
This year's annual event on Nov 11, 12 & 13 is going to be HUGE. What a lineup we've got!!!! You surely don't want to miss this!
Frank Marocco - The Jazz Legend; Tony Lovello - Liberace of the Accordion; Betty Jo Simon (yes, that's right .. former student of JoAnn Cochran Sommers); Denis Novato - International Button-box Champion coming from Italy; Lenny Feldmann - NJ Virtuoso Champion; Maestro Nick Ballarini - Dallas, TX; Walt "K" of the "K" Trio; Super Dick Albreski - OK City, OK; The Accordion Trolls - coming from Norway; Maricarmen Vazquez; Carmen Vitanza; Jerry Tramontozzi, Vince Aleandri; Alex Chudolij, and MORE! (not necessarily in this order)!!!
Our famous Friday night "Cafe Accordeon," in the lounge - where anyone may play. 4:30 PM - ???. Free appetizers, cash bar available. Accordion dealer displays are open, and accordion greats are in attendance. Come & meet these legends! There is a short accordion orchestra rehearsal for those who sign up to participate. Jamming in the lounge after Cafe Accordeon.
Saturday - three dealer displays open: John Gaunt, Accordions & Keyboards, Clearwater, FL; Alex Chudolij, Music Magic Accordions of Clifton, NJ; Nick Ballarini, with a Ballarini & Petosa display. Registration 8:30 a.m, and the day includes lunch & dinner (with accordion entertainment ... of course!). This day is loaded with professional performances, and Frank Marocco will be holding a workshop. Festival accordion band performance conducted by Linda Soley Reed, President of the American Accordionists' Association (we're performing a Tribute to Myron Floren).
Sunday - optional breakfast, concert provided by none other than Jerry Tramontozzi, of Arlington, MA! Great time to kick back & relax, enjoy your fellow accordionists, and enjoy Jerry!
Hotel reservations: contact Holiday Inn Select, 12125 High Tech Avenue, Orlando, FL (UCF area). 407-275-9000. Mention Florida Accordion Association for discounted room rates of $75.00 per nite (plus tax). RSVP to hotel by 10/27 for this rate.
A good time will be had by all! Reservations to Florida Accordion Association for the event must also be received by Thursday, 10/27/05. Online registration at http://www.accordions.com/florida, simply click on the link to "register online". Any questions, please email or call.
Best wishes,
Karen Adam
Florida Accordion Association
2244 Musket Drive
Navarre, FL 32566
(850) 936-8722 (CST)
http://www.accordions.com/florida
WMAS Web Site
Please check out the new additions to the Miscellany page!
************************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
November 15, 2005
Meeting Notes from the President
It was an honor to be part of the "studio audience" for Stella and Joan's live CD, recorded during their wonderful performance at our meeting Nov. 8.
The two played a number of pieces by Stas Venglevski: "Short Visit," "Musette/Dream of Paris," "March," "Autumn Illusions," "Tango for Two," "Always and Eternity," "Latino Moment," "Let's Play Together," "Circus Polka," and "While I'm Away."
They also played "Black and White Rag," "Siciliano for Harpsichord and Flute" by J.S. Bach, "Strada del Sole" by Hubert Deuringer/Werner Bohm, "In Walked Wolfie" by Frank Marocco, and "Swedish Rhapsody" by Percy Faith.
Stella wrote second parts for "In Walked Wolfie" and "Black and White Rag," and she did some improvising on the second parts for "Swedish Rhapsody," "Strada," and "Latino Moment."
Some of the pieces were humorous, some were moving, and all were beautifully played. We look forward to listening to them over and over again when we get the CDs.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I'd like to take a moment to welcome all our new members and tell them how much we appreciate having them. I'd also like to say we miss all of you old members who haven't been around lately, and we would love to see you or hear from you. Certainly forward us any ideas you have for programs or other events; we are always open to change and new ideas.
We also are looking for people to get involved.
For example we need help with the following:
- organizing special events, including the holiday concert, Scandinavian night (Feb. 14), and the next Polka Night;
- publicizing our activities, including contacting TV and radio stations;
- posting information to the national and international accordion web sites;
- videotaping the meetings; and
- posting flyers, including the one for the holiday concert flyer (to be forwarded separately).
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE HOLIDAY CONCERT
Rehearsals
The last evening rehearsal is Nov. 29 at 7:30 at the church. PLEASE try to make it. The dress rehearsal will be Sunday, December 4, at 2:00, just before the 4 pm concert. You NEED to be there!
