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Fritz's Polka Band (FPB) was formed in
1978. Original members were: Fred Scherz Sr., as lead accordionist; Fritz
Scherz on second accordion; Gabe Vaccaro on bass guitar; and Al "Rebe"
Reber on trumpet. Vocals were done primarily by Rebe. It would be one year
before the band would add a drummer.
In 1979, Kevin Collins joined the band as the drummer. FPB was now a
five-piece band, playing a variety of events ranging from weddings to
county fairs. In 1982, due to many requests, FPB recorded their first
album: "Fritz's Polka Band". It was a very exciting
process, as none of the members had done a recording before. In 1983,
Kevin left the band to attend college. After his departure, Doug Warner
and Jim Swan shared the drumming duties.
In 1984, Charlie Wolfgang joined Fritz's Polka Band as their full-time
drummer. In 1985, Fritz's Polka Band released a 45rpm record.
"Frankie's Polka" and "Happy Birthday Polka" were the
songs on this release. "Frankie's Polka" was recorded in honor
of America's Polka King, Frank Yankovic. "Happy Birthday Polka"
was recorded for anyone celebrating a birthday.
In 1986, Charlie retired. Once again, Fritz's Polka Band was faced with
finding a new drummer. The search did not take long, as Rick Szczyt was
given a tryout, and shortly thereafter, joined the band. Rick has been the
drummer for Fritz's Polka Band ever since.
In August of 1987, Rebe resigned from the band so he could raise his
family. Again, Fritz's Polka Band was faced with replacing a member. To
fill this position, Fritz's Polka Band chose a guitarist, Tom Campbell.
Tom had played in a country/western band for over 30 years, and could also
sing. At this time, Fritz and Tom began doing most of the singing. In
December of 1987, Fritz began to play the Slovenian Button-Box accordion.
This added a new dimension to FPB. |
