"It is a wonderful feeling to touch people this way, and to know how much joy you can bring to so many. I'm in awe, every time I read these. :-)
Thank you all for your kind words" ......Steve
Hi Steve,
I'm listening to "What a Merry Christmas This Could Be" on your FOREVER CHRISTMAS CD....and I must tell you: I am so proud to know you...and that your singing is SUPERB on this song and I hope George Strait has heard your version of this great tune he also recorded. His is one of the better voices in country music and I like his singing very much. But your version of this song is so far better than his that there's no comparison. His is too fast, for one thing. No heart or feeling in his vocals, unlike yours that sounds like you wrote the song ...
I have several favorites on the CD and I could listen to it all year long, but then it wouldn't be such a TREAT every year when it gets close to Christmas and I play it dozens of times...and my favorites much more.
Why you haven't gotten a Grammy for this album shows how little that means cause the best talent and music is by-passed for something far less worthy.
Never will get tired of FOREVER CHRISTMAS for as many Christmases I'm still here. So THANK YOU for making it and your great vocals and musicianship that even Harry Connick, Jr couldn't surpass.
You are the best --Have a WONDERFUL Christmas with your loving family...and all GOOD things in 2009.
Love,
Karen
September 2008
Hi Steve, Great concert !! The sound up abovewhere we were sitting was outstanding! Good to see you and Barb again. Take care and hope to see you again soon.
Love, June & Tom
June 2008
Steve, I could not figure out on Sunday why you said that you knew that I was going to be there! Now I know--I recieved a gift from parents and as it is every year--tickets to see Steve Meisner! It is wonderful when students and parents know a principal's passion and they act on it! I have been listening to polkas all week trying to figure out why the Meisner Sound is so superior. Other well known bands are good but my conclusion is nothing comes off the Steve Meisner stage unless it is absolute PERFECTION!
"When better is available, good is not enough." My greatest enjoyment comes from the very best--- the Meisner Sound. Thanks for listening to me!
Keith Valentine
February 2008
Hello Steve...
Just wanted to send a quick note to thank you for performing at the Milwaukee accordion club Monday evening. Your music is a lot of fun and we enjoyed it. I purchase your new CD/DVD combos and now enjoying that.Hearing you play was an inspiration to me, this was just the 2nd time I saw you perform. The first time was a couple of years ago at State Fair. Will plan on attending more of your appearances.
Bill Anderson
January 2008
Hey Steve,
Thanks so much for playing Kurts Waltz for me, it brought tears to my eyes as always! We really had a great time there. Too bad that Cathy and Susan were working the pie stand, but i did go and get them to see you perform. Its always busy at Dans ! How did you like that FARM ? Wait until you taste those Beans !HA HA ! Danny is an excellent farmer !!! I don't know what I ever did to deserve a good friend like Dan !! Your performance was beautiful, the talent that you have is totally unbelievable !!! MY GOD YOUR GREAT !!! The DVD and CD are out of this world !!! I even saw your wife in there, that was neat! Good thing you did that!! Eric and Bob also did a fantastic job. Eric had a big smile on his face the whole time,you can see that he loves to play music along with you. Thanks for trying to get me for your personal mechanic,but it didn't work!! HA HA ! I'm just a dummy anyway!! But oh what an honor that was. Sure wish we lived closer,at least I could help you work on your cars. Well Steve I'm going now,until next time,this is AL MIRT signing off from the MIRT MANSION overlooking beautiful downtown Willock!!! A ONE HORSE TOWN !! HA HA !!!
LOVE YA, PAL.
January 2008
Hi Steve,
I'm the guy from Toronto, Ontario, Canada that came to Madison to see and hear you play this past May 19. I want to wish you and your family a blessed, happy and healthy Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!! As I'm writing this, I'm listening to one of your CDs. Your music has made 2007 one of the most happy years of my life--I'm not kidding--I listen to your music virtually every day on my computer or in my car. Your music simply makes me feel happy and thankfull!!!!! I hope you will be able to continue forever to entertain the world. We will not be able to get back to Wisconsin till next summer, but I hope we will be able to see you then.May 2008 be a successfull year for you and your family!!!!!!!!!!
Ken Rosin
September 2006
Steve thought you might enjoy seeing this email that I sent out this morning to my complete address book. As you know I'm impressed with your work!!!!!! The things that I say in this email below are heart felt, and I'll be working several angles to see if I can promote you with the connections that I have.
I have become an "unofficial promoter" for a powerful entertainer in the dance band business. Please keep this in mind for future reference, as if the occasion presents itself you can put on a musical show that your family, friends and neighbors will not ever forget.
I have made association with Steve Meisner, www.stevemeisner.com , and I simply cannot say enough good things about the man and his music, his stage presence, and versatility, as well as the other outstanding musicians in his band. Steve is not "just another polka band", believe me!!!
Most of you know that I am very critical of musicians, having played (at one time or another), with some pretty big name bands, as well as spending many hours at many different places with trio type work. Over the years I have worked with a lot of musicians. Because of that, not very many bands get my A+ rating, not many deserve it! Steve Meisner is different, I knew of his father Verne, (now passed away), and I had heard some of Steve's stuff on record but had opportunity to see him in person and, well, I am very impressed. I cannot say enough good things about he and his band. Even though he operates with typically 3 or 4 musicians his "full sound" makes it seem like there are more, and is all you can ask for.
He is an excellent vocalist, handling a song very nicely with a very good voice! In addition you ought to know that he does a lot of different kinds of music, it's not only polka's and waltz's, but everything from Boot's Randolph to Johnny Cash, etc. His sound is tremendous, it is one of the few that gives me the chills even on a hot summer night, when that happens I know I'm in the presence of something VERY SPECIAL! If there were ever a time that Steve would invite me to the stage with my big horn, I'd be thrilled to play along with him.
If you'd like to know more, surely feel free to get in touch and I can help to make arrangements. Beware though I will do a lot of "bragging" about Steve!
