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NORTHWEST ACCORDIONNEWS

Amore Renee A Most Memorable Picnic Remembering Ken Olendorf Historic Wallace Accordion Festival Avoid Bending from the Waist to Spare Your Back

VOL. 21 NO. 4Northwest Accordion Society WInter Quarter 2011

Northwest Accordion News

winter Quarter 2011 1

Is your membership renewal due? Check your mailing label. A membership application/renewal form is included on the last page. Send your renewals or change of address to:

Northwest Accordion Society 5102 NE 121st Ave. #12Vancouver, WA 98682

NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY

The Northwest Accordion News is a quarterly newsletter published by the Northwest Accordion Society for and by its members. The purpose of the NWAS News is to unite the membership by providing news of its members, and articles that instruct, encourage, and promote the playing of the accordion.

NWAS PUBLICATION PRIORITIES♦ Advertising♦ Original Compositions♦ News from Our Members♦ Instructive/Technical Articles♦ Summaries from Regional Socials and Events♦ Coming Events

Articles will be printed if received prior to the publishing deadline. Should space be an issue, articles will be printed in the order in which they are submitted. All decisions regarding publication will be made by the editors of the NWAS News.

To submit articles for publication, mail them to the Vancouver, WA address listed. It is preferred that articles be submitted via e-mail as attached WORD documents or on a disc. Typed, paper copy needs to be dark and clear to allow scanning and to minimize errors.

Photographs sent for publication will be returned if they are accompanied with a SASE of correct size and adequate postage. Photographs may be sent electronically or on disc.

To reprint articles or photographs from magazines and newspapers, written permission from the publisher is required. Please submit the necessary “permission to print” with material sent.

Views in the articles and information printed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Northwest Accordion Society or its advertisers.

Inquiries, questions, suggestions, etc.

Contact Doris Osgood, 3224 B St., Forest Grove, OR 97116. (503) 357-0417.

E-mail: [email protected]

NWAS News DeadlinesFebruary 1, May 1, August 1, November

1

Northwest Accordion News StaffDoris Osgood............................................(503) 357-0417 [email protected] Ames .............................................(360) 254-5245 [email protected] Halverson (Advertising) ..............(503) 484-5064 [email protected]

NW Accordion Society Offi cers Bonnie Birch, President/Treasurer ................................. (206) 622-4786Doris Osgood, Vice President/Communications ............. (503) 357-0417Judith Ames, Secretary/Technology ............................... (360) 254-5245

Advisory BoardRick Hatley, ..................................................................... (253) 288-0442Shirlee Holmes .............................................................. (206) 282-4934Dick Myking .................................................................... (253) 537-0136Birgit Teuwen .................................................................. (206) 368-9720Cooksie (Kaserzon) Kramer ........................................... (425) 828-9104Brenda Bard ................................................................... (425) 822-4404Jim Tobler ....................................................................... (425) 745-4872

Membership:Doris Osgood.................................................................. (503) 357-0417 [email protected] Ames ................................................................... (360) 254-5245 [email protected]

Mail letters & articles to:Northwest Accordion Society

5102 NE 121st Ave. #12, Vancouver, WA 98682

Or e-mail to: [email protected]

ADVERTISINGFull page $110.00Half page $55.00Quarter $30.00Business card $10.00

Prices are PER ISSUE. US Funds

Photo-ready Advertising (with accompanying check) for this publication may be sent to:

Northwest Accordion Society6453 SE Nathan Ct., Hillsboro, OR 97123

or e-mail [email protected]


winter Quarter 20112

Letter from the EditorsGreetings!

The fall colors were spectacular! And winter is on its way. Already, choirs and orchestras are preparing for Winter and Chrismas celebrations. Are you participating?

This is also a season to be thankful - for health and strength through the many challenges we have walked through this year.

Give the gift of MUSIC this year - you can play at a retirement center, give the gift of music lessons to someone, share some favorite music, send a CD to a family member or friend. Bless someone with MUSIC!

Remember, you may now receive your NWAS electronically - please let us know if you’d like to have the PDF version (you get it sooner and often pictures are in COLOR!)

Judith ([email protected])

Quarterly UpdateTable of Contents

2 Letter from the Editors2 Quarterly Update3 Composer – Stas Venglevski4 Amore Renee6 A Most Memorable Picnic7 LIAC 2012 Sponsors8 In Remembrance8 ATG Festival9 Avoid Bending from the Waist to Spare Your Back10 Day of the Accordion10 Big Changes This Year!!!10 Calling all performers!!!11 Remembering Ken Olendorf13 LIAC 2012 is Coming!!!14 iPad Sheet Music Stand for Strolling Accordionists14 ASK A TEACHER15 Building on Success16 Discover the magic of the accordion in Rome16 Coupe Mondiale 2011 Shanghai, China17 By the Way – 19 Forest Grove Autumn Accordion Social21 Discovery Channel At Scandalli Factory23 NWAS Booth at the 2011 Western Washington State Fair in Puyallup, WA24 Cotati25 Seattle Accordion Social28 Tacoma Accordion Social30 Michael Bridge Crowned Canada’s Best Accordionist!30 Seattle Monday Night Accordion Socials32 Thanks to the 2011 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration Sponsors33 Accordionist Cory Pesaturo Featured at Columbus Day Parade - New York34 The Historic Wallace Accordion Festival36 Entertainers in the Northwest37 June in Oregon Means “Accordion Camp” 38 Accordion Events Calendar39 NWAS Welcomes New Members:

Dear Members,The leaves around Forest Grove are falling fast

tonight; the jet stream has brought cold wind and our seasons have seemed to change over night.

So many things have happened in our region since our last publication. The highs and lows seemed extreme. One of the “highs” was the account you’ll fi nd in this issue. Dick Carlson and his granddaugh-ters’ entertaining the Holocaust Survivors gave every-one that heard of it great encouragement. Music tran-scends so many things and can bring people together like no other medium. Our “low” this autumn was the sudden death of NWAS founder, Ken Olendorf. Ken meant a lot to the accordion community, particularly in the Puget Sound area. He was a superb musician on several instruments; we know him best for his virtuoso accordion skill. Family and Music were his life – in that order. His shoes will be not be easily fi lled.

Plans for the 19th Leavenworth International Ac-cordion Celebration are in the works. Bonnie Birch, LIAC chairman, is working feverishly to fi nalize plans. In 2012, the funding for the event will be largely gen-erated by the Northwest Accordion Society. We are thankful for the grants we’ve received over the past two years; the funding was to assist the transition. The NWAS started with essentially nothing! The City of Leavenworth, the merchants, and Projekt Bayern have been pleased with our results. Projekt Bayern, particularly, feels that LIAC supports its mission – to perpetuate and maintain the Bavarian quality of the community. The offi cial web site for the event is www.accordioncelebration.org. You may also check www.nwasnews.com. We will have more information for you after the fi rst of the year.

The Day of the Accordion is on! The Seattle Cen-ter is under renovation. Rather than move to a remote location on Center property or cancel the event, the decision has been made to have the Day of the Ac-cordion at the Crossroads Mall in Bellevue. The food court area has a stage and the management wants music from noon to 9:30 PM! There will be space for free lessons that have become so popular. Special thanks to the members of the Tacoma Accordion Club for making the lessons and rising star stage happen. They work often out of public view; we appreciate them very much. See the details for DOTA in this is-sue.

There are often events and news that fall outside of our publication cycle. Be sure to check the North-west Accordion Society web site. We don’t have pro-fessional web techs devoted to that job exclusively but we do endeavor to get information on the home page



Composer – Stas VenglevskiHis artistry, dazzling technical command, and

sensitivity have brought "Stas" Venglevski, a native of the Republic of Moldova, part of the former Soviet Union, increasing acclaim as a virtuoso of the bayan. A two-time fi rst prize winner of bayan competition in the Republic of Moldova, Stas is a graduate of the Russian Academy of Music in Moscow where he received his Masters Degree in Music under the tutelage of the famed Russian bayanist, Friedrich Lips. In 1992 he immigrated to the United States.

Stas' repertoire includes his original compositions, a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as a soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe, and the United States including numerous performances with Doc Severinsen, teve Allen and with Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion Show. Additionally, he has performed with symphony orchestras throughout the United States. He performed the world premiere of Concerto No. 2 by Anthony Galla-Rini and also the world premiere of “Bayan and Beyond”, composed for Stas by Dan Lawitts. He is a regular participant of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra's Arts in Community Education Program (ACE); has done television commercials and performed in theater productions; produced numerous recordings

including transcription of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite for bayan as well as one of original compositions. He has published several books of original compositions.

Stas also performs as a member of the A Sta_Sera Duo where he combines talents with accordionist, John Simkus, known primarily for his smooth jazz renditions. Their musical partnership has resulted in a unique repertoire and as a duo they have toured the United

States and Europe extensively and collaborated on a CD of original compositions, Seasonings. Additionally, Stas demonstrates his versatility performing regularly with his Irish friends Leahy's Luck.

Stas is a past President of the prestigious Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) which was established in 1940 with the purpose of furthering the progress of the accordion by improving teaching standards, music, and all phases of music education. The ATG is a member of the Confederation Internationale des Accordeonistes (CIA) International Music Council (IMC-NESCO) which holds an annual competition and festival in various cities around the United States.

The brilliant artistry and musical virtuosity of Stas afford an expanded dimension in music and an innovative musical adventure to the audience. The Northwest Accordion Society is grateful to Stas for sharing his “Amore Renee” found in this issue.

quickly that would be of interest and importance. The annual Christmas concert by the Spokane Accordion Ensemble, for instance, is one such event.

We have been so fortunate over the years to be able to offer print music in each publication of the NWAS News. Generally they are original composi-tions; recently we’ve had copyright permission to reprint some accordion classics. For this issue, we thank Stas Venglevski for his original composition, “Amore Renee”. He is a virtuoso bayan player. Stas emigrated from Moldova and now resides in Wiscon-sin.

As this year is coming to a close, it is important that I thank those who have worked hard to help maintain the Northwest Accordion News. We all have strived to produce a quality publication. The support from our advertisers has kept us in the black; we’re grateful for that. I’d like to especially thank our new-est staff member, Colleen Halverson, for her work in pursuing advertising revenue. Colleen’s father passed away after a long illness just as our publishing dead-line arrived. It has been a diffi cult time for her. Judith Ames’ husband, Ron, is undergoing chemo therapy this autumn too. Emotionally our small staff is pulled in several directions.

We continue our thanks to our regular con-tributors: Marjorie Rombauer, Ed Lofquist, Cooksie Kramer, Eloise Adaire, Dick Myking, and Ron Os-tromecki. We thank Petosa Accordions, Michael Arralde-Diamond Accordions, Castiglione Accordions, Roland International, and Accordions International; also thanks to our regular advertisers: Bell and Reed, Folkvoice Band, Frank Marocco, Accordions N More. We have new listings also from Debbie Grassman, Tussy Morelli, and Louis Traverso. Thank you all for your support.

Judith, Colleen, and I wish you all a joyful Christ-mas plus good health and rich blessings for the com-ing year. Music is an important element in that wish; keep the accordion in your life and share your music. We owe that to all who have gone before us.

Doris [email protected]

CorrectionIn the listing of our donors/supporters for Leaven-

worth 2011, we regret to have omitted the contribution by the Northwest Accordionaires. Much belated thanks for their cash gift and for their work at the ac-cordion celebration. We are hopeful that no one else was omitted. We apologize for the error and thank you for your understanding.



