2015 News Archive
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
January 17, 2015
Meeting Notes
WMAS started out the New Year by electing its officers to serve another term. President Peter DiGiovanni, Vice-President Joan Grauman, and Secretary-Treasurer Mara Cherkasky understand they have been given a mandate to carry on as usual, so no big changes are in the works for 2015.
After the election, we held an organized jam session, mostly using sheet music people had brought to share. We were happy to see Halina Banas-Jones back after a long break; she’s especially good at leading a group through unfamiliar music. As the occasion arose, Peter DiGiovanni demonstrated how to play minor-seventh and sixth chords on the bass side. We might need a refresher, though; a video posted to YouTube might be just the thing, Peter.
By the way, Joan Grauman wrote a nice article about our Holiday Concert in the January issue of U.S. National Accordion News, at www.accordionusa.com. Please check it out before it’s replaced with the next issue on February 1. You have to scroll down quite a ways to find Joan’s piece, which includes several pictures of the event.
Upcoming Meetings
Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 8, at 4 pm, at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church. This will be an open-mic event; please sign up for a 5-minute slot. If we have enough time, performers may be able to take a second turn. We’ll see how it goes.
Would you like to play a 15- to 20-minute slot? Then please sign up to be the greeter on February 8. It’s your chance to test new material or just to play in front of people without necessarily feeling like you’re in the spotlight. Duos or trios are fine. We just want to fit as much music as possible into our meetings, and to give as many people as possible a chance to perform.
On Sunday, March 15, at 4 pm, we’ll hold a dance party in celebration of our 12th birthday. Sign up to play a dance tune or two. We’ll also need a greeter to play Irish music in honor of St. Patrick's Day, and if you can come up with a tune about the Ides of March, so much the better.
On April 19 at 4 pm we’ll be hosting Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton in a guest-artist concert. If you’re a fan of the National Public Radio show Prairie Home Companion, you’ve probably heard Dan, as he’s a frequent guest. It will be a great show, so please mark your calendars now. Meanwhile, you can read about him and listen to samples of his music at http://www.daddysqueeze.com/index.html.
All meetings and other events are posted on the WMAS calendar.
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January 17, 2015
Meeting Notes
WMAS started out the New Year by electing its officers to serve another term. President Peter DiGiovanni, Vice-President Joan Grauman, and Secretary-Treasurer Mara Cherkasky understand they have been given a mandate to carry on as usual, so no big changes are in the works for 2015.
After the election, we held an organized jam session, mostly using sheet music people had brought to share. We were happy to see Halina Banas-Jones back after a long break; she’s especially good at leading a group through unfamiliar music. As the occasion arose, Peter DiGiovanni demonstrated how to play minor-seventh and sixth chords on the bass side. We might need a refresher, though; a video posted to YouTube might be just the thing, Peter.
By the way, Joan Grauman wrote a nice article about our Holiday Concert in the January issue of U.S. National Accordion News, at www.accordionusa.com. Please check it out before it’s replaced with the next issue on February 1. You have to scroll down quite a ways to find Joan’s piece, which includes several pictures of the event.
Upcoming Meetings
Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 8, at 4 pm, at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church. This will be an open-mic event; please sign up for a 5-minute slot. If we have enough time, performers may be able to take a second turn. We’ll see how it goes.
Would you like to play a 15- to 20-minute slot? Then please sign up to be the greeter on February 8. It’s your chance to test new material or just to play in front of people without necessarily feeling like you’re in the spotlight. Duos or trios are fine. We just want to fit as much music as possible into our meetings, and to give as many people as possible a chance to perform.
On Sunday, March 15, at 4 pm, we’ll hold a dance party in celebration of our 12th birthday. Sign up to play a dance tune or two. We’ll also need a greeter to play Irish music in honor of St. Patrick's Day, and if you can come up with a tune about the Ides of March, so much the better.
On April 19 at 4 pm we’ll be hosting Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton in a guest-artist concert. If you’re a fan of the National Public Radio show Prairie Home Companion, you’ve probably heard Dan, as he’s a frequent guest. It will be a great show, so please mark your calendars now. Meanwhile, you can read about him and listen to samples of his music at http://www.daddysqueeze.com/index.html.
All meetings and other events are posted on the WMAS calendar.
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WMAS NEWS UPDATE
February 20, 2015
Polar Vortex Special! Keep Those Instruments Safe Indoors!
It’s hard to remember now, but it was a pleasantly warm day last time we gathered, on February 8. We had a good time. Silvia Eberly arrived well before 3:45 and played some catchy greeting tunes on the button box as folks set up for the meeting and others trickled in. Then she packed up and dashed off to her regular Sunday gig at Café Mozart.
We had billed it as an open-mic event, and it worked out well. Our trusty emcee Ken Kunec brought the mic, and he filled in the dead air with jokes and some really nice songs, including sing-alongs. Not too many people signed up ahead of time so we wondered how long a program we would actually have. Not to worry: the meeting ran well into dinner time, filled with entertaining and remarkable performances by Bob Juszczyk, Frank Vidergar, Robert Ford, Joe Kulick, Jim Vandelly, Peter Krasniewski (whom we hadn’t seen for a long time), Peter DiGiovanni, and JoAnn Pankow. Jim and Bob J. played together on that Polish song that’s become one of our standards, and Bob sang the verses. Jim also accompanied Donna Zadnik on a song honoring her husband Valentine, who was born – of course – on February 14. It was a sweet, moving performance. Afterwards, a little group jammed in the corner, so it was nonstop music and lots of jokes.
NEXT MEETINGS
We’re almost a teenager!! We will celebrate our 12th anniversary with a dance party on March 15, so please put the date on your calendars and sign up to play a dance tune. Here’s a hint: polkas and waltzes are the dances most people know. Please invite your family and friends so we can fill the room. Lee Paulson will be the greeter. By the way, the theme of the day will be Irish because of St. Patrick’s Day being right around the corner. Connie Racioppa will decorate the room in green, and Joan Grauman will bring sheet music for some Irish tunes, so bring your accordions, even if you don’t plan to play for dancers.
Our April meeting, on the 19th, will be a guest-artist concert featuring the wonderful Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton, whom you may have heard on Prairie Home Companion. Minnesota is his home, so he’s a frequent guest on the radio show. Joan Grauman and JoAnn Pankow will be the greeters.
On May 17 we will hold a button-box extravaganza featuring Silvia Eberly and Frank Vidergar, and probably others. Yimin Zhuang will be the greeter.
Don’t miss the fun. And stay up to date by checking the WMAS calendar.
THIS WEEKEND: MIKE RUBIN COMEDY ACTI will be doing a short (3 minute) stand-up comedy act on Saturday February 21, 8 pm, at the Bethesda Hyatt (see link below). It would be great to see you in the audience. You must be seated by 7 pm in the club. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IN ADVANCE IF YOU CAN MAKE IT SO THAT I CAN TELL THE COMEDY CLUB HOW MANY PEOPLE TO EXPECT.
Details about the club are at: http://standupcomedytogo.com/see-a-show/hyatt-saturdays/
--Mike Rubin
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February 20, 2015
Polar Vortex Special! Keep Those Instruments Safe Indoors!
It’s hard to remember now, but it was a pleasantly warm day last time we gathered, on February 8. We had a good time. Silvia Eberly arrived well before 3:45 and played some catchy greeting tunes on the button box as folks set up for the meeting and others trickled in. Then she packed up and dashed off to her regular Sunday gig at Café Mozart.
We had billed it as an open-mic event, and it worked out well. Our trusty emcee Ken Kunec brought the mic, and he filled in the dead air with jokes and some really nice songs, including sing-alongs. Not too many people signed up ahead of time so we wondered how long a program we would actually have. Not to worry: the meeting ran well into dinner time, filled with entertaining and remarkable performances by Bob Juszczyk, Frank Vidergar, Robert Ford, Joe Kulick, Jim Vandelly, Peter Krasniewski (whom we hadn’t seen for a long time), Peter DiGiovanni, and JoAnn Pankow. Jim and Bob J. played together on that Polish song that’s become one of our standards, and Bob sang the verses. Jim also accompanied Donna Zadnik on a song honoring her husband Valentine, who was born – of course – on February 14. It was a sweet, moving performance. Afterwards, a little group jammed in the corner, so it was nonstop music and lots of jokes.
NEXT MEETINGS
We’re almost a teenager!! We will celebrate our 12th anniversary with a dance party on March 15, so please put the date on your calendars and sign up to play a dance tune. Here’s a hint: polkas and waltzes are the dances most people know. Please invite your family and friends so we can fill the room. Lee Paulson will be the greeter. By the way, the theme of the day will be Irish because of St. Patrick’s Day being right around the corner. Connie Racioppa will decorate the room in green, and Joan Grauman will bring sheet music for some Irish tunes, so bring your accordions, even if you don’t plan to play for dancers.
