Amazing events are happening in the accordion world! In January 2011, the 5th Annual Frank Marocco Accordion Event (FMAE) took place in Mesa, Arizona, 2011 FMAE Report.

60 lucky accordionists had the privilege of performing in an accordion orchestra conducted by jazz artist, Frank Marocco. Additionally, we all celebrated his 80th birthday with Frank, accordion friends, and his beautiful and talented family.

We were treated to memorable performances from artists including Frank Marocco, of course, and Jazz great, FMAE guest artist, Eddie Monteiro. Listening to both of them playing wonderful jazz solos and duets was like being in “Accordion Heaven”.

Who do we all owe a huge thanks to?……Joan and Dan Grauman of Maryland who, for the past 5 years, have focused their time, energy, and love of the accordion into arranging the Frank Marocco Accordion Event (FMAE) with Frank as conductor, performer, composer, and arranger. It is a sold out event every year. Thank you, Joan and Dan!!!!

Additional fantastic accordionists present were: Stas Venglevski, John Simkus, Amy Jo Sawyer and Vladimir Mollov. Plus many others that you will read about in an upcoming article, 2011 FMAE Report.

Elke Ahrenholz of Victoria Accordions attended with her family. She surprised Frank at his 80th Birthday Concert with a wonderful gift that she organized: The newly released CD, “Frank Marocco´s Ultimate Jazz Accordion Collection – 50 years of great music in one double Album”. Yes, you can order it! Do not miss out on buying it!

Additional stories, with photos of Frank and his accordion friends will be online here early in the week. Check out USA News for these new articles.

If you want to know what is happening in the accordion world, make sure you check the USA News several times during the month for late breaking updates.

Too cold and snowy outside? Then stay home, practice your accordion, and read the February USA News.

Note: My performance of the “Manhattan Concerto” on February 8th has been postponed until a future date.