Valse = 120

Amore ReneeStas Venglevski

Accordion

M m m7

M m m

7M

M

M M M

MM M

Engraving by R. R. Ostromeck



Amore Renee pg. 2

7 m 7

7 m 7 m

m 7 7 m

M m m7

M m m

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A Most Memorable PicnicBy Dick Carlson

In mid August, I received a call from Doris Osgood regarding a request for an accordion player for a picnic that was to occur in Seaside, Oregon. The request came through Pamelajean Myers who is a member of the Tu-alatin Valley Accordionists. A co-worker of Pamelajean is involved with the Jewish Community of Portland and they were arranging a picnic for a group of about thirty Holo-caust survivors. She knew Pamelajean was involved with accordion players so this was the connection to fi nd enter-tainment for the picnic.

Since I live in Tillamook, which is about 50 miles south of Seaside, Doris called me to see if I could help out. I called Jill, the contact for the picnic, and agreed to ren-dezvous with the group coming by bus to the picnic site in Seaside at noon on the Big Day.

As it turned out, our two grand-daughters, Allison and Emily, happened to be visiting us from Roseburg so they accompanied Patty and me to Seaside on the day of the picnic.

We arrived at the Seaside Park about 11:00 AM so we could check out the location. We received a cell phone call from Jill that the bus had a problem and they would be leaving Portland after about a half hour delay.

We said, “Not a problem; we’ll see you at the park when you get there.” We took the girls to the Pig-N-Pan-cake for their favorite breakfast. As we were leaving the restaurant, Jill called back and apologized all over the place saying that the bus never did show up and that they would not be coming at all. I asked what alternate plan they had for the thirty-some Holocaust survivors and she said that they were going to fi nd a local park and have a picnic there.

I told Jill that we would start heading for Portland and told her to call back when the new destination was decided. If we could get there before the picnic was over, I would still play for them. If not, at least we would have tried. Just as we got over the Coast Range and had cell towers, Jill called again with the location. Luckily for us it was on the west side.

We found the park and unloaded the accordion. They were so happy to see us and welcomed us with open arms. I started off by playing “Hava Nagila’ to which a man by the name of Laddy jumped up and started dancing and singing; others joined too. It was one of the most delightful groups I’ve ever played for.

They discovered that the girls also played the accor-dion and wanted to hear them play. As our daughter, Dawn (the girls’ mother) and the girls brought their accordions up from the car, the group laughed and commented, “It looks like the Van-Trapp Family.” Allison and Emily played several of their duets. Among them was a nice rendition of “Edelweiss” to which everybody joined in singing.

Jill told us to feel free to ask any of them about their experiences during the war. They all wanted to tell their story; it was important to them. Retelling their stories en-sures that the Holocaust won’t be forgotten.

Our older granddaughter, Allison age 12, brought along a book about a girl who survived the Holocaust. A few of the group actually knew the author; several of them signed the back cover of the book and wrote where they were from. One lady also wrote her tattooed Auschwitz number in the book and showed it to the girls.

All of these people were teenagers when they were put in the concentration camps. Their stories brought on tears. It was a tremendous experience for the girls and for all of us to meet them. They were so appreciative of our coming and playing for them. It was a picnic that I will always remember. I certainly hope they ask me to play for them again.

Dick, Allison, Emily



To purchase sheet music, contact: Mrs. T. Morelli

[email protected]

The Works of Joe Morelli – Accordionist, Teacher

TARGET: FOCUS – Exploring Practise $24 .00 CDN

Arrangements by Joe Morelli Abschied Von Der Heimat (M/E) $5.50 Anema E Core – Trio (E/M) $14.00 Beautiful Dreamer (E) $3.00 Borrasque – Waltz (M) $5.50 Besame Mucho (M/D) $5.50 Kom Mädel, Tanz-Waltz(M) $5.50 Che Sera, Sera (E) $3.50 Don’t Fence Me In (E/M) $5.50 Elana, Waltz (M/E) $5.50 Eccentricity – Swing Waltz (D/M) $6.50 My Father – Ethnic Waltz (E) $3.50 Glory of Love (M) $4.00 It Had to Be You (E/M) $4.00 Kentucky Waltz (M/E) $5.00 La Mer (E) $3.30 La Vie En Rose (E) $3.50 Moon River (E) $4.00 Münchner Kindl – Waltz (M/E) $5.50 Mademoiselle de Paris (Quartet)............................ $15.00 New York, New York (M/D) $5.50 Never on Sunday (M) $5.50 Paulette- study: bass harmony (D) $3.50 Papirossen (Russian) (E) $3.50 Please Release Me (M) $4.00 Quisaz, Quisaz (M) $4.50 Satin Doll (M/D) $5.50 Save the Last Waltz for Me (E) $3.50 Send me the Pillow that You Dream On (M/D) ………………………………….. $5.00 Sentimental Journey (D/M) $5.50 Silent Night (modern harmony) (E/M) $3.50 Skihutte – Schottische (M/E) $4.50 Sunrise, Sunset (M/D) $5.50 Some Day my Prince Will Come (M/E) $4.50 Somewhere Over the Rainbow (D) $6.00 Tango of the Roses (M/D) $6.00 Tennesse Waltz (E/M) $5.00 Tennesse Waltz Duet) (M) $8.00 Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round… (E/M) $5.50 Toselli’s Serenade (M/E) $4.50 Two Shades of Blue (E) $4.00

Original Compositions by Joe Morelli Waltz, Opus 24 (E) $4.00 Minuet in G (E/M) $4.00 Lullaby for Thea (M/E) $4.00 Quarter Round (M/E) $4.00 Gavotte (M) $5.00 Etude No. 1 (M) $4.00 Nelda’s Dream (D/M) $5.50 Dixieland Rag (E/M) $4.00 Mama Helena (D) $6.50 Tango Yasmine (D) $6.50 Valse Capriccio, concert waltz (D) $6.00 Samba Baby (D) $6.00 Carnival in Rio, Samba (D/M) $6.00 The Butterfly, Concert Waltz (D) $6.50 River Cinnabar, Waltz ballade(M/D) $5.00 Cassie’s Caper, Schottische (M/D) $5.00 Dance Lady Dance, Schottische (M/D) $5.00 Polkas Firefly (D/M) $5.50 Moth in the Closet (D/M) $5.75 Happy Birthday (D/M) $5.50 Peppermint Kirsch (D) $5.75 Hops & Barley (D) $5.75 Strip the Triplets (D) $5.50 Topsy Turvey (D/M) $5.50 Waltzes Swiss Fondue (M/D) $5.75 Eiswein (M/D) $5.50 Red Hearts-White Lace, (Valentine Waltz) (M/D) …. $5.75 A Linden Blossom Fell (M) $5.75 Duets Tussy Polka, complete (D) $11.00 Each, 1st or 2nd accordion $5.50 Kitty Whiskers, polka complete (M) $10.00 Each, 1st or 2nd accordion $5.50 Silver Slippers, Schottische (M) $10.00 Each part $5.00 The Bavarian Mouse Ball, Waltz (M) $10.00 Each Part $5.00 Cuckoo ‘Round the Clock, polka $7.00 -complete, no separate parts (M/D)

Original Compositions by Joe Morelli Accordion Rag (E/M) $4.00 Barn Burner - Polka (M) $6.00 Café Italiano Bright Waltz (M) $6.00 Café Rendezvous Waltz (M) $6.00 Cajun Spice (M/E) $5.50 The Chase – Etude (M) $3.50 Dreams of a Dance – Waltz (M) $5.50 February Blues – Rag (D) $6.00 Frühling – Ethnic Waltz (M/D) $6.00 Holiday in Mexico – Waltz (M/E) $5.50 Holiday in Rome – Fox Trot (M) $5.50 Hills of Kananaskis – Ethnic Waltz (M) $5.50 Hop Scotch – Schottische, Solo (M) $5.50 Hop Scotch – Schottische, Duet (M) $11.00 Images (M) $5.50 My Isle of Emerald Green (M) $6.00 Minuet in F, Solo (D/M) $5.50 Minuet in F, Duet (D/M) $11.00 Minuet in A (D/M) $5.50 Out West (M) $5.50 Postcard from Zurich- Ethnic Waltz (M) $5.50 Pequino – Cha Cha (M) $4.00 Paris After Dark 11 pg. (D) $15.00 Samba Paradiso (D/M) $6.00 Schottische for Three (D/M) $5.50 Swede Dreams – Mazurka (D/M) $5.50 Très Bien – Waltz Musette (D/M) $6.00 Vienna Dreams, Ethnic Waltz (M) $5.50 Village Fest, Schottische (M/D) $5.50 Wedding Bells, Schottische (M/D) $5.50 Approximate degree of difficulty: (D) Difficult (M) Medium difficult (E) Easy

Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration 2012 Sponsors

Virtuoso: Northwest Accordion Society Monarch Accordions Petosa Accordions Projekt BayernMajor Tempo Trend Accordions

Friends of the Accordion: William Ritter

For more information on being a sponsor of LIAC 2012, go to www.nwasnews.com or www.accordioncelebration.com.

Holocost Survivor Picnic



In Remembrance

Kenneth ‘Ken’ Roberts Olendorf - Husband, father and highly gi ed Sea le musician unex-pectedly passed away while performing on Fri-day, October 21, 2011. He was 77 years old. The Northwest Accordion Society lost its founder; his family lost their cornerstone. The NWAS extends sincere sympathy to Ken’s beloved wife, Barbara and their children Brian, Kendra, Kris n, and their eight grandchildren.

ATG Festival

The Accordionists and Teachers Guild, Interna-tional (ATG) proudly announces that the 2012 ATG Festival will be held from July 25-29, 2012 at the Hyatt Lisle, 1400 Coporetum Drive in Lisle, ( Chicago) Illinois. Mark your calendars.

Hotel Telephone: (630) 852-1234 ;Reserva-tions: 1-888-421-1442 (mention the ATG for special convention rate, available until July 8, 2012) Ho-tel includes complimentary Breakfast buffet for all guests, complimentary Wifi in all rooms, Free Parking, transportation to the train offering frequent service to Downtown Chicago and complimentary pickup and drop-off (times to be arranged) to Oh’are or Midway Airports.

Convention Hotel Rates Single Occupancy $99.00 plus tax; Double Occupancy $109.00 plus tax; Triple Occupancy $114.00 plus tax; Quadruple Occupancy $119.00 plus tax.

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Avoid Bending from the Waist to Spare Your Back

Excerpted from Playing Well, an upcoming book written and illustrated by Dr Lynda Griffi th, orthopedic physical therapist and certifi ed accordion repair technician.

As Anthony Galla-Rini neared the one hundred years old mark he began to slow down a little. To those who knew him he was nevertheless still amazing when it came to energy level, memory and playing ability. Petosa modifi ed his accordion to reduce the weight to make playing such a physical instrument a little easier for him. His longevity was legendary and very likely a product of genetic qualities and good playing habits over a very long career.

Frankie Yankovic also lived a long and successful musical life that extended into his eighth de-cade. Near the end of his career onstage, while he still charmed an audience with beloved tunes, huge smiles and lovely baby blues, he no longer was able to play the accordion. He sat behind a keyboard rather than strapping on his accordion because of back pain.

Which accordionist will you be? Can we insure accordion-playing longevity? Probably not, but we can improve the odds on back injury. Not every lift causes injury, although problems often come with repeated lifts. Little traumas compound over time to become bigger problems so anything we can do on a daily basis to reduce the load will add time to our careers.

Forward bending from the waist to lift an accordion causes muscles in the back, hips and back of the legs to counterbalance and haul the weight of the accordion plus the torso. The combined forces of the weight lifted and the muscle contractions squash the discs in the spine. The heavier the lift, the greater the muscle contractions and thus the greater the compres-sion of the discs. Add a twist to the right or left while lifting and the chance of injury jumps even higher.

