Once for Old Times Sake

  Ever evolving, ever capturing the spirit of the moment and the cooperation of the players, August 2nds' musicians are among the truly talented individuals who hear so clearly they can put together real music with a minimum of direction.

  Niece Rhonda Roskos tells this story of Andy and his winter audience.  While playing in Arizona, a woman passed behind Andy and said, “I just hate you.” 

  Andy finished the music he was making and then tagged with the woman.  “Ma’am, I don’t know you.  How can you hate me?” 

  The woman explained that she had taught music nearly her entire life and she couldn’t do what he does.  Then the two sat down together and shared their love of music at the keyboard. 

  Leonard Clarke strolled up after the substitute concert last August and said, “I want to play with you.”  Having heard Len in several settings over the years, I replied, “Had I had your contact information, you would have been up here with us.” 

  Len supplied information and we’ve been privileged to play dulcimer with him a few times since.  His only question is, “Am I playing melody or harmony?” 

  Tuesday the Summer Series Committee is honored to present three talented musicians, who have moved from band to band, responding to the needs and wants of community along with the circumstances of the individual musicians. 

  Andy Roskos learned to play piano at age 10 when his mother taught him the basics.  Soon after he picked up accordion so he could play in a dance band “Ernie’s Harmony Kings.”  He and his brother-in-law later formed a group which included drummer Brian Smith called “The Country Gentlemen.”

About the same time Leonard and David Clark were entertaining locally with their folk music.  After Leonard joined the Navy, David formed a high school rock band “The Renegades” where Brian played percussion.  When Leornard returned from the service, he played country Music with Charlie Nason and later teamed up with Brian and Molly Jordan to form “Country Kapers.”  David left “Country Gentlemen” to play with “Western Reunion Band” and Leonard stepped in. 

  And so it goes.  Over the years Lenny has performed with “Lenny and the Boys,” “Wheelers Hubcap Guitar Band,” The Verstiles,” “Bottom of the Barrel Boys,” Adopted Finns” and “Andy and Stu.” 

Today they simply say, “Let’s just call this one ‘Once for Time’s Sake Band!’ Enjoy!”