Wednesday, 13 August 2025

                         Manuel & Sebastian Munoz - Andes Music

                                              To hear the podcast click on the image



Wednesday, 30 July 2025

                         Mr. Accordion Man - Frank Miranda 

                                                Click on image to listen to podcast


Mr. Accordion Man is a beloved Perth-based entertainer known for his joyful, interactive performances that celebrate Italian culture through music, humour, and community spirit. With his trademark accordion, he has become a favourite at festivals and events across Australia, captivating audiences of all ages.

Beyond the stage, Mr. Accordion Man serves as the President of the Perth Italian Festival, an organisation dedicated to promoting and preserving Italian heritage in Western Australia. In this role, he plays a central part in organising one of Perth’s most vibrant cultural events, bringing communities together through food, music, and tradition.

His talent and cultural advocacy have earned him features on 6PR, ABC Radio 720, Telethon, and numerous other television and media outlets, making him a well-recognised figure in Italian-Australian celebrations across the state.

From roving performances to community leadership, Mr. Accordion Man is a proud ambassador for Italian culture—sharing music, laughter, and a deep sense of cultural pride wherever he goes.


                                                 Gioie Delle Donne Choir


                                             Click on the image to listen to podcast


THE JOYS OF THE WOMEN ITALIAN CHOIR

 

The Joys of the Women Italian Choir was formed in 1989 and is based in Fremantle, Western Australia.  The Choir stands as a remarkable success story, its journey reflecting both continuity and transformation. Whilst the Choir’s core mission of preserving traditional Italian folk songs and musical traditions remains unchanged, the choir has evolved significantly in that the makeup of its members has broadened.

Today, the choir includes not only first-generation Italian migrant women but also second-generation Italian-Australians, as well as members originally from the United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, Germany, and Australia itself. In addition, the choir has expanded its repertoire including a number of songs in regional Italian dialects.

The traditional folk songs the Choir sings are a medium for telling stories.  Through the exploration of universal themes such as love, happiness, longing, and everyday joys, the songs reflect Italian identity, values and history.  The choir also sings songs which served as a means of social and political expression.  Altogether, these songs create a rich cultural tapestry that resonates with audiences by blending universal emotions with uniquely Italian stories and traditions. The Joys of the Women Italian Choir is proud to keep Italian culture and heritage alive by sharing this rich and diverse repertoire of songs.

The Choir performs in Perth, Western Australian at Italian Festivals, multicultural events, in schools, and in aged care facilities.  In 2024, the choir staged a sold-out concert in Fremantle, and in 2025, they were honoured to perform as part of the Perth Festival.

The Joys of the Women Italian Choir is an example of resilience and the enduring spirit of Australia’s multicultural communities, ensuring that the traditional songs of Italian culture remain alive and accessible for generations to come. Through song, the Choir bring to life the warmth of Italian traditions, which fosters connection and joy among audience members.


Tuesday, 29 July 2025

                                         Etta D'Elia

                                                        Click on image to hear the podcast


An accomplished jazz vocalist with a unique talent for song interpretation, Etta D’Elia has made an indelible impression in Perth in the decade since she moved here from her native Italy.

Etta was honoured to sing twice at the Vatican in Rome, both times broadcast live on prime-time RAI1 television. In 2004, she sang for Pope John Paul II, and in 2005, she performed for the show Notte di Luce in the presence of Pope Benedict XVI.

Etta has pursued jazz performances across WA in duos, trios, and quartets at venues such as The Crown, The Ellington Jazz Club, Jazz Fremantle, Duke of George, Lyrics Underground, The Volstead Lounge, and Velour Lounge. In 2014, at Perth Concert Hall, she performed solo in Carmina Burana by Carl Orff. In 2018, she performed live for Telethon on Channel 9.

Etta has successfully produced and performed in many jazz and cabaret shows, including her signature show Buona Sera Signorina – Italian Music Meets Jazz, which was performed at the State Theatre Centre of WA for Fringe 2023 and 2024 and at Adelaide Fringe 2024. This year, she presented her world premiere show From Naples…With Love! with great success at FRINGEWORLD 2025.


Monday, 17 March 2025

Reg Taruvinga

Reg Taruvinga: Empowering Entrepreneur, Passionate Farmer, and Transformational Keynote Speaker, Blogger and Aspiring Author.

Reg Taruvinga is a multifaceted leader, dedicated to inspiring individuals and organisations to unlock their full potential. From humble beginnings in the streets of Mbare, Zimbabwe, Reg has risen to become a seasoned entrepreneur, farmer, and sought-after keynote speaker, sharing his expertise with diverse audiences worldwide.