Our April meeting, on the 19th, will be a guest-artist concert featuring the wonderful Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton, whom you may have heard on Prairie Home Companion. Minnesota is his home, so he’s a frequent guest on the radio show. Joan Grauman and JoAnn Pankow will be the greeters.
On May 17 we will hold a button-box extravaganza featuring Silvia Eberly and Frank Vidergar, and probably others. Yimin Zhuang will be the greeter.
Don’t miss the fun. And stay up to date by checking the WMAS calendar.
THIS WEEKEND: MIKE RUBIN COMEDY ACTI will be doing a short (3 minute) stand-up comedy act on Saturday February 21, 8 pm, at the Bethesda Hyatt (see link below). It would be great to see you in the audience. You must be seated by 7 pm in the club. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IN ADVANCE IF YOU CAN MAKE IT SO THAT I CAN TELL THE COMEDY CLUB HOW MANY PEOPLE TO EXPECT.
Details about the club are at: http://standupcomedytogo.com/see-a-show/hyatt-saturdays/
--Mike Rubin
**********************************************************************************************************************
WMAS NEWS UPDATE
March 30, 2015
WMAS threw a terrific birthday bash on March 15. In a room decorated in green and filled with music, we danced, sang, ate cake, and marveled at how quickly 12 years have passed. Greeter Lee Paulson set the tone with a batch of Irish tunes at the beginning of the party, until master of ceremonies Ken Kunec took over at the mic. Joan Grauman taught (retaught) the hora, to get people up on their feet, and many of them stayed up for the waltzes and polkas that followed. Joe Kulick played “Happy Birthday” as a polka, as well as in various other styles. For our next birthday he’s promising “Teen Angel.”
We were happy to welcome some new, or nearly new faces. One was Simone Baron, a young classical and jazz musician (accordion, piano, composer, conductor) who recently relocated to the Washington area and already has performed at Twins Lounge on U Street in DC, and elsewhere. She played us a few tunes, including some duets with her friend Nathaniel Aguilar (drum, accordion), and also teamed up with Robert Ford later in the meeting on some Piazzolla compositions.
Of course, we were happy to have our regulars performing as well. We love and appreciate all of you.
After the solos, a large group played through the St. Patrick’s Day-inspired sheet music that Joan had brought, and so ended the party.
Thanks go to Connie Racioppa for the beautiful decorations, and to everyone who helped make the celebration a success.
Looking Ahead
We are thrilled to be hosting Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton in concert on Sunday, April 19, at 4 pm. Please invite everyone you know, especially fans of the radio show Prairie Home Companion, which features Dan regularly. Since this is a guest artist concert, we will be asking nonmembers for an $8 donation, so April will be a good time to renew. By the way, JoAnn Pankow and Joan Grauman will be the greeters, so please arrive early to hear them.
Our May 17 meeting will feature button boxes played in various styles. So far we’ve signed up Sylvia Eberly and Frank Vidergar. Cody McSherry may also participate, and Joan will demonstrate the one-row Cajun box.
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March 30, 2015
WMAS threw a terrific birthday bash on March 15. In a room decorated in green and filled with music, we danced, sang, ate cake, and marveled at how quickly 12 years have passed. Greeter Lee Paulson set the tone with a batch of Irish tunes at the beginning of the party, until master of ceremonies Ken Kunec took over at the mic. Joan Grauman taught (retaught) the hora, to get people up on their feet, and many of them stayed up for the waltzes and polkas that followed. Joe Kulick played “Happy Birthday” as a polka, as well as in various other styles. For our next birthday he’s promising “Teen Angel.”
We were happy to welcome some new, or nearly new faces. One was Simone Baron, a young classical and jazz musician (accordion, piano, composer, conductor) who recently relocated to the Washington area and already has performed at Twins Lounge on U Street in DC, and elsewhere. She played us a few tunes, including some duets with her friend Nathaniel Aguilar (drum, accordion), and also teamed up with Robert Ford later in the meeting on some Piazzolla compositions.
Of course, we were happy to have our regulars performing as well. We love and appreciate all of you.
After the solos, a large group played through the St. Patrick’s Day-inspired sheet music that Joan had brought, and so ended the party.
Thanks go to Connie Racioppa for the beautiful decorations, and to everyone who helped make the celebration a success.
Looking Ahead
We are thrilled to be hosting Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton in concert on Sunday, April 19, at 4 pm. Please invite everyone you know, especially fans of the radio show Prairie Home Companion, which features Dan regularly. Since this is a guest artist concert, we will be asking nonmembers for an $8 donation, so April will be a good time to renew. By the way, JoAnn Pankow and Joan Grauman will be the greeters, so please arrive early to hear them.
Our May 17 meeting will feature button boxes played in various styles. So far we’ve signed up Sylvia Eberly and Frank Vidergar. Cody McSherry may also participate, and Joan will demonstrate the one-row Cajun box.
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WMAS NEWS UPDATE
April 21, 2015
It was lovely to see some old, familiar faces at our April 19 meeting, people we hadn’t seen in years. But they weren’t there for us so much as to hear guest artist Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton. Due to frequent appearances on the National Public Radio show “Prairie Home Companion,” Dan just might be the most popular accordionist in the country. He certainly entranced and inspired our crowd, leading us on a journey around the world via its mostly vernacular musical styles: French musette, Columbian and Panamanian cumbia, Tejano conjunto, Finnish tango, Louisiana zydeco and Cajun, English “folk tunes” (a Beatles medley), a Minnesota polka, and much, much more. Dan’s wife Elizabeth stepped in as percussionist on a few of the tunes, playing the guïro, triangle, and rub board in, respectively, cumbia, Cajun, and Zydeco style.
If you missed the Sunday concert or want to catch Dan again before he and Elizabeth return home to Minneapolis, he’ll be at the VFW hall at 6420 Orchard Avenue in Takoma Park on Thursday evening and two other venues in the area on Wednesday (tomorrow) and Friday; see http://www.daddysqueeze.com/calendar.html.
Greeters Joan Grauman and JoAnn Pankow opened the meeting with a nice little set. They’re always a delight. By the way, if you’d like to serve as greeter at an upcoming meeting, please check the calendar on our website, www.washingtonaccordions.org, to see when there’s a free date, then let us know at [email protected].
Thanks go to everyone who made the day a success, and to all of you who filled the room, eager for MORE LIVE ACCORDION MUSIC! We know you went away happy!
Next Month
Our next meeting, on May 17, will be a button-box extravaganza, featuring Silvia Eberly, Frank Vidergar, Cody McSherry, and Rik Kaplan, with assistance from Joan Grauman. Here’s your chance to learn how the one- and two-row Cajun boxes differ from each other and from other diatonic accordions: the three-row Slovenian and four-row Austrian Steirische harmonikas (and not just in number of rows). Better yet, you’ll get to hear how much great music those boxes can put out. You might want to bring your dance shoes, by the way.
June Member Concert
June 14 will be our annual member concert, so polish your best piece and sign up to play it at the June meeting. As you make your choice of tunes, please keep our 5-minute rule in mind; we need to make time for everyone.
OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Robert Ford and Rocio Ford on April 26
Robert Ford and his daughter Rocio are among the performers in a benefit concert for breast-cancer research on April 26 at The Lyceum in Old Town, 201 South Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Tickets are $50; seniors pay $40; and children under 15 pay $25.
Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra Concerts
The Washington Balalaika Society will be presenting its Spring Concerts at 8 pm on Saturday, May 30, at the Washington-Lee High School Theater, 1301 North Stafford St, Arlington, Virginia, and on Sunday, May 31, at 3 pm at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater, 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, Maryland. This wonderful program is performed by the largest (55-piece) Russian folk orchestra in the United States, and will feature world-acclaimed domra soloist Tamara Volskaya and balalaika virtuoso Andrei Saveliev. Contact Peter DiGiovanni for $15 group-rate tickets, at 703-242-2160 or [email protected]
WMAS RULES REGARDING MASS EMAILS
In general, WMAS sends out mass emails twice per month: a reminder about a week before each meeting, and an update afterwards. Occasionally, there will be an extra mass email to correct an error, report a cancellation, or the like. In addition, during the end-of-year holiday season, WMAS will send out emails regarding holiday concert rehearsals and concert planning.
If you would like to include an announcement of your accordion-related event, please send the information to [email protected].
IMPORTANT:
Please include all pertinent information in the body of your email:
Depending on the volunteer webmaster’s availability, your event may also (or instead) be posted on the WMAS website.
The above rules do not apply to gig announcements.