We still need people to help with the concert and potluck. Luis usually runs the kitchen, but he will be in Mexico this time, so we need about six people to help get the food ready to serve. Please check the list of tasks below and let us know if you can volunteer some time. Family members play an important part in making this program a success, and we are very grateful for their help.
FOOD SIGN-UP
MAIN DISHES (we need about six)
Karen Malan-Uribe - Chicken
CASE OF BOTTLED WATER
PUNCH
Karen will make a fruit punch
VEGETABLE DISHES
Debbie Mezzetta
Mara
SALADS
PASTA/POTATO/RICE DISHES
Elizabeth Nelson
DESSERT
Teddy Kunez
OTHER TASKS
DECORATIONS
Debbie Mezzetta
SETUP 2:00
CLEANUP
Elizabeth Nelson
COLLECT MONEY AT THE DOOR - Juliette Tahar
PROGRAMS - Malini Dominey
THIS IS THE PROGRAM LINE-UP SO FAR
Conductor: Joan Grauman
MC: Dale Wise M.M.E
WMAS Band - Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, Frosty, God Rest Ye Merry
Gentleman, Angels We Have Heard on High, Silent Night, Joy to the World
Silvia Eberly - German Christmas Song
Zarina - Jingle Bells
Mike Rubin - TBD
Phil Fox - TBD
Joan Grauman - TBD
Peter DiGiovanni - Christmas Oldies Medley
Potomac Ensemble - Lovers' Waltz, Picnic Polka, Le Clochard de Paris,
Sandmannchen
Karen Malan-Uribe - Christmas Time is Here
Robert Juszczyk - The Skaters Waltz & La La La Polka
Ronald Charvet - TBD
Leone, Clare & Mara - Ding Dong Merrily on High
Rick, Mara & Adam - First Snow
Jim Vandellly - TBD
OTHER EVENTS
Jewish Folk Arts Festival This Weekend
You'll be able to hear some accordions at the Jewish Folk Arts Festival this Sunday, Nov. 20. The festival runs from noon to 6:00 p.m. at the Shady Grove Campus, University of Maryland, 9630 Gudelsky Dr., Rockville, Md.
Mike Rubin will play with Di Shpilers at 1 pm for 30 minutes.
Wendy Morrison will play with her groups Shalshelet 4:45 pm and Klezcentricity at 5:30 pm.
For more information, see
http://www.jewishfolkartsfestival.org/f-musicians.htm.
Accordionists at the Oakton Unitarian Church?
Gary Koerner is looking for WMAS members to volunteer to play for Sunday
morning services at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Oakton.
Please contact Gary at [email protected] or (703) 938-3193, if you are interested.
WMAS Web Site
Please check out the new additions to the Miscellany page!
***********************************************************************************************************************
November 15, 2005
Meeting Notes from the President
It was an honor to be part of the "studio audience" for Stella and Joan's live CD, recorded during their wonderful performance at our meeting Nov. 8.
The two played a number of pieces by Stas Venglevski: "Short Visit," "Musette/Dream of Paris," "March," "Autumn Illusions," "Tango for Two," "Always and Eternity," "Latino Moment," "Let's Play Together," "Circus Polka," and "While I'm Away."
They also played "Black and White Rag," "Siciliano for Harpsichord and Flute" by J.S. Bach, "Strada del Sole" by Hubert Deuringer/Werner Bohm, "In Walked Wolfie" by Frank Marocco, and "Swedish Rhapsody" by Percy Faith.
Stella wrote second parts for "In Walked Wolfie" and "Black and White Rag," and she did some improvising on the second parts for "Swedish Rhapsody," "Strada," and "Latino Moment."
Some of the pieces were humorous, some were moving, and all were beautifully played. We look forward to listening to them over and over again when we get the CDs.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I'd like to take a moment to welcome all our new members and tell them how much we appreciate having them. I'd also like to say we miss all of you old members who haven't been around lately, and we would love to see you or hear from you. Certainly forward us any ideas you have for programs or other events; we are always open to change and new ideas.
We also are looking for people to get involved.
For example we need help with the following:
- organizing special events, including the holiday concert, Scandinavian night (Feb. 14), and the next Polka Night;
- publicizing our activities, including contacting TV and radio stations;
- posting information to the national and international accordion web sites;
- videotaping the meetings; and
- posting flyers, including the one for the holiday concert flyer (to be forwarded separately).
