Spring 2023 Update

I wanted to write a very brief note to update the internet on my musical activities.  Now that society is returning to "normal" following the pandemic, you will find more activity here.  I have been taking a step back from full time musicianeering to focus on other aspects of life.  Of course, there are still plenty of musical adventures that I just can't say no to.   Case in point, Patty and The Buttons (or some configuration thereof) can be found at the ASTER CAFE EVERY SUNDAY from 11am-2pm.  There'll be tunes, dancing and drinking just like the old times.  Here's hoping we see you there!

The Thomson Quartet on Current After Hours

I'm always honored to perform with my good friend Chris Thomson and his group The Thomson Quartet.  MPR's Andrea Swenson invited us to participate in her local jazz series "Current After Hours".  We recorded three original compositions and an interview as well.  The segment in it's entirety can be found here:  http://www.thecurrent.org/feature/2015/12/03/after-hours-thomson-quartet

"American Songbook" with Connie Evingson at The Jungle Theater

I'm pleased to be joining esteemed jazz vocalist Connie Evingson for this engaging survey of the American Songbook.  The show will trace the development of American popular song from it's roots in New Orleans al the way to the 1960's folk revival. In addition to accordion, I will also be playing steel guitar, washboard and other esoteric instruments! Joining Connie on piano is the encyclopedic Mr. Jon Weber from New York City.  

Sunday, November 8th, 2015

TWO SHOWS: 4pm  & 7:30pm

The Jungle Theater

2951 Lyndale Ave. South

Minneapolis, MN

Box Office  612-822-7063

www.jungletheater.com 

Patty and The Buttons at MN Orchestra's Sommerfest

My traditional jazz band Patty and The Buttons will be appearing as part of The Minnesota Orchestra's Sommerfest!  Catch us FREE in the Target Atrium Saturday, July 11th from 5-6:45pm.  After our performance, you can catch the orchestra playing some Rachmaninoff in the concert hall as part of the "Inside The Classics" series.

More information:  http://www.minnesotaorchestra.org/buy/special-events/sommerfest

2015 Cotati Accordion Festival in Cotati, CA

The Cotati Accordion Festival is world famous for hosting some of the worlds best players.  I'm very pleased to be making my debut at this prestigious festival along with artists like Flaco Jimenez, Cory Pesaturo, Sergiu Popa and Those Darn Accordions!  More information about the festival is available here http://www.cotatifest.com

Flaco Jimenez

"Scandinavian Christmas" with The Minnesota Orchestra December 20-21, 2014

The Minnesota Orchestra has invited me back for a return engagement as a soloist.  I will be a part of their "Scandinavian Christmas" program under the baton of conductor Sarah Hicks.  The repertoire will include both modern and traditional Scandinavian compositions.  As a special bonus, my good friend Kip Jones of the Ethel Quartet will be arranging my portion of the program!

Minnesota Orchestra at Orchestra Hall

December 20th, 2014
2pm

December 21st, 2014
7pm

Tickets Here: http://www.minnesotaorchestra.org/buy/tickets/browse-calendar/eventdetail/410/-/-#.VD4DVudDcy5

On The Road with Christian Howes

Renowned jazz violinist Christian Howes recorded an album of South American influenced music titled "Southern Exposure" with international accordion super star Richard Galliano.  Howes is without a doubt one of the finest improvising violinists in the world today and a leading educator in the field.  I'm very honored to be filling the roll (or trying to!) of Galliano himself on upcoming tour dates with Howes. 

November 12th, 2014
Chicago, IL -- The Old Town School of Folk Music

November 13th, 2014
Burlington, WI

November 14th, 2014
Fergus Falls, MN -- The Center For The Arts

Vienna Accordion Festival with Stephanie Nilles

Stephanie Nilles is a New Orleans based songwriter and pianist.  She and I have been asked to perform as a duo at the 6th annual Vienna International Accordion Festival in February of 2015.  The combination of Stephanie, a trip across the pond and an accordion festival seem like a sure recipe for enjoyment!  Stay tuned for the full details.

Video: "Size Of My House" with The Thomson Quartet

It's a pleasure to work with composer and saxophonist Chris Thomson.  We've been playing as a quartet with some true luminaries of the music world including James Buckley (Bass) and Martin Dosh (Drums).  Here's a nice little flick of us in Martin Dosh's world famous basement playing one of Thomson's compositions "Size Of My House"

Video: Jack Klatt at The Minnesota Bluegrass Festival

While I am primarily known as an accordionist, I do put on my mulch-instrumentalist hat from time to time.  It's a privilege to play not only accordion, but also steel guitar and washboard with my pal Jack Klatt.  Below is a video of my acoustic steel guitar styles filmed by Pioneer Public Television at The Minnesota Bluegrass and Old Time Music Festival this July.