If you are in search of an accordionist for an event, or someone contacts you about a gig and you can’t take it, please send all pertinent information to [email protected]. WMAS will send out an announcement to the performers on our list. Please remember to include contact information, as WMAS does not want to broker these gigs.
*********************************************************************************************************************
April 21, 2015
It was lovely to see some old, familiar faces at our April 19 meeting, people we hadn’t seen in years. But they weren’t there for us so much as to hear guest artist Dan “Daddy Squeeze” Newton. Due to frequent appearances on the National Public Radio show “Prairie Home Companion,” Dan just might be the most popular accordionist in the country. He certainly entranced and inspired our crowd, leading us on a journey around the world via its mostly vernacular musical styles: French musette, Columbian and Panamanian cumbia, Tejano conjunto, Finnish tango, Louisiana zydeco and Cajun, English “folk tunes” (a Beatles medley), a Minnesota polka, and much, much more. Dan’s wife Elizabeth stepped in as percussionist on a few of the tunes, playing the guïro, triangle, and rub board in, respectively, cumbia, Cajun, and Zydeco style.
If you missed the Sunday concert or want to catch Dan again before he and Elizabeth return home to Minneapolis, he’ll be at the VFW hall at 6420 Orchard Avenue in Takoma Park on Thursday evening and two other venues in the area on Wednesday (tomorrow) and Friday; see http://www.daddysqueeze.com/calendar.html.
Greeters Joan Grauman and JoAnn Pankow opened the meeting with a nice little set. They’re always a delight. By the way, if you’d like to serve as greeter at an upcoming meeting, please check the calendar on our website, www.washingtonaccordions.org, to see when there’s a free date, then let us know at [email protected].
Thanks go to everyone who made the day a success, and to all of you who filled the room, eager for MORE LIVE ACCORDION MUSIC! We know you went away happy!
Next Month
Our next meeting, on May 17, will be a button-box extravaganza, featuring Silvia Eberly, Frank Vidergar, Cody McSherry, and Rik Kaplan, with assistance from Joan Grauman. Here’s your chance to learn how the one- and two-row Cajun boxes differ from each other and from other diatonic accordions: the three-row Slovenian and four-row Austrian Steirische harmonikas (and not just in number of rows). Better yet, you’ll get to hear how much great music those boxes can put out. You might want to bring your dance shoes, by the way.
June Member Concert
June 14 will be our annual member concert, so polish your best piece and sign up to play it at the June meeting. As you make your choice of tunes, please keep our 5-minute rule in mind; we need to make time for everyone.
OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Robert Ford and Rocio Ford on April 26
Robert Ford and his daughter Rocio are among the performers in a benefit concert for breast-cancer research on April 26 at The Lyceum in Old Town, 201 South Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Tickets are $50; seniors pay $40; and children under 15 pay $25.
Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra Concerts
The Washington Balalaika Society will be presenting its Spring Concerts at 8 pm on Saturday, May 30, at the Washington-Lee High School Theater, 1301 North Stafford St, Arlington, Virginia, and on Sunday, May 31, at 3 pm at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater, 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, Maryland. This wonderful program is performed by the largest (55-piece) Russian folk orchestra in the United States, and will feature world-acclaimed domra soloist Tamara Volskaya and balalaika virtuoso Andrei Saveliev. Contact Peter DiGiovanni for $15 group-rate tickets, at 703-242-2160 or [email protected]
WMAS RULES REGARDING MASS EMAILS
In general, WMAS sends out mass emails twice per month: a reminder about a week before each meeting, and an update afterwards. Occasionally, there will be an extra mass email to correct an error, report a cancellation, or the like. In addition, during the end-of-year holiday season, WMAS will send out emails regarding holiday concert rehearsals and concert planning.
If you would like to include an announcement of your accordion-related event, please send the information to [email protected].
IMPORTANT:
Please include all pertinent information in the body of your email:
- Name of event
- Date and time
- Name of venue
- Street address, city, state and zip code
- Contact for more information: website, email address, and/or phone number
Depending on the volunteer webmaster’s availability, your event may also (or instead) be posted on the WMAS website.
The above rules do not apply to gig announcements.
If you are in search of an accordionist for an event, or someone contacts you about a gig and you can’t take it, please send all pertinent information to [email protected]. WMAS will send out an announcement to the performers on our list. Please remember to include contact information, as WMAS does not want to broker these gigs.
*********************************************************************************************************************
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society Update
May 27, 2015
Somewhere along the way, our second Mini-International Festival morphed into something a little different, and so on May 17 WMAS held its first Buttonbox Extravaganza. Maybe this should be a new tradition for us.
Joan Grauman started off the meeting with an introduction to diatonic accordions and demonstrated the one small non-diatonic accordion: the English concertina. Then she introduced the participants, a mix of familiar and not-so-familiar faces:
Great line-up! Pictures are on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/337398196342247/
Our able greeter for the day was Yimin Zhuang playing light classical selections on his Roland.
Next Month
Our next meeting, on June 14 at 4 pm, will be our annual Member Concert. Please sign up now to play. We need a greeter, too.
Upcoming Events
CJ Chenier at Artisphere TOMORROW, May 28, 8:30 pm, $20
Arlington, VA
http://www.artisphere.com/
WASHINGTON BALALAIKA SOCIETY ORCHESTRA CONCERT THIS WEEKEND ! ! !
The Washington Balalaika Society will be presenting its Spring Concert at 8:00 pm on Saturday, May 30, at the Washington-Lee High School Theater, 1301 North Stafford St, Arlington, VA 22201. This wonderful program is performed by the largest (55-piece) Russian folk orchestra in the U.S., and will feature world-acclaimed domra soloist Tamara Volskaya and balalaika virtuoso Andrei Saveliev. Contact Peter DiGiovanni for $15 group rate tickets at 703-242-2160, or [email protected]
East Side Tony’s Deluxe TonesPolka, Baltimore
Formed in 2005, the Deluxe Tones are led by East Baltimore’s own Tony Murawski on accordion, concertina, and vocals. The rest of the band – Ted Naperkoski (drums), Phil Ravita (bass), Stan Rouse (clarinet, sax), and Howard Scott (accordion, piano/keyboards) – will be familiar to polka music enthusiasts from across Maryland.
Saturday, June 13, 2015, 11am-7pm at the Creative Alliance in Baltimore City--rain or shine!
Check the schedule at http://www.msac.org/folklife-festival
Accordion Available
I have an old accordion that I last played in the 70s and that needs some repair. I don’t have room for it. Are you interested? Contact Tony Rich 301-526-9085 or [email protected]
Don’t forget to check the WMAS website, at http://www.washingtonaccordions.org.
**********************************************************************************************************************
May 27, 2015
Somewhere along the way, our second Mini-International Festival morphed into something a little different, and so on May 17 WMAS held its first Buttonbox Extravaganza. Maybe this should be a new tradition for us.
Joan Grauman started off the meeting with an introduction to diatonic accordions and demonstrated the one small non-diatonic accordion: the English concertina. Then she introduced the participants, a mix of familiar and not-so-familiar faces:
- Rik Kaplan demonstrated and performed Cajun-style on one- and two-row boxes;
- Casey Sutliffe played a French musette piece on a two-row box;
- Silvia Eberly performed traditional Austrian/Bavarian music on her four-row Steirische harmonika;
- Cody McSherry performed Bavarian, Slovenian, and original pieces on an instrument similar to Silvia’s;
- Frank Vidergar performed traditional Slovenian on his three-row box; and
- Tony Murawski played Polish favorites on his Star concertina. See below for info on his upcoming performance on June 13.
Great line-up! Pictures are on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/337398196342247/
Our able greeter for the day was Yimin Zhuang playing light classical selections on his Roland.
Next Month
Our next meeting, on June 14 at 4 pm, will be our annual Member Concert. Please sign up now to play. We need a greeter, too.
Upcoming Events
CJ Chenier at Artisphere TOMORROW, May 28, 8:30 pm, $20
Arlington, VA
http://www.artisphere.com/
WASHINGTON BALALAIKA SOCIETY ORCHESTRA CONCERT THIS WEEKEND ! ! !
The Washington Balalaika Society will be presenting its Spring Concert at 8:00 pm on Saturday, May 30, at the Washington-Lee High School Theater, 1301 North Stafford St, Arlington, VA 22201. This wonderful program is performed by the largest (55-piece) Russian folk orchestra in the U.S., and will feature world-acclaimed domra soloist Tamara Volskaya and balalaika virtuoso Andrei Saveliev. Contact Peter DiGiovanni for $15 group rate tickets at 703-242-2160, or [email protected]
East Side Tony’s Deluxe TonesPolka, Baltimore
Formed in 2005, the Deluxe Tones are led by East Baltimore’s own Tony Murawski on accordion, concertina, and vocals. The rest of the band – Ted Naperkoski (drums), Phil Ravita (bass), Stan Rouse (clarinet, sax), and Howard Scott (accordion, piano/keyboards) – will be familiar to polka music enthusiasts from across Maryland.
