Four months ago (August 2010) a group of amateur and professional accordionists gathered at a restaurant for the first time in Commack, NY for an informal “get together and jam session.” The inaugural attendance of accordionists and accordion music lovers was very encouraging. Subsequent monthly meetings resulted in an even greater audience of attendees.
Hearing about the success of these events J&R Steakhouse (Stony Brook, NY) invited the ensemble of accordionists to put together a program for its establishment. J&R had never sponsored a live musical event before and the LIAA also had never participated in a “formal event.”
Well, the rest is history. On Tuesday night, Nov. 9th, 2010, J&R Steakhouse was deluged with an overflow crowd of guests to witness the very first formal performance by the Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA). A crowd of one-hundred and twenty enthusiastic guests filled the room, enjoyed a great meal, sang and were serenaded by a varied and diverse program of music and musicians.
The accordionists included on the program were Joe Campo, Benjamin Cicale, John Custie, Phil Franzese, Dominic Karcic, Ray Oreggia, Phil Prete, Franco Ruggiero and vocalist Adrienne Autovino. The guests also witnessed the debut professional performance of ten year old Benjamin Cicale (Calverton, NY). Three noted accordionists who came as guests but also performed at the end of the program included Manny Corallo, Emilio Magnotta and Frank Toscano.
The Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) has scheduled its next open meeting for Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at:La Villini Restaurant, 288 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY, Phone:631 261 6344 or
lavillini@yahoo.com
If you play the accordion please bring your instrument and play a “song or two.” This is open to anybody that plays the accordion no matter what your level of capability. Everyone is welcome to participate or just come to listen! Have a great meal, enjoy the music and have a blast. Reservations are highly recommended.
If you intend to perform please notify at:
accordionman@optonline.net or 631.864.4428
