To all our readers, accordion enthusiasts, clients, artists and supporters from around the world:

HAPPY NEW YEAR from all the staff of the USA News. Have a great, successful and musical NEW YEAR!

I like to begin each new year reminding us all that playing music at any level is a unique and special gift which we all possess. It is never too late to begin learning the accordion (or any instrument) and the joys, which include meeting new friends, are priceless. Think of all the wonderful people that you have met this past year because of the accordion. And, there are more to meet this year!

Here are your New Year’s Resolutions!

1. I promise to practice my accordion every day.

You can find at least 20 to 30 minutes a day to practice your accordion if you really want to. If you find time for watching the news on TV, or talking on your cell phone, enjoying your tablet, computer or just sitting on your couch, you can find the time to take your accordion out of its case! With a little effort, you will be pleasantly surprised with the results. Practicing your accordion is relaxing, a stress reliever and also good exercise! And you don’t need a doctor’s appointment or a prescription!

2. I promise to play my accordion for friends and family at least once a month (more often would be even better)!

Everyone who has ever seen me perform has always commented on the beauty and complexity of the instrument{ as if there were something very magical about playing the accordion. But it is magical, isn’t it?) Going to a family dinner or having the family and friends over?……. take out your accordion and play for them. No matter what your level of proficiency is……….people will be amazed by your playing and admire your commitment to learning the accordion. Share your music. Visit senior centers, nursery schools, etc.

3. I promise to learn at least one new song every month.

Try to expand your repertoire. It doesn’t have to be a concerto! What about a new popular song or one from the past that you always wanted to learn. Don’t have the music? Look it up on the Internet or e-mail your accordion friends. If you want the song…….. it is out there on the internet: however, if you really cannot find it, try to play it by ear, sound it out, write out the notes. It may take time, but it is a good experience to learn it on your own. It is possible, don’t be afraid to try it.

4. I promise to attend at least two or more accordion events in 2020.

There are many accordion festivals, concerts, accordion clubs etc. around the country. Search the USA News www.accordionusa.com each month and you will find an event in your area. Not only will you have a wonderful time listening to great accordionists, but you will be able to participate on any level from beginner to advanced. There will be accordion bands, ensembles, people who will enjoy meeting you and hearing about your experiences with the accordion. If you want to meet interesting people who share your love of the accordion, you will find them! You will not only hear great music but you will go away with new friends. Check out the calendar on the right side of the publication. You will see events listed by the month, location, websites, etc.

5. I will purchase at least two accordion CD’s. iTunes, books, sheet music, or DVD’s or accordion related item this year!

There are so many wonderful accordion CD’s. Search the Internet and you will find lists of accordion artists. It is important to show our support for these outstanding musicians by buying their music! Visit www.MusicForAccordion.com to find your favorite accordion items!

6. I promise to introduce the accordion to people who have never heard one before.

This is a special opportunity for you to expand the musical horizons of someone. The accordion is so versatile, found in cultures all over the world and running the gamut from folk to classical and everything in between! There is a visual fascination with the accordion that no other instrument can claim. How do we do it? Keys, buttons, bellows, It is a coordination of fine motor skills that places an accordionist at the top of the list of the Best Multitaskers in the World!

7. I will think about treating myself to a new accordion! Why not? When you have a new instrument, you sound better!! Well, some practice would also help.

8. I promise to read the USA News www.accordionusa.com every month and the Weekly News www.accordions.com regularly. All past publications are always available in AWW permanent archives.

9. I promise to get in shape this year!

Being in good physical health leads to a better mental and spiritual outlook on life. Watching your diet, losing weight, exercising are all positive and beneficial activities. Not only does it benefit your daily life, but also your musical abilities. Why is this true? As you may already know, playing the accordion requires upper body strength to lift the instrument to play and perhaps to stroll with. Using the bellows requires arm muscle movement, etc. The accordion puts positive physical stress on your back and your shoulders and therefore, back and shoulder exercises are important to maintain one’s alignment .You will feel better, look better, and play better! My suggestion: Take a photo of yourself/video of your playing the accordion. Get on a regular exercise program as well as a regular practice schedule. Take a photo/video of yourself three months later. You will notice a great improvement in your physical appearance and your musical performance. Let me know how it works for you.

10. I will continue to learn new techniques and improve my playing by taking accordion lessons. You can easily do this in this great age of technology. There are many fabulous accordion teachers who can easily teach you via Skype and other technology platforms. It is easy to do from the comfort of your own home.

11. I will reread Resolutions 1-11 again and again!

Let’s bring more kindness and good feelings to our world in 2020. A kind word goes very far to make someone feel better. Playing a song on your accordion for someone brings positivity and enjoyment. Don’t be shy. You do not have to be a virtuoso.

Happy New Year to All! Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2020!