Button Accordion
We are very happy to say that 3 time Quebec champion of the one row accordion, Timi Turmel will be with us as we move online this year! He is an exceptional talent and master of the diatonic accordion.
Coming from Sherbrooke, QC, Timi grew up in a family of musicians. He learned to play the accordion at age 5 and has performed all over Quebec at folk galas, traditional music festivals, and competitions. At 15, he won the prestigious “Champion of 1 Row Accordion”title in the contest “Folklore en Fête” of Thetford Mines, Quebec.
Since then, Timi has explored various musical styles and players. Starting with a purely Quebecois style, he studied the music of accordionists Stéphane Landry, Denis Pepin, and Raynald Ouellette. He also delved into the Irish world by learning the music of Joe Derrane, an Irish American diatonic button accordionist who is credited with re-popularizing the D/C# system. Timi is currently spending more time with Cape Breton fiddlers and pianists who are known for their rhythmic playing and energy. The combined influence of all these styles is what makes Timi’s style and sound so unique and distinctive. His natural talent and ability provides him with the instinctive tools necessary to take the button accordion to new places while maintaining the rich traditions from which both he and the instrument have come.
When Timi played at the world renowned Accordion Festival in Montmagny, QC (Carrefour Mondial De L’Accordeon) he was described as “most inspiring”. “Beyond the perfection of technique, what impresses in this young man is the authentic musicality, intelligence and strength of character that support his interpretations. Turmel’s relaxed, free and untouched game transcends the small instrument he holds in his hands. It comes out a powerfully rhythmic music, supported and very current. The more lyrical passages highlighted an accomplished legato and a mastery of equally remarkable nuances.” (Richard Boisvert, Le Soleil)
For several years, Timi toured with the widely recognized Folk Dance Troupe, Mackinaw from Drummondville, Quebec. They performed and toured in Canada, France, and Spain. He is currently touring with Cecilia and preparing for the release of their brand new CD, Accent this coming Spring. We look forward to this recording as well as having Timi with us in Lakefield again. Everyone at Camp can look forward to experiencing his musical gifts and the rich traditions he’ll bring from his home province of Quebec.
Watch Cecilia here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08JTdy0rNME
Learn more about Timi here @timiturmelaccordeon.