Bruce Gassman is an integral part of the Jersey Shore, the area that has produced Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Southside Johnny and many many others. When asked, Bruce commented, “I truly enjoying playing the music I grew up with and love for a whole new audience.I have seen a whole new appreciation for the accordion here at the Jersey Shore.” Bruce continues to generously donate his musical talents to many charitable organizations.
Accordionist Bruce Gassman will perform in the NY/NJ area in the next few weeks including August 4th, Saturday evening at 7:30 PM at Zachary’s in West Long Branch, New Jersey. It will be an evening of great music with Stormin’ Norman Seldin, Phil Rizzo, and Pam McCoy.
Bruce has been an important part of the Holiday Express Benefits for many years.
He will appear at the 2012 Holiday Express Sunset Benefit Clambake Sunday, September 23 at 5:PM on the beach at McLoone’s Pier House, One Ocean Avenue, Long Branch, NJ. There will be an open bar and lavish buffet including lobster, filet and raw bar. Entertainment by the many talented musicians of the Holiday Express Band. Attire is casual so attendees can ditch the tuxedos, ball gowns, and heels for shorts, sun dresses and sandals.
Bruce will participate in the Holiday Express Concert on December 13, 2012 at the Count Basie Theatre. Red Bank, NJ. Tickets to the general public go on sale August 10, 2012. Contact the box office for more info.
Founded in 1993 by Tim McLoone, Holiday Express is a grass roots, non-sectarian, registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It is comprised of more than 1,300 volunteers – including 80+ professional musicians – Holiday Express delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to adults and children who are physically and mentally disabled, living with AIDS or homeless, as well as the isolated elderly and others in need.
During the past months, Bruce has maintained a busy schedule. Some of his performances included: Special guest solo performer at the 16th annual Twilight Concert in Rumson, NJ to benefit the Aids Resource Foundation for Children; soloist during the Asbury Park Restaurant Week;Holiday Express for the Metheny Special School Prom. Bruce recently was a special guest at the live taping of The Big Joe Henry Variety Show at Mcloone’s Supper Club in Asbury Park.
Bruce was the first accordion soloist to perform at the Wonder Bar for Light of Day Foundation. In its 11th year, the 23 Light of Day Foundation shows, which are held in 13 countries in Europe, Canada & the United States, raises money for funding research into possible cures and improved treatments and support for patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease and related illnesses. And of course, Bruce is already counting the days till next November and his 5th season with Holiday Express.
Bruce has also played for the Pay It Forward Benefit. Founded in 2000 by Catherine Ryan Hyde (author of the Pay it Forward novel), the Pay It Forward Foundation is a non-profit organization that leads a worldwide movement committed to inspiring, recognizing, and celebrating the kindness and gratitude of individuals who simply choose to pay it forward.
Bruce traveled throughout the Tri-State area last winter bringing more than 50 “interactive private parties” to clients who might otherwise be overlooked during the holiday season. The events included a rock ‘n’ roll band, costumed characters, choreographed parodies, crafts, games, food, good cheer, gifts and lots of hugs! Among the many places that Bruce entertained were: Mt. Carmel Guild, St. Joseph’s School for the Blind, Catholic Charities-Partners in Recovery, Woodbine Developmental Center, Ancora Psychiatric Hospital, Red Bank Town Lighting, Passaic County Elks Cerebral Palsy High School, Trinity Soup Kitchen, and many more. There was also an additional public performance at the magnificent NJ Performing Arts Center in Newark.
Bruce Gassman has traveled all over the USA, presenting workshops, performing and conducting at accordion concerts and festivals. In 2011, his events included the National Accordion Association (NAA) Convention in Dallas; MAMTG/AAMS in North Jersey; the Accordionists and Teachers Guild, International (ATG) in Orlando; the Historic Wallace, Idaho Accordion Festival and the Las Vegas International Accordion Convention.
Bruce’s new CD will be released later this month –
“Classic Rock Accordion 2 Bruce” Vol. II
Thank you to Bruce Gassman who enjoys sharing his unique accordion skills with so many less fortunate people during the holiday season and at other times. He definitely brings many moments of happiness, peace and joy. He is a great example of how we can share our musical talents.
Photo of Bruce Gassman by John Posada
For further info: info@accordion2bruce.com