John "Mighty" Meitner
January 6, 2005
Subject: I am listening, right now, to the "Happy Sounds of Verne Meisner, Collectors Edition! NICELY done, Gentlemen! Makes me proud to be a part of the Meisner Legacy...having played with each of you All Stars! I just finished listening to the Michelle Waltz, and that's the 1st time I've heard that recorded rendition! WOW! Really sweet sound! Just a perfect waltz! Steve, you are a very talented, intelligent writer and very articulate too. You did a wonderful job on the inside cover notes. Way to go on this release...guys! Keep in touch in 2005. Miss playing with both of you...and welcome your calls when I can help out! Happy New Year, and may God Bless your families too.... Got to stop typing, and listen to PRETTY WORLD now...! Sounding fine...really fine! :-)
Mark J. Wenzlaff
June 2004
It was truly a pleasure seeing you on Friday night at the Crow's Nest. It was also a pleasure listening to your music again. You are a first class entertainer, the way you made that place come alive, and get everyone involved to have a good time was remarkable. I bet as the night went on things were really hopping. Donna and I hope we can have you play for an occasion for us someday again. If you see Donna and I in a crowd sometime, please play a song for us. Of course, it must be a polka.
Hope we see you again very soon, God Bless, Leon and Donna Heldt
April 2004
Just a short note to say we really enjoyed your music at Oktoberfest here in Chippewa Falls last fall. Also really enjoy "A Meisner Mini Concert" CD I purchased. Looking forward to Oktoberfest this year and will see you there. Keep on the great music!
Polka On,
Tony & Joan (Your #1 fans in Chippewa Falls)
March 29, 2004
I'm here working at the funeral home and guess what? I get a request to play polka music on the cd. Guess who? Your band. LOL your killing me LOL Your knocking them dead. LOL I just thought it was sweet, that the family liked your band so much that they had to play it at their father's funeral.
Talk to ya later.
Phil
March 31, 2004
Just a quick note. My parents John and Joan Plesha, Biwabik, MN say HELLO !!!!!!!!!! I have been checking out your web site and listening to your music clips. I can see why my parents LOVE your music so much!!! YOUR GREAT!!!!!!!!!! A VERY TALENTED MUSICIAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will be tagging along with them when you come to MN to hear you play!!!
Take care,
Tom Plesha
December 2003
Hello Steve,
Greetings from Djibouti, Africa. I just wanted to send you a small token from my deployment (a commemorative medallion-Operation Enduring Freedom). While here I have often listened to your music and really enjoy it. When I get to Wisconsin again I will come see you perform.Simper Fidelis,
James Apriesnig
December 2003
Hi Steve! Gerlof wishing you and your family a Happy Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Also I want to thank you for all the informations I get from you. I like that, because it's very interesting for me to know. Thank you again for the beautiful Christmas CD. I appreciate that oh so much, Steve. Below you can click a picture. It's a very new one from some days ago at the Studio of our local radiostation Schagen-FM. Tomorrow I'm exactly during 23 years with my programm in the air. (I started August 26th. 1980) and...tomorrow I exactly take place behind this microphone for 600 times. On boxing day (August 26) I'm airing a special Christmas programm from 8 till 11 PM. In this moment I've some good contacts with different people out of the Polkaworld. Someone promised me to give me 3 cassettes from "The Chicago Slovene Button Box Club. I've a very bad CD-copy from The Lorain Slovene Button Accordionists. So, Mr. Al Pottistelli promised me a new Album from this group and some CD's from his own polkamusic. Last saterday it was very bad weather. We had a gale and at 2.30 PM we had a high tide. So, during 4 hours I visited our coast and dike and I made about 100 pictures. It was dangerous weather, but standing in the water and the waves I did it.Regards Gerlof.
Isabel Salazar
Little derrick Ziegenbein playing my box with the band.
December 2003From Canada: The little accordion player is Curtis Ficor Age: 4 He was recently playing at a shopping mall in Regina. The people really love him- his singing and acting. His foot never misses a Beat. He made more money than his dad did!
January, 2004
Steve: That's what makes your music so great--it's got soul--imagination--spirtuality--and a life long commitment to excellence. I try to emulate your style and have made copies of your recording for my band members also to get the feel of what it is I want this band to sound like--will never reach that pinnacle, but at times we come close and have been told by the management that we're the top band that plays on polka Mondays and ball room Tuesdays at the Casino mainly because of our slower beat and melodic phrasing without a lot of fire drills going up and down the key board and our voicing of different dance styles, Latin, C.W. etc. Thanks to you for giving me musical direction. I've often thought when my Dad came from Czechoslovakia, his first job was in the coal mines of Penn. that when he heard they were hiring at Generous Motors in Flint, Mich. that he might have landed in the Cleveland area where all those magical sounds of the accordion caught my ear. Maybe then, I would be like you playing music from the heart for so many people instead of following a different path to make a living for my family, but we grow where we're planted, so I was content to play music on the week -end for weddings, church dances and festivals. As it was, I did play for over 300 weddings, etc. and it was a good trip for me. Now, that I'm retired from engineering, music is my main outlet for contentment being alone without my Helen. Strolling at Frankenmuth helped me a lot as I was with people and met so many friends that have sustained me, but not like music--especially your brand. Keep it going Steve and your family connections--you've got a lot of support from so many fans you've given joy to--you certainly have mine my friend---------Andy Nester
Ronny & Barbara Krainz wedding
September 2003
On September 28th, I attended the dance at Lodge 106 in Imperial, PA with my brother Tony Anzlovar. Now I know all about the Meisner Magic. You brightened up the polka world that day. I just have to let you know that I enjoyed your personality and music. I've enjoyed a lot of Polka music in my days and it was so good to hear that magic you put into it. I see that you are appearing at Petkovsek's Thanksgiving Day Party on November 28th but my bus with Fred Gregorich will be there on November 29th. I sure hope that I can hear you and your band again. Anyway, the intention of this letter is to say "thanks for the great performance. You were wonderful and hearing you made me feel so good!
