D Street Band                      

Lenny Zielinski

As young as 5 years old, my father was teaching me to play accordian. Even though he preferred Slovenian style, I took a liking to Chicago's style and Polish vocals. As I made my way to Chicago in 1984, I started going to some of the dances and eventually met Frank Berendt, Jr. He was playing for Lil' Richard and the Polka All Stars at the time. It was then that I realized I needed to learn concertina. With some basics in keyboard practice, music theory, transposition and writing, Frank helped me gain my footing in the polka field. Eventually I started filling in for Frank. I also was doing some three piece work with Don Lucki and Eddie Nowak at the Baby Doll on the southside of Chicago. They both were a big help and encouragement to me during that time.  After Richie died and a short hiatus, I was playing some engagements with Joe Walega. It was then that I decided to form a group.

With the help of Brian Kapka, we formed a plan that has brought us to this point. We are playing the music that we enjoy, have a group of musicians that are enthused about what we are doing and look forward to bring songs into the future that are appreciated. Our group is the D Street Band...based on the music of Division Street (Polish Broadway), where long ago the lounges and clubs were filled with polka music practically seven days a week.

On a personal note: I like walks in the park (not really), birdwatching (not), crocheting (yeah right) and...well, honestly, being around fun people. I've made some good friends along the way and enjoy the good times.

Enjoy!