Just as pinching a water balloon between two boards will cause the balloon to bulge away from the pinch, so too will forward bending pinch the spine in front and cause the discs to bulge backward toward vital nerves that exit the spine and lead down into the legs. Safety posters at industrial sites warn workers to face the load squarely, bend the knees and keep the back straight rather than bending at the waist to lift a load for this reason. Lifting with a straight back and using

the legs allows the discs to remain centered between the vertebral bones and keeps pressure off the nerves.

Reducing lifts from the fl oor to playing height will go a long way toward decreasing injury. Galla-Rini was a good example for us. He placed a chair off to one side, faced the accordion squarely, then simply slid the instrument off the chair and onto his lap, thus avoiding a forward-bending lift. This simple trick may add life to your playing career and spare your back from injury to discs.



Day of the AccordionBig Changes This Year!!!Calling all performers!!!

By Bonnie Birch

The Seattle Center is undergoing remodeling in the Center House. I have seen the plans and it will be very a attractive place when the project is complete next spring. There are only a few food vendors left in there. They still plan to have Win-terfest there but after that, major construction will take place.

After much discussion, we are moving our event to the Crossroads Mall in Bellevue for 2012. They are very happy to have us. We will be in the middle of a very busy food court. Cross-roads has performances there all the time and has a stage complete with a sound system and all required facilities. They also have a nearby “Community Room” which holds about 30 people. This can be used for rising-star performances and free accordion lessons.

The attendance at Crossroads is much great-er on Saturday so we are moving our event to Saturday (Feb 25, 2012).

Furthermore, they traditionally have perfor-

mances on Saturday evening so our event will go from approximately noon until 9:30 p.m.

With this additional time, scheduling perform-ers can be more relaxed allowing for more setup time between groups.

If you would like to perform at the Day of the Accordion, we want to hear from you. We have two venues:The Market Stage

The stage is right in the middle of the food court. We are looking for soloists, duos, bands, etc. The performing level must be intermediate and above. Every group must have the accordion as a main instrument. If you would like to perform on the Market Stage, email: Bonnie Birch – [email protected] . Give a description of your group and any time constraints, if known. The Community Room

This room is several shops down from the Market Stage. All levels of accordionists are welcome to perform. Scheduling for this room will be handled by members of the Tacoma Accordion Club. To sign up to perform in the Community Room, email: Rick Hatley - [email protected]

We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you at the Day of the Accordion!!!



Remembering Ken OlendorfOctober 1, 1934 – October 21, 2011

By Doris Osgood

For those new to the accordion and new to the Northwest Accordion Society, you are likely unaware that the NWAS owes its beginning primarily to Ken Olendorf. With Barbara at his side they initiated the NWAS Socials in Seattle and the NWAS News. Joe Spano, Joe Petosa, Shirlee Holmes and other friends of the accordion worked to get the accordion society off the ground 20 years ago and the NWAS News became the newsletter for the association.

Ken wore many hats in his lifetime: musician, teacher, mentor, businessman, husband, father, and grandfather. We’ll recall his life as a musician fi rst.

Ken was born in Libertyville, Illinois on October 1, 1934. His love for music began as a young child. He started accordion when he was eight years old and studied twelve years with George Stefani of Wauke-gan, Illinois. Frank Marocco also studied with George in those days. Ken refl ected that Frank and George were always his inspirations. As an accordion student Ken won the Waukegan News Sun Accordion Festival and the Chicagoland Music Festival, a huge event boasting a thousand piece accordion band performing at Chicago’s Soldier’s Field.

Ken’s fi rst professional job was at the age of 15 with his father’s band. Ken’s father was a professional bass player who played in bands on weekends and had a “day job” during the week to support his fam-

ily. Ken learned to play string bass which he played in his high’s school’s orchestra, clarinet in the dance band and accordion in the combo. Later, he attended Northwestern University of Illinois majoring in music and architecture. Just before being drafted in 1957, Ken enlisted in the U.S. army.

He received a piano MOS (job designation) and became a member of the U.S. Army Band, 3rd Infantry Division, in Arkansas, Louisiana, Georgia, and Ger-many. His versatility as a musician was further devel-oped in the army playing bells in the marching band, percussion in the concert band, piano/arranger in the dance band, and accordion in the combo. Because the accordion “chair” as fi lled by a career musician, Ken auditioned against all of the Army pianists and was selected. As a pianist he was able to travel with the 7th Army Special Services throughout Germany.

Ken grew up in the jazz rich area of Chicago, Il-linois and in his early twenties, after serving two years in the army, he started working lounges, shows, and clubs with such jazz greats as the Harmonicats, the Mills brothers, Cy Touf (jazz bass trumpet), Al Bolete (alto sax), Ike Cole (Nat’s brother), and fi lled in on gigs that jazz great accordionist, Leon Sash, could not make.

Early in his career he served as conductor and contractor for a Bob Hope show, conductor, contrac-tor, and pianist for a Donald O’Connor show, arranger and keyboard player for the Reino Moisio shows, music arranger for Dance Team, worked with the Ink Spots, the Platters, Bobby Vinton, Myron Floren, Clark Terry (jazz trumpet), the King family, Bob Burgess and Cissy King (dancers), Ella Mae Morris, Norma Zimmer, Helen O’Connell, Woody Woodhouse, Fred Greenwell, and jazz guitarist Charlie Byrd. He even played for Queen Elizabeth’s birthday celebration in Egypt!

In 1957, he married Barbara Reinhard. In 1966 Ken moved his young family to Washington State to take a job managing a music store in Olympia. He opened his own store and continued a very busy schedule; he gave private lessons, taught jazz class-es at the community college, completed his degree in composition and arranging, and performed profes-sionally. In 1979 he closed the store and moved to Seattle to pursue other opportunities.

Ken was an educator and artist who taught both privately and as a professor at Pierce Community College, where he taught History of Jazz and Music Theory. He taught and worked with some of Seattle’s most outstanding musicians over the last 40 years, including his son, Brian Olendorf. Ken and Brian re-leased their album “Brian the Lion” and the two went on to record many more albums together.



Ken’s love for music was surpassed only by his love for his family. He had a timeless bond with his wife Barbara, children Brian, Kendra, and Kristin, and his eight grandchildren. If his family was happy, then Ken was happy. Ken was the king of the “one liner” dry comedy. He would always give his “Chef-le-ments to the comp” at the end of a family meal. His humor was a hallmark of Ken’s personality and his grandchil-dren can recite every one of his jokes.

Ken’s legacy endures through his musical con-tributions to the world and he will always be remem-bered for his strong professional character, devotion as a father, Grandpa and beloved husband to the most precious love of his life, his wife, “Beautiful Bar-bara.”

Special thanks to Shirlee Holmes. Material for this remembrance came from excerpts of Shirlee’s regular feature entitled “Personality Corner” spring 1992.

Bonnie Birch, Murl Allen Sanders, John Giuliani and Ken playing at Day of the Accordion

John Giuliani and Ken playing at Day of the AccordionJohn Giuliani, Dan Wickham and Ken enjoy playing at Day of

the Accordion

Ken is answering questions at Day of the Accordion

Ken is sharing exprience and knowledge at a Workshop at Day of the Accordion



LIAC 2012 is Coming!!!By Bonnie Birch

Dear Friends of the Accordion,We are again preparing for another great Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration (LIAC) to be

held on June 14 – 16, 2012. This will be LIAC number nineteen and the third year the Northwest Accordion Society has produced the festival. Our fi rst two years were very successful and we will continue to fi ne-tune events to make LIAC 2012 the best yet.

We have high-quality workshops, concerts from renowned international artists, a competition, and opportunities for all to perform. For the listener, we have music throughout the day in the Fes-thalle, Gazebo, and Grange. Prices are very reasonable (plus there are FREE events) and you have the beautiful destination town of Leavenworth to enjoy. Just park your car and walk through town seeing the sights with accordion music and events interspersed throughout. After hours, join the party in one of the restaurants hosting our famous jam sessions.

We would like to hear from you. Please email your suggestions to the committee and we will strive to use this information to enhance LIAC. This is an event produced by accordion players for fellow accordion players and accordion friends. Your support is so important as an attendee, volun-teer, or a donation .

We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you at LIAC.Most Sincerely,Bonnie Birch LIAC Chairman – [email protected] Berg LIAC Vice Chairman - [email protected] Osgood LIAC Communication - [email protected]



iPad Sheet Music Stand for Strolling Accordionistsby ClaMounte Bobrowski

At a recent monthly meeting of the Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society (WMAS) in Falls Church, Virginia, two club members discussed the possibility of mounting an iPAD loaded with over 1,000 pages of music directly onto an accordion without harming the frame.

Both members, Richard (Dick) Dangel and ClaMounte (Clay) Bobrowski, just happen to be engineers. Much thought was given to music readability, ergonomics, non-destructive mountability and aesthetics of the device. Dick, who fi rst thought of this inno-vation, scanned over 1,000 pages of sheet music into his iPAD. He used basic Adobe software to annotate the music. There are other software programs that can add page turning and scroll-ing capabilities. A crude mock-up made from a coat hanger and cardboard evolved from this fi rst discussion. This was followed by a prototype, and fi nally a fi nished product designed by Clay.

The design used Velcro for the non-destructive mounting of the two-pound assembly. The iPAD is mounted to the treble side of the accordion body, tilted back from the normal vertical at a 55 degree angle and extends outward to the right of the grille. This particular combination of angle and position turns out to be very comfortable for viewing the music.

The device was fi rst shown to the WMAS members at the October meeting, where it was received with great enthusiasm. Members wanted to know where one of these devices could be purchased. Currently, only one is in existence, but plans for wider distribution are underway.

ASK A TEACHERBY COOKSIE KRAMER A.B.C.A – L.B.C.A

MEMBER OF ATG, AAA, ABRSM (London).

What is your personal opinion of teaching Music in Groups? I feel that group lessons are too impersonal. The individual needs of each student in the group are not

met. Some may succeed but more often than not the student fails to grasp the lesson which may be at a pace that they cannot keep up with – and on the other hand there could be a student who fi nds the class too “slow”. Lessons need to be effective and absorbing and not beyond what a student can grasp and cope with.

I work on technique – phrasing and dynamics at different diffi culty levels for each individual student.Discussing problems one on one is very important. The choice of music for each individual is also very

essential.With regard to playing in Bands and Orchestras that I work with I encourage separate rehearsals of the

different parts before the students play together.I am always available for questions please feel free to phone me at 425 828 9104 or email lionel.kram-

[email protected]. Most important enjoy, enjoy the music you are working on.Whoever said “Music makes the world go round” sure knew what he/she was talking about.



Building on SuccessBy Doris Osgood

As you know, the Northwest Accordion Society rescued the Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration two years ago. When asked to support the effort by committing time, energy, participation, and money our members and friends rallied to the call. The fi rst year, our adjudicators and professional performers donated their talents and received minimal compensation to ensure the success our fi rst year. Last year we were able make some nominal increase for competitors and performers.

The accordion celebration in 2012 is coming fast. This year, the NWAS is not eligible for the grant money that was awarded from the City of Leaven-worth or the Chamber of Commerce. We have applied for a grant from Projekt Bayren and trust that we will receive the award. The P.B. has been pleased with our work thus far because it supports the goals of their organization. We started with NOTHING the fi rst year. Now the LIAC account has funds assuring our ability to have a basic event.

You will not be surprised that costs continue to increase. We are looking to provide more appropri-ate compensation for our professional performers and also hope to hire professional sound technicians for the festhalle. Increasing the incentives for our com-petitors is another area that is important to the contin-ued development of the accordion celebration.

