The
Klancnik & Friends Band specializes in Slovenian-influenced domestic
polka music. The sound is unique and their performances are considered
to be very "high energy." The band can be seen live at several
of the major U.S. polka festivals including Summer
Musicfest (Frankenmuth, MI), Seven Springs (Champion, PA), and The Illinois
Polkafest (Naperville, IL). Many different musicians often join the band on
stage but the core of the group always remains the same.
Brian
O'Boyle is one of the most talented young musicians in the country.
A recent graduate of DuquesneUniversity, he is also an alumni of the school's
famed "Tamburitzans" touring group. Brian plays the accordion
and button box with the band, and is equally proficient on the piano,
organ and trumpet. His playing can be described as dynamic, technical,
and powerful. Brian's musical style is derived from his wide range of
musical interests and influences.
Jerry
Zagar is a true aficionado of polka music. He is both an exceptional
bass player and an accomplished drummer as well. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, his knowledge of music is like
that of an encyclopedia. Jerry's passion for performing and his love
of polkas are evident everywhere he goes. Together with his wife, Pam,
Jerry hosts one of the most popular polka radio shows in the United States.
Ken
Klancnik's live performances are unlike that of anyone else. He adds
a sense of soul to the band with his unique balance of power and tone
on the tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone and clarinet. Ken has been
playing professionally for over thirty years and he integrates both
jazz and Motown influences into the polka music. His sound has a personality
that is very unique, and Ken's musical approach is representative of
his southwest Detroit roots.
Ed
Klancnik is the foundation of the group's power and drive. A graduate
of MichiganStateUniversity, Ed is a nationally recognized musician
and recording engineer. A drummer by trade, he can also be found performing
on the plectrum banjo and guitar. His style of playing is very aggressive
and this, ultimately, sets the tone for the Band's overall punch.
Brian Wiater is a tremendous
vocalist and musician who has been playing professionally since the
age of thirteen. In addition to singing, he is also a proficient drummer
and bass player. Brian performed with the Klancnik Brothers Orchestra
for almost fifteen years and we are delighted to have him back.
The
future looks bright for The Klancnik and Friends Band. They are the
youngest group, overall, in the American-Slovenian field and are comprised
of several talented musicians that are also close friends.
To find more information about the "Klancnik and Friends"
performances, please contact us or click on the festival links below.