Saturday, June 13, 2015, 11am-7pm at the Creative Alliance in Baltimore City--rain or shine!
Check the schedule at http://www.msac.org/folklife-festival
Accordion Available
I have an old accordion that I last played in the 70s and that needs some repair. I don’t have room for it. Are you interested? Contact Tony Rich 301-526-9085 or [email protected]
Don’t forget to check the WMAS website, at http://www.washingtonaccordions.org.
**********************************************************************************************************************
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society Update
July 7, 2015
Our member concert, on June 14, is just a memory now, but a good one. Despite confusion over the meeting date – the concert usually falls on Fathers’ Day but this year we moved it up a week -- we had a good turnout for a marvelous lineup. Ken Kunec ran the show, so you know we had plenty of laughs, too. In addition, it was a treat to have Joe Blumka as our greeter. We don’t see him often because he normally has a gig on Sundays.
Now, on to the present/future. This is a big week! The 2015 American Accordionists’ Association festival starts tomorrow, July 8, in Alexandria, and you need to be there! Registration will open at 3:30 pm Wednesday at the festival venue, the Holiday Inn on First Street in the north end of Old Town, just off Washington Street toward the river.
Here’s a message from Joan Grauman:
The workshops, concerts and events are terrific this year! The Luncheon Concert this Thursday, July 9 (11:30 am to 1 pm) will feature local musicians: The Potomac Ensemble, Ken Kunec, Mark Nejako with violinist Nick Sungenis, and Robert and Rocio Ford (she’s on castanets). Please come and support your friends and fellow WMAS members while enjoying good food and good company!
Here are some other highlights of the festival: a variety of workshops on Thursday through Saturday; a Thursday evening concert with the Busso Festival Orchestra at Old Town’s Market Square (301 King Street); competitions on Thursday and Friday; a Friday evening concert featuring award-winning greats; a free Saturday afternoon concert showcasing our talented youth; and a Saturday evening banquet with entertainment by the AAA Festival Orchestra plus the amazing U.S. Army Strolling Strings under the direction of accordionist SGM Manny Bobenrieth.
Except for the Thursday evening outdoor concert, all events will take place at the Holiday Inn. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the exhibit rooms, with vendors including SqueezinArt, Titano/Pigini/Ernest Deffner Publications, Petosa Accordions, the Connecticut Accordion Museum, Music Magic, and more. The festival wraps up with a breakfast on Sunday morning.
If you find you have time on your hands, please check at the registration desk to see if volunteers are needed. The AAA always appreciates helping hands!
See you in Alexandria! For more information, email Joan at: [email protected]
Because of the festival, WMAS will not be meeting in July. Our next meeting will be Sunday, August 23, at 4 pm: an open mic/jam session. Remember, all our events are posted at www.washingtonaccordions.org.
KIDS ON THE ACCORDION
By Karen Malan-Uribe
We are all interested in getting our young people interested in the accordion. So, when the PTA at my school was asking for donations for a Silent Auction, I jumped at the chance to promote the accordion.
WMAS member JoAnn Pankow had a childhood accordion that she was no longer using, and I knew she was looking for a good home for it. I asked her if I could put it up for the silent auction, and she agreed. Along with the accordion, case and straps, I put up three half-hour lessons and Palmer Hughes Book 1. Joan Grauman added a one-year family membership for WMAS to the package. It was a block buster, the hottest item in the auction and brought in $200.
The family that purchased the accordion, the DeCarols, has five children who are amateur musicians. I NEEDED MORE ACCORDIONS! I called Jim Vandelly, who generously lent me two additional accordions. It was a fantastic experience. I created a notebook for the students with some songs I thought they would enjoy learning, including Star Wars and some Beatles songs. I also included some of the workshop handouts that Mary Tokarski had given us. The students reacted with enthusiasm and fantastic coordination.
During the last class Silvia Eberly came and showed them the button box. She agreed to work with them and continue their accordion studies.
I would like to take a moment to thank everyone for all their assistance in this little project. It truly is wonderful how our club provides such a great resource by pulling together accordionists who come when you need them.
ANNOUNCEMENT
WMAS member Mike Rubin is involved in this concert:
the interPLAYcompany Band*
“JUST US, 1V !”
A summertime concert of diverse music
July 20th, 2015, 7:30 PM
Music Center at Strathmore
5301 Tuckerman Lane
North Bethesda, MD 20852
EMCEES: Lisa Berigan, WBIG
Gyr Turshen, Hexagon
Ken Silverstein, interPLAYcompany Managing Director
EVERYONE PLAYS!!!
CONDUCTORS: Paula R. Moore and Paul Bangser
$10.00 per ticket,
$5.00 for those with disabilities
All ticket requests and $$’s should be in by
July 12th for secure reservations.. No tickets will be mailed.
Lobby check-in
ticket form: www.interPLAYband.org
or call 301 570-6664 (ticket line) for ordering information
*
PARKING IN THE METRO GARAGE with a Smart-card or Credit Card
*Adult music makers of diverse abilities
~ interPLAYcompany is a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit organization
This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient. Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by others is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments thereto.
*********************************************************************************************************************
July 7, 2015
Our member concert, on June 14, is just a memory now, but a good one. Despite confusion over the meeting date – the concert usually falls on Fathers’ Day but this year we moved it up a week -- we had a good turnout for a marvelous lineup. Ken Kunec ran the show, so you know we had plenty of laughs, too. In addition, it was a treat to have Joe Blumka as our greeter. We don’t see him often because he normally has a gig on Sundays.
Now, on to the present/future. This is a big week! The 2015 American Accordionists’ Association festival starts tomorrow, July 8, in Alexandria, and you need to be there! Registration will open at 3:30 pm Wednesday at the festival venue, the Holiday Inn on First Street in the north end of Old Town, just off Washington Street toward the river.
Here’s a message from Joan Grauman:
The workshops, concerts and events are terrific this year! The Luncheon Concert this Thursday, July 9 (11:30 am to 1 pm) will feature local musicians: The Potomac Ensemble, Ken Kunec, Mark Nejako with violinist Nick Sungenis, and Robert and Rocio Ford (she’s on castanets). Please come and support your friends and fellow WMAS members while enjoying good food and good company!
Here are some other highlights of the festival: a variety of workshops on Thursday through Saturday; a Thursday evening concert with the Busso Festival Orchestra at Old Town’s Market Square (301 King Street); competitions on Thursday and Friday; a Friday evening concert featuring award-winning greats; a free Saturday afternoon concert showcasing our talented youth; and a Saturday evening banquet with entertainment by the AAA Festival Orchestra plus the amazing U.S. Army Strolling Strings under the direction of accordionist SGM Manny Bobenrieth.
Except for the Thursday evening outdoor concert, all events will take place at the Holiday Inn. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the exhibit rooms, with vendors including SqueezinArt, Titano/Pigini/Ernest Deffner Publications, Petosa Accordions, the Connecticut Accordion Museum, Music Magic, and more. The festival wraps up with a breakfast on Sunday morning.
If you find you have time on your hands, please check at the registration desk to see if volunteers are needed. The AAA always appreciates helping hands!
See you in Alexandria! For more information, email Joan at: [email protected]
Because of the festival, WMAS will not be meeting in July. Our next meeting will be Sunday, August 23, at 4 pm: an open mic/jam session. Remember, all our events are posted at www.washingtonaccordions.org.
KIDS ON THE ACCORDION
By Karen Malan-Uribe
We are all interested in getting our young people interested in the accordion. So, when the PTA at my school was asking for donations for a Silent Auction, I jumped at the chance to promote the accordion.
WMAS member JoAnn Pankow had a childhood accordion that she was no longer using, and I knew she was looking for a good home for it. I asked her if I could put it up for the silent auction, and she agreed. Along with the accordion, case and straps, I put up three half-hour lessons and Palmer Hughes Book 1. Joan Grauman added a one-year family membership for WMAS to the package. It was a block buster, the hottest item in the auction and brought in $200.
The family that purchased the accordion, the DeCarols, has five children who are amateur musicians. I NEEDED MORE ACCORDIONS! I called Jim Vandelly, who generously lent me two additional accordions. It was a fantastic experience. I created a notebook for the students with some songs I thought they would enjoy learning, including Star Wars and some Beatles songs. I also included some of the workshop handouts that Mary Tokarski had given us. The students reacted with enthusiasm and fantastic coordination.
During the last class Silvia Eberly came and showed them the button box. She agreed to work with them and continue their accordion studies.
