Accordion Renaissance
A Virginia non-profit charity foundation which promotes the accordion by offering education, training and performance opportunities.
Accordion Renaissance presents a virtual live concert featuring renowned accordionist Stas Venglevski
Sunday, August 30, 2020
4 PM Eastern Daylight Time
The concert can be viewed HERE or HERE
While there’s no admission charge for this concert, donations are appreciated in order to enable Accordion Renaissance, a nonprofit institution based in Virginia, to continue presenting concerts of this caliber in the future. Donations may be made at https://accordren.org/donate/. Thank you!
Virtuoso accordionist Stas Venglevski’s artistry, sensitivity, and dazzling technical command make him one of the most sought after bayan players in the world. Stas will be playing music by Sergey Rachmaninoff, Isaak Albeniz, Ernesto Lecuona, Evgeny Derbenko, as well as Russian folk music and his original compositions. To learn more about Stas and his music, please visit his website, http://www.stasv.com/
For additional information please contact Jim Rice at
jimricevt@gmail.com or 757-880-3308
AR Youth Group Christmas “Ac-caroling”
The Accordren youth group was out spreading Christmas cheer at two locations on 12/22/19 – in front of Lokal and then at Sal’s. Our group attracted a variety of onlookers of different ages; from curious toddlers to reminiscing seniors whose first instrument was the accordion.
L-R: Sonara, Gianna, Michael, and Jim Rice (for support)
Accordion Renaissance Instrument Repair Workshop
On 19 October 2019 eight musicians attended a four-hour hands-on accordion repair workshop hosted by Accordion Renaissance in Williamsburg, Va. The workshop was taught by Dale Wise (60+ years experience) and Pat Racioppa (15 years experience).
The following topics were discussed and demonstrated during the morning session (2 hours):
Essential repair tools
What to look for, listen for when inspecting
Care and cleaning of instrument
Spot tuning reeds
Inspecting reed blocks
Waxing tips
How to straighten/replace leathers
What to check when traveling
On the job repair tips
The two-hour afternoon session consisted of repairing five instruments brought by the attendees. An excellent question and answer period closed out the workshop.
Accordion Renaissance will solicit other instrument repair organizations to create “best repair practices” and instructors with the goal of organizing and supporting future workshops.
Accordion Renaissance will host a private gala Oktoberfest 2:30 to 5pm on Sunday, Oct. 20th at the Mercury Entertainment Center, 227 E. Mercury Blvd, Hampton, VA 23669.
This will be a private event by e-invitation only. There is no charge, however a suggested donation of $5 per person and $10 per family is encouraged. A traditional Oktoberfest food plate will be available for purchase along with non alcoholic drinks, beer and wine.
Muzik will be provided by the ACCA Shriner’s Sauerkrauts German Band. Local accordionists will play during the reception and intermission. Sid, the Kid Sward will be our Master of Mischief. There will be dancing and raffle prizes. Festive attire and party favors will be available for purchase.
Benefits of Learning To Play the Accordion
Education, general academic improvement – Research has shown that people who learn music early in life achieve better academic results and learn to apply these skills to other aspects of their education.
Self-discipline, motivation and develops self-confidence – When a child masters a new skill, their confidence increases while their self-discipline and motivation is enhanced.
Concentration and creativity – Through music education the ability to concentrate increases creating improved memory skills. The versatility of the accordion instrument for many music styles lends itself to improvisation.
Being a part of a team – The accordion is a versatile and portable instrument whose features are easily included in ensembles, bands and orchestras. Being part of a musical group offers the student a lifetime of enjoyment as they have opportunities to link with their community.
Accordion Renaissance offers special programs and support to (including accordions for students!) students, parents. teachers, and the local community . We accept donated accordions in support of our programs. Contact accordion.renaissance@gmail.com for information on any of our programs.
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Our 17 March 2019 concert was made possible by funds provided by the Williamsburg Area Arts Commission