About this project

“Thinking Outside the Squeeze Box” Accordion Symposium

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, September 23-25

Help us celebrate the history and evolution of the accordion!  Held in conjunction with the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library’s BrewNost, September 23rd and the Czech Village Fall Festival, September 24th and 25th, this symposium will bring accordion players together from across the United States.  The symposium will feature guest appearances by Maggie Martin (of the Mad Maggies), Paul Rogers (of Those Darn Accordions), Roxanne Oliva, Renee de la Prade, Billy Wilson, Ron Borelli, Jon Cunningham (aka Corn Mo) and many more!

The accordion is experiencing a creative renaissance with players mixing traditional music with new approaches.  The symposiums goal is to honor the past and pave the way for future innovation.  This weekend symposium is a celebration of the accordion!

The weekend will begin September 23rd with BrewNost, a benefit for the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library – America’s only national Czech and Slovak museum.  The museum is being moved to higher ground after the devastating flood of 2008.  This old world beer tasting party will feature the music of the Mad Maggies, 6-9:30 pm at Veterans Memorial Stadium, 950 Rockford Road Southwest, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.

On Saturday, September 24th, symposium workshops will be held in several locations in the district.  Workshop registration and introductions will take place 9-10 am at Gatherings Restaurant, 905 3rd Street SE in the New Bohemia Arts and Culture District.  Breakout session times: 10-10:50 am (Session 1), 11-11:50 (Session II), 1-1:50 pm (Session III), 2-:250 pm (Session IV).  There will be a symposium wrap-up and artists reception 3-4 pm at Gatherings.  A district pub crawl/tour is scheduled 4-6 pm.  The All Accordion Jam will take place on the Gatherings Stage 6-9 pm – all visiting artists and workshop participants are invited to perform!

Saturday will also feature the annual Czech Fall Fest in the Village.  Symposium guests are welcome to tour the NCSML, visit the unique shops and vendors on 16th Avenue SW and enjoy great food at our local restaurants.  We are encouraging workshop participants to perform as street musicians in the Village to add to the festival fun.

On Sunday, September 25th, 2-5 pm, Symposium guests will be invited to our accordion dance party at the Red Baron Bar and Dance Club, 62 16th Avenue, SW in the heart of Czech Village. This will be our “big-finale” for the weekend – a chance to unwind, have some fun, and say good-bye to old and new friends.

We are very excited to offer this unique opportunity for musicians to share their special skills and talents in promoting the culture of the accordion and keeping this music alive for future generations.  Please help us kick start this new project with a generous donation!