On January 22 one of the largest snow storms that I can recall hit the North East. The blizzard stopped almost all activity except for Victor Prieto and Dallas Vietty’s Accordion Workshop.  The temperature was icy cold with blizzard conditions outside but hot and tantalizing inside the ACME Accordion School in Westmont NJ where the workshop took place. 

Right Photo: Victor Prieto
Left Photo: Dallas Vietty and Don Gerundo

People from as far away as Australia, California, the Midwest and New York (yours truly) came to participate in the workshop.  In addition to different locations the attendees had very different skill sets ranging from seasoned players to beginners.  Dallas and Victor did an amazing job of allowing each participant to absorb as much as their ‘cup’ could hold.

Many topics were covered including Victor’s unique  two-handed harmonic concept for the Stradella Bass System whereby he combines unique chord only sounds with right hand triads to create exotic polychord sounds.  He also delved into various Latin American Rhythms that we seldom are exposed to here in America.

Dallas worked with the groups on various techniques in improvising as well as investigated melodic patterns that are used by Richard Galliano.  We also looked at Galliano’s approach to the musette waltz and his unique rhythmic accompaniment.

Saturday evening we all went out to dinner as we watched the blizzard continue to drench the area.  A few glasses of beer were able to dispel any concern with the weather outside of the hotel.  Everyone was able to brave the storm inside of the restaurant. 

Sunday we continued the fun by joining a bass player with Victor playing drums as each of us had our turn in playing with a rhythm section as we played solos and also practiced accompanying Dallas as he played a solo.  All in all it was great experience and fun.  I believe Victor and Dallas may be planning to offer this workshop again so keep a lookout for the next workshop.