October Festival – Artists
GRAN GALA DI APERTURA
KHORAKHANÈ
The Khorakhanè Group is composed of musicians with musical backgrounds in jazz, the classical, rock and songwriter music: all music professionals. The group was founded in 2001, initially with the aim to reproduce the public the beautiful songs that have immortalized one of the most important Italian singers and songwriters: Fabrizio De Andrè. In the following years is then developed a style and sound personal, original and interesting, which led to the realization of previously unreleased songs, bringing a new image to the group. The Khorakhanè perform immediately in the national reviews, important theaters and local, always enjoying a great consensus of critics and audiences, due not only to the quality of the repertoire but also the technical skills and expressive components, and personal arrangements and beautiful songs suggested. This leads them to perform throughout Italy, Poland and Switzerland. In April 2002, during a demonstration in Cesena, the group has had the honor of accompanying musical DARIO FO in his monologue. The group continues to work on original projects, feeling more closer the image of tribute band that is gradually abandoned in favor of a new definitive image of bands emerging at the national level. In 2007 the Khorakhanè participate in the 57th edition of Sanremo Festival by winning the 2nd Prize of Criticism and the same year also receive the PIM award for best group of independent Italian music, the prize “La Stampa 2007″ as the best representative group of 2007 handed to the Grand Gala of Tourism in Sanremo, the prize MEI as “Best Indie-Pop Group” of 2007.
Khorakhanè: Luca Medri, piano, keyboards and accordion
Fabrizio Coveri, voice
Pier David Fanti, drum
Gioele Sindona, violin
Matteo Scheda, guitars and vocals
Massimo Selvi, bass
SERATE DI GALA
QUINTET MAULUS
Talent and friendship is what has united from the beginning the members of Quartet Maulus: “the brothers Maulus” to the accordions, Philippe Mérien on drums and bass with Patrick Vassort. Through original compositions and arrangements and standards of high quality, these four artists express their personality and passion in handing out the universe of the accordion with that of the swing. An artistic complicity that makes the show rich of other times atmosphere.
Quintet Maulus:
Alonso Vasquez, percussion
David Maulus, accordion
Lionel Maulus, accordion
Philippe Merien, battery
Patrick Vassort, double bass
RENZO RUGGIERI
In his first years of study, he wins numerous national and international competitions and then dedicates himself to concert activities, which take him to many countries even out side of Europe (Brazil, Spain, Germany, U.K., France, Slovakia, USA, Iceland, Russia, Mexico, etc.). He obtains a diploma for “piano jazz” at CPM (Milan) under Franco D’Andrea in 1993. Now a full time musician, he’s president of Club Voglia D’Arte, a national organization of private music schools. He has written many educational texts for important music publishers and articles for specialist magazines. Renzo has realized the first, entirely improvised, CD for accordion with the “Solo Accordion Project”. He plays “italian jazz” with the “Renzo Ruggieri Group” (with Paolo Di Sabatino, Massimo Manzi, Massimo Moriconi) and recorded 4 CD’s whit them. The last of these was with the extraordinary Antonella Ruggiero for which they have also realized the arrangements and accompanied in biggest Italian Festival of Sanremo 2007. Founder and director of the “Piccola Orchestra Moderna” with whom he has written the music for 10 theatrical shows also for the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. Actually he’s founded “Renzo Ruggieri Big Band”. Collaborations with: Enrico Rava, Franco Cerri, Lino Patruno, Gianni Coscia, Art Van Damme, Ares Tavolazzi, Peppino Principe, Bruno De Filippi, Gianni Cazzola, Jim Gailoreto, Ada Montellanico, Fabrizio Bosso, Michael Supnick, Ellade Bandini, Stefano Cocco Cantini, Paolo Damiani e ancora Piera Degli Esposti, Antonio Calenda, Germano Mazzocchetti, Davide Riondino, Judith Malina, David Haughton, Roberto Herlitzka, Sergio Caputo, Fabio Concato, Morgan, Dolcenera, Simone Cristicchi, Tonino Guerra, Monica Guerritore, Tonino Guerra. Currently he is artistic director of Dolci Romori Jazz Festival, Pineto Accordion Jazz Festival and Accordion Art Festival.
LINDA
Young and talented Italian artist, in 1995 he won the 2nd prize of the critics at the National Competition “A new Italian voice” (Milano), First Prize in the 2000 at the National Competition “New Voices”. In 2002 he won the award “Mia Martini Young people for Europe” (Bagnara Calabra). Great exploits in 2004, ranked 3rd in the 54th “Festival of Sanremo” with the song “Aria, sole, terra e mare” and winner of the 3rd edition of the Festival of Mediterranean in Fethiye (Turkey). He has participated in many television programs including Domenica In, Giornata Mondiale della Gioventù con Papa Giovanni Paolo II, 50 Canzonissime, Sanremo Nel Mondo, Music Farm, I Raccomandati.
