Barbara Deutsch Oktoberfest Trio

Based in El Sobrante CA

We are a dynamic trio of seasoned musicians who bring the delightful sounds of traditional Oktoberfest music to life. Based in the East Bay near the vibrant city of San Francisco, CA, our ensemble comprises three distinct talents: Barbara Deutsch on clarinet, Linda "Big Lou" Seekins on accordion and vocals, and Rick Elmore, also known as "Professor Gizmo," on the tuba. With a shared passion for music and a deep appreciation for German heritage, we specialize in a repertoire that includes German and American polkas, European waltzes, and various types of German folk dance melodies.

Barbara Deutsch, a clarinetist with roots tracing back to Germany, honed her skills at the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory of Music. While her German language skills might not be fluent (aber Ich spreche Deutsch nicht so gut!), her musical prowess knows no bounds.

Linda "Big Lou" Seekins, known for her roles in "Those Darn Accordions" and "Big Lou's Polka Party," masterfully commands the accordion while lending her vibrant vocals to our performances.

Rick Elmore, acclaimed as "Professor Gizmo," possesses a unique talent for breathing life into his tuba, creating a dynamic rhythm that effortlessly uplifts our music.

Collectively, we boast a rich history of collaborations with local groups, including Alpine Sound, Polka Geist, Silicon Valley Musikantenstammtisch, Polkacide, and many more. Our diverse experiences span beyond German genres, encompassing various musical landscapes and enriching our musical tapestry.

Our repertoire brims with vivacious melodies, featuring beloved drinking songs and timeless classics such as "Edelweiss." We skillfully traverse German and American polkas, including gems like "Liechtensteiner" and "Beer Barrel." Our renditions of exquisite German and European waltzes, such as "Schneewalzer" and Strauss's "Wiener Blut or Vienna Blood," evoke enchanting moments on the dance floor. We take pride in delivering music tailored to various German folk dance styles and even sprinkle in some Oberkrainer tunes by the illustrious Slavko Avsenik. Linda's playful accordion melodies may even unveil a surprise French café tune, adding a delightful twist to our performances.

Our shows crescendo with captivating Tyrolean music from Austria, leaving our audience brimming with happiness and newfound energy. Consider us for your upcoming celebrations, be it Oktoberfest revelries, birthdays, corporate events, anniversaries, retirements, festivals, or any special occasion deserving of musical jubilation. Our harmonious melodies and infectious rhythms are a surefire way to ignite smiles and infuse joy into your gathering, radiating positivity and creating cherished memories.

Let us be the harmonious backdrop to your next celebration, enveloping your event in the delightful symphony of traditional music. We're here to share our musical passion and bring an extra dose of cheer to any moment that calls for celebration.