NAA 2027 Musical Convention Emphasis:

"Accordion Fun Band, Orchestra, and Professional Presentations!”

Convention Coordinator


Rick Custer

2027 Convention Links

• Hotel/Convention Registrations
• Daily Schedule and Floor Plan
• Daily Workshop Information
• Music and Handout Materials
• Public Concerts
• Display Information

Rick Custer writes:
Going forward, the Conventions will:
1. Focus on the overall education of accordionists, regardless of their musical skill levels.

Objective (and incentive for accordionist to come, participate, learn, and benefit) is to contribute to the success of the musician as they mature and publicly perform.

2. Train basic musical skills such as basic theory, building treble chords, building bass chords not built into the existing rows, playing by printed charts and by ear, sight reading, improvisation, and other basics. We would encourage physical development by using finger exercises.

3. Teach and briefly demonstrate successes in these areas, then give the musicians time to practice in an immediate follow-on session.

Musicians will have the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned in the classroom setting, an open-mic environment, with out any fear, nor condemnation.

Musical styles include – not necessarily in order of emphasis:

Western, Tejano, Conjunto, Country, Religious (sacred hymns and campfire type choruses), standards, ballads, movie soundtrack, polkas, and waltzes from different ethnicities, and dancing.

Workshop education topics – again not in order: basic theory, major and minor keys, chord construction, reading charts and benefits of learning how, playing by ear and benefits of learning how, expression, bellows control, fake books, negotiating performances, professional courtesies in band settings, and other classroom type topics.

Source: The Way We Operate

2027 National Accordion Convention Planning Team

Left to Right: Sharon Seaton, Rick Custer, Barbara Yuill, Dick Albreski, Gordon Kohl and Jim Rommel

2027 Meeting Location

     

Highlights of the 2027 NAA

The 2027 Convention is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic and engaging events yet. As contracts are finalized, we will continue updating the website with registration details, hotel accommodations, meal plans, selected jamming music, and workshop materials.
Visit: www.accordions.com/naa and www.AccordionUSA.news

Premier Format for 2027 — A New Beginning

The past several years have reshaped how musicians gather, learn, and perform. In a sense, 2027 represents a New Beginning for our association—a thoughtful response to the lingering effects COVID‑19 had on community music‑making, travel, and in‑person collaboration.

The 2027 convention embraces that reality by blending beloved traditions with new, flexible approaches designed to rebuild connection, strengthen participation, and welcome accordionists back into a vibrant, supportive musical community..

A Legendary Reunion:
    Peter Soave and Joey Miskulin Return for the 2027 NAA Convention

The National Accordion Association has a long and colorful history of showcasing rising talent, and few stories illustrate that legacy better than the early appearances of Peter Soave and Joey Miskulin.
Read the full story on the Workshop page.

Premier Accordion Groups Return in a Modernized Structure

For more than forty years, the Fun Band and Accordion Orchestras have energized our conventions with unforgettable performances and community spirit. In 2027, these cornerstone Premier Accordion Groups return—now integrated into a refreshed convention structure that emphasizes interaction, creativity, and accessibility.

The specialized training tracks and workshops introduced in recent years will continue, woven into a more dynamic schedule that encourages learning, jamming, and collaboration at every level.

Understanding the Premier Accordion Groups

Fun Band – Directed by Dick Albreski

A spirited, spontaneous group built around joy, camaraderie, and toe‑tapping music. It’s the musical equivalent of a backyard gathering—warm, lively, and full of personality.

Accordion Orchestra – Directed by Gordon Kohl
A polished, symphonic experience showcasing the accordion’s expressive range and precision. Think of it as a formal gala—elegant, refined, and artistically rich.


Polka Lunch Bunch Band
Dick Albreski is introducing a Polka Lunch Bunch Band for the Saturday luncheon. The music is intentionally simple, upbeat, and easy to learn—perfect for players of all experience levels. Participants can access the practice materials on the Handout Page and come ready to enjoy a lively, low‑pressure performance experience.

Both directors are seasoned conductors, composers, and educators. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, you’ll find a place—and a challenge—within these Premier Accordion Groups.

The Magical Return of Maggie and Donna!

Maggie and Donna will return to lead their respective areas, ensuring continuity and quality in these popular activities.

The 2027 Convention will again feature:

• Organized Jam Sessions for structured group playing
• Impromptu Jam Sessions for spontaneous musical fun
• Mealtime Entertainment Opportunities for individuals or small groups