The 32nd annual Cotati Accordion Festival had, perhaps, its best turn out and one of the most stellar line ups in its history. A great part of the attraction to our nonprofit, multicultural event this year was the international influence, and the resulting outstanding performances from players from around the globe. In the midst of the array of crowd pleasers was a world class talent from New Zealand who, literally, had the audience wrapped around her finger and subsequently, every note she played.
I am speaking here of Tracey Collins from Auckland, who not only plays on a world class level, but brings to the stage a charm that each festival attendee willingly succumbs to. Plus, Tracey showed that she has the versatility to jam on the spot with Cory Pesaturo, perhaps the greatest jazz accordionist of his generation, with outstanding fluidity and spontaneity.
Tracey played a set each day of the festival, but one of her strengths is that she makes each song the beginning of a brand new Tracey Collins experience. She could not have been more well received and appreciated by all who attended the festival this year.