TSUUMI SOUND SYSTEM
Tsuumi Sound System is an energetic eight-piece musical band from Finland. Combine the various genres of Finnish folk music with European folk influences, a taste of acoustic jazz, tango and samba, a little Balkan edge, and you have a unique mixture dangerously addictive.
Diversity is an essential characteristic of the band, along with well-crafted compositions, innovative instrumentation and intense live performances. The players, who all share a wide array of influences, make the music interesting, brilliant and organic.
Founded in the late 1990s, Tsuumi Sound System was initially an integral part of the Tsuumi Dance Company. Their biggest show off together was at the Eurovision Song Contest 2007 with their intermission act in the semifinals which was broadcasted internationally. Today, the musicians tour internationally on their own, with a gig-counter already running on four-figure numbers.
With Hotas (Aito Records, 2007), the group’s fifth album, the eight-piece band provide a wealth of musical riches, and producer Roger Tallroth (Vasen) has brought a truly masterful touch to the sound. The highly-regarded World Music magazine Songlines has chosen Hotas as their Top of the World album of the month in January 2008.
In Finland, the album was nominated for the Teosto award (The Finnish Composers&Copyright Society) 2008. New album Growing Up is out in the Summer 2009.
Both delicacy and energy are at the appointment and bring the listener on a new musical journey full of emotions and deep feelings.
Tsuumi Sound System:
Hannu Kella – accordion
Esko Järvelä – fiddle, viola
Tommi Asplund – fiddle
Pilvi Talvitie – piano, harmonium
Jussi Nikula – percussion, drums
Tarmo Anttila – double bass
Joakim Berghäll – saxophones, additional percussion
Jani Kivelä – guitar, cittern
RENZO RUGGIERI ORCHESTRA
The Orchestra born in 1993 under the name “Piccola Orchestra Moderna” for the realization of music for theatrical performances for important festivals (“Taormina Arte” 1997, “Teatro dell’Opera di Roma” 2001). With the recent name “Renzo Ruggieri Orchestra” has made important original shows (“Kramer Project”, “Canzoni fra le Guerre”, “Confini Labili”, “Napule è 1000 Culure”).
Among the guests with whom he collaborated: Antonella Ruggiero, Linda, Franco Cerri, Bruno De Filippi. With “Kramer Project”, a play on the music of the great Gorni Kramer alternating famous tracks in video projections, the Renzo Ruggieri Orchestra plays exclusively the arrangements manuscripts or transcribed from the original disks of the great master.
Renzo Ruggieri, conductor, accordion
Massimo Moriconi, bass
Massimo Manzi, drums
Mauro De Federicis, guitar
Samuele Garofoli, trumpets
Alessandro Di Bonaventura, trumpets
Sabatino Di Donatantonio, trombones
Francesco Di Giulio, trombones
Fabrizio Mandolini, sax
Gianluca Caporale, sax
Alessandro Di Rocco, sax
Riccardo Maggitti, sax
ATMOSFERE FOLK
MARKO MANIN
Born in Trieste in 1992. Began playing the piano and organ at age four. Later he began studying the chromatic accordion and classical. In 2001 meets the world champion of diatonic accordion Denis Novato and began the study of the diatonic accordion. In 2006 he performed as the first accordionist in the Slovenian parliament in the capital, Ljubljana, where he played for the President of the Republic of Slovenia and all the ministers. Has performed tournèe in Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, South Tyrol and Italy. Participated this year at the international competition for classical and diatonic accordion organized by the most famous folk music group in Europe “Avsenik\”, and won the first prize. In the month of June 2009 he recorded his first CD dedicated to “Slavko Avsenik”, the most famous accordion player of the folk music.
MARKO MANIN TRIO
The trio was born in Trieste in March on the occasion of the recording of the CD. The other two components of the group are two young Slovenian musicians: Patrick Jamnik at the guitar and Alen Ojcinger at the bass. The group performs music Tyrolean, Austrian, Slovenian, folk songs of Trieste and typical songs of northern Italy.
Marko Manin, accordion
Patrick Jamnik, chitarra
Alen Ojcinger , basso
ASSOCIAZIONE FOLKLORICA “CITTÀ DI MATELICA”
The Folk Association “Città di Matelica” was founded in 1966 in our town by keen fellow townsmen of folk customs with the aim of rediscovering, enhancing and handing down to future generations local traditions and customs.
The folklore of the Marches gathers 100 years of history (from the XIX to the XX century) and it mainly represents the folklore of Matelica as well as the upper areas of Macerata province.
A leap into bygone days which allows us to rediscover moments of like belonging to that time and basically linked to field work, marked by the rhythm of nature, and to the village festivals which were rare occasions of healthy fun.
GIULIANO CAMELI
Fell in love with the small diatonic accordion when he was only four years old, immediately showing his talent for playing the instrument. Cameli later went on to win all the Italian Diatonic accordion competitions.
In addition to the Diatonic instrument, Cameli studied both Piano and Chromatic accordions, and after several years of study began composing for the accordion.