I would like to take a moment to thank everyone for all their assistance in this little project. It truly is wonderful how our club provides such a great resource by pulling together accordionists who come when you need them.
ANNOUNCEMENT
WMAS member Mike Rubin is involved in this concert:
the interPLAYcompany Band*
“JUST US, 1V !”
A summertime concert of diverse music
July 20th, 2015, 7:30 PM
Music Center at Strathmore
5301 Tuckerman Lane
North Bethesda, MD 20852
EMCEES: Lisa Berigan, WBIG
Gyr Turshen, Hexagon
Ken Silverstein, interPLAYcompany Managing Director
EVERYONE PLAYS!!!
CONDUCTORS: Paula R. Moore and Paul Bangser
$10.00 per ticket,
$5.00 for those with disabilities
All ticket requests and $$’s should be in by
July 12th for secure reservations.. No tickets will be mailed.
Lobby check-in
ticket form: www.interPLAYband.org
or call 301 570-6664 (ticket line) for ordering information
*
PARKING IN THE METRO GARAGE with a Smart-card or Credit Card
*Adult music makers of diverse abilities
~ interPLAYcompany is a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit organization
This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient. Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by others is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments thereto.
*********************************************************************************************************************
Update on Merv Conn Way
August 15, 2015
The dedication of “Merv Conn Way” will take place Sunday, October 11, at 3 pm, at 8830 Cameron Street in Silver Spring, Maryland. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the unveiling of the Merv Conn Way street sign, and light refreshments. In addition, WMAS has been invited to perform a couple of Merv’s favorites. We sent out sheet music for “You Made Me Love You” and “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” a few days ago, but here it is again. If you would like to participate in the massed band performance on October 11, please practice this music. Joan will conduct.
WMAS Meeting This Sunday
The next meeting of the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society will take place at 4 pm this Sunday, August 23. This will be an informal jam session/play-along, so, if you’d like, please come prepared to lead the group in a song, by ear if you’re bold, or to sheet music. Please bring 20-25 copies so everyone who wants to can join in. And please also bring the Merv Conn songs so we can try them out.
Karen and Luis Uribe will be the greeters.
Please bring snacks to share.
Looking Ahead
Our club will host guest artist Beverly Roberts Curnow in concert on Sunday, September 20, at 4 pm. A student of Carmen Carrozza, Beverly became the 1964 World’s Fair Accordion Queen and took first place in the 1965 Coupe Mondiale. Please put this concert on your calendars; it will be outstanding!
**********************************************************************************************************************
August 15, 2015
The dedication of “Merv Conn Way” will take place Sunday, October 11, at 3 pm, at 8830 Cameron Street in Silver Spring, Maryland. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the unveiling of the Merv Conn Way street sign, and light refreshments. In addition, WMAS has been invited to perform a couple of Merv’s favorites. We sent out sheet music for “You Made Me Love You” and “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” a few days ago, but here it is again. If you would like to participate in the massed band performance on October 11, please practice this music. Joan will conduct.
WMAS Meeting This Sunday
The next meeting of the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society will take place at 4 pm this Sunday, August 23. This will be an informal jam session/play-along, so, if you’d like, please come prepared to lead the group in a song, by ear if you’re bold, or to sheet music. Please bring 20-25 copies so everyone who wants to can join in. And please also bring the Merv Conn songs so we can try them out.
Karen and Luis Uribe will be the greeters.
Please bring snacks to share.
Looking Ahead
Our club will host guest artist Beverly Roberts Curnow in concert on Sunday, September 20, at 4 pm. A student of Carmen Carrozza, Beverly became the 1964 World’s Fair Accordion Queen and took first place in the 1965 Coupe Mondiale. Please put this concert on your calendars; it will be outstanding!
**********************************************************************************************************************
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society Update
August 25, 2015
Meeting Notes
We were happy to see several new faces at our meeting this past, beautiful Sunday. Given that many people take vacation in August, we had a great turnout: about 35 people, about half of whom brought their instruments (including one guitar) and participated in the jam session.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the session. Participants brought sheet music in a variety of styles and levels of expertise, and we also tried out a couple of Polish songs, led by Bob Juszczyk. Peter DiGiovanni led us through an exercise based on “This Old Man.” First we played it as written, in C, and then moved through the Circle of Fifths, playing the song in every major key. It took a few false starts before some of us could figure it out, but we agreed it was a good idea and definitely something to practice.
Karen and Luis Uribe served as our very entertaining greeters. Thanks go to them and to everyone who helped make the meeting a success!
Tonight!
One of our newcomers, Kirsten Warfield, will be playing with her polka band tonight at the Francis Gregory Library, 3660 Alabama Avenue, SE, in Washington. The event starts at 7 pm and will run for about an hour. It’s free!
For more information, contact [email protected] or see https://www.capitalfringe.org/calendar.
Merv Conn Way
As you’re aware, we have been asked to perform at the dedication of Merv Conn Way in Silver Spring, Maryland, on October 11,* and we have sent out sheet music for two songs: “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” and “You Made Me Love You.” We ran through both songs on Sunday, but realized that the second one will need quite a bit of work. To help us out, Joan Grauman has made a recording of it, which you can access/download from the SqueezinArt website (instructions below). Please practice along with the recording, and bring your accordions to the September 20 meeting. We’ll practice it together, under Joan’s guidance, after Beverly Curnow’s concert. By the way, Merv’s daughter Maria will be singing it with us!
Joan would like everyone to remember three things when practicing the song:
Instructions for downloading “You Made Me Love You”
1. Go to www.squeezinart.com
2. Click “You Made Me Love You” under “Home” on left side
3. User name is accordion
4. Password is Merv (case-sensitive)
Click on the icon to listen to the MP3 file
Right-click on the icon to save the file on your computer
September Meeting
Our club will host guest artist Beverly Roberts Curnow in concert on Sunday, September 20, at 4 pm. A student of Carmen Carrozza, Beverly became the 1964 World’s Fair Accordion Queen and took first place in the 1965 Coupe Mondiale. Please put this concert on your calendars; it will be outstanding!
Please visit www.washingtonaccordions.org for the latest on our club!
*The dedication of “Merv Conn Way” will take place Sunday, October 11, at 3 pm, at 8830 Cameron Street in Silver Spring, Maryland. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the unveiling of the Merv Conn Way street sign, and light refreshments – plus a performance by WMAS.
**********************************************************************************************************************
August 25, 2015
Meeting Notes
We were happy to see several new faces at our meeting this past, beautiful Sunday. Given that many people take vacation in August, we had a great turnout: about 35 people, about half of whom brought their instruments (including one guitar) and participated in the jam session.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the session. Participants brought sheet music in a variety of styles and levels of expertise, and we also tried out a couple of Polish songs, led by Bob Juszczyk. Peter DiGiovanni led us through an exercise based on “This Old Man.” First we played it as written, in C, and then moved through the Circle of Fifths, playing the song in every major key. It took a few false starts before some of us could figure it out, but we agreed it was a good idea and definitely something to practice.
Karen and Luis Uribe served as our very entertaining greeters. Thanks go to them and to everyone who helped make the meeting a success!
Tonight!
One of our newcomers, Kirsten Warfield, will be playing with her polka band tonight at the Francis Gregory Library, 3660 Alabama Avenue, SE, in Washington. The event starts at 7 pm and will run for about an hour. It’s free!
For more information, contact [email protected] or see https://www.capitalfringe.org/calendar.
Merv Conn Way
As you’re aware, we have been asked to perform at the dedication of Merv Conn Way in Silver Spring, Maryland, on October 11,* and we have sent out sheet music for two songs: “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” and “You Made Me Love You.” We ran through both songs on Sunday, but realized that the second one will need quite a bit of work. To help us out, Joan Grauman has made a recording of it, which you can access/download from the SqueezinArt website (instructions below). Please practice along with the recording, and bring your accordions to the September 20 meeting. We’ll practice it together, under Joan’s guidance, after Beverly Curnow’s concert. By the way, Merv’s daughter Maria will be singing it with us!
Joan would like everyone to remember three things when practicing the song:
- it’s played in a slight swing,
- you can play right hand only if you’d like, and
- we will be accompanying a singer, so we will have to listen!
Instructions for downloading “You Made Me Love You”
1. Go to www.squeezinart.com
2. Click “You Made Me Love You” under “Home” on left side
3. User name is accordion
4. Password is Merv (case-sensitive)
Click on the icon to listen to the MP3 file
Right-click on the icon to save the file on your computer
September Meeting
Our club will host guest artist Beverly Roberts Curnow in concert on Sunday, September 20, at 4 pm. A student of Carmen Carrozza, Beverly became the 1964 World’s Fair Accordion Queen and took first place in the 1965 Coupe Mondiale. Please put this concert on your calendars; it will be outstanding!