Sincerely,
Alberta Anzlovar
September 29, 2003
I had a lot of fun in Manistee. I am glad that I finally got to introduce myself to you. Linda and I have been dancing together for almost two years. We dance many different types of dances together, however we live for polkas and waltzes. Her father used to play the accordion with a local group called the "Jolly Bohemians", so she knows a lot about what good accordion playing should be. She says you are the best player she has every seen, and I agree with her. We Both loved the casino, it was an awesome place, our only wish was that the dance floor was a little bigger. I hope that you perform within driving distance again soon, so we can come to watch you play again. In the meantime, I promise not to preach to you about smoking. Thank you again for your wonderful music.
Sincerely, Tim Ott
July 21, 2003
Steve, Thanks so much for for a great performance at my parent's 50th anniversary party last weekend. The attendees had a great time dancing to the music you provided. And what good sports you and your band were to let our family members share the stage with you and sing along with the music you provided! Playing with "Divas" unrehearsed is never easy, but you pulled it off beautifully. Thanks so much for doing that. Here are the pictures that I took of you with Marianne Cornetti and Kitt Reuter-Foss. Enjoy!Laurie Foss
September 08, 2003
Sir, I wanted to send you a note just to let you know I received the CD (A Meisner Mini Concert) in yesterday's mail. I was surprised that it made it out here so fast, only about 10 days looking at your postmark. I am currently deployed to Djibouti, Africa. I am originally from West Allis, WI. I have been in the Marine Corps for 24 years now. My family is back at Camp Lejeune, NC which is my home duty station. I have always enjoyed polka music and I asked my Dad for a recommendation of some music to purchase. He recommended Steve Meisner and Verne Meisner. He made a good choice. I am enjoying listening and hope to come see you play live sometime on a future visit to Wisconsin.
Respectfully, James G. Apriesnig
The Shrimpers are a group of young imaginative fans from Wyoming way playing Punk Polkas.
The following is Lindsey "Carl M" Mysse's letter to me.
Dear Steve, I was thrilled to get your e-mail. I can assure you that we are real. You'll notice our CD. An example of our Punky Polkas, our one really crappy rock'N'roll song and two country tunes. This album was completed from recording to distribution in under a week for fifty dollars. Yeh! It sounds very Lo-Fi but that is coming into style these days. Do you have any of your albums on plain vinyl? I love records, the way they sound, feel, smell. If not, I will be purchasing some more of your CD's. Most of my polka collection is on 78 rpm, so my vision of polka probably is skewed by the most obxcure artists. Keep in touch, Lindsey "Carl M" Mysse
August 26, 2003
AARON & MAUREEN'S WEDDING [8/23/03]I JUST WANTED TO SIT DOWN AND DROP YOU AN E-MAIL TO THANK YOU AND THE REST OF THE GUYS IN THE BAND. THIS IS IN REGARD TO THE WEDDING OF AARON GOLEMBIEWSKI AND THE FORMER MAUREEN AUSTIN WHICH TOOK PLACE AT SERB HALL. THIS IS AARON'S DAD, WHO ALSO PLAYS THE ACCORDION AND GREATLY APPRECIATED WHAT YOU DID FOR THE KIDS AND MY WIFE AND I AND THE REST OF OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN TO TELL YOU HOW MUCH EVERYONE ENJOYED THE MUSIC, THE BRIDAL DANCE SHENANIGANS, AND THE REST OF YOUR PERFORMANCE THAT NIGHT. I MYSELF WAS ANTICIPATING THE MUSIC PROBABLY MORE THAN ANY OTHER PART OF THE WEEKEND. AS I HAVE TOLD YOU I AM A GREAT BIG FAN OF YOU AND YOUR DAD'S MUSIC FOR MORE YEARS THAN I WANT TO ADMIT. AS A MATTER OF FACT WHEN I WAS MORE ACTIVE WITH MY BAND I USED TO COPY OF LOT OF YOU AND YOUR DADS STUFF BECAUSE NOT ONLY DID THE CROWDS I PLAYED FOR LIKE YOUR MUSIC BUT ALSO BECAUSE I MYSELF ENJOYED PLAYING IT AND YOUR PARTICULAR BRAND OF MUSIC HAS ALWAYS BEEN MY FAVORITE. THE WEDDING RECEPTION COULDN'T HAVE BEEN BETTER. THE BRIDAL DANCE [THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT] THAT AARON HAD YOU LEARN FOR HIM AND MAUREEN WAS BEAUTIFUL. I HAVE IT ON VIDEO AND MY WIFE AND I TEAR UP EVERY TIME WE VIEW IT. ALLTHOUGH I AM A BIG FAN OF THE POLKA, ALL OF YOUR SELECTIONS THAT NIGHT WERE WONDERFUL. YOU WORKED THE CROWD LIKE THE EXPERT SHOWMAN THAT YOU ARE. THE BRIDAL DANCE WAS A HOOT. I NEVER KNEW MY OLDEST SON [THE GROOM] WAS SUCH A WILD MAN. I WILL ENJOY YOUR CD'S FOR MANY HOURS IN MY HOME AND CARS. WHEN MY FAMILY AND I GET TOGETHER FOR HOLIDAYS AND BIRTHDAYS AND SUCH, THE DAY IS NEVER COMPLETE UNTIL WE SLAP ONE OF YOUR CD'S ON THE PLAYER, KICK THE KITCHEN TABLE OUT OF THE WAY, AND ALL DANCE TO YOUR MUSIC. YOU BRING US MUCH ENJOYMENT. WELL I BETTER CLOSE BEFORE I GO ON TOO LONG. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR EVERYTHING YOU DID FOR US THAT NIGHT, AND I WILL CONTINUE TO FOLLOW YOU AND YOUR GROUP AROUND AND DANCE TO YOUR MUSIC WHENEVER POSSIBLE. JON J. GOLEMBIEWSKI
[THE PROUD FATHER OF THE GROOM]
August 13, 2003
I really enjoyed seeing you perform with your father at Frankenmuth, I danced the whole time you were playing. I am looking forward to seeing you play again this winter in Oakbrook Illinois. I will continue to be a big fan of yours. You are the best accordion player that I have ever seen or heard. Sincerely,
Timothy Ott
July 10, 2003
The next time we see you we will replenish your supply of chokecherry syrup. Hope that will not be too far in the future. Thank you for driving all night, getting in a first gig in ND, and for humoring us with "Juneberries, chokecherries...", letting Carol sing, and providing hours of great music for the enjoyment of the 500 people who came from 16 states and Canada. Your devoted fans,
Carol and Dean
A little polka story from small town MN to make you smile...
