THE BLACK COUNTRY ACCORDION & MUSIC CLUB

MEETING JULY 26TH

What a way to end a tour of this island. The Dynamic Duo gave us the pleasure of
their company on this warm summer evening and they are non other than the
KYIV CLASSIC DUO who ended their tour with an amazing performance at our club.
We were aware of their growing popularity but were quite overwhelmed by the
onslaught of their followers. They just poured in until we were almost reduced to
standing room only. Beside planning for an entertaining evening we had arranged
a table top sale and an auction to raise funds for Igor and Oleksiy's pet charity. This
in itself was a success, the table top sale realising £55 and the auction £175. Barry
kindly donated an accordion for the auction. With a flood of donations a total sum
of £308 was raised.
The evening began with a hilarious performance by a trio of banjo and guitar playing
singers and comedians. These guys, calling themselves, "Two Old Goats and a Kid"
very kindly waived any fees as the evening was intended as a charity event. They
did two spots and had the audience well and truly entertained and happy prior to
the appearance of the lads from the Ukraine.
The Duo began with a few popular classics and the expression and feeling that
they put into their playing was felt by a very still and silent audience. Almost every
other number was received with a standing ovation. This was music at its' very best.
The interval began with refreshments, the usual raffle and the tote. The winner kindly
donated her £20 winnings. The raffle was again a quality draw with many prizes being
supplied by members and visitors. The auction was entertaining as bidders were
roused into parting with their money by Barry.
The Trio began the second half with more comedy and Zak, the 'Kid', played and
sang some George Formby songs. A singalong followed,which everyone enjoyed.
Igor and Oleksiy returned in style with pieces from Carmen. They completed the
evening with a selection of popular tunes but their version of the Flight of the
Bumblebee brought a standing ovation once again. These two musicians are
wonderful ambassadors to the accordion world and, to the delight of the audience,
we have asked them to return again next year when they once again visit our country.
What was even more pleasing was the fact that several visitors came and expressed
their pleasure over the whole evenings show. The usual flow of prizes for the raffle
table showed once again that our efforts to provide all round entertainment was
being appreciated by all.

August 23rd, Guest artist, Gennaro Fiondella
September 27th. Alan Young will be our guest.

Lou Ambrose