Paul Betken is putting together a program for presentation at the October Meeting. It is planned as an 'Evening with Paul.' He will share some of his playing thoughts and ideas on a variety of techniques and styles of music. It is meant to be a somewhat intimate and informative look at the various ways an accordion can be used to generate American music.

There will be a variety of different songs and genres played on the accordion including some vocals. The program will include songs of the American Song Book including Latin songs and styles (Bossa Nova, Cha Cha, Rumba etc.); Contemporary songs (60's, 70's, 80's and up); Broadway shows (My Fair Lady, Phantom of the Opera, The Sound of Music, Jesus Christ Superstar, perhaps Star Wars etc.); some songs of featured artists: Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Elton John, Burt Bacharach, The Stylistics, The Bee Gees, and maybe Gloria Lopez and the Miami Sound Machine, and perhaps Bob Marley along with too many others to mention. Lastly, he may throw in some jazz accordion.

This program is meant to be entertaining, educational, and thought provoking as it applies to playing the accordion. Questions and opinions on playing different accordion music and technique are encouraged. Also, there will be insights into exercises and some valuable personal moments in a long career. Hope to see you then.