Band Members

In Memory of Ron Urbanczyk
It is with great pride that the New Direction Band will continue to provide polka music to the community. Ron started and led the New Direction Band with the goal of providing polka music to fans across the U.S. and Canada. His passion for polka music inspired people of all ages, including aspiring musicians, to keep the music he loved alive. As the leader of the band, Ron guided New Direction band members to perform to their best.
Buffalo Music Hall of Famer, Concertina Hall of Famer, author, song writer, promoter, concertina instructor, and polka DJ, were Ron’s proudest accomplishments. We dedicate the future of the New Direction band in honor of our dear friend, fellow polka musician, and brother, Ron Urbanczyk.
In closing, Ron Urbanczyk, Rest in Peace.
-

Jim - the leader of The New Direction Band, does the announcing as our MC, sings some of your favorite songs, tells some jokes and plays drums. Jim spent almost 25 years with City Side and has been nominated for USPA and IPA male vocalist of the year and is featured on all three of our CD's. If you'd like to book the band for your next party or event give Jim a call at (716) 803-7890

Frank - a long time musician with many talents, he plays the clarinet, alto sax, tenor sax, trumpet, guitar, bass, accordion, drums and even does some singing. Frank also writes the musical arrangements for the band. Frank has recorded six CD's. A long time musician in the Buffalo area, sometimes called Country Frank because he grew up on a farm out in Arcade, NY. He's a college professor and a Baptist minister too. Frank also has a long resume playing with the Notes, Skylarks, Pole Cats, Honky Hoppers, Buffalo Concertina All-Stars and the Nickel City Notes before joining New Direction.