Hello POLKA Friends!I just had to write and tell you something that might make you smile. As many of you know, I teach music both privately and in a school. At the school, I started 3 choirs (a swing choir, a show choir, and a women's choir). I've been wanting to share polka music with the kids since I took the position in the school 22 months ago. I now have. One of my students saw me dancing around in my room back in November (It was going to be a 15 hour day in school so I had to turn my music on and dance to keep me going). She thought it was awesome, so I asked her if she would like to learn... and maybe the whole show choir (8th-10th graders). When I danced the polka for them (to a great polka CD), they were very excited to learn how. And now, the whole show choir knows how and will be performing a polka at the next concert. Just now, I walked past the white board and saw written on the board: "I love polka!!!" "So do I!" "we all do" Isn't that great?? They honestly can't wait to have our next rehearsal. They're hooked -- I love it!Have a good one! I hope to see you all at the fests this summer! Mollie Busta
Friday, April 25, 2003
Steve, Your friends from way down in Tennessee really enjoy your CD that we recently purchased. I wish in only one way that we lived further up North - that reason being that we would have far more opportunities to listen to you play in person. However, I don't think that we would relish the cold and snowy winters! Hope that you have a wonderful Spring and Summer of playing. Ed (and Elaine) Knight, Tennessee
(We met you in St. Louis last November and in Chicago in February. You have a very nice style of accordion playing and sing very well. Keep up the good work. Maybe when I retire in a few more years, we can go on some of the polka trips with you.)
Vibrating chair worth trip to Martin's - if it's open
May 13, 2003If you tried to stop for a beer at Martin's but found its chalky green door shut and a black-and-orange "Closed Come Again!" sign propped in the window, that's because its owner, John Martin, opens his tiny bar only when there is complete alignment of the following two conditions:1) He does not have anything better to do.2) He feels like it.John Martin, ProprietorPhoto/Benny Sieu
John Martin sits in his tavern on National Ave. in New Berlin. The tiny bar accommodates no more than eight stools.Martin's is on National Ave., but way out on National, west of the Latino bakeries and Vietnamese restaurants on the city's south side, past the mom-and-pop plumbing shops and rehabbed factories of West Allis, out in New Berlin, where there are farms and nurseries and motorcycle riders who like the way the road curves over the hills and through the trees.Martin's looks like a little cottage with a faded Pabst Blue Ribbon sign out front. The sign is ironic in that Martin's doesn't serve Pabst. Martin says his place is so small that Pabst won't trouble itself to make deliveries there.It's likely that if you have a living room, it's bigger than Martin's. The bar accommodates no more than eight stools, and behind the stools is some space where a card table used to be, and along the wall, the metal chairs that used to surround the card table."People don't play cards no more," Martin says, but I think what he means is that people don't play cards no more at Martin's.Martin looks like Tommy Thompson. People tell him that all the time.Imagine how that must feel, to be told you look like Tommy Thompson. Actually, what Martin looks like is a version of Tommy Thompson, the version that didn't go to Madison then to Washington, but stayed in Elroy and ran a bar and took life easy. Another way of putting it is: Martin looks like Ed Thompson if Ed Thompson looked a little more like Tommy Thompson.Besides having a drink, there are three main things to do at Martin's, but you cannot do any of the three things at the same time.You can watch television.Or you can listen to Martin play the concertina and accordion.Or you can sit in the vibrating chair.The vibrating chair consists of an old upholstered rocker that Martin has equipped with a vibrating device - called a Thermo-Cyclopad - which he bought somewhere second-hand.How the television and the music exclude each other is obvious. The thing about the vibrating chair is that when you sit in it and turn on the Thermo-Cyclopad, you vibrate with such violence that you cannot see or hear a thing.A few minutes spent in the vibrating chair can make the drive to Martin's worthwhile. That is, assuming Martin's is open. Martin's friends know to call ahead. But only Martin's friends have Martin's phone number, and Martin says he'd rather it keep it that way.
This couple made the trip to Las Vegas from Canada to dance to the Meisner sound.
Sent: Friday, February 07, 2003
Subject: Plaza Polka FestivalHi Steve!Just to let you know that we had a great time at the Plaza Polka Fest in Las Vegas, Thanks again for a job well done, It was a pleasure to hear some professional music, Keep up the good work and hope to see you there next yearAlex & Evelyne Smetaniuk
Sent: Monday, December 02, 2002Hello Mr. Meisner,Here's a short message from Holland. My friend has just bought the CD "A Meisner Mini Concert". He asked me to contact you to ask if you recorded more CD's. If so, is it then possible to order these music straight from you?My friend told me that he has a whole lot of German polka music, but this CD is different and he likes it a lot. Please would you answer my question, because my friend is out of control. Thank you already.....