In 1984 he wrote his first book for two and four bass Diatonic accordions, along with other music collections, all of which are published by MC “BERBEN” Ed. Castelfidardo, Italy, the accordion capital of the world, named Cameli the “Prince” of the Diatonic Accordion, and also appointed him “WorldAmbassador” for the Diatonic Accordion.
ln 1988 Cameli won the World Diatonic Accordion Championship hosted by the C.D.M.I. and C.M.A. (now A.M.I.S.A.L.). The following year he was invited to South Africa for a concert in Johannesburg. He is also a featured TV artist in the World Festival of Nations, transmitted worldwide, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Egypt, Mexico, Spain, Luxembourg, Germany, France, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Venezuela and Canada.
In 1994 Cameli created the “GIU-CAM” system; the smallest complete professional instrument on the market. It is an extraordinary Diatonic accordion, made according to Cameli’s plans. In 2004 he launched a new generation of Diatonic Accordions with 2-4 Registers of up to 12 basses and relative minors in collaboration with the Beltuna Company and uses the Musictech Q-Link Midi System and MT03-D Microphones in his accordion.
CANTO D’INIZIO
The Piccola Orchestra of popular music “Canto d’Inizio” is engaged in research and revived the themes of music and dances of the Italian folk tradition since 2001. Range and type, covers almost all of the tools used in Italian folk music, going from known plectrum instruments such as mandolin, mandola and mandoloncello, to the bouzouki, an instrument of Greek origin that because of its Mediterranean sounds well within the context of Italian traditional music, the Calabrian lyre whose origins are lost in the lands belonged to the Magna Greece. Stringed instruments includes, in addition, the guitar swing, home made, double bass, violin and guitar, classical guitar or French. Another family of instruments well represented in the group are the aerophones reed free: the e diatonics and accordions. The bagpipe, another archaic instrument, is present in two varieties, from Lazio and from Molise, and still flutes and the large group of percussion, frame drums and tammorre, Idiophones such as “serra serra”, the “traccele of Pollino”, the typical friction drum “bufù” from Molise, the “cupa cupa” drum of origins Calabro-Lucane, as well as bells and rattles that make up the special effects group. In addition to the more strictly musical spectacle of Piccola Orchestra of popular music “Canto d’Inizio”, is complemented by a dance troupe composed of members of the group who followed over the years, a path of improvement in the past and the gestures, gained from participation in courses and stages, followed throughout the national territory, with the participation, in person, at festivals in different regions of south-central Italy, learning the dance in this way directly from elderly dancers of the place, custodians of a priceless asset. Dances such as “tammuriata of Campania”, the “tarantella Calabrese”, the “tarantella of Gargano”, the “pizzica of Salento”, the “tarantella of Montemarano” are performed on their musical themes, with great audience participation.
MUSIC REALITY SHOW
TOMMASO ARENA
Born in 1987, undertook a self-taught accordion studies at the age of 6 years, after which he enrolled at the Conservatory “Fausto Torrefranca” of Vibo Valentia, under the guidance of M° Mario Milani, graduating with honors, and praise honors.
Participates in several courses, competitions, concerts and festivals arousing great interest. In 2002 he ranked second on the first international contest European musical “Città d’Acri”; in 2003 was ranked first in II European competition international musical “Città d’Acri”. Was also able to be appreciated beyond the territory of Calabria performing solo concerts in Catania for the Musical association Rotary Club and with various instrumental combinations in Brescia for the Musical Association Isola and in Greece (Athens).
He has worked as a soloist with the orchestras of Pizzo Calabro and Limonest. He has recorded for the label FIRE MUSIC the CD Edupatès for accordion and oboe, and has made recordings on behalf of Vatican Radio and for the music publishing Physa. Currently he’s improving with M° Mario Stefano Pietrodarchi and teaches accordion at the Institute of Davoli Marina (CZ).
GIUSEPPE GUALTIERI
Born in 1988 in Catanzaro, begins since young, at the age of 7 years, to undertake at a private music school studying accordion and piano.
At the age of 14 years continuing their studies at the Conservatory “Fausto Torrefranca” of Vibo Valentia under the guidance of M° Mario Milani. He has worked with several folk groups and with the group of ethnic music “NORILET”, with whom he performed in numerous Italian and foreign places and stages (Sanremo, Milano, Ventimiglia, Padova, Trentino Alto Adige, Austria, Switzerland, France) made numerous recordings. Currently attending the course in Composition of M° Francesco Antonioni and the eighth year of Accordion under the guidance of Maestro Mario Stefano Pietrodarchi part in various courses, competitions and reviews from the audience receiving always a great and active interest.
He taught accordion at the Institute of Juvenile Criminal of Catanzaro. He performed also record on behalf of television channels from Calabria “Video Calabria” and “Telejonio”. It was classified third to the first Competition of European Music city of Philadelphia (VV).
NEDA VASILIC
Was born on 1986 in Kragujevac (Serbia). Her first contact with accordion was when she was nine years old, and she complete elementary music school in Kragujevac in the class of prof. Radenka Ristic and prof. Bojan Spica.