The accordion celebrations haven’t been perfect, but they have been very good – possibly outstanding! The LIAC committee has learned a lot; some of the lessons have been a bit painful. Some things were not in our control. However it is clear that the accordion is alive and well. Our members have high expectations and are supportive of the high standards that the LIAC committee is pursuing.

We are asking again for your help to make the Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration an event of distinction. Your participation and your time will be critical to the success. We also need to raise additional money. Your contributions will support the goals of nurturing our young competitors, elevating musicianship through performance and instruction, and increasing the visibility of the accordion as a legitimate instrument.

Contributions can be made to: Northwest Accor-dion Society – Leavenworth Fund 5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682-6164. Contact Judith Ames for online contributions (via PayPal).

After the fi rst of the year the web site for the accordion celebration will be updated with the lat-est information on our performers, adjudicators, and competition. www.accordioncelebration.org. Also the Northwest Accordion News site will link you to that in-formation. www.nwasnews.com. Mark your calendars today for LIAC 2012 – June 14 – 17, 2012. Join us for the love of the accordion.



Coupe Mondiale 2011Shanghai, China

Coupe Mondiale1st. Petar Maric, Serbia2nd. Milan Vidovic, Bosnia and Herzegovina 3rd. Petar Mirkov, Serbia4th. Vincent Van AmsterdamNetherlands5th. Mirko Jetovic Serbia

Junior Coupe Mondiale1st. João Barrads, Portugal2nd. Nikola Zivanovic, Serbia3rd. Dmitrii Yarkinov, Russia 4th. Predrag Radisavljevic, Serbia5th. Michael Bridge, Canada

Virtuoso Entertainment1st. Petar Maric, Serbia2nd. Alexander Veretennikov, Russia3rd. Liang Tan Jia, China4th. Sarah Vonau, France5th. Dorin Grama, Moldova

Junior Virtuoso Entertainment1st. Radu Laxgang, Moldova2nd. Samuele Telari, Italy3rd. Joao Guerreiro, Portugal4th. Pietro Roffi , Italy5th. Svetlana Kozina, Russian

Piano Accordion1st. Martynas Levickis, Lithuania 2nd. Marko Lukic, Serbia 3rd. Milos Beljakovic, Serbia 4th. Klavdiya TAarabrina, Russia5th. Alexey Nefedov, Russia

Ensemble1st. Syrius Duet, FranceGonzales, Julien (Accordion)Carbonne, Cyril (Clarinet)

2nd. Contrast, RussiaDinar Ibragimov (Accordion)Evgeni Gainullov (Accordion)Ilyas Galimzyanov (Accordion)

3rd. Duo Van Amsterdam, NetherlandsVincent Van Amsterdam (Accordion)Jeanine Van Amsterdam (Violin)

Digital Accordiont. Pawel Janas, Poland2nd. Eduard Akhanov, Russia2nd.Alexey Chernomordiko, Russia4th. Jackson Jofre Rogrigues, Brazil

Discover the magic of the accordion in Rome

Sep 20, 2011Although perhaps not the most glamorous musi-

cal instrument, the accordion is a diverse and ex-pressive addition to any band. The organizers of the Roland V-Accordion Festival in Rome seek to bring the art of playing the accordion back to the masses. Visitors with an appreciation for music can take a car hire in Italy to see some of the most talented accordi-on players from around the world share their passion for the instrument.

The event is centred around two stages of com-petition: the national and international fi nals. Musi-cians from all over the world compete in the event, which is now in its fourth year. The festival will see accordionists from countries such as Italy, Greece, Brazil, Germany, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom and Russia competing for the glory and prestige of being named the greatest accordionist in the world. Previous competitions have featured performances of original work, in addition to well-known favorites such as Fragilissima di G. Hermosa and Stephen Montagu.

A truly unique musical event, the competition is held at the city’s Auditorium Parco Della Musica. A car hire in Rome could be an excellent way for music fans to navigate the winding streets of the city on their way to the event.

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By the Way – from Doris Osgood

Shirlee Holmes along with Ken and Barbara Olendorf started the Northwest Accordion News 20 years ago. Additionally, Shirlee served as the scholarship chair-man for the Northwest Accordion Society. Prior to her service in the NWAS, she was active in the Northwest Accordion Teacher’s Association with Joe Spano. It is with gratitude and regret that we announce that Shirlee is retiring from her position with the Northwest Accordion Society.

Our friend, Gary Blair Sr. of Glasgow, Scotland is off to Dubai and India this autumn for performances. In February, he’ll be performing in France and represent-ing the Coppertiva Accordion Company. (his accor-dion preference) This is good news. It was reported in the “Accordion World” September/October issue, a publication from the U.K., that he’d had an accident on a motorcycle. The article stated, “We all know Gary Blair for his fast fi ngers and extraordinary accordion playing, but many may not know that he’s a speed demon all around! We were concerned and worried to learn that Gary was feeling a little under the weather having parted company with his motorbike at 70 mph. Gary Jr. came to the rescue and drove to Braemar to collect the now bikeless Gary. Other than some sore ribs, back and neck pain (and maybe some dented pride), Gary is fi ne! Rest assured Accordion Lovers, the fi ngers are all present and correct!”

Karl Kment of Redmond, OR is an accordionist in his 80’s; his spirit is of a person half his age. He recently wrote, “I played last night at a new wine tasting bar and bistro, and the folks really seemed to enjoy ac-cordion music. I will play again next Saturday and I hope it will be as successful as last night's perfor-mance. I just play (everything for memory, of course) mostly standards with made-up, on the go improvisa-tions in order to make the tunes last a little longer and thus take up time. The gig is two hours in length with a short intermission about mid-way so it makes the time really go pretty fast. I was not a bit tired when the thing ended. I have not played such a venue in over fi ve years!”

Alicia Baker reports, “I really enjoyed my fi rst trip to the Cotati Accordion festival! It was quite exciting to be such a new face to the crowd down there, as most of them had never heard of me. I had a 30 minute concert scheduled for Saturday, and it went tremen-dously. The crowd was incredibly enthusiastic about my playing, and gave me a standing ovation both after my opera selection, as well as after my encore polka.

I couldn't be more thrilled about the reaction and com-ments I received. I wasn't scheduled for Sunday, but they managed to sneak me in for an extra 10 minute set, which also received a standing ovation. Cotati welcomed me with open arms, and I would say it's defi nitely one of the more exciting festivals I've been to, with the most enthusiastic audience. I also loved the location, being held in a large park with vendors and food booths. It has a lovely atmosphere!

June 30, 1991 was the fi rst Day of the Accordion in Seattle. Ken Olendorf and Joe Spano envisioned an extravaganza in a public venue; they selected the Center House at the Seattle Center. My memory of that day was that it was almost carnival like. The Center House was packed with tourists and day visitors. Joe Spano was the President of the North-west Accordion Teachers’ Association and used the morning of that day for the annual NWATA Competi-tion. I had fond memories of great young players as I looked at the roster of 1st place winners from that day. Some students were selected to perform at the awards concert which featured Horace Lazarri. The day continued like a who’s who” of the accor-dion world in the Pacifi c Northwest. After the awards concert, chairs were rearranged to allow for dancing and the music continued. Leo Aquino, Barbara Ann Martindale, Ken Olendorf, Joe Spano Quartet, Murl Allen Sanders, Shirlee Holmes, Hans Rainer Sr. and Son, Vern Peterson, Chuck Berger, Jerry Marsh/Nick Potebnya, Lou Simms/Ken Saari, Western Cascade Mountaineers, Andy Mirkovich, and Bonnie Birch. What a roster!! The U.S. Amateur Ballroom Dance Assoc. provided beautifully costumed dancers for an exhibition of different dance styles accompanied by Bonnie on accordion. Television cameras rolled and recorded a great event. Ken and Joe scheduled all of the performers. Shirlee Holmes and Barbara Olendorf were responsible for all of the details; they masterfully pulled everything together. We stand on the shoulders



Frank Marocco7063 Whitaker Ave

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of some giants in the accordion family and owe them our best to continue the tradition of excellence they established.

Day of the Accordion 2012 will be February 25 at the Crossroads Mall in Bellevue, Washington – noon to 9:30 PM. Mark your calendars for a great day of accordion music.

Best wishes to Griff Ziegler. Regrettably, he’s leav-ing the Inland Empire for the Midwest. He shared that he is going to help a family member in need. He’s excited about meeting accordionists in the new area and is looking forward to his visit to the Chicago Ac-cordion Club. Griff’s newsletters, photographs, and reports have been wonderful. He expects to return in the summer for accordion camp and other accordion festivals. He will be missed.

Internationally known cellist, Yo-Yo Ma recently picked up a new hobby: the accordion. “My wife gave me one for my birthday, and I’ve always been a fan,” he says. “It’s a hard instrument, so I have to get some lessons!” We could help him out with that!

Under the leadership of Eileen Webber the Spokane Accordion Ensemble presented their annual Christ-mas Concert December 6 in Spokane. The program entitled, “Sounds of the Holidays”, was performed with guest conductor, Bev Fess of Calgary, Alberta.

I receive calls on a regular basis asking questions like, “Do you know of someone who teaches accor-dion in Norman, OK?” or “Can you recommend an ac-cordion player who would be willing to play 4 hours for a sausage lunch?” When I received a call this summer requesting a player for a Holocaust Survivors’ pic-nic, I was intrigued. The survivors were scheduled to travel from Portland to Seaside for a picnic. I arranged for Dick Carlson of Tillamook, OR to rendezvous with the group. There were problems galore with the trans-portation and it appeared that the event was to be scrapped. In the end, Dick traveled to a Portland park and entertained the group. The story got even better when I learned that his granddaughters, Allison and Emily Wheeler were along for the trip. They played. Dick played. As everyone involved had tears fl ow-ing relating their reception by the group, the account turned out to be the most encouraging and inspiring accordion gig of my experience. The survivors shared their stories with the young girls, signed Allison’s nov-el about a young holocaust victim, sang, danced and displayed a “joie de vive” that transcended the differ-ence in their ages. The accordion was what brought them all together that day. I am thrilled to have had a

small part in that experience.

It’s time to begin planning for your summer. The 19th

Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration will be June 14 – 17, 2012. The workshops and con-certs are nearly fi nalized; it’s going to be exciting. The NWAS is on its own to make the event happen. We need your support and participation more than ever. I hope to see you there for the love of the accordion.

Remember to submit your articles and other informa-tion to our magazine address: NWAS News 5102 NE 121st Ave Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682

Check the web site, www.nwasnews.com for current events and updates.

Letters to the Editor:Dear NWAS,

I am sorry I missed the renewal date but thanks for the late notice. It doesn’t help that I was trying to maintain myself and my home with a broken shoulrder. Not good for accordion playing either, but after 6 1/2 months I am able to play. Thanks again for the reminder.Donna Connor, Wilderville, OR

Dear NWAS,This was the best Quarter publication. Awesome!Karen Halgren, Anacortes, WA

Questions for the Editors:

Would it be possible for me to get PDF’s of previous volumes? ANSWER: Yes - just send Judith a request: [email protected]. Not all issues are avail-able in PDF but many are.

May I get BOTH PDF and Hard copy? ANSWER: Yes. Just make your request on your renewal notice or send a note to [email protected]

May I renew for more than one year? ANSWER: Yes. We extend the renewal due date in our records to keep track of that.



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Forest Grove Autumn Accordion SocialBy Doris Osgood

I have fond memories of the accordion socials in Forest Grove. Our fi rst social was 20 years ago; Joe Petosa and Ken Olendorf drove down to lend their support. It meant a lot to have them come and I won’t soon forget it.

