Elena and Gregory Fainshtein, famous Russian accordion players
National Accordion Association Convention Brings Music to Plano
Plano, TX – March 6-8 – The 28th annual National Accordion Association Convention brought together accordion enthusiasts, performers, and champions from across the country for a three-day event filled with workshops, concerts, and collaborative performances. Held at the Southfork Hotel, the convention ran from March 6-8 and featured a variety of programs aimed at fostering a love for the accordion and advancing musical skills.
“The accordion is a very social instrument, and accordionists love to gather and share their music and techniques,” said Dr. Norman Seaton, president of the National Accordion Association. “Since the accordion world has long been structured around competitions, our convention attracts many local, state, national, and international champions.”
The event included daytime workshops and presentations designed to help musicians expand their repertoire and skills, followed by evening performances open to the public. The convention featured a high school band camp with 30-40 accordions playing in unison, championship demonstrations, and an International Music Festival and dance party. The final evening on March 8 concluded with an International Music Concert, followed by a special meet-and-play-along session with artists.
Among the notable performers were Elena and Gregory Fainshtein, renowned Russian accordion players whose performances captivated the audience with their virtuosity and dynamic interpretations of traditional and contemporary pieces.
The convention also reflected a shift in demographics, with an increasing number of musicians in their 20s and 30s showing interest in the accordion. “Historically, our attendees have been over 50 or under 20, but we’ve recently seen a growing enthusiasm among young musicians. Our goal is to encourage more people to integrate the accordion into their musical journey,” Seaton noted.
The National Accordion Association continues to promote the instrument through various events across the country, providing musicians with opportunities to collaborate and enhance their craft.
For more information about the National Accordion Association and future events, visit www.Accordions.com/naa.
More details about Plano’s attractions can be found at www.VisitPlano.com.
Report by Brian Briscoe
Photo by Serge Taran
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