In 2001 she entered High Musical School, in the class of prof. Bojan Spica, with whom she was successfully cooperating in next four years. Proofs of her great potential and affirmation wish are her great achievements obtained in the country and abroad: III place on International competition “Petar Konjovic” in Belgrade (1998); I place on International competition in Novi Kneževac (2003); II place on republican competition for chamber music (duo accordion and violin) in Belgrade (2004); I place on the first international competition “Star ways” in Kragujevac (2004); II place on the International competition “Concorso internazionale Città di Castelfidardo” (2004) in Italy; I place on the International competition “Days of accordion-Smederevo” (2005).
In 2005 she entered Philological artistic university (FILUM) in Kragujevac on the section for accordion, in class of Radomir Tomic, and she continued with concert and competitors activities. At the university, she had piano lessons with one of the best pianist and pedagogist in Serbia, Sanja Vukosavljevic Milenic. During all this years of musical education, Neda has very rich concert activities, not only with classic music program, also like a pop singer and player.
For three years, she is working as a teacher of accordion, and she had a great collaboration with her students. Her students won first prizes at many international competitions in Serbia and abroad.
MUSICA PER L’AQUILA
VINCENZO ABBRACCIANTE
Born in Ostuni (BR) in 1983. He is the musician son of a family of accordionists. He started studying from a very young age under his father Franco and in a short time had already won several national competitions. In the year 2000 he won the “25° City Of Castelfidardo International Trophy”, in the Junior Variety Category and in 2003 the 53° World Accordion Trophy in the Senior Variety Category.
Since the year 2000 he has been the demonstrator of Borsini Accordions of Castelfidardo.
Vincenzo has played with: Lucio Dalla, Marc Ribot, Gaetano Partipilo, Carlo Actis Dato, Vito Di Modugno, Orchestra Ico della Magna Grecia, Vincenzo Deluci, Roberto Ottaviano, Pippo Ark D’Ambrosio, Nando Di Modugno, Enzo Cavalli, Walter Grassman, Hannes Strasser, Alexander Meik, Paolo Romano, Antonio Tosquez and Mario Rosini.
Richard Galliano, talking of young accordionists in a French magazine called Jazzman, said: “I am impressed most of all by a young Italian from the Puglia area: his name is Vincenzo Abbracciante. Every tune he plays creates a new story and he really touches me”.
JEAN MARC FABIANO
Conductor, concert player, accordionist and teacher of the conservatory. From 1979 al 1987 studies musical form, harmony, and counterpoint at the departmental school of music of the THOR and in 1991 obtains the D.E.U.G. of Musicology at the University of Aix-en-Provence. Taught accordion at the council school of music of Venissieux (1990-1991), at the council schools of musics of Rognac and Fare Olive-trees (1990-1995), at the Academy of Alpilles (1990-1996). In 1995 he has taught the class of accordion at the C.N.R., Marseilles, and this prominent teaching position has also meant being invited to the jury of many contests, both national and international. Has participated in numerous international competitions and festivals, including: winner of the of the International Contest of Klingenthal Prize (1984), 1st prize winner of the international contest of Klingenthal, 1st prize winner of the World Trophy in Andorra (1987). In 1997 he formed a duet with the tenor Marc FILOGRASSO and has performed in U.S.A, Switzerland, Russia, Italy, Spain, Germany.
CLAUDIO JACOMUCCI
Claudio Jacomucci’s work has contributed to develop innovative accordion performing techniques, to increase and emancipate its contemporary literature and to introduce his instrument into diverse artistic scenes. His musical interestest includes Contemporary, electro-acustic, XX century, baroque, ethnic and traditional, improvisation, multimedia and border music. He has premiered a number of new works collaborating with composers such as Luciano Berio, Gyorgy Kurtag, Franco Donatoni, Boris Porena, Luis De Pablo (who often dedicated their work to him) and as a composer himself. He has been performing in Europe, USA, China, Mexico, Russia in many festivals and istitution such as Cornell University (USA), Berlin Philharmonie (Germany), Salle Messiaen (Paris), Teatro alla Scala (Milan), Gaudeamus Foundation (Amsterdam), Synthese Festival (Bourges), Nuova Consonanza (Rome), Sala Chavez – Unam (Mexico), Sibelius Academy (Helsinki) to name a few.
He’s runing an intense pedagogic activity developing and promoting an original approach in teaching based on the principles of the Alexander Technique, on the most advanced accordion schools (Scandinavian, Russian, French) and on his own experience. He is the founder and teacher of the Italian Accordion Academy in Urbino and he holds masterclasses all over the World: Conservatory in Barcelona (Spain), Sibelius Academy (Finland), Yoliztli School (Mexico), Tianjin’s Conservatory (China), Cracow Music Academy (Poland), Artez Conservatory Enschede (Netherlands), a.o.