Each autumn I feel compelled to begin with singing! We joined together for a couple of rounds of “Take Me out to the Ballgame” and “Shine on Harvest Moon”. These are personal autumn favorites of mine. Singing helps break the ice for the fi rst performer.

Karl Kment was able to travel to Forest Grove from Redmond. We were so glad to see him and to hear his play-ing. He always is apologetic for his arrange-ments. Why? I don’t know! They are complex and audience friendly. He played his ar-

rangements of “Granada” and a medley of “”Till There Was You/ And I Love You So”. Geoff Levear followed with the always popular “TBA”. I was too slow to get

the titles. Next up were Ann Thompson and Doris Osgood. The duo played a landler and a march, “Un Jour du Fete.” Doris remained and played ‘Autumn Leaves” and “ Fisarmonica

Impazzita.”Nine year

old Frances Bengston and her mother, Theresa, played together. They played “ Vive L’Amour” and “Echo Waltz”. Frances played sans foot box; she’s really growing! Leon-ard Kosatka took the stage next to play a medley of his favorite French waltzes.

Dick Carlson’s granddaughters traveled from Roseburg to join us again. They fi rst played solo; Allison Wheeler played “A Hunting We Will Go” and her sister Emily played “Fascination”. As a duo 12 year old Allison and 10 year old Emily played “Waltz

Theme” and “Blue Sky Schottische”. Our young play-ers are progressing so well. It’s always exciting to hear them play.

It’s tough to follow the Wheelers, but Mickie

Many thanks to the NWAS staff for all your effort and the continu-ing FANTASTIC maga-zine you publish. The quality and content is always superb. Some-thing for all accordion lovers to enjoy. Please continue your labor of love in producing “OUR” Magazine.

As the regular MC at theTacoma Socials, I hear many favorable comments reflecting what I have stated ear-lier.Thanks!Randal Tron, Sumner, WA



Eaton was up for the challenge. He played “My Wild Irish Rose” and “Fascination”. High School senior Polina Guzenko was next playing “Spanish Eyes”.

She was joined by Diane Hagen to play the “Silver Streak Polka”. Diane remained to play “Meisner Magic Polka”. I wish we could bottle the energy these two have!

After a break for refreshments and visiting, the Tualatin Valley Accordionists were on stage. They played “Fantasy Impromptu”, “Beal Street Polka”, “Down by the Old Mill Stream”, and “Just Another Polka”. Participating players were: Carole Jean, Jon Dyk, Mickie Eaton, Dick Carlson, Wil Knoop, Nancy Kaye, Connie Weimer, Jack Jones, Jeanne Olson, Paul Bria, Ann Thompson, Pamelajean Myers, Rosalee Sherman, Lauri Neumann-Grable, Geoff Levear and Doris Osgood.

Pamelajean Myers continued playing solo with “Glasgow Hornpipe” and “Melody of Love”. Hans Friedrichs brought a large group of enthusiastic supporters who cheered as he played “Carmlea” and “Lago Maggiore”. Our Polka Man, Paul Bria, followed with “The Girl I Left Behind” and “Autobahn Polka”.

One can never be certain what Steve Gordon will come up with. He chose to use his Roland V Accordion and detour from classical and jazz pieces to play “Achtung Los Polka” and “Indifference”. First time soloist Jonathan Dyk followed with the “national anthem of Tillamook”- “Edelweiss” and “Waltzing Fan-tasy”. Lauri Neumann- Grable and her husband, Ja-son, traveled a long distance from their church com-mitments in time for Lauri to play Charlie Magnante’s “St Louis Blues”. (Printed in our summer issue of the NWAS News, by the way) John Giuliani traveled down from Renton for the afternoon. He played “Cella Contatta” and “Sweet Georgia Brown”. John shared

that he was playing Georgia Brown in memory of Ken Olendorf. He said that he always loved to accompany as Ken did his distinctive rendition. Ken would have been proud of John’s performance.

A faithful supporter of our socials requested “Life in the Finnish Woods”. Our resident Scandinavian, Dick Carlson, was able to oblige. It was a fi tting way to end a day of music.

My husband Gary had to be at the Portland Opera. However, he’d folded, stuffed, licked, and stamped all of the mailing for me in addition to helping me to set up the room in the very early AM before the social. The event couldn’t happen without him or the help from Dick and Patty Carlson. We had awesome donations for our 50/50 scholarship drawing. Thanks to Ann Thompson and Paul Bria for their contributions. Sue Armentrout, a non-accordion playing faithful supporter, shopped for refreshments, Connie Weimer provided fl owers and other decorations for the tables. Emily and Allison Wheeler helped their grandmother, Patty Carlson, serve the refreshments. It takes a vil-lage to have a social!

We’ve met in Forest Grove for 20 years and the socials have changed a bit over time. A new genera-tion of players has found us. Joe and Ken would be pleased to see that we have thrived since their visit. Mark your calendars for the spring social: April 22, 2012 – join us just for the fun of it.

Ring in the New Year with some MUSIC!



Discovery Channel At Scandalli Factory, Castelfi dardo - Italyby Fausto Fabi

A crew from Discovery Channel spent Monday, October 11, October 2010, fi lming at the Scandalli Accor-dion Factory, Castelfi dardo. The Scandalli factory was chosen because of the brands’ worldwide fame and the fact that all the different stages of accordion production are carried out under one roof. This allows the fi lming to show each step of the accordion production. They were preparing for a program called “How do they do it” which was expected to be broadcast this year (2011) to an estimated international audience of 150 million people.



NWAS Booth at the 2011 Western Washington State Fair in Puyallup, WAPhotos by Ed Lofquist

Faithful members of the Tacoma Accordion Club have demonstrated and educated the public for many years.

People in these photos include: Rick Hatley, Barb Lofquist, Dick

Myking, Eloise Adaire, Dick Svvenson, Lynn Swanson, Randall

Tron and Jerry Olson



The Chester Pietka Scholarships are available for young accordionists. Young people ages 18 and under, taking lessons from a recognized teacher, or wishing to do so, may submit a written request for scholarship funds for the purpose of taking lessons. Requests are to be submitted to Doris Osgood, 3224 B St., Forest Grove, OR 97116 or e-mail [email protected].

In addition to giving personal information, students are to share their interest and their goals for playing the accordion. These scholarships are open to the young people within the Pacifi c Northwest, not just the greater Portland area.

CotatiBy Karen Cordell

The mere mention of the name Cotati causes a great fl ood of wonderful memories for me. Warm summer days, the smell of food carried by the light breeze, the glorious sound of accordion music every-where you walk, hugs from friends along with excited chatter, dancing and shopping! What more could one ask for.....? Of course! A place to play my accordion with a variety of people. Golden State Accordion Club does an outstanding job hosting the jam tent in Cotati which is open to anyone who wishes to join in. It is easy to get lost in time when you are surrounded by friends and new acquaints who enjoy music, laughter, and the accordion.

The two day event begins each morning by fi nd-ing just the right place to set up your lawn chairs. You mustn’t be late or you will miss the Golden State Accordion Club Band. Three area clubs merge for a delightful performance that jump starts each festival day. There is so much to choose from for a variety of interests. There are 2 stages side by side to keep a vast array of accordion talent performing continually throughout the day. Your ears will be delighted with the sounds of zydeco, polka, country, jazz, classical, cajun, tangos, and the list goes on.

Many venders circle the wagons per say with their tents. Each one fi lled with many enticing items. Beaconing you with many colors, scents, tastes, sounds and glittery things. Our beloved instrument new and used is promoted through sales. Those inter-ested have an opportunity to try them on, feel, hear, and select the perfect accordion for themselves.

Dancing.....What would a festival be without dancing? Amongst the circle of tents you will fi nd a Polka Party Dance tent which offers a huge wooden dance fl oor where you can dance to your heart’s content. Your dance rhythms are brought to you by The Steve Balich Sr. Polka Band, Chuck Berger, Jim Gilman, and other drop in guests.

After hours....In Cotati, Rohnert Park, and Petalu-

ma you can fi nd many fi ne dining areas to gather with friends. One of my all time favorite places is Volpi’s family owned Italian Restaurant in down town Peta-luma. It is an old mercantile store with all kinds of old accordions, and what nots on the shelves surrounding the outer walls. It has a cozy Old World Bar in which we gather to play our accordions after dinner. Mr. John Volpi himself can sometimes be found amongst us most nights after the festival celebration.

Cotati California is located on Hwy 101 just south of Santa Rosa and North of San Francisco. If you are considering this festival plan ahead most motels and hotels fi ll up months in advance. For more informa-tion just Google: “Cotati Accordion Festival” or Email: [email protected]



Seattle Accordion SocialBy Marjorie Rombauer

September 12, 2011Tonight’s program was presented by Cooksie

Kramer. The program began with Cooksie’s duets with

Jim Lofgren. First, a fast and rousing “Tanzende Fingers.” Then, a living medley beginning and ending with “Basin Street Blues. Finally, Klange Van Seville, which I heard and enjoyed for the fi rst time. This is a

duo we can always look forward to hearing.

Some of Cooksie’s students followed with their own triumphs. Paul Trublood was fi rst. He comes from a family of musicians, and they could take pride in his performance of El

Campanissmo. Next was Filu-

mena Sweet, at age 9, confi dent and in control as she played varia-tions on “Carnival of Venice” (including an accomplished glissan-do) and a waltz with a bellows shake, nicely played.

We have heard the next performer, “little “ Mary Elworth, play the accordion several times, but she is no longer little, and she didn’t play the accordion tonight. She has been taking guitar lessons and studying music composition. She played four numbers with her teacher, three of which she wrote. They were

“Wheelhaus,” “Wildwood Flower,” and “Poseidon Garden.” They concluded with “Johnson’s Rag.” Her guitar playing is as promising as her accor-dion playing. Next came young Antho-

ny Pierce. He played for us before – his fi rst performance. He has advanced nicely, and played Circue de Soliel with good dynamics and contrasts.

Some members of the Accordionaires next played solos, beginning with Doru Rotovei. He played “Marika,” moody and with interesting con-trasts. Greg Perry is a new member of the band. He played the accordion when he was younger, put it aside, and has now come back to it. He played Fro-sini’s “Olive Blossoms.” He was followed by Daniel Elworth, formerly one of our younger performers. Now he is 6”4” and will enter the University of Wash-ington this fall. He has been growing and practicing. His performance of “Rhapsody in Blue” was mature and expressive. He followed with “Sharpshooters March,” with added embellishments.

Ray Kujawa is an original member of the Accor-dionaires and has played at our socials a number of times. Tonight he played the waltz from the opening movement of Kachaturian’s “Masquerade Excelsior” suite. It was impressive, in particular in the dynamics from a whisper to commanding tones. Linda John is a more recent addition to the Accordionaires, but she has already entertained us with her talented playing. This evening she played a delightful “Waltz Angels.”

After an intermission, David Locke played a selection with his usual pleasing style, and then the Northwest Accordionaires, under Cooksie Kramer’s direction, played a full program. They began with Ray Kujawa’s rousing arrangement of Sousa’s “Lib-erty Bell,” march, followed by a pleasing variety of Cooksie’s arrangements, beginning with “Span-ish Dance,” light-hearted to bombastic, and “Tango Montmarte,” dark and dramatic. Then selections from “My Fair Lady,” including “I’m Getting Married in the Morning” (Get me to the church on time!); “I Could Have Danced All Night”; “On the Street Where You Live”;“The Rain in Spain,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Lov-erly.” The following Brahm’s ” Hungarian Dances Nos. 4 and 5 were an interesting contrast. Then “Regina Overture,” my favorite. And it sounded as good to me in the audience as it did when I was playing with the Accordionaires. Then the fi nal Cooksie arrangement, dramatic Selections from Andrew Lloyd Weber’s mu-sic. The performance concluded with another Kujawa

Filumena Sweet

Doru Rotovei

Greg Perry



arrangement, La Misma, a short but haunting example of Piazzolla’s genius.