Regards: Edwin Mekenkamp
Sent: Thursday, July 04, 2002
Subject: Press Release 6/25/02Steve, I got in from my second job today about a half hour ago and caught you, your Dad, and the boys in the Band on ABC just before 10PM Eastern Daylight Time here. Nice job; you sounded and looked great with those matching blue shirts and the dual Baldoni accordions; your voice was good, too. Wish they had continued showing more of you, but what was shown was a feather in you cap. Congratulatons on being on national TV.Tom Tom Fudula from VA
Sent: Thursday, July 04, 2002
Subject: In Search Of AmericaHi Steve: Kudos! Kudos! Kudos! You did an excellent job for the TV show today. I got to see Karrie Lane and I believe she was with your wife Barbara. I'm very proud first of all that polka music was recognized on that show but mostly that the Slovenian style music was promoted by such a handsome and talented musician. I was however upset that the other bands got to play at least two full songs and you were edited for three songs. But we are still glad you made it on the show. Congratulations! Cheryl P.S. I did get quite a few people to watch the show and they too thought it was a great performance.Cheryl Korosa
Fan Mail from my old friend Millecent
Sent: Friday, July 05, 2002
Hey Steve, I just got home from work and watched the ABC deal on tape - what a great show and you guys (and Barb, of course) all looked fantastic! Even though this job has put a huge cramp in my social calendar I feel like I got to see a little of the 4th of July. I'm proud to say I knew you when.... Geez, when you're sandwiched between Richard Rodgers and Elvis I guess you've really made it! Take care, enjoy the boat cruise - really sorry I'm missing that one... Hope to see you soon. Millicent
Sent: Friday, July 05, 2002
Subject: WKOWTV Viewer Feedback
I live in Fort Atkinson WI. About 15 miles from Whitewater were your crew taped the Steve Meisner band on the 4th of July. My wife (Mary) and I watched your program to see Steve on your program. I would like to say thank you for doing a wonderful job of presenting polka music on your network. So many times commentators make remarks that are derogatory toward polka music and do not know anything about it. It was nice the hear Peter Jennings talk about the Cleveland style polka hall of fame in Cleveland Ohio. I am sure that not many national TV news anchors would know that it even exists. I just wanted to say thank you for presenting Steve and Polka music in a professional and enthusiastic way that you did.
Dwight Maasz
Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin
Sent: Friday, July 05, 2002
Subject: Press Release 6/25/02Verne, Steve, and family,You are probably being flooded with verbal praise regarding your nationally televised performance. I didn't hear any mistakes. (LOL) You have been rewarded through hard work, dedication, and diligence. You must be very proud. The Schaefer' are.Your Pal,Lyle in WA
Monday, August 19, 2002
Subject: You are Something Else!!Steve, you are a "well oiled machine"... Watching you last night was quite a treat; you make your music creativity look so EASY. I wish I would have kept up the piano as a kid...I didn't want to practice (I wanted to be with my friends outside) and I don't have the "natural ability" as you do to pick up an instrument and know what to do with it. "Thank you" for being a "Gumby" ----- Someone who is flexible and will think "out of the box". And the beat goes on..............Sue
This Guy saw me in Monroe, WI in September.
Sent: Wednesday, September 25, 2002
Subject: Greetings!Dear Steve-- Was glad to have seen and heard your band Saturday nite!! I was the kid who came up after the show to shake your hand, if that helps. With the black cowboy boots, black Rockwell-Collins jacket, and white baseball cap w/ the First Marine Division logo on it. The sound was great! When I can approach Monroe's square and the music is bitchin' from two blocks away, that's a good sign. :-) I must admit I miss seeing a bass fiddle in a polka band, but your squeezebox has a pretty good one in it. I like a LOT of bass, and as long as I could feel it, I was fine. It made me glad for the subwoofer in the trunk of the mighty Lumina. I consider polka music to be "old folks' rock 'n roll," and I think that when it's good, it's GREAT. But when it's bad, it really, really stinks. Yours is the former, thank you. :-) I just wish I was in a position to hear your band more often. I invite any thoughts or comments you have. Else, Lord willing, I will see you on the circuit again. I may email more as I think of things to ask you.
David M. Rackow
Coralville, Iowa
This young man is about 20 years old and loves polka music. He and his father have the largest polka show in the Bay City area.
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002
Subject: WTRK polka showHello Steve,
How are you? Hope things are going well in your neck of the woods and having many successes with the band. I'm writing you today with a big favor and I'm hoping you can come thru for the good of polkas. I was going to send this via snail mail but figured it would be quicker on here and a lot less costly. My dad, Steve, and I started doing the Sunday Morning Polka show on 89.1 FM WTRK on November 7th of 1999 here in Bay City, MI. Well, come November 7th we will be celebrating 3 years of doing the polka show every Sunday from 7-10 am. Our air time is completely paid for by local business and polka promoters that sponsor our show. Without out these sponsors there would be no polka show. My dad and I figure by us doing the polka show that it is just a small way to keep polkas alive and kicking. Our show can be heard in 16 Mid-Michigan communities, which include Bay City, Frankenmuth and Bad Axe which are polka hot spots. For our 3rd anniversary I would really like to 'blow it out of water' with lots of give aways for our listeners. On SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH is when we will be celebrating the 3rd year anniversary on our polka show. This is where I hope you can help out with the favor. I'm writing you today to ask if you would be interested in giving us a product or two from your band to give away on our show. Whether it's a copy or two of your latest recording, a older CD, album, or tape. T-shirts, hats, autographs or any other promo item you have around. You may ask what would I get in return?? Well, a official letter from WTRK for your taxes, your bands name mentioned in a public thank you letter in the Polka News and one free week of advertising any upcoming dances or tours on our polka band calendar (which is a $11 value and includes a spot on each calendar that runs at 7:30am, 8:30am and 9:45am) I know that you are busy with the band and your family. I hope you can help out with this matter as not only is it great promotion for our show but your band too. I certainly understand if you would not like to participate in this. You can send any of your products to: Seth Drzewicki C/O WTRK 271 Donohue Bch Bay City,MI 48708 989-894-2574
Thanks for your time and interest,
Seth Drzewicki ===== Seth "Chico" Drzewicki
Sunday Morning Polka Show. 7-10 A.M. 89.1 F.M.
