On Tuesday evening April 3, 2018 accordionist and AAA Board Member, Don Gerundo (New Rochelle, NY) paid his third visit as guest artist to a Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) monthly event at La Villini Restaurant in East Northport, NY. On this occasion he teamed up with his good friend and woodwind specialist Spencer Bruno (Yonkers, NY). Mr. Bruno, who is executive director of the noted Lester Lanin Orchestra, performed on flute, clarinet and soprano saxophone.

The duo collaborated in playing a nice variety of noted melodies that included “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, “Emily”, “Polka Dots and Moonbeams”, “Under Paris Skies”, “Chiquilin De Bachin”, “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” and “Indifference”.

Noteworthy of their performance is that they maintained a beautiful balance between the accordion and the reed instruments used by Mr. Bruno, utilized a volume level that was never overpowering, used tasty, creative improvisations and very sensitive, dramatic dynamics changes. This judicious use of expression is especially note worthy. They really “set a mood” with each rendition performed. 

In all selections Mr. Gerundo showed his mastery and knowledge of modern harmony by interjecting so many beautiful chord changes and passing harmonies. Their whole session was so professionally presented and orchestrated. Mention should be made that they had the full and total attention of the entire audience throughout who, responded with many compliments at the close of the evening. It was a great evening for the accordion and good live music on Long Island.

Congratulations to Don Gerundo and Spencer Bruno on a job so well done. Bravo! Bravo!

The next Long Island Accordion Alliance (LIAA) event sponsored by La Villini Restaurant in East Northport, NY will be on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 and will feature accordionist Dominic Karcic and vocalist Cheryl Spielman.

Photo: (left to right) Spencer Bruno (soprano saxophone) and Don Gerundo (accordion)