The Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten, a vibrant & dedicated traditional German-American brass band, was founded by Tom Hospodar & John McClellan during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. At a time when gatherings and performances were restricted, the Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten developed innovative ways to keep the music alive.

After holding outdoor rehearsals, following CDC guidance on face coverings & social distancing, and staying home when necessary. After holding zoom rehearsals with Karl Beckman, Dena Jurcisek, Matt Matlak, Andy Nagy, and Michelle Swiniarski. After seemingly endless discussions about bell covers, ventilation quality & vaccinations, the Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten managed to emerge from the pandemic with remarkable readiness. Unlike other groups, they didn’t allow the challenges of the pandemic to hinder their practice & preparation. In fact, their hard work positioned them well for the eagerly anticipated 2021 festival season.

Under the direction of Erika Cikraji, the Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten specializes in traditional folk music and provides an auditory experience that echoes with the rhythms of traditional polkas, waltzes, and marches, as well as a few contemporary hits. Rooted in the vibrant culture of Bavaria, their performances carry a sense of authenticity that transports audiences to a different time and place.

Die Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten create a rich tapestry of harmonies & melodies nothing short of captivating. Instrumentation includes baritone, clarinet, drums, flügelhorn, tenorhorn, trombone, trumpet, tuba, and vocals.

Not only do they bring their musical prowess to the forefront, but the Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten also present themselves in traditional Bavarian attire, adding a visual characteristic that enhances the audience’s overall experience. This makes the GCM an ideal choice for events that celebrate German culture, such as Oktoberfest-themed parties, festivals, & corporate functions.

The Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten's presence has graced a wide array of occasions and events. Their performances are a fixture at popular gatherings such as the Cleveland Labor Day Oktoberfest, German Central Oktoberfest, Beer & Brats Night, and Christmas Party, the German Family Society's Old European Festival, Krampus Night at the Sachsenheim, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish Festival, Sachsenheim Summerfest, Summer Patio Pilsner Party & Clambake, the Zoar Maifest, as well as several wedding receptions and after-parties.

With every note they play and every performance they deliver, the Gemütlichkeit Cleveländer Musikanten honor the tradition and history of Bavarian & German-American music, bringing joy, nostalgia, and a touch of the Old World to the present day. Through their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to their craft, they have carved a special place in the hearts of their audiences, proving that music and community transcend even the most challenging circumstances.