Polka heartland : why the Midwest loves to polka /

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Includes bibliographical references (pages 186-187) and index."Polka Heartland" captures the beat that pulses in the heart of Midwestern culture--the polka--and offers up the fascinating history of how "oompah-pah" came to be the sound of middle America. From the crowded dance tent at Pulaski Polka Days to an off-the-grid Mexican polka dance in small-town Wisconsin, "Polka Heartland" explores the people, places, and history behind the Midwest's favorite music. From polka's surprising origin story as a cutting-edge European fad to an exploration of the modern-day polka scene, author Rick March and photographer Dick Blau take readers on a joyful romp through this beloved, unique, and richly storied genre. "Polka Heartland" describes the artists, venues, instruments, and music-makers who have been pivotal to polka's popularity across the Midwest and offers six full-color photo galleries to immerse readers in today's vibrant polka scene.A polka prelude -- The origin story -- Polka's migration to America -- American polka varieties -- The Wisconsin "Bohemian" polka -- Dutchman-style polka -- Pulaski polka days -- What is "Slovenian"? -- Mexican polka -- New directions in polka.