Serving all of mid-Michigan
From: Gerlof Elzinga
Friday, April 05, 2002A little message from Holland. A little message from Holland. Please read my letter below. Holland, April 4th. 2002. Dear Polka friends, This is a little message from Holland. From now on I have a new e-mail address. It is: elzinga.g@quicknet.nl I've also a new Website, translated for American Polkalovers in your language, Including a Holland-picture gallery. Please type: http://www.titanradio.nlDear Polkafriends, the "Dutch Radio Polka Showcase" is always going on, but also your releases are welcome for airing over the Dutch Airwaves. My programm "The Titan Favorites" is now one hour more. Every Saterday from 20.00 till 24.00 Midnight. So if You want to help me to airplay more and more Polkamusic, please give reply.Polkatively, Gerlof Elzinga, Polka DJ and Polkapromoter in The Netherlands.
June 25, 2000
EXCITEMENT IN MINNESOTA~ LOVE THAT POLKA MUSIC~
Went to an auction sale yesterday, a radiologist from the local area had died suddenly. They were having an estate sale. On the rack of household goods was this box of Polka and German music. I had seen this man various times when I had to have an x-ray or ultra sound done. What's sad is that here we lived in the same city, saw each other on a professional basis, and never knew we shared the same love of Polka music. *btw, he owned 7 airplanes...and his estate sale was very large*...He was a quality man, and here were your CD's.
I knew because it said "Polka" I had to buy them. Ironically, to my amazement I discovered, only to late, this this man loved the same music my husband and I do. My husband's background is very similiar to yours and is the local talent for the whole area when it comes to accordion music. I grew up ...well, I'll let you see for yourself...by going to http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Hearth/1958 and reading a little bit about me.
I will celebrate 35 years of marriage to a wonderful man on October 31 this year. Yes, that's right, Halloween, and we've had our ups and downs, but all in all it's been a good marriage..and I think the love of Polka and Waltz music, music in general, has kept our love strong.
Anyway, getting back to the CD's that I bought, we brought them home, my husband asked "how much did you pay for them"...*smiling*...I said a few dollars. I think there were about 25 CD's total. One of your CD'S has the Muskrat Ramble, San Antonio Rose, Strauss Waltz. It's the greatest CD I could have bought. My husband and I have decided no matter where we have to go to hear your music we will travel to get there.
Can you please send me a current listing of your bookings? We will arrange whatever we need to see the real Steve Meisner.
Thanks Jeanene & Maynard Townswick
p.s. - By the way, my father had a dance band for 50 years, and my husband's father had a dance band, and his brother still has a dance band. I have a plaque on my wall that tells me that they had to close the doors because the ballrooms were that full when my Dad use to play there. I never lost his love of music. I have 2 sisters, and although they like music, they are not fanatical like I am about it *S*
WITH LOVE FROM A POLKA LOVER IN MINNESOTA..
On Sunday mornings, in Minnesota at least, there is a radio station that plays"old tyme" Craig Ebel's show, It's Polka Time...which also has a web page.We will be looking forward to the day we get to see you in person. Bye for now.
Hi Steve,
It sure was nice to see and hear your band in Rock Springs, WY at the Great Wyoming Polka Fest. I thought the overall attendance was good this year. My gosh, it should've been with Steve Meisner, Gary Siebert, and Karl & the Country Dutchmen headlining the event.
You sure had the people going at the Denver Kickers Club on Sunday. That's a night that they won't soon forget. You're a good guy, Steve, and I certainly appreciate your professionalism and musicianship. I talk to a lot of people all of the time, and they're still raving about the night you
played in Denver. My sister called me one day at work just to tell me that she was listening to the "Meisner Mini Concert" and how great your music is. My wife, Carol, thinks your tops also. I hope our paths will cross again in the near future. Hi to your Dad.
Polkatively,
Dick Zavodny
KLOV Radio
Loveland, CO
Hilco Mathe
Enschede, Holland
11-15-99
Hello,
My name is Hilco Mathe, I noticed your address for records and tapes. Well, where I live in Holland, polka music is very popular. Among myself and a group of friends we are especially interested in original polka records on vinyl. I'd like to ask you to send me one of your polka catalogs. We would like this catalog to pick out some of your beautiful polka music. You can send it to my address above. I hope you can send me this catalog as quickly as possible, and if you can a letter.
Thanks,
Greetings,
Hilco Mathe, Your Polka Collector
Letter from Dottie Tetreault
WHUS Radio Polka Show, Storrs, CT
Thank you for all the wonderful music, we will have a "Meisner Marathon" on the show in the upcoming weeks. One full hour of Meisner Magic Music......my audience will be delighted.
I'm looking forward to seeing you again at Dick Pillar's Polkabration weekend at the Raleigh Hotel, South Fallsburg, N.Y. April 14th, 2000.
Best Wishes,
Dottie
Mr. Steve meisner,You probably don't remember me, but my name is stephanie zarzecki and we met along with my family at the music fest in Frankenmuth. I am sorry if you are mad at my grandfather, Stan Mroz, for giving me this address, but I just wanted to thank you so much for giving me a different view on polkas and waltzes. I used to think they were just a kind of music my parents grew up with and it was merely passive. Now I see though that its a type of music that needs to be spread around and it needs to be kept alive. Now I am taking a bit of interest into it and I am fiddleing around with my dads small accordion. I still don't know if I am serious about playing it, but it seems to be simple as long as one gets alot of practice! My other recreational thing I do is sing. I love it alot and last year I took second place in the state vocal championship. It was a real surprise yet I imagine you are used to getting awards. Anyhow I just wanted to thank you and tell you to keep up the good music because slowly it might sink in with us teens! Thanks!
