Band Bio
George Portz George Portz & "The Friends Of Bluegrass" are the most versitile Performing group in the area as they blend their fiery Bluegrass roots with some fine traditional Irish and Louisiana Cajun music. Their "Cajun Set" has won rave reviews from crowds throughout the Midwest. The group's enthusiasm, top-notch musical ability, wit and humor are always evident during their performances. George's "musical philosophy" is always "Leave 'em wanting more" ......and they always do! George Portz is the group's leader and founder. He is an Illinois State Fair Fiddle Champion, Illinois State Fiddle Champion, Western Illinois State Fiddle Champion, and his and his fiddling highlights include over 130 First Place Championships. He has performed for 2 presidents; President Richard Nixon in 1973 at the White House and with his group "The Friends Of Bluegrass at the Illinois State Fair in 1986 for president Ronald Reagan. He has also performed at the Grand Ole Opry. George toured with the legendary "Goin Brothers" of Eastern Kentucky in the mid 1970's. His dynamic fiddle style ranges from fiery Bluegrass to zesty Cajun. There's not a fiddle player in the Midwest that can entertain and audience like George. David Dalton is the groups Lead Singer. David is considered to be one of the finest Bluegrass singers around and can easily make the transition from Bluegrass to some fine Hank Williams Old Time Country, and was won numerous awards for both. Dave Montgomery is the Lead Guitar player for the group. He is currently the Illinois and Missouri State Flat-Pick Guitar Champion. Bob Worley is the groups Banjo player. He has won many awards for his driving Banjo playing. Kathie Champlin is the Bass player for the group. Kathie has been involved with Bluegrass and Country Music for the last 20 years. She is quite talented playing the Bass as well as the Cajun Accordian and does a great job for our band. "George Portz & "The Friends Of Bluegrass" are the leading acoustic music group now performing in the St . Louis area and their shows are enjoyed by all ages. Current Recordings: "GRANDPA BIGGS' FIDDLE FAVORITES" , "JEST JAMMIN" , "PORTZ & PROSSER - TOGETHER AT LAST" (Spring '97) and the latest CD entitled GEORGE PORTZ & HIS FRIENDS OF BLUEGRASS. Pick up the new CD or cassette at any shows! For booking information contact: George Portz 105 South High Street Shiloh, Illinois 62269 Phone: (618) 632-1384 |
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