Tom Brusky, Webmaster    

What a funny name for a polka band.  But the name isn't the only thing that makes this band unique.  This group of talented musicians brings energy, fun and lots of laughs to the stage whenever they perform.

The What Cha Callums, formerly named the Little People, have been playing as a group since the late 1970s.  Lorraine Leichey, who still plays with the band today, formed the original band.  Today, along with other musicians, they make up the distinctive sound of the What Cha Callums.  The band plays many different styles of music.  From the ever-favorite German style to Czech, Dutchman, Country Western and even a little Polish, this band does it all.  They'll keep you dancing to polkas, waltzes, and fox trots all night long.  The band consists of Arvin Lange on accordion, Marilyn Lange on drums and vocals, Mark Birschbach on trumpet and saxophone, Don Elmer on clarinet and saxophone, Mike Thull on clarinet, saxophone, and vocals, Cedric Solie on tuba, and Lorraine Leichey on piano and banjo.

Arvin & Marilyn and the band were named the 2005 W.O.L.A. Orchestra Leaders of the Year, an award they are extremely proud of.  The What Cha Callums currently have three CDs available for your listening pleasure.  They are: "The What Cha Callums", "Happy Hour", and their new release "Out Behind the Barn" which was recently voted the 2006 Wisconsin Polka Music Awards "Recording of the Year".  Marilyn and Arvin also won WPM's Exceptional Achievement award that same year.

The What Cha Callums have played all over Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska at some of the greatest polka fests and ballrooms, but it always comes down to one thing.  They enjoy making the music that makes so many people happy!  What more could you ask for?