Reg's passion lies in helping people discover their true selves, fostering personal growth, and enhancing collaborative relationships. He founded TGC Consultancy, specialising in DISC personality assessments, to empower individuals and teams to maximise their strengths and achieve collective success.

Reg has captivated audiences at numerous events, sharing insightful perspectives on entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development. His engaging storytelling, paired with practical strategies, inspires attendees to reframe their mindset and pursue their goals with renewed purpose.

Reg is the creator of the transformative concept, MINDTUNE, which stands for:

M - Meaning
I - Intention
N - Nurture
D - Discipline
T - Transformation
U - Unique/Utopian
N - Noble
E - Elevation/Excellence

MINDTUNE forms the basis of all his keynote speeches, guiding individuals and organisations toward holistic growth and success. At the Afropreneur Summit, Reg will deliver a powerful keynote address centred on MINDTUNE, empowering entrepreneurs to elevate their mindset and unlock their full potential.

Beyond speaking, Reg is an active blogger at Valley of Potential, where he explores various topics from day-to-day life, offering inspiring insights and practical wisdom drawn from his MINDTUNE principles. As an aspiring author, Reg plans to publish books that will transform people's lives and businesses, further solidifying his impact as a thought leader.

Reg's profile includes:

Entrepreneur: Founder, TGC Consultancy
Farmer: Passionate agricultural enthusiast
Keynote Speaker: Inspiring audiences globally
Expertise: DISC personality assessments, personal growth, team collaboration, MINDTUNE
Blogger: Valley of Potential on wordpress.
Aspiring Author: Future book publications

Connect with Reg:

LinkedIn: Reg Taruvinga
Twitter: @regtaruvinga
Website: www.valleyofpotential.life
www.youneedadisc.com

To listen to the podcast use this link: https://soundcloud.com/franco-smargiassi/reg-taruvinga



Monday, 10 March 2025


 Cozzy Kozile

Cozzy Kozile is an influential Zimbabwean musician who has been capturing the attention of audiences both in Australia and Zimbabwe. Known for his unique blend of traditional Zimbabwean sounds with Afrobeat, Zimdancehall, and Afro-fusion influences, Cozzy is quickly establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music scene.

Recent Achievements

Cozzy Kozile has had a remarkable year, highlighted by his Zim Achievers Australia Best Artist 2024 award. This prestigious accolade underscores his growing influence and talent in the music industry. His ability to merge contemporary and traditional sounds has earned him a dedicated fan base and countless performance opportunities. One of his standout events in 2024 was the Ngoma YeJiti Album Launch in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe, where he performed alongside a stellar lineup of guest artists, showcasing his latest work to an enthusiastic crowd.

Cozzy Kozile’s Impact

Cozzy’s career continues to soar, with his unique music style and captivating performances taking center stage. He has been performing at various venues and festivals, both in Zimbabwe and Australia, and has gained recognition for his dynamic stage presence and engaging live shows.

Social Media Presence and Growth

As Cozzy continues to grow as an artist, his social media platforms play a key role in engaging with fans and promoting his work. Fans can follow Cozzy for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, music previews, and more. He’s also actively seeking a social media manager to help elevate his digital presence across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, making it easier for his global fanbase to stay connected and updated on his latest projects.

A Bright Future Ahead

Cozzy Kozile’s fusion of Afrobeat and Zimbabwean influences has made him a standout in the music industry, and his international recognition is continuing to rise. With his growing fanbase, exceptional talent, and dedication to his craft, Cozzy is poised to become a global music sensation.




Saturday, 8 March 2025

Ernesto Enriquez Castillo

 Erne Castillo, born Ernesto Enriquez Castillo in the rhythmic heart of Cuba, has etched his name into the world of music as a very seasoned guitarist. From the tender echoes of his childhood, filled with the vibrant sounds of his homeland, to the grand stages of international acclaim, Erne's journey is a testament to his deep-rooted passion and commitment to the art of music.

In the year 2000, Erne's musical voyage took a pivotal turn as he stepped onto the global stage. From the International Guitar Festival to the Mosaic and Singapore Jazz Festivals, his performances have not only showcased his extraordinary talent but have also brought the essence of Cuban music to the world. His humble nature and dedication to his craft have remained constant companions throughout his journey, endearing him to both audiences and fellow musicians.

As a composer, Erne Castillo brings a unique flavour to his creations, blending the traditional sounds of Cuba with contemporary influences to create music that transcends time and place. His original compositions are not just pieces of music; they are stories told through strings and notes, each resonating with a piece of his soul.

Today, Erne Castillo stands as a figure of musical excellence, a bridge between cultures, and a beacon for aspiring artists. His journey is a vivid illustration of a life lived in harmony with one's calling, a life where every strum, every chord, and every note is a celebration of music's endless beauty.


To hear the program click on the image