Members of the band who participated this eve-ning were Cooksie Kramer (Leader and Arranger), Jim Lofgren, Brenda Bard, Ray Kujawa, Greg Perry, Doru Rotovei, John Giuliani (bass), David Locke, Rick Hatley, Linda John, Martin Tracy, Lisa Fitting, Daniel Elworth, Clayton Murray (tuba) and Lionel Kramer (drums).October 10, 2011

John Giuliani was the host for the Oktoberfest Social this year, and he provided an evening of great entertainment.

Dick Svensson played a set of Swedish music, beginning with a lively schottische, Grumbel Peter, followed by Solang Du Alte Peter, which featured key changes from E fl at to B fl at to G. Next came Capri Fisherman, a slower, more solemn number. He played his own arrangement of the popular Lokkeren (Call-ers) Vals, featuring tricky repeated notes. Then he played Rienlander After Ola Stampen, noting that it has also been called “Mountain Belle Schottische” in a piano arrangement. He concluded with “Life in the Finnish Woods,” pointing out that these woods are actually in Sweden. He also told us a little about his early accordion playing. He started playing at age 14, when he taught himself how to play on an accordion he bought for $30, paying for it at $5 a month.

Dick Myking played next. He was introduced by Bigit Ages, who met him in the’90s, when he was playing with the Mountaineers. Dick, now from Ta-coma, was born in Seattle and grew up in Ballard, but he plays German dances as beautifully as he plays Scandinavian dances. Tonight he played with music because he wanted to feature not-so-standard Ok-toberfest music. He began with a medley of German waltzes, including Lautenbach (which we recognize as “Where, oh where has my little dog gone?”) and Ach du lieber Augustine. Next came Fliege Mit Mir In Die Heimat . Then, a lively “Happy Slovenes Polka” and “Slovenian Waltz #2.” Next came “Tinker Polka,” but it was not the short version we often hear. It had great bass solo passages. He concluded with the rich sounds of Domowina, a waltz. As John Giuliani put it in complementing Dick, the waltz was “simple, sweet, expressive.”

Birgit and Phil Ages, came next, but not in the usual fashion. Birgit was pushing Phil in a wheelchair with his leg in a brace. (Phil’s explanation: “I kicked a bear.”) The problem did not affect his performance. He was playing a tiny button box (8 button bass). “Small but mighty,” he said, and it produced a mighty sound. As usual, they played a variety of music, often ac-

companied by Birgit’s explanations of the underlying story or lyrics. The numbers ranged from a midwest polka to a European number to a community sing of a song about a girl named Hoo (Phil playing the man-dolin and singing with witty gestures). They played an Italian song about a man walking about town singing “No place is as beautiful as mine.” They closed with another number that had the audience burst in to song – “Happy Wanderer,” with the message that “We should be hiking and walking and enjoying the fresh air.” This performance really lifted the spirits.

Next, Bonnie Birch, with Nick Heiting on the guitar and Paul Ansler on the tuba, played Oktober-fest music from around the world. Nick started with beer on his mind, as they played and he sang “Time for Beer” and “In Heaven There Is No Beer.” A light waltz brought a change of pace, leading to the lilting Kufstein, with Nick and Paul singing and Nick yodel-ling. Then to Italy for a drinking song of another kind and a tarantella. From Spain, España Cañi, with Paul playing a tuba solo. On to Russia for an accordion solo with variations and then to Vienna for a waltz. They ended on the theme with which they began, a German drinking song, “Drink, Drink, Drink.”

The fi nale was provided by a quartet new to the Seattle Social: Ted Lunka (the leader) and Gary Dime playing button boxes; Jack Morrison, an 87-year old Hall of Fame drummer, and John Giuliani playing an electronic bass. They played Slovenian style music and fi lled the hall with lots of good sounds and rhythm. They began with polkas, “Castle Rock” and Terezina. Then a waltz, Cakela Bom, and an-other polka, “Mom and Dad’s,” followed by a medley of “Marianna,” “Blue Eyes,” “Lili” and Zeeman, and a polka, “Zip.” Ted and John joined to sing Zapula. The group concluded with “Vienna Forever.” I hope they come back again and again.

Merry Christmas!and

Happy New Year!



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Tacoma Accordion SocialSubmitted by Eloise Adair

AugustWe had a very good August Accordion Social

with 58 in attendance. Harvey Qually played a piano interlude before the program. Our fi rst accordionist was Dorene Fox playing "Amazing Grace Medley" and "The Lord's Prayer". It was good to hear Jerry Olson who spends his winter in Arizona. He played "Twilight Time", "Shine On Harvest Moon" and "Tennessee

Waltz". Our next player was Louis Traverso . He played "Five Food Two", "When You're Smiling", "0 Solo Mio", Interbergen", "Whispering" and ""Tic Toc Polka".

The Myking duet was next. Dick and his son Mark played "Caller's Waltz", "Oland's Taser (Schottische)", "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" and

"Just A Closer Walk With Thee". Then Mark played "Bayon Girl", "Titman Waltz" and "Jambalays". It was nice to have Dick Svensson play for us since we haven't seen him in a long time. He played "Lokkeren", "Gammel Rienlender",

"Cafe Polka", La Paloma. La Paloma Blanca" and "Life In The Finnish Woods".

Our next performer was also from Seattle. Gino Picini played "Leseine", "Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "Spring Time in the Rockies". Diane Crews did a very good job singing "Fly Me to the Moon" . Our last performer was Rick Hatley playing "Alexis Lullaby", "Happy Hour Polka" and "Three Yanks".

Jerry Olson

Dorene Fox

Gino Picini



SeptemberWe fi nally got warm summer weather in

September so we had good attendance for our social on Thursday the 8th. We had 52 and while we were getting ready for our program Rick Hatley brought his Jam Book and he got Dick Myking and Phil Cappetto to play with him.

Our fi rst soloist was Grace Anne Henry playing "Ramona", "Unclaimed Melody" and "La Paloma Blanca". Jerry Olson was up next playing "What a Difference a Day Made", "Beautiful Ohio", and "Pet 0 My Heart". Dick Myking was up next playing "Santa Lucia", Medley of "Blue Skirt Waltz", "Wiggin Polka", "Anytime" and "America The Beautiful". Then he played some Scandinavian music but I didn't get the names.

Richard Svensson brought his new chromatic midi. He played "Happy Wanderer", "Swedish Waltz- Branpear's Vals", "Alley Cat" and "Reinlander After Ulla Stumpie". David Emter played his diatonic accordion with "Waltz of the Vineyards", an original composition, Sunrise Waltz" and "Musicians Play Your Accordions". Next we had a change, Diane Crews sang "Don't it Make Your Brown Eyes Blue"

Jon Persson plays on cruise ships so it was good to have him play for us. He played his piano accordion and his Bayon. His fi rst piece was "Kalleshaven Waltz" followed by "Malaquena", "Once in Awhile" "ARR on the G string(Bach), "La Compasita Tango" and "Russian Sailor's Dance." Tom Demski closed our program with "Mazurka", "La Spagnola" and "Dark Eyes". He received the biggest applause I have heard in a long time.

OctoberYesterday 13 October was the only day this

month without rain so we had a good day for social. We had 59 in attendance and a very good program. Edith Barrett, Jim Leonhard, Rick Hatley and Dick Myking played together for 15 minutes while we got our program set up. Our fi rst player was a young student Leticia Lopez. She recently got a 120 bass accordion and played "Kick Off' and "Better Up". Next Jim Leonhard and Edith Barrett played "Aplekilbi", "HafBrau Haus", "Leichtensteiner Polka" and "Lilli Marlene".

Dennis Perry brought his accordion and played "A German Medley", "Wooden Heart", "E. Good Night"(Welk), and "Too Fat Polka" arranged by Myron Floren. Our next player was a teenager who has really improved. Michael Barbarossa played "Hawaiian War Dance", "Concert Novelty" and "Popcorn Polka". Louis Traverso played next. He played

Lou Traverso

Mark Myking

"In Der Bergen", "Pietro Diero's Theme Song" and "Whispering" .

Diane Crews sang a nice song for us but I didn't get the name of it. Dick Svensson played his chromatic accordion starting with "Sruhbel Peter, then "Solaus Du Alter Peter", Lokkerren", Reinlander by Ola Stampen and ended with a Tango that I did not get the name of. Rick Hatley played "More than a Kiss", "German Waltz", "Henrietta Polka" and "Village Polka" Dick Myking played several songs, some German and some Norwegian. Since this is OKTOBERFEST time several dressed in costumes, Edith Barrett, Jim Leonhard, Cliff and Gwendy Paulson.

Rick Hatley



Michael Bridge Crowned Canada’s Best Accordionist!

Congratulations to Michael Bridge! After an intense battle, Michael was crowned the 5th Roland V-Accordion Festival National Grand Champion and will go on to represent Canada at the International Finals in Rome, Italy on October 21st and 22nd. For his national championship win, Michael took home a top-of-the-line Roland FR-7X V-Accordion.

Michael amazed the audience and judges alike with his wide musical range, stunning technical abili-ties and commanding stage presence. Second to hit the stage, Michael performed four pieces rang-ing from Broadway, Baroque, and Jazz. Though all contestants showed technical profi ciency, Bridge’s passionate performance brought the audience to their feet and earned him the fi rst place fi nish.

Michael proudly placed 5th for Canada at the 2010 CIA Ju-nior World Cup in the classical division. Also in 2010, he was honoured to perform live with the Boston Pops for an NPR radio program. Having grown up learning traditional folk music on the piano accordion, he more recently switched his focus to a chromatic and free-bass instrument to be able to compete at a higher level and

study the accordion at the University of Toronto, un-der the world-renowned pedagogue, Joseph Macer-ollo. Though only 18, his musical travels have led him to France, Croatia, Italy, Las Vegas, and all over the northwestern portion of the USA and Canada. He has produced two CDs of his own compositions in various folk and Latin styles complete with a full band sound. He is a captivating young musician, determined to raise the profi le of the accordion for the next genera-tion.

Seattle Monday Night Accordion Socials

Date/Time: 2nd Monday of the month mu-sic: 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. - - be there early

West Seattle Senior and Community Center (WSSC)4217 S.W. Oregon Street Seattle, WA 98116 Phone: (206) 932-4044Cost: $5 (includes coffee) Contact: John Giuliani (425) 255-2121 Birgit Ages (206) 368-9720 backup: Bonnie Birch (206) 622-4786

Gypsy Cafe & Pub 3510 Stone Way N. Seattle 98103 Phone: (206) 632-0647Cost: $3 (the Gypsy cafe has a great food and beverage menu)Contact: Paul Fedorowicz (206) 328-6552backup: Bonnie Birch (206) 622-4786

2011 Dates:Dec 12 – WSSC – Special program for Ken Olen-dorf 2012 Dates:Jan 9 - WSSCFeb 13 - Gypsy CafeFeb 25 (Sat) - Day of the Accordion at the Cross-roads Mall, Bellevue, WAMar 12 - WSSCApr 9 - Gypsy CafeMay 14 - WSSCJune 11 - Gypsy CafeJune 14 - 17 - Leavenworth International Accor-dion CelebrationJuly - offAug - offSept 10 - WSSCOct 8 - WSSCNov 12 - Gypsy CafeDec 10 -WSSC

Jazz Eastside meets 3rd Tuesday every month 7:30 PM

at Courtyard Marriott Hotel, Bellvue, WA.

