Toe-tapping polka tunes were a hit at Pioneers Haven
By Joan Janzen
Norm and the Golden Aces played old-time polkas and country dance music for the residents and guests at Pioneers Haven in Kerrobert last Thursday. Toes were tapping and smiles were in abundance as the music generated fond memories of old-time country dances.
A male resident entering the room as the band began to play asked, "Who wants to dance?" Additional late arrivals had a hop in their step as they responded to the lively tunes.
Norm Woytowich and his band Norm and the Golden Aces played old-time polkas and waltzes for residents and guests at Pioneers Haven in Kerrobert. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
The band members came from various locations in Saskatchewan. Norm Woytowich has been playing his accordion since he was 11 years of age. The 83-year-old musician teasingly described himself as "the young guy" in the band. The remaining members of the trio included Russ Fountain on bass guitar and Darlene Hupaelo on acoustic guitar.
Darlene is a retired school teacher. "After I retired, I wondered what to do, and then this opportunity came up. It's much more fun than disciplining teenagers," she chuckled.
Darlene sang several old-time favourites, and also favoured the audience with a tune sung in Ukrainian. After she finished, she explained that Ukrainian was the first language she had learned as a child.
Smiles were in abundance, hands were clapping and toes were tapping as many of the seniors quietly sang along to familiar lyrics. When the band paused between songs, a resident called out, "You're not shutting down yet, are you?" Fortunately, the band continued to entertain.
As much as the residents at Pioneers Haven were enjoying listening, it seemed as though they would have enjoyed dancing much, much more.
Darlene and Russ took turns serenading their audience and traded instruments on several occasions. The talented musicians transitioned from one song to another without the need for sheet music, playing a variety of instrumental polkas and waltzes.