Jeff Winard Band

The Jeff Winard Band has been performing for over thirty years. Although the sound and style of the band have changed a few times over the years it has remained a favorite with crowds throughout the Greater Milwaukee Area and the entire Midwest.

Jeff and his band initially became known for their Polka & Waltz music in the popular "Yankovic Style" that made them a favorite at festivals and weddings. In 1971 after having the opportunity to have met Frank Yankovic, Jeff began performing with "America's Polka King" as an Accordionist and a Drummer. This association would last until Franks' retirement in 1997. During those 27 years Jeff had the opportunity to travel throughout the United States covering 30 states with countless engagements ranging from Las Vegas Casinos to New York's State Fair. In later years Jeff would book Frank as a special guest to perform with his band. In 1992 Frank asked Jeff to organize and perform on the "ONE MORE TIME" video series that was taped in Milwaukee. Jeff served as musical director of the project and produced a Compact Disc featuring 20 songs from the videos.

In the Mid 80's Jeff saw the need to modify the group from strictly being known as a "Polka Band". In addition to his Accordion skills Jeff is also an accomplished performer on Trumpet, Drums, Keyboards, & and other Brass Instruments. He wanted to be able to keep the Polka & Waltz music as a staple of the band, but also felt the need to expand the repertoire of the group to include Big Band, Country, Dixieland, Swing, & other Ethnic Music.

To achieve this goal Jeff enlisted the help of other musicians who also were diversified in musical styles and had the ability to perform on more than one instrument. Scott Koehn who had been performing at Winards' Adler Inn (owned by Jeff) was the first step in the band's makeover.

Scott and Jeff had developed a great duo working together at the club with Scott on the Hammond Organ, Accordion, & Keyboards and Jeff on Accordion, Trumpet, Trombone, & Drums. The two did solo vocals in addition to harmonizing on selected tunes and keeping audiences entertained in a lounge type setting.

Musicians with equally diversified backgrounds were added to the group to further expand the versatility. Dale Stelzer provides an added dimension with his expertise on Tenor Sax, Clarinet and Flute. The rhythm section has featured Bobby Chick of Chicago, (who had also traveled with Jeff and the Yankovic Band) and Bill Micale who has also performed with the band on bass. Billy's versatility has added an extra dimension to the group to please younger tastes. Bass players and Banjo/Guitar players are also utilized depending on the size of band desired.

The Jeff Winard Band continues to be a favorite of young and old alike and has enjoyed much success over its many years of existence. In addition to the recordings done with Frank Yankovic, the band has produced several recordings on album, cassette, & compact disc.

Appearances in recent years include Wisconsin State Fair, Summerfest, Polish Fest, Festa Italianna, German Fest. West Allis Western Days, Rainbow Summer, Humboldt Park Polkafest, and numerous other festivals, weddings, and events where quality live music is desired.