He has also played with Francesco Dillon, Marco Cappelli, Diego Conti, Michel Godard, Gabriele Mirabassi, Pierre Favre, Joel Rubin, Contrastango, AlterEgo and a soloist with Scala Theatre Orchestra (Milano), Haydn Orchestra (Bolzano) Filarmonica Marchigiana, Ostrobothnian Chamber Trio (Finland), Sinfonietta del Teatro Lirico Cagliari. Since 2002 he works with Kathleen Delaney (choreographer and dancer) exploring the fronteers of dance and music creation in its diverse aspects: live interactions, electro-acustic music and video-dance.
ALESSANDRO ESPOSTO e SARA PORFIRI
A pair of professionals dancing together for 14 years. Technical directors and teachers at the Diablo Team Marche Association. Achieved many successes in the course of their careers, thanks to great passion for dancing. In 2003 obtained the title of European Champions of Argentine Tango. In 2006 they become part of Spanish tango company led by Leo Calvelli and Eugenia Usandivaras, performing with the show “Conceptango” in the best theaters in Spain. Dancing with famous tango orchestras doing tours throughout Italy and abroad.
LUCIANO BIONDINI
Born in Spoleto in 1971, Luciano Biondini started studying the accordion seriously at age 10. He has been awarded many prizes for classical accordion, e.g. Trophée Mondial de l’Accordéon and Premio Internazionale di Castelfidardo.
Since his turning to jazz in 1994, Biondini has played with the likes of Rabih Abou-Khalil, Dave Bargeron, Javier Girotto, Michel Godard, Battista Lena, Gabriele Mirabassi, Enrico Rava, Tony Scott and many others.
A true master of his instrument and a soloist with an overwhelming dramaticism, he always adds something beautiful and original to any context he works in.
His versatile accordion playing can be heard on the following albums (among others): “Morton’s Foot” (Rabih Abou-Khalil), “Latakia Blend” (Gabriele Mirabassi), “TubaTuba” & “TubaTubaTu” (Michel Godard & Dave Bargeron).
For “Terra Madre”, his 2005 duo album with Argentinian sax player Javier Girotto, Biondini received enthusiastic reviews: “What he does is breathtaking, extremely virtuosic and fresh, a sensual/artificial parforce trip. Intense, impulsive and dramatic” (Jazz thing).
GIUSEPPE DELRE
Singer, composer and teacher Giuseppe Delre he graduated in Singing, Vocal Chamber Music and Jazz Music with honors from the Conservatory of Music “N. Rota”of Monopoli. He also achieved the highest marks and praise and applause of the Academic Degree Committee of the Level II in Jazz Music at the Conservatory “N. Piccinni”in Bari with a thesis on experimental music by Cole Porter. At the same Conservatory works as a Pop singing teacher in the Music Department of Jazz. Plays an intense concert activity in Italy and abroad (Hungary, Belgium, Holland, USA, etc) having general approval of critics and audiences. He has participated in various festivals and jazz festivals including Pescara Blues, 1st Jazz Festival of Gallipoli, Argonauti Jazz (2004 and 2005); Orsara Jazz Festival 2006; Lauria jazz festival 2006; Talos Festival 2006; Teano Winter Jazz 2006; Fasano Jazz 2007. It is a soloist for several orchestras and music big band led by major masters, including Renato Serio. It has been host to several TV shows (Battiti-TN; Kalendario-Dune, etc.). He has held concerts “Pro Unicef” and “Pro Emergency”.
SERGIO PETRONIO
He began studying accordion at the age of eleven, a prelude to a life and a passion for music and teaching that will lead him to divide between Italy, particularly in the city of L’Aquila, and France. In 1984 he enters in the Institute of Music in Chambéry (Savoie) in the class of Maestro André Thepaz studying accordion and other instruments. From 1984 to 1987 directs with master Thierry Bouclier the Accordion School of Annemasse in France. Deepens in Corsica studying accordion and interpretation with performance in musical concerts. In 1987, he returned to Italy and opens in L’Aquila the School of Accordion. In 1994, prepares students for stage and concerts in France. Since 1996 organizes every year with the Association an international accordion meeting in L’Aquila with concert players world famous as Alexander Skliarov, Sacha Chmikov, Cristina Rossi, the Trio Astria, William Garein, Tiziano Chiapelli, Jean-Louis Noton, Valerie e Frederic Guerouet, Marcel Loeffler, Mandino Reinhardt and many others. Since 2000 is part of an international charity for the accordionists of Madagascar. In 2000 creates the “Fisorchestra Aquilana”. In 2002 took part in several concerts with the quartet “Arco in blues” under the direction of Maestro Raffaello Angelini, while in 2004 takes part in concerts with the group “Castrum Quartet”. Since 2005 collaborates with the CNIMA directed by M° Jacques Mornet.