Stephanie Zarzecki
From: Joe Reda
To: MeisnerV@webtv.com
Sent: Friday, July 20, 2001 3:12 PM
Subject: Comments on your performance Dear Mr. Meisner, I first heard you and your and your son at Oshkosh. My mother who is 88 used to dance to your band at Sauk City. I bought your CD called Meisner Magic and have played it many, many times. I Love It. We did get to hear Steve in Madison at the ESSEN Haus and we will get to Evansville if at all possible to hear you. My only regret is that I had to live this long before I got to enjoy your music. I will buy more of your CD's.Sincerly, Nancy Foye
Hey there gang,
Sorry once again for this mass e-mail, BUT, my new Polka Show, can now be
heard on the internet on Saturday mornings for the moment ONLY on from 8:06
AM-10 AM. Actually, there is a 2 minute delay, so it will run from 8:08
AM-10:02 AM. Click on the link below, then you'll see my picture, below it,
you'll see, listen to the Polka Party, go there and you'll hear the show.
Here's the link: http://www.magnumradiogroup.com/wtmb.html
Take a listen, and feel free to let me know what you think!!
Polkatively,
Gary W. Brueggen
"Wisconsin's Concertina Kid"
http://geocities.com/Nashville/Rodeo/2361/
Hi!
I wanted to thank you so very much for the wonderful time my
family had during the music fest at Frankenmuth! You truly show your love
for music in every performance, and many teens like myself just love the
mixture of music you play!
Stephanie Zarzecki
Wednesday, August 15th, 2001
Verne and Steve, First of all Jennifer and I would again like to thank you both for an outstanding 3 days in Frankenmuth. The music was FANTASTIC !!!!! We really do appreciate you getting us the room along with your tour. The trip was everything we thought it would be and more. The town is beautiful and your fans that follow you are all so great. We spoke to several of them during our stay. As you know, we listen to your music constantly and I told Jennifer that seeing you perform in person is even more awesome. She said that it brings chills when you guys perform and that is so true. I think Jennifer is even a bigger fan of yours than I if that is possible. She really liked all of the hugs and kisses you guys gave her. Thank you for recognizing us on the microphone and playing tunes for us during your performances. I will always cherish playing along side Verne during the jam at Willie's. Jennifer told me that if you were to ask me to play that I should play because I would regret it if I didn't. I play down here all of the time with my group and I know the tunes. So I shouldn't hesitate. I had some major butterflies when Steve gave me his box. Many of the folks that were at the jam talked to us later. Some at the Bavarian Inn during dinner and then some others at the festival and said they enjoyed my playing. That was really nice that they remembered. Thank You again for asking me to play and giving me the opportunity . I hope I can do it again some day soon. We took a lot of pictures with both 35 mm and our digital cameras. We will be sending some 35mm photos through the mail to you Steve and you can share them with Verne and the digital photos will be coming to both of you through email. We are in the process of going through them. There are some that did not turn out and we can not enhance them. Steve, thanks for giving me some more advice in Frankenmuth. Over the years you have always shared your wisdom with me over the phone or by email. I really do appreciate all of your help. We are planning on going to Daytona Beach in January to see you perform. Once again to both of you THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING. Please tell your family hello from us and it was a pleasure meeting them. Take care and stay safe in all of your travels.
Gary & Jennifer Kunkel
Texas, USA
Wednesday, August 22, 2001
From: Phillips Leo
To: Steve Meisner
Sent: Friday, September 21, 2001 9:40 AM
Subject: JEFFERSON DAYS DANCE....HI STEVE.....JUST A LITTLE NOTE TO THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL MUSICAL NIGHT OUT AT JEFFERSON'S GEMUETLICHKEIT CELEBRATION! YOUR MUSIC WAS OUTSTANDING....YOUR SINGING WAS SUPERB.......YOUR BAND WAS COORDINATED... AND THE DANCERS JUST LOVED IT. A SPECIAL "THANK YOU!" FOR PLAYING AND SINGING THE "VIRGINIA WALTZ" JUST FOR VIRGINIA PHILLIPS. YOU'RE THE FAVORITE BAND AND THE FAVORITE BAND LEADER, NOT ONLY FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE BUT THE OLDER PEOPLE...... LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOMEWHERE WHENEVER.......
YOUR FRIENDS, LEO AND VIRGINIA!!!
Jake was a true Meisner fan and a good friend. I have many fond memories of our good times together and will always admire his kindness and love for his family. Steve Meisner Dear Friends and Loved Ones, Thank you so much for the kindnesses and prayers. It is warming to the heart, at times like these to know you care.Love, Mary and Family
Steve,
I too am a polka music fan. I look forward to hearing more of your terrific work. If ever I can be of help please feel comfortable to call or write.Sincerely, Lenny Gomulka
From: Barbara Lane
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2002 7:56 AM
Steve:
Our blessings go with you for a job well done. Your accomplishments are ones to be truly proud of. You might say that you and your sidemen have reborn the polka. We pray that will be the case. Polka music will forever live in our hearts and it's a shame that younger people aren't given the same opportunity to enjoy our type of music. Polkas are truly happy music and we certainly are proud of you for keeping them alive and well. Steve Meisner - the next Polka King.Thanks so much Barb & Noyes Lane
From: Susan Kringer
Sent: Saturday, January 12, 2002 3:49 PM
HI STEVE,
Your singing has become "quite exceptional" these days...I have heard other people comment about this, so I thought you should know!! You have a "new fan" to add to your list...not the usual senior citizen. He is "Curtis" my eleven pound cat. Each day when I do my one hour dance & exercise routine, he watches me for awhile, then Meows to dance with me. He prefers to waltz, rather than polka {not so much bouncing around!} He lays his head on my left shoulder and purrs...how content he is to be held. I will see you at the Country Inn,in Pewaukee on Sunday the 20th. Have a great week!!
Susie QZ
Elkhorn
From: March, Rick
Sent: Friday, January 11, 2002 8:45 AM
Hi Steve,
I just finished reading the article and I'm pleased that the national release of Chump Change is FINALLY going to happen, and I'm even more impressed at the show biz in-roads you have been able to make. Congratulations. It's great for you-and very deserved-and great for the whole polka field as well.Rick March
Steve, Thanks for being so kind and attentive to your fans and polka lovers - your warm, caring manner makes you approachable...
