Trustees Honor Roll

Kuciemba, Dick

Saxophonist and Clarinetist (1932)
Inducted on November 28, 1992

An effective sideman is more than a good instrumentalist--he's a musical mindreader, endowed with an inner sense that can pick up on any band's style. That's what's made Dick "King" Kuciemba one of the most versatile team-players in Cleveland-style bands. Dick formed his own band in high school and soon became one of Cleveland's experienced and reliable sidemen, doing stints with Eddie Buehner, Chuck Smith, Ernie Benedict, Eddie Stampfl and other greats. He recorded with Ray Budzilek and Johnny Pecon. Moving to Michigan in 1972, Dick joined the Andy Nester Band and, later, the Eddie Adamic Orchestra, recording with both and touring Europe. Dick is also at home with mainstream dancebands and the Polish polka sound. He has backed up the nationally-known Jimmy Sturr as well as Ray Budzilek.