Please visit www.washingtonaccordions.org for the latest on our club!
*The dedication of “Merv Conn Way” will take place Sunday, October 11, at 3 pm, at 8830 Cameron Street in Silver Spring, Maryland. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the unveiling of the Merv Conn Way street sign, and light refreshments – plus a performance by WMAS.
**********************************************************************************************************************
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society Update
October 2, 2015
Due to the predicted stormy weather, the dedication of Merv Conn Way has been CANCELLED!!! We'll let everyone know when we have a new date; by then maybe we’ll all have been able to memorize the two songs we’re going to play J. Meanwhile, stay dry!
September Meeting
On September 20, we said goodbye to summer with a wonderful concert featuring guest artist Beverly Curnow, from Pennsylvania. We call her a guest artist, but she’s completely at home with our instrument for more than 50 years! A student of Carmen Carrozza, Beverly became the 1964 World’s Fair Accordion Queen and took first place in the 1965 Coupe Mondiale. She went on to earn two degrees in music education, then taught choral, instrumental, and general music at all levels in the Wilson Area public school system of Easton, Pennsylvania for 35 years. Remaining an active accordionist throughout her teaching career, Beverly continues to make many guest artist and concert appearances for the AAA. She also plays in pit orchestras for Broadway musicals and shows, and performs as a soloist with the Allentown (Pennsylvania) Band. Beverly currently serves as a member of the AAA Governing Board, and in that capacity, is a member of the Composers Commissioning Committee.
A link to Joan Grauman’s new article on Beverly’s visit to WMAS appears below.
October Meeting: Oktoberfest!
Our annual Oktoberfest will be Sunday, October 18, at 4 pm at our usual place, Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church. Cody McSherry (Austrian diatonic accordion and piano accordion) and the “Bayrisch und Steirisch” Bavarian dance group will be guest performers, and Pat Racioppa will be the greeter.
Here’s what we need from you, please:
Thanks! See you on the 18th!
November Meeting
We will get an early start on the holiday season with Jim Vandelly’s mini-concert at the November 15 meeting. We will follow the program with our SECOND Holiday Orchestra rehearsal. The first rehearsal will take place on Sunday, November 1. Please see the schedule below.
Message from Joan, Holiday Orchestra Conductor
It’s hard to believe that it is time to start preparing for the always delightful and festive WMAS Holiday Concert and Potluck Dinner already! This year’s event will take place on December 13, and I hope to have a record number of WMAS members signing up to play in our orchestra! This will be our 13th year (and my 12th year as the conductor), and I am pleased to say that the orchestra gets better and better each year!
As long as you are a WMAS member, can play the right hand of your accordion somewhat (!), and can read music, we will welcome you in the orchestra! It’s a fun experience to play with a conductor, and I always make sure that there are parts for every skill level. We strongly encourage you to attend the rehearsals (see schedule below). One rehearsal will take place during the November WMAS meeting, and a mandatory rehearsal will take place the day of the Holiday Concert.
If you would like to join our orchestra this season, please respond to this email. We hope to see all of your names on that list! I will give out folders of this year’s music at the October meeting. You will also be able to download the music when you sign up (music will not be available until October 18).
Joan Grauman
[email protected]
Holiday Orchestra Rehearsal Schedule
Sunday, Nov. 1 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Nov. 15 at 4 pm, as part of our monthly meeting
Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Dec. 13 – rehearsal at 2 pm, concert at 4 pm
Location for all = Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church.
*These dates are orchestra rehearsals only.
WMAS in the National News
Thanks to Joan Grauman, WMAS always gets good press in the excellent online accordion newsletter edited by Rita Barnea, at www.accordionusa.com. The October issue, just out, includes two articles by Joan: “1965 Coupe Mondiale Virtuoso Champion Beverly Roberts Curnow performs for WMAS” and “Meet Washington, DC’s Own Joyce Palmer – A Beautiful Story!” Please check out these and the many other interesting articles and listings of upcoming accordion events.
Upcoming Concert
The Washington Performing Arts Society presents Accordion Virtuosi of Russia
Sunday, November 8, 7 pm
The Lincoln Theater
13th and U Streets, NW
Washington, DC
http://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/calendar/view.aspx?id=3049
From the online notice: Get ready for the biggest “squeeze play” this side of Nationals Park as the infectious, rambunctious, and altogether wondrous sounds of the Accordion Virtuosi of Russia fill the Lincoln Theatre. Founded in Leningrad in 1943 and now boasting dozens of master accordionists and an ace rhythm section of percussion, electric guitar, bass, and more, the Virtuosi amaze and delight their audiences with daredevil feats of keyboard and button prowess (as in Khachaturian’s “Sabre Dance” and Scott Joplin’s “Maple Leaf Rag”), lilting Strauss waltzes, an enchanting medley from West Side Story, and more. This fall, “fun” will be spelled “A-C-C-O-R-D-I-O-N”!
It looks like accordions have gone mainstream!
Check out the WMAS website, at www.washingtonaccordions.org.
************************************************************************************************************************
October 2, 2015
Due to the predicted stormy weather, the dedication of Merv Conn Way has been CANCELLED!!! We'll let everyone know when we have a new date; by then maybe we’ll all have been able to memorize the two songs we’re going to play J. Meanwhile, stay dry!
September Meeting
On September 20, we said goodbye to summer with a wonderful concert featuring guest artist Beverly Curnow, from Pennsylvania. We call her a guest artist, but she’s completely at home with our instrument for more than 50 years! A student of Carmen Carrozza, Beverly became the 1964 World’s Fair Accordion Queen and took first place in the 1965 Coupe Mondiale. She went on to earn two degrees in music education, then taught choral, instrumental, and general music at all levels in the Wilson Area public school system of Easton, Pennsylvania for 35 years. Remaining an active accordionist throughout her teaching career, Beverly continues to make many guest artist and concert appearances for the AAA. She also plays in pit orchestras for Broadway musicals and shows, and performs as a soloist with the Allentown (Pennsylvania) Band. Beverly currently serves as a member of the AAA Governing Board, and in that capacity, is a member of the Composers Commissioning Committee.
A link to Joan Grauman’s new article on Beverly’s visit to WMAS appears below.
October Meeting: Oktoberfest!
Our annual Oktoberfest will be Sunday, October 18, at 4 pm at our usual place, Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church. Cody McSherry (Austrian diatonic accordion and piano accordion) and the “Bayrisch und Steirisch” Bavarian dance group will be guest performers, and Pat Racioppa will be the greeter.
Here’s what we need from you, please:
- Bring your WMAS Oktoberfest music books.
- Bring your accordions and music stands so we can play Oktoberfest music together.
- Bring German and Oktoberfest-type dishes/snacks and (nonalcoholic) beverages to share.
- Dress in Bavarian attire, if possible.
- Respond to this email to sign up to play a polka or waltz (or other Bavarian dance music).
- Be ready for some fun!
Thanks! See you on the 18th!
November Meeting
We will get an early start on the holiday season with Jim Vandelly’s mini-concert at the November 15 meeting. We will follow the program with our SECOND Holiday Orchestra rehearsal. The first rehearsal will take place on Sunday, November 1. Please see the schedule below.
Message from Joan, Holiday Orchestra Conductor
It’s hard to believe that it is time to start preparing for the always delightful and festive WMAS Holiday Concert and Potluck Dinner already! This year’s event will take place on December 13, and I hope to have a record number of WMAS members signing up to play in our orchestra! This will be our 13th year (and my 12th year as the conductor), and I am pleased to say that the orchestra gets better and better each year!
As long as you are a WMAS member, can play the right hand of your accordion somewhat (!), and can read music, we will welcome you in the orchestra! It’s a fun experience to play with a conductor, and I always make sure that there are parts for every skill level. We strongly encourage you to attend the rehearsals (see schedule below). One rehearsal will take place during the November WMAS meeting, and a mandatory rehearsal will take place the day of the Holiday Concert.
If you would like to join our orchestra this season, please respond to this email. We hope to see all of your names on that list! I will give out folders of this year’s music at the October meeting. You will also be able to download the music when you sign up (music will not be available until October 18).
Joan Grauman
[email protected]
Holiday Orchestra Rehearsal Schedule
Sunday, Nov. 1 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Nov. 15 at 4 pm, as part of our monthly meeting
Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Dec. 13 – rehearsal at 2 pm, concert at 4 pm
Location for all = Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church.
*These dates are orchestra rehearsals only.
