OKTOBERFEST ENTERTAINMENT @ WOODINGFORD LODGE, INGERSOLL
By GEOFF DALE
Here in Ingersoll Editor
INGERSOLL – Residents and staff of Woodingford Lodge recently welcomed Oktoberfest in fine style, enthusiastically showing their appreciation of a rousing concert provided by two talented Woodstockians.
Topping the bill were acclaimed accordionist Ian Robinson, accompanied by a popular vocalist James Allcock, known by most as simply “Jim” or “Larry”. The duo served up an eclectic program of favourites including Broadway standards, Big Band era classics, popular hit parade numbers, songs with an international flavour from France to Spain and points between, along with a spirited instrumental rendition of Leaning On A Lamppost, the 1937 signature tune of popular British stage and screen star and master of the banjolele George Formby.
"Residents loved the afternoon of accordion playing by musician Ian Robinson and the operatic sounds from singer Larry, who also goes by the name of Jim,” said Jennifer Kilgour, a Woodingford recreational aide.
“Connie Francis, friend of Woodingford seniors was there with her durdle, hat and bell, all ready to serve up some beer and dance the polka. The afternoon was topped off by the ever popular Chicken Dance, which brought many smiles to the faces of partygoers. It was a simply wonderful afternoon and wouldn't have been possible without the kindness of our community friends and volunteers who touch the hearts of our residents with their numerous talents and kind hearts. It was a memorable afternoon for all!"
Well known throughout and beyond the borders of Oxford County, Robinson is an accordionist, entertainer and instructor with more than 40 years’ experience. As a youngster he joined and performed with an accordion band, The Junior Accordionaires. The group played to audiences throughout the length and breadth of the United Kingdom and also performed for the Yorkshire television program Junior Showtime.
In addition, he has played with two other accordion show bands – The DMD Accordion Show Band and The Tropical Waves. Those ensembles performed within West Yorkshire at several venues, including residential and nursing homes, fêtes, hospitals, psychiatric units and clubs.
The Yorkshire born Robinson, is now a Woodstock resident and a proud Canadian citizen.
“Once I became a solo accordionist I continued to entertain within residential and nursing homes,” he said. “I also used my musical talent within churches for weddings, funerals, remembrance services and outreach. I have also performed at several school assemblies and within colleges.
“I have performed as a street entertainer (busker) in London (UK), Halifax (West Yorkshire), and Worksop (Nottinghamshire). My first 'public' busking performance in Woodstock Ontario, was outside Foodland/Zellers, thereby raising money for the College Avenue Secondary School gym floor replacement campaign.”
His repertoire covers a wide range of enduring melodic hits that have been performed and recorded by many different stylists, both vocal and instrumental and by different types of orchestras, from swing to symphonic.
“I had the privilege to appear and perform on a Roger's television program, Daytime, introduced by Tracey Andrus and Brad Janssen,” he said. “Brad described me as a craftsman with the accordion." I also performed on the Breakfast Club - Heart FM radio program with Don Martin and Alex Servinis.
“I’ve played Christmas carols and other well-known Christmas tunes inside and outside of Heart FM, at the launch of the Salvation Army kettle drive and made appearances from Aylmer to Waterloo. It was a pleasure to be in Ingersoll and to have Jim along as a vocalist.”
Residents Comments
Ana, Resident
“I thought the performance was very nice. It was enjoyable and I like how friendly they were. I really liked their music. I hope they come back again!”
Jenny, Resident
“It was a very nice performance. I love to dance, so the music was so nice to hear.
Lori, Resident
“I thought the performance was really good. I really enjoyed listening to the accordion. I think we should invite them back next year to perform once again.
Kirsten, Resident
“I have heard him before. I thought it was good. It was nice to have them come to us here at Woodingford Lodge.”
Lester, Resident
“I really enjoyed the entertainment. The music was really good.“
Ted, Resident
“The performance was really good. I thought the music was great; my favourite part was the accordion.”
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