Leon Witkowski

Polish-American clarinetist, composer, and bandleader (? - 1934 Brooklyn, New York). A classically trained musician originally from Poznan in Poland (then part of Germany), Witkowski emigrated to the United States on Nov. 2, 1891 and became U.S. citizen in 1898. Having settled in Brooklyn, NY, he led a large band at Luna Park on Coney Island. He and his orchestra also made numerous recordings of Polish music for Victor. In addition, performed as solo clarinetist with a major symphony orchestra. Leon Witkowski was the uncle of "Polka Hall of Fame" inductee Bernie Witkowski.