WMAS in the National News
Thanks to Joan Grauman, WMAS always gets good press in the excellent online accordion newsletter edited by Rita Barnea, at www.accordionusa.com. The October issue, just out, includes two articles by Joan: “1965 Coupe Mondiale Virtuoso Champion Beverly Roberts Curnow performs for WMAS” and “Meet Washington, DC’s Own Joyce Palmer – A Beautiful Story!” Please check out these and the many other interesting articles and listings of upcoming accordion events.
Upcoming Concert
The Washington Performing Arts Society presents Accordion Virtuosi of Russia
Sunday, November 8, 7 pm
The Lincoln Theater
13th and U Streets, NW
Washington, DC
http://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/calendar/view.aspx?id=3049
From the online notice: Get ready for the biggest “squeeze play” this side of Nationals Park as the infectious, rambunctious, and altogether wondrous sounds of the Accordion Virtuosi of Russia fill the Lincoln Theatre. Founded in Leningrad in 1943 and now boasting dozens of master accordionists and an ace rhythm section of percussion, electric guitar, bass, and more, the Virtuosi amaze and delight their audiences with daredevil feats of keyboard and button prowess (as in Khachaturian’s “Sabre Dance” and Scott Joplin’s “Maple Leaf Rag”), lilting Strauss waltzes, an enchanting medley from West Side Story, and more. This fall, “fun” will be spelled “A-C-C-O-R-D-I-O-N”!
It looks like accordions have gone mainstream!
Check out the WMAS website, at www.washingtonaccordions.org.
************************************************************************************************************************
Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society Update
October 29, 2015
Drinking songs, polkas, and waltzes filled the fellowship hall of Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church on Sunday, October 18, as our club squeezed, danced, sang, laughed, and ate (but didn’t imbibe) our way through our annual Oktoberfest. Pat Racioppa welcomed all comers with appropriate tunes, while Connie Racioppa’s decorations set the mood visually, and our members’ performances, aurally. Emcee Ken Kunec was given just enough lead time to search the Internet for new jokes, and we happily welcomed back young virtuoso Cody McSherry and also Herb Fredrickson and his Bayrisch and Steirisch dance group.
Following a refreshment break, Joan Grauman led a group through a series of Oktoberfest favorites. She also distributed sheet music for the WMAS Holiday Concert Orchestra, along with recordings of the music that we can practice along with. So far 25 people have signed up to play with the orchestra, and we would love a few more! It’s not too late to sign up. If you would like music and MP3s of the selections, please contact Joan at [email protected] and she’ll get them to you.
November Rehearsal and Meeting
We look forward to Jim Vandelly’s annual mini-concert at the November 15 meeting. We will follow the program with our SECOND Holiday Orchestra rehearsal. The first rehearsal will take place on Sunday, November 1. Please see the schedule below.
Please let us know by responding to this email if you will attend the November 1 rehearsal.
Joan and Dan Grauman will be bringing the flea market (lots of sheet music), as well as a little bit of SqueezinArt stuff, to the November 15 meeting and also the December 13 Holiday Concert and Potluck, so don’t forget your wallets!
Joan will be the greeter for the November meeting.
Message from Joan, Holiday Orchestra Conductor
Yes, it’s time to start preparing for the always delightful and festive WMAS Holiday Concert and Potluck Dinner already! This year’s event will take place on December 13, and I hope to have a record number of WMAS members signing up to play in our orchestra! This will be our 13th year (and my 12th year as the conductor), and I am pleased to say that the orchestra gets better and better each year!
As long as (1) you are a WMAS member, (2) can play the right hand of your accordion somewhat, and (3) can read music, we will welcome you in the orchestra! It’s a fun experience to play with a conductor, and I always make sure that there are parts for every skill level. We strongly encourage you to attend the rehearsals (see schedule below). One rehearsal will take place during the November WMAS meeting, and a mandatory rehearsal will take place the day of the Holiday Concert.
Holiday Orchestra Rehearsal Schedule, all held at Sleepy Hollow UMC:
Sunday, Nov. 1 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Nov. 15 at 4 pm, as part of our monthly meeting
Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Dec. 13 – rehearsal at 2 pm, concert at 4 pm (time may change – please check the updates!)
*These dates are orchestra rehearsals only
UPCOMING CONCERT – DISCOUNT FOR WMAS
Accordion Virtuosi of Russia on Sun, Nov 8 at 7pm at the Lincoln Theatre
I am writing to inform you of an exclusive discount offer for the Accordion Virtuosi of Russia on Sun, Nov 8 at 7pm presented by Washington Performing Arts and the Lincoln Theatre. Using the promotion code NOFEE, you can purchase tickets online or over the phone at 202-785-9727 without paying any additional fees (a savings of $5 per ticket).
Founded in Leningrad in 1943, the Virtuosi are comprised of dozens of master accordionists and an ace rhythm section of percussion, electric guitar, bass, and more. Exciting pieces like Khachaturian’s “Sabre Dance” paired with lilting Strauss waltzes, an enchanting medley from West Side Story, and much more will make for a remarkable concert.
For more information about this performance, feel free to visit our website. We hope you will join us on Sun, Nov 8 at the Lincoln Theatre for what is sure to be a lively performance by the Accordion Virtuosi of Russia.
Sincerely,
Amanda DiMartini
Ticketing and Marketing Coordinator
Washington Performing Arts
2000 L Street NW, Suite 510
Washington, D.C. 20036
P: 202.533.1898 | F: 202.833.1595
UPCOMING CONCERT – POTOMAC ACCORDION ENSEMBLE
The Potomac Accordion Ensemble, under the direction of Joan Grauman, will perform its sixth annual holiday concert at Dublin Roasters Coffee in Frederick, Maryland, on Saturday, December 5, from 2 to 4 pm. Come and hear the ensemble and also take the opportunity to explore Frederick. You won’t regret it!
Dublin Roasters is at 1780 Market Street in Frederick, phone 240-674-1740, http://www.dublinroasterscoffee.com.
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October 29, 2015
Drinking songs, polkas, and waltzes filled the fellowship hall of Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church on Sunday, October 18, as our club squeezed, danced, sang, laughed, and ate (but didn’t imbibe) our way through our annual Oktoberfest. Pat Racioppa welcomed all comers with appropriate tunes, while Connie Racioppa’s decorations set the mood visually, and our members’ performances, aurally. Emcee Ken Kunec was given just enough lead time to search the Internet for new jokes, and we happily welcomed back young virtuoso Cody McSherry and also Herb Fredrickson and his Bayrisch and Steirisch dance group.
Following a refreshment break, Joan Grauman led a group through a series of Oktoberfest favorites. She also distributed sheet music for the WMAS Holiday Concert Orchestra, along with recordings of the music that we can practice along with. So far 25 people have signed up to play with the orchestra, and we would love a few more! It’s not too late to sign up. If you would like music and MP3s of the selections, please contact Joan at [email protected] and she’ll get them to you.
November Rehearsal and Meeting
We look forward to Jim Vandelly’s annual mini-concert at the November 15 meeting. We will follow the program with our SECOND Holiday Orchestra rehearsal. The first rehearsal will take place on Sunday, November 1. Please see the schedule below.
Please let us know by responding to this email if you will attend the November 1 rehearsal.
Joan and Dan Grauman will be bringing the flea market (lots of sheet music), as well as a little bit of SqueezinArt stuff, to the November 15 meeting and also the December 13 Holiday Concert and Potluck, so don’t forget your wallets!
Joan will be the greeter for the November meeting.
Message from Joan, Holiday Orchestra Conductor
Yes, it’s time to start preparing for the always delightful and festive WMAS Holiday Concert and Potluck Dinner already! This year’s event will take place on December 13, and I hope to have a record number of WMAS members signing up to play in our orchestra! This will be our 13th year (and my 12th year as the conductor), and I am pleased to say that the orchestra gets better and better each year!
As long as (1) you are a WMAS member, (2) can play the right hand of your accordion somewhat, and (3) can read music, we will welcome you in the orchestra! It’s a fun experience to play with a conductor, and I always make sure that there are parts for every skill level. We strongly encourage you to attend the rehearsals (see schedule below). One rehearsal will take place during the November WMAS meeting, and a mandatory rehearsal will take place the day of the Holiday Concert.
Holiday Orchestra Rehearsal Schedule, all held at Sleepy Hollow UMC:
Sunday, Nov. 1 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Nov. 15 at 4 pm, as part of our monthly meeting
Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 pm *
Sunday, Dec. 13 – rehearsal at 2 pm, concert at 4 pm (time may change – please check the updates!)
*These dates are orchestra rehearsals only
UPCOMING CONCERT – DISCOUNT FOR WMAS
Accordion Virtuosi of Russia on Sun, Nov 8 at 7pm at the Lincoln Theatre
I am writing to inform you of an exclusive discount offer for the Accordion Virtuosi of Russia on Sun, Nov 8 at 7pm presented by Washington Performing Arts and the Lincoln Theatre. Using the promotion code NOFEE, you can purchase tickets online or over the phone at 202-785-9727 without paying any additional fees (a savings of $5 per ticket).
