 Douglas Bunkowsky
Tenor Sax
Being born and raised in a small town in rural Manitoba offered an opportunity to appreciate community events such as weddings and Christmas concerts. These events would be my first exposure to live music. Musicians playing, a real drum kit complete with tambourine on the high hat, people dancing and a late night, were all ingredients to a recipe that required investigation.
The European heritage of the community flavoured the traditional music of the day with Polka, Old-time or Viennese Waltz overtones. My Saturday nights were booked with my parents as we loved to watch Lawrence Welk and his big band. His variety of music was definitely an opportunity to learn about the diverse types of instruments and music. At the age of 6 or 7 was the time that my older brother Brian brought home his first guitar and started playing music. Since Brian had to study for exam's my oldest brother Bob was given the opportunity to practice with this guitar. The result, a lifetime of family music was born.
As a sibling watches music being preformed on stage by his brothers and sees people respond by dancing, laughing and applause, life is good and interests are created. At age 14 an opportunity to explore with an Alto Saxophone borrowed from a neighbour proved to be the final link to what would be my lifelong relationship with music and the saxophone. Musical theory provided by local resident Margit Coltvet, along with a tenor saxophone presented as a 15th birthday present from my family completed the practical side of the equation. Time and exposure to other musician's have continued the process.
At age 15, I was able to play beside my older brother's Bob and Brian, who played the drums and bass guitar respectively. As well, I listened, played beside and filled in on the swing, foxtrots and blues styles of Ralph Jenkins' trumpet. In addition, the beautiful Oldtime Waltz's and Polka's of Dennis Carlson on accordion along with the great vocals and rock and roll guitar of Ron Karlowsky offered me the chance to appreciate and realize that all music styles can be played and enjoyed. These opportunities came to life through the Southern Comfort Band.
Life outside music involves 28 years of marriage to my loving and understanding wife Kathy, three great children, daughter Laura and sons Jared and Matthew. I have lived a life sustained by the agriculture of the prairies, the construction skills of a licensed electrician, community and church support as well as the grace of God and the love of Christ. All have contributed to what you see and hear.
Legacy is just one more important step in the process. Playing with gifted family members has given us the opportunity to listen, learn, share experiences and skills. This simply shows that music is the language that all people, regardless of age, love and understand. I hope that our joint efforts bring those of you who are viewing this site and possibly our live performances a smile, a tapping toe and maybe even a great dance or two. Enjoy!
go back to top of page |
