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.