From May to October, Felix Possak delights passengers aboard Summerland's Kettle Valley Steam Railway with his musical versatility and easy-going nature. Strolling the aisles, he delivers international favourites, Latin selections, light classical, popular, jazz, folk, and county/western musical selections. He sings in fifteen languages and plays fifteen different stringed instruments. Many of these, like the hurdy-gurdy and the bandura are collector pieces which Felix has acquired during his lifetime of touring. Because he chooses instruments and selections appropriate to the occasion and audience preferences, his performances also vary. His style seems effortless and his life time in the entertainment business has not dulled his enthusiasm. He puts audiences at ease with his expansive smile and invites participation.

Felix Possak was born to perform. In his hometown of Vienna, Austria, he quit his day job in audio-electronics back in 1966 to follow his musical instincts. As a classical guitarist, he first performed European selections. Hanging around an American education centre in Vienna exposed him to North American tastes of the time like the folk music of the Kingston Trio. After his immigration to Canada in 1967, he continued as a soloist but also became a member and creator of numerous ensembles. He first toured the Maritimes with an Irish group. From 1977-1985 his Banjo Palace Band (two banjos, a trombone and a tuba) became a fixture at conventions and grandstand shows across the nation. For six years his Schrammel Quartet (two violins, an accordion and a contra-guitar) introduced Viennese music to Canada and the United States. Then Felix moulded fifteen classical professionals into a Viennese orchestra which played for ballroom dances and performed in concert halls.

These KVR solo performances are the current genre for Felix Possak whose full history can be reviewed at www.banjo.ca. From his former home base in Calgary, he retired to Peachland four years ago. However, he could not retire from his talent and from his drive to perform. The Kettle Valley Railroad is now the beneficiary of the amazing musicianship of Felix Possak.

2006-06  Barb Shave