Mary Ann Covone and Johanna Beth Sennett Perform Original Compositions by Gorka Hermosa and Karen Fremar

September 30th 2024
Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor Accordion USA News

Mary Ann Covone and Johanna Beth Sennett will perform 2 original works written for flute and accordion: Gorka Hermosa’s “Anantango” and “Irreplaceable” by Karen Fremar – for the Western Springs Music Club on October 9, 2024 at 12:45  PM at the Western Springs Baptist Church.

From the Western Springs Music Club website: Mary Ann Covone is one of a handful of classical accordionists in the United States. She studied with the esteemed Joan Cochran Sommers and continues to play in an ensemble in Kansas City under the direction of Joan Cochran Sommers. Mary Ann was the President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild (ATG), International, an organization that strives to promote excellence in accordion teaching and playing at all levels in all genres.  Mary Ann is also a member of the Oak Park Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota, a professional music fraternity for women in the field of music.  

Johanna Beth Sennett and Mary Ann Covone

Mary Ann graduated with a Bachelor of Music Degree in Accordion Performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and has performed and taught extensively in the Chicago area for many years. She has presented programs that include classical, semi-classical and light pop and ethnic music.  Recently, Mary Ann performed with the West Suburban Orchestra and the Loyola University Orchestra in various Shostakovich works.  Mary Ann is also an attorney practicing in the areas of Estate Planning, Probate and Personal Injury. 

The  purpose of the Western Springs Music Club, founded in January of 1921 by Mrs. William Hilton when she invited eleven music-minded women from Western Springs and LaGrange to a friendly luncheon, is to promote the development of classical music in the vicinity. Informal at first, the women met in homes twice a month to enjoy live music presented by its members. These performances were followed by a social tea. The club eventually formed ensembles and choral groups, and in doing so, developed long-lasting friendships.

Over one hundred years later, many of these same activities keep the club as meaningful and vital as it is today. To maintain high standards, prospective performing members audition before a membership committee. Many of their performing members hold professional music degrees and are working-musicians who perform in a variety of Chicago area symphonic and choral ensembles. 

For further information: maryanncovone@gmail.com