Passing of Former IPA Director – Leonard Wrobel

It is with sadness that we notify our members and friends of the passing of former IPA Director Leonard Wrobel. Lenny served as a director for the International Polka Association and was passionate about polka music.  Lenny passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 22nd, 2021 in Erie, PA.…

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Passing of Former IPA Director: Patricia “Pat” Maduzia

It is with deep sadness that the International Polka Association announces the passing of Former IPA Director Patricia “Pat” Maduzia. Pat was very active in the polka community both in the Chicago area and across the country.    Pat would be frequently seen in front of the bandstand dancing and…

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Passing of IPA Hall of Fame Member: Adam Barthalt

It’s with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of IPA Hall of Fame Inductee Adam Barthalt, who was inducted into the International Polka Association Hall of Fame in 2006. Adam G. Barthalt died on April 24, 2021 at Peconic Bay Medical Center. He was 85 years old.…

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Passing of IPA Past President Pat Mikos

It is with great sadness to inform you that IPA Past President Patricia “Pat” Mikos passed away on February 25th, 2021. Condolences to the entire Mikos family and to all of her many polka friends. Visitation/Wake:   March 1st, 2021 beginning at 9am Hickey Memorial Chapels2429 W 127th StBlue Island…

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Passing of IPA Past President Jerry Wantroba

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our IPA Advisor, Jerry Wantroba. Jerry passed away Monday, after a long Illness. Jerry’s family were residents of the McKinley Park neighborhood in Chicago, where so many Polkas stars lived. Jerry was first a sponsor on Chicago…

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IPA 52nd Annual Festival of Bands – Virtual Edition!

The International Polka Association is excited to announce . . . The 52nd Annual Virtual Festival of Bands! Sunday, January 17th, 2021 3:00pm Central Time / 4:00pm Eastern Standard Time Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, we won’t be able to experience live music in person, but we thought it would be…

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IPA Interview Series: Videos

The IPA has embarked on a project to interview many of our IPA Hall of Fame Inductees. The stories and memories have been fantastic, and we are excited to bring them to all of our polka friends. Listed below, you will find a link to our ever-growing set of IPA…

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New/Updated IPA Polka Music Awards Electronic Submission Process

  Attention Polka Artists/Bands: The International Polka Association has adopted a new electronic method for polka artists/bands, who are interested in being considered for IPA awards, to register and submit their recordings (if applicable). As you may know, the Academy of Electors, which comprises 195 electors from across the country,…

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IPA 2020 Young Songwriter’s Competition – Winner & Runner up

2020 Winner and Runner Up Announced! Congratulations to Nathan Neuman and his song “Pass it On” as the winner of the International Polka Association’s 2020 Young Songwriter’s competition!   Also; please congratulate Jenna Libera for securing second place for her polka “Sunshine”   A big congratulations and Thank You to…

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