ALPEN SPIELERS WITH PERFORMANCES BY THE SCHUHPLATTLER VEREIN BLAUTALER DANCERS

The Alpen Spielers are a dynamic and energetic German polka band from the Kansas City area. They perform the various styles and vast repertoire available to polka bands with enthusiasm that draws the audience into the music. Formed in October 1982, The Alpen Spielers have performed in and around Kansas City for parties and events.During the last twelve years, the group has been featured at polka festivals thoughout the United States, including the notable Wurstfest. Betty Jo Simon, Steven Smith, and Paul Rodabaugh form the nucleus of the Alpen Spielers; however, the group often expands to include drums and trumpet for larger festivals.From Waltzes to Marches, Ballads to Tangos, Schottisches to Polkas--the Alpen Spielers' music is for toe-tapping, dancing or just listening. 

• Betty Jo Simon, leader of the Alpen Spielers, brings endless enthusiasm to the stage as vocalist, accordionist and music arranger. Her accordion has been equipped with a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), which combines the acoustical accordion with the authentic orchestral sounds of the Roland U-220 sound module. Betty Jo performs outside of the Alpen Spielers as a concert artist with her MIDI Accordion.
  

• Steven Smith was the director of orchestras and instructor of music theory at Paseo Academy in KC until 2011 and is a multi-talented musician who plays violin, viola, clarinet, saxophone and flute. He is also the Music Director of the Olathe Community Orchestra and for 37 summers musicals at Shawnee Mission Theater-in-the-Park.  He also performs with the Silverwood Ensembles (classical), AnnaLee and the Lucky So 'n Sos along with many freelance appearances as well. He's been a cherished member of the Alpen Spielers since 1997.
  

• Paul Rodabaugh provides the ensemble with a solid foundation playing tuba and alphorn. Drawing from experience as a music educator, Paul is skilled in many styles of music, including symphonic, Dixieland, musicals and ethnic. Paul also plays with other jazz and classical groups in the Kansas City area.

**The Schuhplattler Verein Blautaler Dancers will take the stage during a set break from 6:15-6:30 p.m.