Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hounds

My very talented friend Shahzore Shah did a very nice little spot featuring Patty and The Buttons. We're really excited to be getting the word out about the band and what we do. Just need to get our freshman release out to the people. Soon and very soon friends, in the meanwhile you can listen to the piece in the player below (stick it out, we're at the end) or visit the spot online at MPR's Website

Louisiana Bayou Santa

I had the pleasure of playing on Crankshaft's holiday hit "Louisiana Bayou Santa" last week.  Alex "Crankshaft" Larson is a multi-talented songwriter, guitarist and vocalist.  He performs solo as a one man band playing guitar, vocals as well bass and snare drums with his feet simultaneously.  For this track he called in a backing band, including myself.  At any rate, the song is available for download below as well as on his website:  http://www.crankshaftmusic.com/

Crankshaft and The Gear Grinders - Louisiana Bayou Santa by Crankshaft

Minnesota Orchestra Performance in 2012

I'm very excited to announce the I'll be performing as a soloist with the Minnesota Orchestra next year.  The concert  "Springtime In Paris" will take place on Saturday, March 3rd at Orchestra Hall.  In May, I'll be joining the orchestra for a series of performances in Florida.  This should be a very exciting spring, more details to follow!

Upcoming Festival Appearances

A couple of exciting upcoming events...

Friday, August 19th,  2011
Sound Town Music Festival
http://www.soundtownfest.com/ 
I'll be joining Jack Klatt and The Cat Swingers on accordion and washboard! Lot's of big bands both local and national will be there to check out.  Should be a great time...

February 2nd-4th, 2012
North Carolina Jazz Festival
http://ncjazzfestival.com/
This festival uses interchangeable configurations of guest musicians instead of bands.  Every set has a different lineup whom get together beforehand and figure out what to play.  The lineup of players is of an international caliber, I'm excited about sharing the stage with so many greats!

Sacramento Jazz Festival 2011 with The Jerry Krahn Quintet

I had a great time playing at the Sacramento Jazz Festival last weekend with the Nashville, TN based Jerry Krahn Quintet.  Pictured above left to right: Patick Harison (accordion), Walter Hartman (drums), Jerry Krahn (guitar), Jeff Phillips (piano) and Ike Harris (bass).   We played nine sets to enthusiastic audiences! Below is a clip of us playing one of Jerry's easy-swinging tunes; "Pamelia"

Summer solo patio series begins May 10th, weather permitting

I'm happy to tell you all that I will be enjoying the fine summer nights of Minneapolis EVERY TUESDAY from 6-9 PM at THE ASTER CAFE.  I'll be out of town from 6/13-7/13 but the series will be continuing with guest artists.  As soon as I get all those acts lined up I will let you know who will be keeping the vibe alive in my absence.  Till then...

It's the 21st century kids...

Friends,

 In an effort to keep up with the times, I'm switching my website to a blog based format.  It only seems logical at this point in time.  As a full time performer, educator and booking agent it's challenging to also maintain the role of webmaster.  Luckily, with a fancy pants blog, I will be able to effortlessly update all of the latest news without having to go into computer nerd mode.  Yes,  this change will only aid in bringing you the latest in alternative accordion news.  Stay tuned.