Florian, of Chmielewski Funtime Band, Going Strong at 97
CLOQUET, Minn. – The Chmielewski Funtime Band has been performing for six generations. Florian Chmielewski, one of 15 Chmielewski kids, continues leading the band and playing polka music to adoring fans. Even on his 97th birthday, he was in Cloquet, busy playing his accordion with his band.
“It’s so much fun,” said Florian. “I bring happiness to wherever I go and I play happy music.”
Marilyn Kiehl has been accompanying Florian since meeting him 18 years ago after hearing him play at Black Bear. “I think they love him,” said Kiehl. “They love the polka and they really admire his age and how he can still play so wonderful.”
Dozens of his fans came out to the Cloquet VFW Club Wednesday to hear and talk with Florian about his 97th birthday. They appreciate his music and his accordion.
While he is moving a little slower and sitting while he plays his accordion, Florian has no intention of retiring from public life anytime soon. “I was out at the DECC yesterday and I reserved for the 100th birthday. And I’m thinking, now, I can’t die now. I’ve got two more years and I have to be there at the DECC for my 100th.”
Looking ahead, The Chmielewski Funtime Band has a full schedule of dates he will be playing over the next few months. On Feb. 21, Florian will be back at the Cloquet VFW club.
If you can’t wait that long to see him, each weekend on Antenna TV Ch. 21.2, The Chmielewski Funtime show airs on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sunday at 8 a.m.
