Read this report, gallery photos and competitor video at: 2024ATG-report

The Accordionists & Teachers Guild, International (ATG) held their 82nd Festival on July 23 to 28 in Kansas City, MO. This celebration of Prof. Joan Cochran Sommers 90th birthday and her contribution to the accordion was a showcase of talent from around the USA and the world.

On Wednesday, Joan Cochran Sommers was honoured with a red-carpet entrance to a special presentation from the ATG Board, with a surprise video of people from around the world showing their memories and appreciation of the honouree.

In the lead up to the event, the ATG members and attendees had been asked for three words to describe the “doyenne” of the accordion world. These words were read out by the entirety of the Board, and Joan Grauman presented a beautiful piece of art where the descriptions had been turned into the shape of an accordion. Joan Cochran Sommers was also presented with a personal gift from the Board, and a plaque from the Board of the AAA.

Later that afternoon attendees were treated to the premier of ‘A World of Accordions Museum, A Harrington Legacy’ showcasing the wonders preserved at the museum in Superior, WI, and the knowledge and research of the founder Dr Helmi Harrington.

During the Festival there were competitions running for all ages and experience, for solo, duets and ensembles. This culminated in the ATG World Cup Championship where the playing was at such a level that the monetary prize pool was increased to include all four competitors. See article on winners
The ATG also arranged for masterclasses to be held daily, with diverse presentations from Gordon Kohl, Dr Michael Bridge, Nikolay Bine, Grayson Masefield, Gorka Hermosa, Cory Pesaturo, Ted Piechocinski, and Dallas Vietty with TeachTalk.

The spectacular evening concerts were held at the White Recital Hall of the UMKC where Joan Cochran Sommers is a Professor Emeritus. Wednesday night showcased Stas Venglevski, Nikolay Bine and Gorka Hermosa. Thursday had Joan take to the stage to conduct the UMKC Community Accordion Ensemble, followed by Mirco Patarini with a string quintet.

Friday evening guest artists were Gorka Hermosa, Michael Bridge, and Grayson Masefield with Ensemble Iberica. The finale concert on Saturday showcased the World Cup Championship with performances by the first runner up Leonid Florin and winner Radu Ratoi, Michael Bridge, and the concert was closed with the magnificent festival orchestra and choir conducted by Joan Cochran Sommers.