Dennis Ostopowicz Band Purveys Polka-Powered Fun

The Dennis Ostopowicz Band will bring their lively bag of Polka stylings to the Falls Townships Community Park stage in another installment of its 2011 summer concert series. Accomplished musician and Bucks County native Dennis Ostopowicz, also called Denny, heads up the talented quintet.

According to Dennis, his musical interest began manifesting itself at such a young age that by the time he was 14 he was an accomplished accordionist. Despite his youth, his honed skills and rapid development afforded him opportunities to perform with various local music ensembles at banquets, weddings, clubs and dining establishments throughout the area. 

In time, his reputation as a well-known area talent was cemented. This recognition eventually spread to neighboring communities as well and was the catalyst for the formation of his own self-titled polka band. Other band mates include Fran Kosienski (sax, clarinet and Polish vocals), Kevin Kelton (drums), Robert Sucharski (bass) and Rick Gazda (trumpet). Under his direction, the band quickly became a much sought-after act for its entertainment factor and showmanship.

The focus of the band’s performance efforts extended beyond paid engagements as it regularly played benefactor to various fundraisers and charities such as the Annual Cystic Fibrosis 24-hour Radio-thon.

As a champion of polka, Denny’s aim has been to acquaint more people with this genre of music he loves and is so passionate about. To facilitate this, he took to the airwaves in 1995 as co-host of the Leon Fornal Polka show on WBCB 1490 AM. After Fornal retired in 2003, Denny became the host of his very own polka show aptly named after himself. From his perch as the show’s leading man, he helped the show epitomize its catch phrase "Polka Powered Radio."

The show’s popularity and audience soon increased due in part to Ostopowicz’s outgoing and warming personality. That, in turn, led to increased airtime. The show would often broadcast live from various businesses in order to meet and greet listeners in person. This personal touch enhanced the show’s overall public appeal. For two and one half hours each week, listeners can enjoy polka, obereks and polish waltzes from some of the country’s most respected polka bands. It also serves as a hub for up-to-date information on polka related parties and events.

For all intent and purposes Dennis Ostopowicz is a polka purist who’s life is a reflection of his love and dedication to the art from. And for lovers of polka music it should make for an enjoyable experience to see him display that love live in person for you.

The Dennis Ostopowicz Band is scheduled to perform on Sunday, Aug. 14 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The performance will take place at the Falls Township Community Park Phase 1 Pavilion at 9125 Mill Creek Road in Levittown. Guests should bring their own chair.