New Glarus's Musical History on Stage

New Glarus has a rich history of music, and it will be on stage Friday, July 30, as the village celebrates 175+1 years of existence. Music will begin at 5:00 p.m., with the Alphorns. Entertainment continues with father/son duo Mike and David Austin. Their style of music is reminiscent of the Roger Bright Band. The Roger Bright band and members Karl Gmur and Gene Tebo played at the New Glarus Hotel on the weekends providing dancing for years. The Band played from the 1960’s through the next 40+ years.
Larry Daehn will also provide some accordion music. Mr. Daehn was the New Glarus Schools music instructor for 27 years, beginning in the 1970-71 school year. He touched many lives of students and parents as he encouraged students to do their best, in music and in life. He often remembers students by what instrument they played. He was recently awarded the American Bandmasters Association Edwin Franko Goldman Memorial Citation.
A short informational presentation by The Heidi Folk Festival will be provided, followed by the Swiss Consul General Bruno Ryff addressing the crowd before a birthday song to New Glarus is performed and free treats are distributed.
A new group has formed to continue the Swiss Music tradition. Alphorn players George Albright and Heinz Mattmann, along with Greg Long and Damien Babler, will provide typical Swiss music. The young group of flag throwers will show off their talents with this group as well. They are trained by Damien Babler.
Nancy Streiff and Kaye Gmur grew up in New Glarus singing and put their talents together after living in Switzerland. They enjoy yodel duets, with Nancy accompanying them on the accordion.
The Maennerchor is a typical Swiss Men’s choir. Maennerchor sing choral Swiss songs without yodeling. Maennerchor organized in 1928 to perpetuate the singing societies as found throughout Switzerland.
A new group will pay tribute to the Edelweiss Stars. The popular group formed in 1950 and sang for more than 50 years together (*see article on their history below). The tribute group consists of Kim Bright, Ed Brand, Tim Pauli, Beth Luchsinger, Nancy Streiff and Kaye Gmur.
A special treat of yodel solos will be offered by Tim Pauli and Tony Zgraggen.
The final group performing will be Yodlerklub New Glarus. This group was also formed in 1928, by Swiss immigrants wishing to keep the Swiss Music alive in the new Swiss settlement. Eventually the Club invited Robbie Schneider, a champion Swiss yodeler, to move to New Glarus. Robbie brought with him his love of all things Swiss, especially the yodeling. Other lead yodelers over the years have included Ernie and Therese Jaggi. Current lead yodelers are Tim Pauli, Nancy Streiff and Tony Zgraggen.
These music contributions showcase the great influence music, with an emphasis on Swiss music, has had on the New Glarus community. Along with providing great entertainment and camaraderie locally many of these groups have travelled far and wide promoting and sharing the story of New Glarus. All of the performers are volunteers and continue to sing and entertain for the love of music and Swiss heritage.
Join the celebration of the settlement of New Glarus on Friday, July 30. Following the music, fireworks will be enjoyed at dusk!