Video 1: Here is the performance from this years event held on April 30, 2017. The group performing includes. Cory Pesatauro, Frank Toscano, Frankie Carozza, Mario Tacca, and Cody McSherry with Ricci Saracino on drums. The Mistress of Ceremonies is Mary Mancini.

Video 2: Performance by 10 year old, Gia Ciccone, student of Mario Tacca, at the 15th Annual Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund Dinner on April 30, 2017 at the Villa Barone Hilltop Manor, Mahopac, New York

A page of pictures from this event will be online tomorrow.

On Sunday, April 30, 2017, the American Accordionists’ Association proudly presented the 15th Annual Carmen Carrozza Scholarship Fund Dinner dedicated to the advancement of promising young accordionists, Afternoon of Music, Food, and Fun, at the Villa Barone, Mahopac, NY. Chairman of the highly successful event was Dr. Joseph A. Ciccone, nephew of Carmen Carrozza.

About 125 people were delightfully entertained by an all star array of accordionists while enjoying a delicious banquet. The cocktail hour began with wonderful music by strolling accordionist Frank Busso. Ray Oreggia was the distinguished and delightful Master of Ceremonies who graciously introduced the line up of musicians.

During the event, there was dancing with beautiful music provided by Mario Tacca, Frank Carrozza and sons, Frank Toscano, Ray Oreggia and Eddie Monteiro. Percussionist Ricci Saracino accompanied all with virtuosic skills displayed.

The Connecticut Accordion Orchestra directed by Peter Pelosa opened the program with the following selections: “ Welcome to Venice”, “Moonlight Serenade”, “Parade of the Charioteers”. Members of the Connecticut Accordion Orchestra included Karen Buccitti, Julie Cardona, Jeanine Cariri, Bob Czarnecki Angie, Errico, Don Gerundo, Ginger Grider, Mary Mascolo, Peter Medick, Marilyn O’Neil, Mary Tokarski, Jack Varinelli, Sandy Zera, and Walter Ziemba.

Several incredibly talented young people entertained at the function. 10 year old Gia Ciccone, daughter of Dr. Joseph and Ethel Ciccone, grandniece of Carmen Carrozza and student of Mario Tacca, performed a flawless and sensitive performance. She truly shines with the spirit and talent of her great uncle, Carmen Carrozza. All were impressed with her advanced playing which you can see on Youtube.

13 year old Cody McSherry, presented a program of great variety with both singing and playing. His performance displayed his technical and interpretive abilities. He is a versatile musician who plays several types of accordions and sings in many languages.

Frank Toscano and Eddie Monteiro thrilled everyone with their improvisational skills during their performance. Guest performer, Cory Pesaturo, amazed all with his flawless technique and creative arrangements. Mario Tacca sensitively performed some of Carmen Carrozza’s favorite solos. Vocalist Mary Mancini presented a heartfelt tribute in song to Carmen.

There was also a 50/50 and many raffle prizes. The dinner at the Villa Barone, Hilltop Manor, in Mahopac was very delicious and the service provided was flawless.

Since the inception of the American Accordionist Association Carmen Carrozza Scholarship dinner 15 years ago, it has always been traditional to close the days’ events with the playing of Jolly Caballero (Pietro Frosini). Until his passing, the late great Carmen Carrozza always conducted the group each year as a grand finale.

For further information: drjciccone@aol.com