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE HOLIDAY CONCERT
Rehearsals
The last evening rehearsal is Nov. 29 at 7:30 at the church. PLEASE try to make it. The dress rehearsal will be Sunday, December 4, at 2:00, just before the 4 pm concert. You NEED to be there!
We still need people to help with the concert and potluck. Luis usually runs the kitchen, but he will be in Mexico this time, so we need about six people to help get the food ready to serve. Please check the list of tasks below and let us know if you can volunteer some time. Family members play an important part in making this program a success, and we are very grateful for their help.
FOOD SIGN-UP
MAIN DISHES (we need about six)
Karen Malan-Uribe - Chicken
CASE OF BOTTLED WATER
PUNCH
Karen will make a fruit punch
VEGETABLE DISHES
Debbie Mezzetta
Mara
SALADS
PASTA/POTATO/RICE DISHES
Elizabeth Nelson
DESSERT
Teddy Kunez
OTHER TASKS
DECORATIONS
Debbie Mezzetta
SETUP 2:00
CLEANUP
Elizabeth Nelson
COLLECT MONEY AT THE DOOR - Juliette Tahar
PROGRAMS - Malini Dominey
THIS IS THE PROGRAM LINE-UP SO FAR
Conductor: Joan Grauman
MC: Dale Wise M.M.E
WMAS Band - Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, Frosty, God Rest Ye Merry
Gentleman, Angels We Have Heard on High, Silent Night, Joy to the World
Silvia Eberly - German Christmas Song
Zarina - Jingle Bells
Mike Rubin - TBD
Phil Fox - TBD
Joan Grauman - TBD
Peter DiGiovanni - Christmas Oldies Medley
Potomac Ensemble - Lovers' Waltz, Picnic Polka, Le Clochard de Paris,
Sandmannchen
Karen Malan-Uribe - Christmas Time is Here
Robert Juszczyk - The Skaters Waltz & La La La Polka
Ronald Charvet - TBD
Leone, Clare & Mara - Ding Dong Merrily on High
Rick, Mara & Adam - First Snow
Jim Vandellly - TBD
OTHER EVENTS
Jewish Folk Arts Festival This Weekend
You'll be able to hear some accordions at the Jewish Folk Arts Festival this Sunday, Nov. 20. The festival runs from noon to 6:00 p.m. at the Shady Grove Campus, University of Maryland, 9630 Gudelsky Dr., Rockville, Md.
Mike Rubin will play with Di Shpilers at 1 pm for 30 minutes.
Wendy Morrison will play with her groups Shalshelet 4:45 pm and Klezcentricity at 5:30 pm.
For more information, see
http://www.jewishfolkartsfestival.org/f-musicians.htm.
Accordionists at the Oakton Unitarian Church?
Gary Koerner is looking for WMAS members to volunteer to play for Sunday
morning services at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Oakton.
Please contact Gary at [email protected] or (703) 938-3193, if you are interested.
WMAS Web Site
Please check out the new additions to the Miscellany page!
***********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
December 24, 2005
Meeting Notes from the President
We had a modest turnout for our last meeting of the year, on Dec. 13. Because of a scheduling snafu, the program we had anticipated -- by Eric Schwarz -- did not take place, and Dale Wise stepped in with a lecture/demonstration on music theory. We hope to reschedule Eric for sometime in the new year (March). In addition, the board is thinking maybe we should drop our December meeting and make the annual concert the last get-together of the year. Any thoughts on this? The board will meet in the third week of January to plan our 2006 program.
Peter DiGiovanni, our membership chairman, is collecting dues for 2006 . The price is right: $15. Please make Peter's life easier by paying up soon. If you'd like to mail a check, please reply for more instructions.
We look forward to a presentation in January (the 10th) by Dr. Bob Duca on how to avoid injury when playing the accordion. Bob is both a chiropractor and an accordionist.
Dec. 4 Holiday Concert
The concert, once again, was a great success and lots of fun, as was the potluck that followed. Merv Conn warmed up the crowd as it entered the hall; then Karen introduced our conductor, Joan Grauman, and master of ceremonies, Dale Wise. The program looked like this:
WMAS Orchestra: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (arr. by Mike Surratt for WMAS) & Frosty the Snowman
Elise Malouf: Good King Wenceslas & Silent Night
Czarina Attipoe: Jingle Bells & When the Saints Go Marching In
Silvia Eberly (with Daniel McCharen & Czarina): German Christmas songs & Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
Phil Fox: Song of Music Medley
WMAS Orchestra: Angels We Have Heard on High (arr. by Mike Surratt for WMAS) & Santa Claus Is Coming to Town
Ronald Charvet: O Tannenbaum & an Ecuadoran song
Potomac Ensemble: Picnic Polka & Le Clochard de Paris
Dan Grauman: Minor Christmas Medley
Rick Nunno, Adam Carter Nafziger (guitar) & Mara Cherkasky: First Snow/Byrtnes Mazurka
Peter DiGiovanni: Christmas Oldies Medley
Nicolai Gamrasni: A Time for Cherries
Potomac Ensemble: Sandmannchen & Lovers' Waltz
Leone Monticone, Clare Cherkasky (guitar) & Mara Cherkasky: Ding Dong Merrily on High
Michael B. Rubin: O Hanuka, My Dredl & Who Can Retell?
