AccordionSA has pleasure in presenting you with the following  “TEN COMMANDMENTS”
(courtesy of the Editor of AccordionUSA  Rita Davidson)

Can you think of any more? Please send them to me at webmaster@accordionsa.co.za

1. I promise to practice my accordion every day

You can find at least 30 minutes a day to practice your accordion. If you find time for watching the news on TV, or talking on your cell phone, enjoying your iTouch, iPad or just sitting on your couch, you can find the time to take your accordion out of its case! With a little effort, you will be pleasantly surprised with the results. Practicing your accordion is relaxing, a stress reliever and also good exercise!

2. I promise to play my accordion for friends and family at least once a month!

Everyone who has ever seen me perform has always commented on the complexity of the instrument, as if there were something very magical about playing the accordion. But it is magical, isn’t it? Going to a family dinner or having the family and friends over…….? Take out your accordion and play for them. No matter what your level of proficiency is, people will be amazed by your playing.

3. I promise to learn at least one new piece every month

Try to expand your repertoire. It doesn’t have to be a concerto! What about a popular song or one from the past that you always wanted to learn? Don’t have the music? Look it up on the Internet or e-mail your accordion friends. If you want the song, it is out there.  However, if you really cannot find it, try to play it by ear, sound it out, write out the notes. It may take time, but it is a good experience to learn it on your own. It is possible, don’t be afraid to try it.

4. I promise to attend at least two or more accordion events in 2012

There are many accordion gatherings, concerts, performances, etc. around the country. Search the AccordionSA Latest Events at www.accordionsa.co.za and you will find an event in your area. Not only will you have a wonderful time listening to great accordionists, but you will be able to participate on any level from beginner to advanced. There will be accordion bands, ensembles, people who will enjoy meeting you and hearing about your experiences with the accordion. If you want to meet interesting people who share your love of the accordion, you will find them! You will not only hear great music but you will go away with new friends.

5. I will purchase at least two accordion CD’s this year!

There are so many wonderful accordion CD’s. Search the Internet and you will find lists of accordion artists. It is important to show our support for these outstanding musicians by buying their CD’s! Visit MusicForAccordion.com to find your favourite accordion CD, or contactinfo@accordionsa.co.za !

6. I promise to introduce the accordion to people who have never heard one before

This is a special opportunity for you to expand the musical horizons of someone. The accordion is so versatile, found in cultures all over the world and running the gamut from folk to classical and everything in between! There is a visual fascination with the accordion that no other instrument can claim. How do we do it? Keys, buttons, bellows. It is a coordination of fine motor skills that places an accordionist at the top of the list of the best multitaskers in the world!

7. I promise to send news

About my accordion club, association, concert, performance, or event toinfo@accordionsa.co.za for a possible article in the “Latest News” of AccordionSA website. We want to know all about your accordion activities. Please let the Webmaster know far in advance, if possible, so that readers can plan their schedules accordionly (Could not resist that one!!)

8. I will think about treating myself to a new accordion!

Why not? When you have a new instrument, you sound better!!!!

9. I promise to read

The AccordionSA (www.accordionsa.co.za) and Facebook pages Accordion South Africa –Jazz accordion South Africa news at least once a week.

10. I will reread Resolutions 1-9

Again and again!