Akordeonam, based in Louisville, is dedicated to promoting the acceptance of the accordion as a viable instrument for the presentation of classical music. Formed in 1995, this performing ensemble is made up of piano accordions, one bass accordion, and a vocalist. In addition to transcriptions of classical works, they play original works written for the accordion.

The Akordeonam players are Dexter Haynes, Paulette Venhoff, Linda Klein, Tom Blanford, Todd Hildreth, Jay Landers, Malinda Rawuls, and vocalist Tracey Zavadil. Since making their public debut in November 1996, they have performed in a variety of local venues, from a meeting of the McDowell Music Club to local churches to WUOL radio to the University of Louisville’s Bird Recital Hall. The group also traveled to Peoria, IL in 2002 to perform at the Peoria Accordion Club and has produced three live recordings.

The name of the ensemble was taken from “Sonata Akordeonam,” a solo piece for free bass accordion by Janis Medins. The Latvian word akordeonam literally means “for the accordion.”

Program 609

Some favorite segments from recent programs, including a look at Louisville blues history, a profile of painter Shirley Mason, and performances by Akordeonam and the Walnut Street Blues Band. (#609)