Contact Cooksie for Questions at 425-828-9104.



Thanks to the 2011 Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration Sponsors

www.accordioncelebration.org

Virtuoso Sponsors - $2,000 or moreCity of Leavenworth

Leavenworth Chamber of CommerceNorthwest Accordion Society

Projekt Bayern

Major Sponsors - $500 or more City of Leavenworth

Leavenworth Chamber of CommerceNorthwest Accordion Society

Projekt Bayern

Business Sponsors Borsini Accordions (Co-Sponsoring Vincenzo Abbracciante)

John Giuliani Sr. memorial fund (Sponsoring youth competition)Andreas Keller (Co-Sponsoring Leavenworth Open)

Petosa Accordions (Sponsoring the Popular Open Category)Gino Picini (Co-Sponsoring Mario Pedone)

Tempo Trend Accordions (Co-Sponsoring Jelena Milojevic)

Accordion Players, Accordion Clubs, Friends of the AccordionAccordion Club of Roseburg, OREloise AdairKatherine AllenSteve and Jeannie BergBonnie BirchFrank Bruckner and Gale LewisLeland CadeRobert CoeVern ColeBonnie Combs (in memory of Gary)Eugene DedaKathleen FalcoPaul A. FrancisColleen HalversonShirley HolmesHugo Accordion Band

Northwest AccordionairesNWAS Socials in Forest Grove, ORNWAS Socials in Seattle, WARod MillerAndy MirkovichDrs. Jim & Shirley O’BrienTerry RanstadAnn RobbinsMarjorie RombauerRobynne SnowBrad SummersTualatin Valley Accordionists, Forest Grove, ORRick & Eileen WebberVera WendelMike Zaro

We truly appreciate all of the sponsors who helped to make LIAC 2011 a great success! Please give patronage to our business sponsors and help us express our apprecia on!



Accordionist Cory Pesaturo Featured at Columbus Day Parade - New Yorkby Harley Jones

The Columbus Day Parade held on Monday 10th October has been organized by the Columbus Citizens

Foundation in New York since 1929. Over 35,000 people participate in the Columbus Day Parade each year, including over 100 groups, with bands, fl oats and contingents. The parade attracts nearly one million specta-tors and is the largest celebration of Italian-American culture in the world.

This year, the profi le the accordion enjoyed was excellent. At the fi nale of the parade, well known accordi-onist, Cory Pesaturo joined the hosts Maria Bartiromo and Joe Piscopo, the Grand Marshal Joe Plumeri, and 2011 American Idol Singer Pia Toscano on the red carpet performing Frank Sinatra’s classic hit “New York, New York”. The performance was broadcast on TV and Cory was also interviewed from the broadcast booth making a very nice promotion for the accordion.

Corey Pesaturo was sponsored by Guenadiy Lazarov of Accordion Gallery who thank Rob Trietsch for his idea of featuring the accordion at the Columbus Day Parade and his work to make it happen.



The Historic Wallace Accordion Festival

By Griff Ziegler

The Historic Wallace Accordion Festival was held August 12 – 13, 2011. Wallace, Idaho is a small mining town lo-cated in the northern pan handle region of the state.

The weather was glorious, the crowds were enthusi-astic, and the music was infectious. But what else would you expect? Tucked away in this quaint historic town surrounded by high mountains and even taller green trees, the setting was

akin to a Disney movie, only this was all for real.In the center of the town was the large newly painted

red and white gazebo where players gathered for two days and entertained us during the day with multiple varieties of music. The youngest player to step on stage was a tal-ented 12 year old and her new Hohner chromatic followed

by another youngster of about 14 with her piano ac-cordion. Both young ladies showed us that the accordion is fi nding a home among the youth, and it's not your father's accordion anymore. A crowd favorite was a young up and comer from Denver, Colorado who will one day be a spotlight headliner. Young Wayne played to the crowd, and infused his energetic style of music to thunderous applause. Later in the day and all the next day more seasoned professional and determined amateurs graced the stage and played ethnic music, coun-try and western, traditional pop, and old- time standards.

Concerts followed each day at the gazebo with stars, such as Bruce Gassman and his accordion rock and roll and deafening movie themes, Cory Pesaturo and his cham-pionship winning keyboard improvisations and style, Andy Mirkovich and his romantic melodies and perfect bellows control, and Big Lou, the one and only Polka Princess. Dur-ing the day there were many workshops to be attended and street playing was found on every corner. It was a joyous event. As this was our fi rst year, so what could we expect? The fi rst night’s concert had about 150 people, the second night 250.

After the concert the restaurants stayed open late and many played host to excited accordionists, who entertained in the restaurants till the very late hours of the evening.



The RV park which had just been retrofi tted with a new dance fl oor and bar, played host nightly to more jamming, as campers came to mix and mingle and make more music. Alongside was a fast running stream with the sounds of the accordion in the distant bar. The music of the night was complete with sounds from a small waterfall and fast run-ning stream nearby. This is a soothing and relaxing sound that not many city people experience. Many chose to just sit on the grass near their campers and just listen... as the soothing sound of the rushing water, aided by the black sky full of dancing and twinkling stars, made this an unforget-table and inspiring experience.

Yes, the Historic Wallace Accordion Festival was a spectacular event and plans have begun for next year. I am honored to have been able to work with the fi ne people at the Wallace Chamber of Commerce, and next year we will have more of the same...... and even better. This I person-ally promise. The list of professional entertainers who want to be included in future events is growing daily, and there will again be a strong youth presence.

Mark your calendar for the 2nd week in August. Wal-lace, Idaho is now the new "go to" destination for accordion fun In the summer! See you all there! You won’t want to miss out!

Andy Mirkovich

Cory Pesaturo

Big Lou

Street players enjoy historic Wallace



Entertainers in the NorthwestSubmit your public performance schedules to Doris Osgood 3224 B St

Forest Grove, OR 97116 [email protected]

Alpiners USA www.alpinerusa.com with Joe Domitrowich

Juan Barco – BandContact: 23091 23rd Ave. W. Brier, WA 98036425-775-8150; cell 206-356-1878

Corky Bennettwebsite: www.corkybennett.comemail: [email protected]

Bonnie Birchwebsite: bonniebirch.com For scheduling information: write 1107 1st Ave. #1003 Seattle, WA 98101. 206-622-4786, email: [email protected]

Chuck BergerAccordion Repair and Public PerformanceFor information call: [email protected]

Charlie BrownNov. 17 Mallard's Landing Retirement, 3 – 4 PMNov 23 11:30 - 12:30 Cascade Park Vista, TacomaDec 14.Birthdays 3-4.Olympic Alzheimers ResidenceDec 16.2:30 - 3:30 Point Defi ance Village Retirement

Frank CalapristiWinter schedule at King Ludwig’s, Wed, Thurs. Sun. nights; tour groups as needed For scheduling information write PO Box 1057 Leavenworth, WA 98826 [email protected]

Gary DahlFor scheduling information write 509 Valley Ave. NE #5 Puyallup, WA 98372Phone/fax [email protected]; www.accordions.com/garydahl; www.beltuna.com

Tom Demski (Mr. Flash)For scheduling information write: 518 9th St. SW Puyallup, WA 98371 [email protected]

Folk Voice BandFor scheduling: Birgit Ages 206-368-9720 [email protected]; http://folkvoiceband.com

Happy Hans’ Music Hans Rainer, Jr. Dec. 3 German House Arion Evening 8:00 PM – 12 AM Seattle, WADec. 31 German House 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM Seattle, WAFor scheduling information write Hans Rainer, JR 24613 231st Ave. SE Maple Valley, WA 98038

425-413-6562 [email protected] WWW.HAPPYHANSMUSIC.COM

Little Bohemian BandCheck web site for details.For scheduling contact: Gene Sadowsky 541-990-3109 email:[email protected] www.littlebohemianband.com 802 NW Quarry Rd. Albany, OR 97321

Greg MeierFri - Sat evenings Mt. Angel Sausage Co. Restaurant 105 N. Garfi eld St Mt. Angel, OR Dec. 31 German/American Club Liedertafel Harmonie New Year’s Eve Dinner/Dance 57th/Sandy Blvd Portland, ORFeb. 17 – 18 Wurstfest Mt Angel, ORFor scheduling information write: 38572 Park Ave. Sandy, OR 97055 503-668-7002. Fax 503-668-1058 [email protected]

Andy MirkovichFull schedule private engagementsMaster Classes by appointment: 425-451-1256

Murl Allen SandersDec. 11 Pacifi c Place Shopping Center Downtown Seattle noon – 2 PMDec. 22 Pacifi c Place Shopping Center noon – 2 PMFull schedule private engagements, music projects and teaching.For scheduling information write: [email protected] PO Box 30553 Seattle, WA 98113, 206-781-8196

Lyle Schaefer For scheduling information write: 11704 15th Ave. E Edgefi eld, WA 98372 253-927-7760

Sam’s Variety GemsSam Pecorilla: home 541-847-2282, cell 541-321-9088

Smilin’ Scandinavians Feb. 5 Swedish Cultural Center 1920 Dexter Ave. N. Seattle, WA 11:45 AM – 1 PMFor scheduling information contact: Toby Hanson11123 216th St. E Graham, WA 98338 253-875-8580 [email protected]://smilinscandivanians.com

Dennis SchadduckChina Jade Restaurant 87th & Greenwood Ave. NSeattle Sunday nights.

Joe SzaboFri – Sat. 6:30 – 9:30 PM Nonna Emilia’s RistoranteAloha, ORFor scheduling information: 13484 SW Devonshire Dr. Beaverton, OR 97005 503-641-2313



Music For Your Dancing & Listening PleasureTHANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN CHARLIE BROWN’S

MUSIC UNLIMITEDCharlie Brown Is a veteran of the Nevada lounge circuit, was a headliner at the Top of The Wheel at Harvey’s Casino and The Sahara in Lake Tahoe and often appeared there in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. He toured in Europe for 2 1/2 years in the early 60’s and also played the Cruise Ship SS Universe in the 80’s. He is off the road now and staying close to home in Gig Harbor, Washington, performing mostly in Washington and Oregon.

Charlie’s musical repertoire consists of a wide variety of music covering many styles and ages. He plays the old Big Band standards for Ballroom dancing, 50’s & 60’s Rock & Roll, Country Music and Latin. There is also music for Special Events like Weddings, Anniversaries, Parties, Reunions or just strolling and background music.

Charlie has played for the Eagles Clubs, Elks Clubs, VFW, AmVets, Re-tirement Communities, Weddings, Anniversaries, Private Parties, Private Dance Clubs and much more.

Music Unlimited is a fully self contained unit with Bose Amplifi cation and P.A. System, Roland Rythem System,Technics 600 Keyboard and Petosa Electronic Accordion.

For the utmost in professionalism and the best in vocal and musical entertainment, we hope you make Charlie Brown’s Music Unlimited a part of your entertainment plans.

You can contact Charlie at the address or phone numbers above or at [email protected]. Please reference Music Unlimited.

Syl’s Ya Sure Ya Betcha Band (WA)Syl’s Arizona Dance Band and Polka BandDec.17 Sons of Norway Bothel, WA 8 – 11:30 PM(Jan.- April, Nov. Arizona Schedule, 480-357-2585)For scheduling: Sylvia Jorgensen, WA contact: 253-845-9321, cell [email protected], www.fjordsong.com

SVEA TrioSvea Trio with the accordions. Richard Svensson and Bjarne Jacobsen206-523-3245, [email protected] www.winwins.com/sveatrio/

NW AccordionairesContact: Cooksie Kramer 425-828-9104

Most of our professional players keep their current and updated performance schedules on their web sites. Advance scheduling is diffi cult and often fl uid. Consult the contact information and web addresses for up to date information. Support them when you can.