BABY MUSIC CLUB
ANDREA NASPI
Andrea Naspi was born in Loreto (Italy) the 1st March 1979. At the age of 5 years old received from Santa Claus his first instrument, very similar to an accordion called “clavietta”… He had a lot of fun playing and his father after 1 year would like to insert him in a course of Piano… Fortunately after 4 years he started to play accordion. After the first years of study he tried to insert the accordion into the pop music. In 1996 exhausted of this experience he started to discover the original classic music for accordion helped by a very good teacher, accordionist and concertist: Cesare Chiacchiaretta. He discovered a new music world: “the accordion has never played in this way before”- Andrea said! After two years he started to play accordion in a dance-orchestra making many exhibition in his region until 2001. In 2000 he made his first graduation in accordion at the Conservatory “G. B. Pergolesi” in Fermo and after he started to play as soloist in different contests in Italy. He made one course of study with Sergio Scappini, a very famous italian player and in 2004 he frequented a workshop in Montreaux (Switzerland) with Peter Soave, a famous jazz american accordion player. This experience was very interesting for him and he entered in the magic world of Jazz starting to play Standard Jazz compositions. During these years he partecipated to the following competitions winning the following prizes: 1st Prize at the International Accordion Competition – Capistrello (2002) 2nd Prize at the International Competition “Gorni Kramer”– Poggio Rusco(MN) (2002) 3rd Prize “ADAMO VOLPI” at the Competition “Città di Loreto (AN)” (2002) In 2003 he played during a fantastic tournée in South Germany (South Bavaria): it was his first demo-tournée and people appreciated very much the talent of this young boy! In Tokyo he performed during the International Accordion Festival in 2005. He received many compliments from the audience. In the same year he had also a small tournée in Japan playing in the cities Narita and Hamamatsu. In 2007 he had a very good and interesting experience-tourneée in Australia (Perth, West Australia and Adelaide, South Australia). Especially in Adelaide he made a very good performance during the Italian Carnaval Festival: many Australian people were happy to listen his art, especially audience said:“Andrea Naspi was very kind to play us melodies, songs and music of different style…” “…this young accordion player but expert and poliedric helped us to appreciate and discover this fantastic instrument…”
MUSIC & CO
GENNARO RUFFOLO
M° Gennaro Ruffolo was born in Cosenza in 1977 and started studying the accordion from the age of 7, first with il M° Giacomo Carrisi and then with M° Paolo Gallina. Then he improved with M° Carmine Di Marco, World Oscar in Composition, in Los Angeles.
At 17 he gains the “leone d’argento” – Silver Lion award at the “Tommaso Coccione” Composition Competition in Poggio Fiorito (CH) with the composition “MUSETTE A’ PARIS” published by Bèrben of Ancona He has taken part in over fifty national and international competitions always classified in the top places.
He gained a diploma for classical accordion in 1995 with a vote of 10 with honours in the C.D.M.I. of Capistrello (AQ) directed by M° Carmine Di Marco and presented by WOLMER BELTRAMI.
GIANNI MIRIZZI
He started studying music at the age of 8.
He took part in various accordion contests, gaining top placing at the age of only 10. In that same period, meeting M° Pino Di Modugno made his love for the accordion grow even more.
For many years now though, he has dedicated all his time to the accordion and is perfecting his technique under the guidance of M° Giancarlo Caporilli.
He teaches accordion and solfeggio in several schools in Rome apart from his own, devoting himself also to concert playing.
For years he has been playing popular dance, latin-american as well as classic music with his orchestra in the most important dance halls in Rome.
He is the author of several light music, latin-american and solo accordion tunes and collaborates with the music publishers Edizioni Musicali Berbén, Physa, Barvin, Bagutti and Musicomania.
STEFANO DI STURCO
Born in 1976 in Colleferro (RM). He began studying accordion with Maestro Bruno Continence of Rome and 12 years old already playing in local with orchestras of pop music alternating work to the study of classical pieces and music theory. In 1992, at the age of 16 years old, graduated in theory and solfeggio at the Conservatory “Refici” in Frosinone. At the age of 22 years was introduced in the Roman song field and has the chance to make contact with important artists representatives of this genre such as Alvaro Amici and his children Fabrizio, Corrado e Riccardo. Since 2004 he is the artistic director and head of the musicians of the “Festival di San Giovanni”, famous race tracks Roman unreleased born at the end of ’800.
SIMONE ZANCHINI
Graduated with honors in classical accordion at the Conservatorio “G. Rossini” in Pesaro. Eclectic instrumentalist, performs an intense concert activity with groups of varied musical extraction (improvisation, contemporary music, jazz and classical). Accordionist of the most interesting and innovative in the international scene, his search moves between the boundaries of contemporary, acoustic and electronic music and the sound experimentation, resulting in a very personal approach to the subject improvised. He has performed in numerous events and festivals in Italy (Clusone Jazz, Ruvo di Puglia, Tivoli Jazz, Berchidda, Sant’Anna Arresi, Barga Jazz, Mara Jazz, Vignola, Ravenna Festival, Rossini Opera Festival, Roccella Jonica, Joung Jazz) and also performed at major international festivals (France, Austria, Germany, England, Holland, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia, Spain, Russia, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Lebanon, India, Japan). Has played with many internationally famous musicians: Thomas Clausen, Gianluigi Trovesi, Javier Girotto, Marco Tamburini, Massimo Manzi, Tamara Obrovac, Krunoslav Levacic, Vasko Atanasovski, Paolo Fresu, Bruno Tommaso, Ettore Fioravanti, Mario Marzi, Stefano De Bonis, Michele Rabbia, Giovanni Maier, Frank Marocco, Andrea Dulbecco, Antonello Salis, Han Bennink, Art Van Damme, Adam Nussbaum, Jasper Soffers. Collaborates from the ’99 with Soloists of Orchestra of “Teatro alla Scala” in Milan, which performs regularly toured all over the world. Is currently working on some projects that fuse his interests in contemporary music, first of all Elettronico Trio (A. Alessi and Mirko Sabatini). Recently published the disc “Meglio Solo…!” (Silta records) project for acoustic accordion, midi and laptops and the “Quintetto Fuga per Art” tribute to Art Van Damme and Frank Marocco.
