Peter Rappolt

A Band For All Occasions was formed in 1969 by Peter Rappolt During the 60’s Peter headed a group called the “Echomen” and wrote a number of hit tunes that were recorded by the group and presented on television of the day. Their hit tune “Ski Run” was one of the first Australian “Surf” tunes on the hit parade in Australia. The Band performed regularly on Johnny O’Keefe’s “Six O Clock Rock”. A record crowd of in excess of 70,000 people attended their show in Lane Cove National Park in 1963. The band also performed and backed notable performers such as the Bee Gees, Rob E.G., John Farnham and most of the popular acts of that period. In 1969 the band was renamed “The Sounds Of Lawrence” and a cabaret & party band format was formed which led to a tour in Sth. Vietnam, The band performed for American forces during the Vietnam war and completed over 400 cabaret style concerts there. In 1970 Peter Rappolt purchased a nightclub in Bangkok and used that location to further musical pursuits in Thailand and eventually perform in other countries throughout Asia, cumulating in a six months stint in Japan. In 1972 the band returned from overseas and was reformed to perform soul and funk music in most of the major entertainment venues throughout Australia until 1980 when the group disbanded. In 1996 the party band format was once again revitalized, the band was renamed Viva “the band” and new musical elements were introduced into the band’s repertoire, which includes: Gypsy Jazz, Salsa, Swing, Latin, Jazz, Zydeco, French, Spanish and Classic show tunes. Viva “the band” is a truly versatile, and experienced party band, a specialty for mixed audiences. For larger presentations the band is usually augmented with drums and a selection of brass instruments i.e. Trumpet, Saxophone, Trombone or alternatively Gypsy style violin. A Band For All Occasions also features the Accordion and Guitar Duo, an economical alternative to a formal string quartet for ceremonies and functions.

Viva the duo with their French style accordion and Spanish guitar is an unique and economical alternative to a string quartet for wedding ceremonies and “gala” functions. The duo create a romantic, rather than a formal ambiance. At wedding ceremonies the duo usually begin their performance as the bridal party exits the church to mill with their guests and have their photos taken, the sound of accordion and acoustic guitar performing an opening of French street tunes in front of the church entry is a delightful adjunct to the ceremony and has enthralled many wedding parties. Testimonials can be provided on request.

In addition to playing French music the musette accordion and acoustic guitar provide a distinctive French flavour to other types of music they perform at gala functions, parties and ceremonies, including: Latin, Spanish, Gypsy jazz, American swing and jazz music: . FRENCH: C’est Magnifique, Dans La Rue D’antibes, J’attendrai. SHOW TUNES: Puttin’ on the Ritz, In the Mood, Stardust, Caravan. LATIN: Brazil, Siboney, Tico Tico, Ipanema, Carnival. JAZZ: Riverboat Shuffle, Night in Tunisia, Night and Day. SPANISH : Espana Cani (pasadoble) La Paloma CLASSIC: Czardas, Flight of the Bumble Bee, Hungarian Dance No 5. DANCE: Amapola, El Cumbanchero, La Cumparsita Show less