June in Oregon Means “Accordion Camp”

By Griff BryanReprinted with permission Spokane & Inland Northwest Accordion Club

Soft rainy days, moss covered cedars, and the sound of an accordion orchestra. Where am I, but Silver Falls Accordion Camp outside Salem, Oregon. This yearly event is sponsored by the Rose City Accordion Club and brings together about 50 participants (called campers) from all point across the USA and Canada. This year we were pleased to have with us, a camper from Anchorage, Alaska as well as a llama breeder from Indiana and a player from British Columbia, Canada. All came with their accordions and all were anxious to take part in the weekly festivities. So what do they do at camp?

The main focus is to play a concert at week’s end arranged by musical director Ilmar Kuljus. As Ilmar says “most of these people have never playas a group, and this learning experience will be a new one for them all”. But in only 5 days Ilmar, with help from assistant musical director Murl Allen Sanders, do exactly that. There are many practice sessions during the week and some one-on-one’s with Ilmar and Murl to go over rough spots. And then there is more.

Workshops given by Bev Fess and Gordon Kohl go over a variety of subjects and introduce many new tricks and techniques for accordion. As I passed among them on my photo surveillance, I overheard talk about how to play beginnings and endings when asked to play in a group. Sounds interesting and new to me! And there is more. Campers sign up for more one on one’s with any of the four professionals to pick their brain, go over a part in the concert, or just better understand what was presented in the workshops. Late night concerts by the 4 professionals, followed by campers who sign up to play makes for a full day ..... Jamming begins usually by 9 PM and that goes till 11:00 PM. Then it’s lights out as tomorrow is another full day. So the next time you take a walk among the waterfalls at Silver Falls, listen as you may just hear, not the sounds of falling water, but the sounds of chords, triads, scales and orchestra parts being practiced at accordion camp. If it’s June ........ then it’s accordion camp! PS .... Thanks again to Florence Nightingale!



Accordion Events CalendarBy Doris Osgood

[email protected]

NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALS SEATTLE, WA2nd Monday monthly: Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 12 Contact: For West Seattle months contact: John Giuliani 425-255-2121 or Birgit Ages 206-368-9720 for Gypsy Café months contact: Paul Fedorowicz 206-328-6552 Back up contact: Bonnie Birch 206-622-4786. Music 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.

NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALSTACOMA, WA2nd Thursday monthly:, Dec. 8, Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8 Lutheran Church 121st & Park Ave. across from PLU Library 7:00 – 9:30 PM contact: Dick Myking 253-537-0136

NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALSFOREST GROVE, OR4th Sundays April and October. Forest Grove Community Center, 2037 Douglas St. Forest Grove, OR. 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM. Contact: Doris Osgood 503-357-0417. [email protected] April 22 and Oct. 28, 2012

ACCORDION CLUB OF CENTRAL OREGONREDMOND, OR2ND Saturday Monthly, 1:30 PM Spaghetti Warehouse Restaurant Redmond, OR Contacts: Lillian Jones, 541-536-1531 [email protected] or Karl Kment, 541-548-0495 [email protected]

ACCORDION JAM IN SANDYSANDY, OR4th Saturday monthly noon – 4 PM meet at Shorty’s Corner Café 2 miles East of Sandy, OR on Hwy 26. Bring accordi-on, music, stand, and snack to share. Coffee provided. All players welcome. Contact Andy Jorgensen 503-668-3917 or 503-975-2380.

ACCORDION CLUB OF ROSEBURGROSEBURG, OR3rd Monday monthly 6:30, 553 Little Valley Rd. RoseburgPres. Karen Cordell 553 Little Valley Rd. Roseburg, OR 97471 541-784-1911 [email protected]

ACCORDION CLUB OF VANCOUVERVANCOUVER, B.C.www.meetup.com/Accordion-Club-of-Vancouvercontact: Haike Kingma, [email protected]

ACCORDION INTERNATIONAL MUSIC SOCIETYSANTA BARBARA, CA2nd Sunday monthly 1 – 3 PM Vale Verde Retirement The-atre 900 Calle de los Amigos, Santa Barbara, CAAIMS P.O. Box 4511 Santa Barbara, CA 93140Info: Heinz Trick 805-685-2260www.santabarbaraaccordions.com

BROOKINGS ACCORDION CLUBBROOKINGS, OR4th Sat. monthly 2-4 PM, Evergreen Federal S&L, 850 Chetco Ave. Brookings, OR, Pres. Cami Meccia 541-469-807

EASTSIDE JAZZBellevue, WA3rd Tuesday monthly, Courtyard Marriott Hotel, 7:30 PM beginning January 2012. Contact: Cooksie Kramer 425-828-9104

EMERALD VALLEY ACCORDION CLUBEUGENE, OR1st Monday monthly: 7:00 – 9:30 PM Veterans’ Memorial Bldg. 1626 Willamette St. Secretary Linda Gunn 541-726-6330 [email protected] V.P. Lou Marzano Social time 6 PM, business 6:45 PM

FAIRBANKS ACCORDION CLUBFAIRBANKS, AKMondays weekly 6 – 8 PM Pioneers Home, open to all free reed instruments. Contact: Christine Upton 907-457-3392

FIVE VALLEY ACCORDION ASSOCIATION MONTANA 5VAA Jams are 1- 5 Pm Pres. Helen Brady [email protected]. 11 High Spirits, Florence, MTJan. 8 Eagles, Hamilton (dinner/election)Feb. 12 Jokers Wild, Missoula, MT

Montana – NW Accordion AssociationContact Ralph Salomon 406- 675-0178 all NWAA Jams 2 – 6 PMMontana – Great Falls Accordion PlayersJams are 1 PM – 5 PMDec. 11 ElksJan 15 Moose Contact Pat Sharp for info: 406-452-4546

HUGO’S ACCORDION BANDMT. VERNON, WA2nd and 4th Monday monthly 6:00- 9:00 PMPres. Lois Yale 360-766-8713 lobo@fi dalgo.net9247 Marshall Rd. Bow, WA 98232

HOUSTON BAY AREA ACCORDION CLUBHOUSTON, TX2ND Wednesday monthly 5 – 9 PM Joe Brikha, Pres [email protected] www.bayareaaccordionclub.com

MEDFORD ACCORDION CLUBMEDFORD, OR4th Monday monthly 7 - 9 PM: Central Point Senior Center 123 N. 2nd St, Central Point, OR Jeannette Dewey, Pres. 1029 SE Rogue Dr. Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-471-7455

OKANAGAN ACCORDION CLUBKELOWNA, BCTuesdays weekly Sept. – May, Senior Center on RichterInfo contact: Rod Miller 250-317-9088



ROGUE RIVER ACCORDION CLUBROGUE RIVER, OR1st and 3rd Wednesdays monthly. 7 PM Council Chambers Rogue River City Hall, 133 Broadway St. Rogue River, OR. Pres. Margot Turrell 206 Creekside Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-479-9409 [email protected]

ROSE CITY ACCORDION CLUBPORTLAND, OR3rd Saturday monthly. 1 – 5 PM Milwaukie Public Safety Bldg, SE 32nd & Harrison, Milwaukie, OR.* meeting in September 4th Sat.(Sept.24) Pres. Steve Knapke 503-612-8381 email: [email protected]

SEQUIM ACCORDION SOCIALSEQUIM, WA2nd Sunday, Odd numbered months, 1:00 – 4:00 PM Se-quim Senior Center next meeting September 11 contact: Jeannie Berg- [email protected]

SIERRA NEVADA ACCORDIONSRENO, NVJohn Covarelli, Pres. 775-848-3777, [email protected]

SPOKANE ACCORDION ENSEMBLESPOKANE, WA weekly rehearsals 6- 9 PM Eileen Webber, Pres. 509-290-6858 [email protected]

SPOKANE AND INLAND NORTHWEST ACC. CLUBSPOKANE, WA4th Monday monthly, 1520 W. 3rd and Maple in Spokane, at the Global Credit Union Bldg. Exit #280 off I-90. 6 – 9 PM, $3. at the door

TUALATIN VALLEY ACCORDIONISTS FOREST GROVE, OR1st Sat. monthly 10 AM – 1 PM Forest Grove Library Pacifi c Ave. Contact: Paul and Judy Bria 503-591-0504 [email protected]

YUMA ACCORDION CLUBYuma, AZevery Tuesday, November - March at the Yuma Food Bank at 2404 E 24th Street, Yuma, AZPresident, Coreen Bergholm @ [email protected] or Ginger Purdy @ [email protected]

VICTORIA ACCORDION CLUBVICTORIA, B.C. CANADA1st Sunday Monthly 2:30 PM, Victoria Edelweiss Club108 Niagra St., James Bay District Victoria, BCContact: John 250-386-7282 or 250-477-3098

DAY OF THE ACCORDIONBellevue, Wa February 25, 2012, Crossroads Shopping Center Food Court 15600 NE 8th Bellevue noon – 9:30 PM

BUTTON BOX CAMPS JULY AND SEPT

contact Joe Smiell, 863 Portal Ave., Oakland, CA 94610510-832-6938

RCAC ACCORDION CAMP- SILVER FALLS CONFER-ENCE CENTER June 10 - 15, 2012 near Sublimity, OR. Camp treasurer: Marlene Meissner 503-463-9909 [email protected]

LEAVENWORTH INTERNATIONAL ACCORDION CEL-EBRATION June 14 - 17, 2012 Leavenworth, WA. www.accordioncelebration.org www.nwasnews.com

KIMBERLEY OLD TIME ACCORDION COMPETITION KIMBERLEY, BCJuly 9 - 14 , 2012, www.kiotac.ca 1-888-4KIOTAC or 250-427-7318

VICTORIA ACCORDION FESTIVALVictoria, British Columbia July , 2011www.bcaccordion.ca 1-778-433-8700

FAIRBANKS SUMMER ARTS FESTIVALJuly, 2012 on the campus of U. of Alaska Fairbanks. www.fsaf.org contact 907-474-8869

ACCORDION CELEBRATION – Historic Wallace Wallace, ID August , 2012 www.wallaceIdahoChamber.com

COTATI ACCORDION FESTIVALCotati, CA August , 2012www.cotatifest.com

ACCORDION EXTRAVAGANZA EDMONTON, ALBERTA September, 2012www.edmontonaccordion.com

INTERNATIONAL ACCORDION CONVENTIONLas Vegas, NV, 2012 http://accordioninfo.com/convention/ 1-800-472-1695 [email protected]

NWAS Welcomes New Members:

Pam Beckstrom, Spokane, WACharlie Brown, Gig Harbor, WAJerry DeMarco, Great Falls, MTAlice Dunkin, Lilliwuap, WALinda Eaton, Cloverdale, ORNancy Haldeman, Corvallis, ORCharlie Kapchinsky, Beumont, ABAnita Kulick, Redmond, ORBeverly Oylear, Milwaukie, OR

Remember, you are welcome to give gi mem-bership! The membership form is on the last page of this publica on!



Northwest Accordion Society

5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12Vancouver, WA 98682

www.nwasnews.com

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Northwest Accordion Society5102 NE 121st Ave., Unit 12Vancouver, WA 98682-6164

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NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY Membership

5102 NE 121st Ave., Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682-6164www.nwasnews.com

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