Susie Kringer
From: Gail Aumann
To: zboxman@jefnet.com
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2002
8:48 AM Subject: I took you to Texas My mother recently passed away Jan 13th and I flew to Texas on Feb 13th to help with a Celebration of her life. My brother Jeff and wife Barb drove down and took my dancing partner from Gemuetlichkeit, Fritz, with them. I took your A Meisner Mini Concert tape with me. Because my father taught me to dance and neither he nor my mother had even seen this "entertainment" I thought it was about time and would also help make a sad event a little happier. He now is 85 going on 86. Well, a daughter of one of the elderly residents thought your polka music was the best she had ever heard and wanted to know if I would be able to get her a CD. So, I'm asking if you could mail her a CD of either A Meisner Mini Concert (It had All My X's Live in Texas on it) or Jammin' Polkas (which has Raspberries, Strawberries - my favorite song). If you could include a bill for the cost, she'll send a check and IF on the off chance that doesn't happen, you can then email me and I'll send the money ASAP to cover all costs. Her address is as follows: Thanks, Steve. Just to let you know that your music lifted my spirits and helped me get through an otherwise sad and stressful day. You truly are the BEST polka band ever!Danke Schoen, Gail
Steve,
Please send me a list of your available recordings. I would like to purchase them. I listen to your music on KRCO Radio 102.3 FM out of Detroit Lakes, MN Sunday afternoons and on Prairie Public Television. I really enjoy your style.
Thank You, Valdean Schulz Fergus Falls, MN
Dear Steve,
I really like your recordings. I put them on and keep them playing over and over again. I like to play your music while I clean or work around my apartment. Your music gives me a boost to get started every day.
Sincerely, Inez Feltes Milwaukee, WI
Dear Steve,
I hope you record some more video's or perhaps you & your Dad will record some more. My wife & I very much enjoy your music and especially on video. Also, my Mother whom is 90 years old spends many hours watching your videos. I have purchased all of the video's you have made and I would be interested in purchasing more when you have new ones available.
Thank you very much, Eugene Ulerich Regina Sask. Canada
Dear Steve,
I enjoyed your newsletter and it was good seeing you in Deshler, OH at the Bavarian Haus. I'm looking forward to seeing you again as well as your Dad. You both do such a good job in the music business.
Take Care & God Bless You, Don & Erma Poulson Oregon, OH
Dear Steve,
Thanks so much for sending the schedule and newsletter. We do catch up with you from time to time and do so enjoy your music. We were especially happy that you were at 7 Springs Resort in Champion, PA. We had our motorhome parked on the hill outside and enjoyed your music each day. We will also see you at some other places as this year progresses. It seems like just yesterday that Vern & I saw you play in the old pavilion in Biwabik, MN when you were in High School. Your wife was just a gleam in your eye and I'm glad to see that she still is!
Best regards and continued success and happiness. Vern & Pat Rainey Biwabik, MN
From: Frank Erpenbeck
To: zboxman@jefnet.com
Sent: Thursday, March 28, 2002 9:52 AM
Subject: My USA tripHello Steve -
Greetings from Germany.
Thank you for your e-mail! I want to say that we had a lot of fun when we met you in the Essen Haus. My stay in the USA was very impressive for me. I remind myself with pleasure on the fun time spent in the USA. Thank you for the funny hours in the Essen Haus! I wish you a happy easter!
With best regards...
Frank
Seth is a young DJ/Meisner Fan from Bay City, MI who pre-recorded an interview with me for his show the next day.
3/28/02 Dear Steve, Hello! Just wanted to thank you for taking the time to sit down and do an interview with me. You are truly a gentleman and a world class musician. Any help or promotion you need with your band, please don't hesitate to call me. Your welcome any time to be a guest on our show again. Thanks again, Seth Drzewicki Sunday Morning Polkas 89.1 FM WTRK 7-10 AM Bay City, MI
From Dwight Maasz owner of the North Shore Inn, Fort Atkinson, WI. Just want to tell you what great time I had Sat night. You guys really do put on a good show!
Dwight
From: Stephanie Zarzecki
To: zboxman@jefnet.com
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2002
Subject: What a wonderful time!Hello Mr. Meisner!Finally, I get the chance to say hello again. I am so very sorry if you have been trying to contact me, but courtesy of my dearly devoted younger brother, my other email has been deleted. What a lovely time we had in Grand Rapids when you came for Festval Polski! Truly it wasn't a bit like Frankenmuth, but it was ever so nice to get to meet you again! You are truly a very kind and generous person, and I do not mean that as a compliment but as a truth. My family is always happy to hear your music, because you put your soul into it-- yes I know that sounds a bit deep, but it is what makes the life of a musician. You never cease to surprise me or the crowd with your everlasting variety, which is always a delight to hear. Truly you are a gifted person, one we all have a pleasure of knowing! God Bless, and have a lovely day-- don't work too hard!Looking forward to next year in Frankenmuth,Stephanie Zarzecki
From Bob & Irene Bonnert.
Sent: Tuesday, September 17, 2002Hi Steve,
So glad we could make it to hear you play. We just Love to dance to your music. We always have such a good time. Bob says I always dance better to your music. Love Irene & Bob
Fan Mail from the Schwabenhof on Labor Day, 2002
Hey Steve,
All there is left to say is WOW! WOW! WOW! If you fellows would have been evangelists, we all would have left penniless. What a performance! The crowd went absolutely bonkers when you brought out the button box. Jim Ebner, I think, was euphoric. I thought he was going to do a Benny Pepish (ask your Dad if you don't remember who he was). Did you hear Lee Boudreau when you did Slovenian Home? I thought he was going to go right through the rafters.
See you at Nick's Nicabob.
Thank You, Irene
.jpg)
