Past Events/Videos

Past Events

Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat in Madison WI

June 2025

The Houston Accordion Orchestra successfully concluded their 9th accordion camp in Madison, WI. The event wrapped up with three concerts for large audiences totaling 800 people. Performances took place on:

Sunday, June 20

Holy Wisdom Monastery, Middleton, WI

Saturday, June 21

Collin’s Hall in Hamel Music Center, Madison, WI

Sunday, June 22

Unitarian Church North, Mequon, WI

The success that Mr. Venglevski, the music director of the orchestra, claims comes from original music written by young orchestra members and involving young musicians in all orchestra activities. It has become a tradition for many young and talented musicians to be given opportunities to compose and premiere their works annually with the orchestra. To date, over 15 compositions have been premiered. For the last nine years, inspiration for young musicians has increased beyond expectations. The orchestra is becoming recognized as a solid experimental organization with progressive goals and a broad vision.

Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat January 2025

Twenty-eight artists from all over the U.S. and Canada gathered in Houston, Texas to play under the direction of accordionist, composer, and conductor, Stas Venglevski. Ten youths have been selected to receive scholarships for this event, which took place from January 16 to 19. This year’s theme was “American Music Tribute” featuring works by William Grant Still, Samuel Barber, George Gershwin, and Percy Grainger. Five original pieces composed by participating youth artists were premiered.

The retreat culminated with two public concerts. The first concert took place on Saturday, January 18 in Brookshire and included the Brookwood Handbell Ensemble. The second concert took place on Sunday, January 19 at Lambert Hall in Houston.