The Spring of 2005 marked my 50th year of playing the accordion. From the day a door-to door salesman brought a 12-bass accordion into my life, it's been an awesome run and I thank God for giving me this talent. Music transcends all language barriers and through it, I've learned my geography. USO Tours have take me to Greenland, Newfoundland, Labrador and Germany. Touring with "Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians" gave me more of an appreciation for our United States. Playing in the Accordion Orchestra of the University of Missouri at Kansas City (UMKC) took me to Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Musicianary friends living in Hong Kong accompanied me on performances in Meizhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Wuhan, where I appeared on a variety show on Chinese satellite TV. Along the way, I've met wonderfully talented people who have had a great infuence on my playing.
I have orchestrated several of Anthony Galla-Rini's inspiring and challenging arrangements. "The Rosary" was arranged for the left hand with the right hand joining in on the second half as a counter melody. In "Being the Beguine," I particularly love the way he uses the bolero effect. I added a solo guitar effect in "Malaguena." which is unique to this arrangement. I was inspired by the Boston Pops rendition of "An American in Paris. "It was particularly demanding, as there are over 48 different sound combination changes within 8 minutes!
Frank Marocco's "Take Ten" is an outstanding example of jazz on the accordion. Chuck Berger's rendition of "String of Pearls" inspired me in the effective use of the MIDI. George Handel's "Harmonious Blacksmith" demostrates the capability of the classical accordion with the use of the "free bass."
Much love and gratitude goes to my teacher, Joan Cochran Sommers, for her professional guidance and the use of her Titano "free bass" for this recording. I don't think I would have finished this project without the love and encouragement fom my husband, Wolfgang. Many thanks go to my friends and colleagues, David Sager and Steve Patke, for their expertise on drums and reeds. I want to thank my parents, Bill and Carrie Stubblefield, whose devotion and sacrifice made my musical career possible. Ultimately, I want to praise the Lord Jesus for his saving grace.
Until we meet again, I remain Musically Yours |