Jim Vandelly: Kamarinskaya, Barinya & The Cossack Rides the Danube
Jim Vandelly, Vladimir Titarenko & Peter DiGiovanni: Podgorka
WMAS Orchestra: Silent Night & Joy to the World
Merv Conn, Joan Grauman, Dale Wise, Silvery Eberly and others entertained during dinner.
Announcements
We've gone international! Jim Vandelly has been sending news of our programs and activities to the Accordions Worldwide Web site (based in New Zealand) www.accordions.com. Please check it out when you get a chance.
Also, please make sure you check our own Web calendar frequently for accordion news and events around the DC area.
With that, we'd like to wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas, Hanuka and Kwanzaa -- and the happiest of new years. See you in 2006!
December 24, 2005
Meeting Notes from the President
We had a modest turnout for our last meeting of the year, on Dec. 13. Because of a scheduling snafu, the program we had anticipated -- by Eric Schwarz -- did not take place, and Dale Wise stepped in with a lecture/demonstration on music theory. We hope to reschedule Eric for sometime in the new year (March). In addition, the board is thinking maybe we should drop our December meeting and make the annual concert the last get-together of the year. Any thoughts on this? The board will meet in the third week of January to plan our 2006 program.
Peter DiGiovanni, our membership chairman, is collecting dues for 2006 . The price is right: $15. Please make Peter's life easier by paying up soon. If you'd like to mail a check, please reply for more instructions.
We look forward to a presentation in January (the 10th) by Dr. Bob Duca on how to avoid injury when playing the accordion. Bob is both a chiropractor and an accordionist.
Dec. 4 Holiday Concert
The concert, once again, was a great success and lots of fun, as was the potluck that followed. Merv Conn warmed up the crowd as it entered the hall; then Karen introduced our conductor, Joan Grauman, and master of ceremonies, Dale Wise. The program looked like this:
WMAS Orchestra: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (arr. by Mike Surratt for WMAS) & Frosty the Snowman
Elise Malouf: Good King Wenceslas & Silent Night
Czarina Attipoe: Jingle Bells & When the Saints Go Marching In
Silvia Eberly (with Daniel McCharen & Czarina): German Christmas songs & Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
Phil Fox: Song of Music Medley
WMAS Orchestra: Angels We Have Heard on High (arr. by Mike Surratt for WMAS) & Santa Claus Is Coming to Town
Ronald Charvet: O Tannenbaum & an Ecuadoran song
Potomac Ensemble: Picnic Polka & Le Clochard de Paris
Dan Grauman: Minor Christmas Medley
Rick Nunno, Adam Carter Nafziger (guitar) & Mara Cherkasky: First Snow/Byrtnes Mazurka
Peter DiGiovanni: Christmas Oldies Medley
Nicolai Gamrasni: A Time for Cherries
Potomac Ensemble: Sandmannchen & Lovers' Waltz
Leone Monticone, Clare Cherkasky (guitar) & Mara Cherkasky: Ding Dong Merrily on High
Michael B. Rubin: O Hanuka, My Dredl & Who Can Retell?
Jim Vandelly: Kamarinskaya, Barinya & The Cossack Rides the Danube
Jim Vandelly, Vladimir Titarenko & Peter DiGiovanni: Podgorka
WMAS Orchestra: Silent Night & Joy to the World
Merv Conn, Joan Grauman, Dale Wise, Silvery Eberly and others entertained during dinner.
Announcements
We've gone international! Jim Vandelly has been sending news of our programs and activities to the Accordions Worldwide Web site (based in New Zealand) www.accordions.com. Please check it out when you get a chance.
Also, please make sure you check our own Web calendar frequently for accordion news and events around the DC area.
With that, we'd like to wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas, Hanuka and Kwanzaa -- and the happiest of new years. See you in 2006!