FABRIZIO AMICI
Fabrizio Amici was born in 1962. Heir of his father, the renowned Alvaro Amici. Several albums released, interpreter in “Roma 70” and “La Nave” of Fellini and several other films and television series. Several TV programs dedicated to Fabrizio broadcasts in particular “Ci Vediamo in TV”, “Uno Mattina”, “La Vita in Diretta”, “Compagni di Scuola”. His music has accompanied and still accompanies around the theaters important Italian actors like Enrico Montesano and Renato Pozzetto. In 2004 lands in Moscow at the “DOM MUSIC” enjoying an unexpected success. He is currently engaged in an intense musical activity on tour to Italy.
VINCENZO BARBALARGA
Likes to define himself “performer”. For years he toured Italy playing with numerous bands of the capital by offering various musical genres. Then in 1990 he began a new work experience as a soloist for the dance music. At the same time, works as a copyist for several national and international music publishing houses until they became convinced to set up a new publishing house. Since 1998 Vincenzo Barbalarga, owner of “BARVIN Edizioni Musicali”, dedicates his work to the promotion of songwriters and diffusion of works for accordion.
ON STAGE EVENT
RICCARDO TADDEI
He began studying piano at the age of six years under the guidance of his father who was also a musician. At twelve he discovered his passion for the accordion and undertake the studies under the direction of M° Paolo Petrilli. At age 14 began performing in public, playing in dance clubs and shows of various kinds. At the age of 17 years knows the Roman singer Alvaro Amici with which it acquires knowledge of the styles of Roman Song becoming an excellent arranger and performer, playing at his side for many years. With the tenor Corrado Amici performs in numerous theaters in Italy and abroad presenting itself as a duo and play the most significant pieces of Neapolitan song, Roman and Italian folk. In 2004 sets up the EROS TANGO PROJECT, a sound project that uses musicians of recognized value and talent as a singer, guitarist Raoul Farias (Argentine), the pianist Romàn Gomez (Argentine), the bassist Paride Furzi, on drums Fabrizio Reali, Roberto Lagoa at ethnic percussion and flutes (Argentine). With this group takes part as guest of honor in the event “MUSIC WITHOUT WORDS” held in Castelfidardo in 2006. The same year he played with the “FARIAS GROUP” in the Gala Performances in Castelfidardo during the “International Accordion Prize and Competition”. In March 2007 gives a concert with Valentina Galdieri and Raul Farias for the Italian Consulate in Libya at the “Corinthia Bad Africa Hotel” in Tripoli. Riccardo Taddei collaborations at the moment are different by the musical direction of the show “ROMANE DE ROMA” by Walter Croce with Nadia Rinaldi, performing as accordionist for the tango genre with “FARIAS GROUP” and with the orchestra of Carmelo Zappulla as special guest for concerts both in Italy and abroad. He is currently working on a new project of TANGO ELECTRONIC using the latest technologies and applications in virtual accordion.
FISARMONICA “DA VINCI”
SEBASTIANO ZORZA
Is formed at the school of the teacher Flocco Fiori, after perfecting with the best concert player and teacher such as Wladimir Subitzki, Raimond Bodell, Alexander Skliarov, Juri Schischkin, Elio Boschello, Patrizia Angeloni. He graduated also in clarinet at the Conservatory “Jacopo Tomadini” di Udine. He participates in several national and international competitions as a soloist and in chamber groups, always getting the top prizes. His concert activities led him to perform in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Canada, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Serbia, Switzerland, Russia, Latvia, Estonia and Japan. Considerable its participation in major works of Astor Piazzolla including Maria de Buenos Aires, Concerto Aconcagua, Hommage a Liège, and Tres tangos, among other collaborations, also as a soloist, with chamber groups and orchestras, including Orchestra “S. Mihovilic “in Pula, Naonis Orchestra, the Virtuosi of Aquileia, the Concordia Chamber Orchestra. Repeatedly asked to be premiered by compositions for chamber groups and orchestra and accordion, accordion and chorus written for him by the authors. It is particularly active in record production with more than forty recordings and radio and television recordings. Founding member of the association “Canzoni di Confine”, has collaborated with songwriters and singers such as Sergio Endrigo, Bruno Lauzi, Edoardo De Angelis, Rossana Casale, Antonella Ruggiero, Franco Simone, Ron, Tosca, Arsen Dedic, Tinkara, Elisa, Milva, Bungaro, Vlado Kreslin, Zoran Predin, Omara Portuondo, Manuel Argudin, Matteo Setti, Alice, Oliver Dragoievic, Francesco Di Giacomo, le Balentes, Barbara Cola. It is also the founder of Gorni Kramer Quartet with whom he produced the CD “Notes Vagabondes” and “Modulante”, with participation by accordionist Peter Soave. Of great interest the ongoing collaboration with Zoran Lupinc in revisitation of repertoire for classical accordion and diatonic harmonica, which led to record job “Armonica party”. Important collaboration with pianist David Giovanni Leonardi in the rereading of the repertoire of Astor Piazzolla and execution of original compositions for accordion and piano.
