MEET THE MUSICIANS

Emily Ann Bauer

My name is Emily Bauer and I am a board-certified music therapist and performer from Omaha! My husband and his family is from Charles City so I am beyond excited to be playing at Art-A-Fest. Music fills my time professionally and personally so I am looking forward to sharing that music with all of you.

James Aissen

James is 16 years old and lives in Clarksville, Iowa. He began playing the drums at an early age, started taking piano lessons in 2016, and has recently started playing the guitar, bass, and organ as well. In 2017 James began composing & notating his original songs, and released his debut album, "The First," in January 2019. Since then he's released two more albums. James' musical interests include classical, jazz, contemporary, pop, classic rock, progressive music, and hymns. Some of his most important influencing artists include Mannheim Steamroller, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Yanni, David Lanz, Van Halen, Pink Floyd, and Dream Theater. ames plays at a variety of public and private events, as well as his church.

Der Polka Prost

David Hutchins founded our band between 1979 - 1980, and with the exception of 2020 we've been going strong ever since. The band membership has continued to grow and expand over the years, although we have 3 original members still performing. We play traditional upbeat polkas, waltzes, schottisches,

two-steps, and more! As a band we really enjoy playing and having a great time together. We mostly play for special events and at nursing homes, assisted living areas, and senior centers in and around Charles City. However, we've traveled as far away as 75 miles to entertain - just because we love doing it!

Sam Crosser

Sam, a resident of Osage, comes from a family of musicians dating back 4 generations. Sam currently plays with the local bands Nova Jazz, Island Fever and 5 Friends. Sam is also a member of the Piano Technicians Guild. When he's not playing piano, Sam is tuning them! 

With his upbeat personality, Sam is a highly sought after solo artist, and is popular with his audience for his repertoire of jazz, rock, and gospel. Sam is available for special occasions, or for just plain having fun.

Melissa Dorenkamp

Melissa is a Charles City native. She grew up singing in choirs, doing some musical theater, and singing with her dad on the porch. Melissa is married with 3 boys, and currently helps lead worship at Zion Lutheran Church in Clear Lake and helps at other local events when a vocalist is needed.