Founded in Leningrad in 1943, the Virtuosi are comprised of dozens of master accordionists and an ace rhythm section of percussion, electric guitar, bass, and more. Exciting pieces like Khachaturian’s “Sabre Dance” paired with lilting Strauss waltzes, an enchanting medley from West Side Story, and much more will make for a remarkable concert.
For more information about this performance, feel free to visit our website. We hope you will join us on Sun, Nov 8 at the Lincoln Theatre for what is sure to be a lively performance by the Accordion Virtuosi of Russia.
Sincerely,
Amanda DiMartini
Ticketing and Marketing Coordinator
Washington Performing Arts
2000 L Street NW, Suite 510
Washington, D.C. 20036
P: 202.533.1898 | F: 202.833.1595
UPCOMING CONCERT – POTOMAC ACCORDION ENSEMBLE
The Potomac Accordion Ensemble, under the direction of Joan Grauman, will perform its sixth annual holiday concert at Dublin Roasters Coffee in Frederick, Maryland, on Saturday, December 5, from 2 to 4 pm. Come and hear the ensemble and also take the opportunity to explore Frederick. You won’t regret it!
Dublin Roasters is at 1780 Market Street in Frederick, phone 240-674-1740, http://www.dublinroasterscoffee.com.
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Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society Update
November 30, 2015
The holiday season officially kicked off on November 15 with Jim Vandelly’s annual mini-concert. This is a tradition at our November meeting, and we always look forward to hearing our favorite Russian folk tunes, Amazing Grace, and some of the others that Jim is known for. Once again this year he also played a couple of duets: one with Bob Juszczyk and one with Peter DiGiovanni.
Following the concert Joan Grauman rehearsed us for the holiday concert. This was our second rehearsal, and we have two more before the concert: one this Sunday, December 6, at 4 pm and one at 2 pm the day of the concert, December 13. Please let us know if you’ll be coming this Sunday. The day-of rehearsal is mandatory, so we won’t ask for RSVPs.
Joan and Dan Grauman appreciate everyone who purchased items during their 5th annual Music Flea Market, at the November 15 meeting. All the proceeds of the flea market go to youth-related music programs, and this time it will be lunches for the youth ensemble members at the AAA Festival next summer. Joan and Dan will be bringing the flea market back to the Holiday Concert, so you’ll have another chance at it.
Thanks to Jim and to everyone else who helped make the meeting a success!
Holiday Concert
So, as you know, our annual Holiday Concert will be Sunday, December 13, at 4 pm, and we will rehearse this Sunday, December 6, at 4 pm, as well as on the day of the concert, at 2 pm.
Please let us know immediately if you would like to play a solo or small-ensemble piece, and please let us know the title of the piece so we can include it in the printed program.
Chuck Silio will be the greeter. Ken Kunec will emcee. Joan Grauman will conduct.
Please plan to bring a dish for the potluck. We especially need main dishes and salads/side dishes. Hot food is very welcome.
A flyer for the concert is attached. Please forward it to your friends and family, and post it on public bulletin boards if you live close to the venues. Thanks!
Check out our website at www.washingtonaccordions.org.
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November 30, 2015
The holiday season officially kicked off on November 15 with Jim Vandelly’s annual mini-concert. This is a tradition at our November meeting, and we always look forward to hearing our favorite Russian folk tunes, Amazing Grace, and some of the others that Jim is known for. Once again this year he also played a couple of duets: one with Bob Juszczyk and one with Peter DiGiovanni.
Following the concert Joan Grauman rehearsed us for the holiday concert. This was our second rehearsal, and we have two more before the concert: one this Sunday, December 6, at 4 pm and one at 2 pm the day of the concert, December 13. Please let us know if you’ll be coming this Sunday. The day-of rehearsal is mandatory, so we won’t ask for RSVPs.
Joan and Dan Grauman appreciate everyone who purchased items during their 5th annual Music Flea Market, at the November 15 meeting. All the proceeds of the flea market go to youth-related music programs, and this time it will be lunches for the youth ensemble members at the AAA Festival next summer. Joan and Dan will be bringing the flea market back to the Holiday Concert, so you’ll have another chance at it.
Thanks to Jim and to everyone else who helped make the meeting a success!
Holiday Concert
So, as you know, our annual Holiday Concert will be Sunday, December 13, at 4 pm, and we will rehearse this Sunday, December 6, at 4 pm, as well as on the day of the concert, at 2 pm.
Please let us know immediately if you would like to play a solo or small-ensemble piece, and please let us know the title of the piece so we can include it in the printed program.
Chuck Silio will be the greeter. Ken Kunec will emcee. Joan Grauman will conduct.
Please plan to bring a dish for the potluck. We especially need main dishes and salads/side dishes. Hot food is very welcome.
A flyer for the concert is attached. Please forward it to your friends and family, and post it on public bulletin boards if you live close to the venues. Thanks!
Check out our website at www.washingtonaccordions.org.
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WMAS NEWS UPDATE
December 29, 2015
A crowd about 130 strong filled Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church’s fellowship hall for our club’s annual holiday concert and potluck on Sunday, December 13. Whether the draw was the music or the food, we served up ample portions of both. And everything flowed smoothly, thanks to lots and lots of work on the part of WMAS members and friends:
who designed the flyer and program and had them printed,
who chose and arranged all the music,
who set up the room and decorated it,
who practiced and performed,
who conducted and emceed,
who videotaped the concert,
who staffed the entry table,
who handled the kitchen,
who listened and ate, and
who cleaned up afterwards.
THANK YOU! We could not have done it without all of you. What a wonderful way to finish out our 13th year! BTW clips of the orchestra’s performance are at https://www.facebook.com/groups/337398196342247/ People who took pictures at the concert: please post them!
January Meeting
To give everyone a little breather, we’ve scheduled our next meeting for January 24. That’s a Sunday at 4 pm, at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church as usual. We’ll be holding a jam session, so plan to bring your instrument and, if you wish, a song to lead, with or without sheet music. If it’s without sheet music, please make sure it’s an easy song (i.e. two or three chords only); otherwise people will have trouble following. If you haven’t been to one of our jam sessions before, it will work like this: we sit in a circle and each person takes a turn with the song he/she has chosen. We play it a few times and then move on. There is no one leader, and there’s no pressure to lead. If you prefer to stay out of the spotlight and just play along, that’s fine.
IMPORTANT:
We will start the January meeting with our annual election of officers. The current officers—Peter DiGiovanni as President, Joan Grauman as Vice President, and Mara Cherkasky as Secretary/Treasurer—are willing to continue serving for another year, but if you would like to nominate yourself or someone else to replace one of them, please respond asap to this email so we can put out the word.
Meanwhile, enjoy the rest of 2015 and best wishes for a happy, musical, magical New Year!
December 29, 2015
A crowd about 130 strong filled Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church’s fellowship hall for our club’s annual holiday concert and potluck on Sunday, December 13. Whether the draw was the music or the food, we served up ample portions of both. And everything flowed smoothly, thanks to lots and lots of work on the part of WMAS members and friends:
who designed the flyer and program and had them printed,
who chose and arranged all the music,
who set up the room and decorated it,
who practiced and performed,
who conducted and emceed,
who videotaped the concert,
who staffed the entry table,
who handled the kitchen,
who listened and ate, and
who cleaned up afterwards.
THANK YOU! We could not have done it without all of you. What a wonderful way to finish out our 13th year! BTW clips of the orchestra’s performance are at https://www.facebook.com/groups/337398196342247/ People who took pictures at the concert: please post them!
January Meeting
To give everyone a little breather, we’ve scheduled our next meeting for January 24. That’s a Sunday at 4 pm, at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church as usual. We’ll be holding a jam session, so plan to bring your instrument and, if you wish, a song to lead, with or without sheet music. If it’s without sheet music, please make sure it’s an easy song (i.e. two or three chords only); otherwise people will have trouble following. If you haven’t been to one of our jam sessions before, it will work like this: we sit in a circle and each person takes a turn with the song he/she has chosen. We play it a few times and then move on. There is no one leader, and there’s no pressure to lead. If you prefer to stay out of the spotlight and just play along, that’s fine.
IMPORTANT:
We will start the January meeting with our annual election of officers. The current officers—Peter DiGiovanni as President, Joan Grauman as Vice President, and Mara Cherkasky as Secretary/Treasurer—are willing to continue serving for another year, but if you would like to nominate yourself or someone else to replace one of them, please respond asap to this email so we can put out the word.
Meanwhile, enjoy the rest of 2015 and best wishes for a happy, musical, magical New Year!