DENIS BIASIN
Accordionist and accordion master, owner of BIASIN Musical Instruments, founder of the Disc ADD, vice president of NAM Lab Music Workshops, founder and president of ZAHRE Accordion Orchestra. It is also the creator of “Accordion Zahre” and organizer of musical events such as: Competition “Trofeo della Fisarmonica Versutta”, exhibition and concerts “La Fisarmonica – La voce del popolo” Friuli DOC (2006 edition), exhibition and concerts “La Fisarmonica e gli Strumenti della tradizione popolare” Friuli DOC (2007 edition), show and concerts, “La Fisarmonica e gli Strumenti d’orchestra” Friuli DOC (2008 edition). He edited the artistic direction of the International Music Festival “Zahrarmonie” Sauris – UD, in the editions of 2006-2007-2008-2009.
APERITIF IN MUSIC
GEORGE DAVIDOVICH
Was born on 18th October 1994 in Nish, Serbia. He is currently pupil of Music school in Nish, on instrumental department in class of accordionists, leaded by Prof. Tijana Jovanovich. He plays accordion since he was 6 years old. Beside many performances, the most important results in his career are 16 awards at eminent international competitions and festivals of accordionists: triple 1st award at “Ways of Stars” – Kragujevac, triple 1st award at “Days of Accordions” – Smederevo, triple 1st award at “Republic festival of music and ballet schools” in Serbia, etc. He was also several times awarded by Mayor of Nish. George participated at two international seminars, leaded by Prof. Pavel Fenyuk (Kiev) and Prof. Vladimir Murza (Odesa).
ALEXANDAR JOVANCIC
Was born on 02th September 1994 in Nish, Serbia. He is currently pupil of Music school in Nish, on instrumental department in class of accordionists, leaded by Prof. Predrag Jovanovich. He plays accordion since his ten year. He has got great talent and it stays they achive success. With less than 8 months of playing wins the 2nd place in the category of pioneers in Cacak 2005. year. In Cacak wins the 1st place in the category of younger junior in the same competition. In Nis 2006th he won the 1st place in the pioneer category. 2007th in Nis 1st place in the older pioneers and again in Nis 2008th 1st place in the category younger juniors. In Sokobanja 2006th 1st place in the pioneers category. 2007th in Skobanja 2nd place in the older pioneers. In Sokobanja 2008th 1st place in the older pioneers. And in 2009th 1st place in the younger juniors category. In international competition “Days of accordion” in Smederevo 2008th he won the second prize. The international competition “Star Trek” in Kragujevac 2009th. He was also awarded by Mayor of Nish. Alexander participated at one international seminar, leaded by Prof. Vladimir Murza (Odesa).
IGOR FOERSOV
Igor Foersov studied at the music college in Tasjkent and in Uzbekistan, and he obtained the qualifications as teacher accordion and orchestra conductor. In 1984 and 1985 Igor performs as orchestra musician and soloist.
From 1991 until 2000 he’s teacher at the music college in Taskjent and Rostov and from 2000 to 2009 he’s works as teacher, musician and conductor in Holland.
GEORGE SYRETT
George Syrett was born in 1937. Yorkshire-born a based musician and personality, well known for playing, compering and leading workshops at accordion festivals. Also a singer and composer, George is an entertainer who has worked extensively inside and outside the accordion world, presenting his own individual brand of music, song and humour. His musical background has been rich and varied, to say the least. He has played the piano in pubs, the electronic organ in clubs and the cinema organ in his home city of Leeds. He has played ‘dep’ gigs as pianist with such great bands as Joe Loss and Harry Gold & his Pieces of Eight, and even played the famous WurliTzer organ at Blackpool Tower. As an accordionist, he makes appearances in accordion clubs and at the Bridlington Festival, plus regular playing trips to Seattle, USA, where he has been popular for many years. In 2003 George was dubbed the “King of the stand up Accordion” by compere Ron Bennett following a concert performance in West Sussex. One of the highlights in Georges’ Career was his performance at the Globe Theatre.
