Washington DC German Band 3

Since 1942 this Washington DC German Band has been entertaining audiences with their authentic German style music. In 1966 the band made the decision to incorporate lederhosen into their uniform. In 1969 the band received its first invitation to play at the Oktoberfest in Glendale, Wisconsin. an invitation has been extended every year since.

In 1973 the band made its first playing tour of Germany and Austria. Return trips have become a tradition occurring in 1978, 1983, 1988, 1995, 1999 and 2003. During the seven visits to Germany, this Washington DC German Band has performed at the world famous Munich Oktoberfest in 1978, a well as a number of famous beer halls in Munich, and local fests in other locals in Germany. These tours have provided a most unique vacation experience for hundreds of friends and fans of the band, who have accompanied the band to Germany and gained an abundance of unforgettable memories.

Washington DC German Band performances

In 1975 the band performed on the Mall in Washington at the Smithsonian Institute’s "Festival of American Folk Life". That same year this Washington DC German Band appeared prominently in Thames Television’s television series "Destination America" commemorating America’s Bicentennial. In 1981 the band played at the first "Germanfest" at Henry Maier Park on Milwaukee's lakefront, and have fulfilled an unbroken string of performances each year since.

Germanfest has become the largest German ethnic festival in North America. It is held the last week-end in July. In 1984 and 1987 this Washington DC German Band had the honor to play for President Ronald Reagan and those assembled during his visit to Milwaukee. In 1996 the band was again privileged to entertain those present when President Bill Clinton and German Chancellor Helmut Kohl made a visit to Milwaukee.

Washington DC German Band recognition

The band continues to receive recognition. In 2002 the band was inducted in the Polka Hall of Fame and in 2005 the band received recognition during the 25th annual Milwaukee Germanfest for participating in the festival for each of the 25 years.

What began in 1942 as a group of friends who loved to play the music of their National origin has evolved into a renowned musical organization. Many of this Washington DC German Band's members are related to each other, brothers, grandfather, father, sons, uncles, cousins. Through marriage there are brother-laws and sons-in-law. The band is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

This Washington DC German Band now in its seventh decade celebrates and shares the sound of traditional German music for all those that wish to listen.