The CAR Trio and Eddie Siwiec to Perform Free Concert at Trinity Episcopal in Alpena

ALPENA, MI — This Saturday, music lovers in Alpena will be treated to a special free concert at Trinity Episcopal Church, 124 E. Washington Ave. The event begins at 2 p.m. and features The CAR Trio alongside special guest Eddie Siwiec, a celebrated member of the Polka Music Hall of Fame.

A Trio with Deep Roots in Alpena

The CAR Trio — named for members Carole Cadarette (C), Alexander Zdan (A), and Rick Staeb (R) — is known for blending genres with their own creative twists.

“The style of music is very, very hard to describe,” Cadarette said. “We are going to be doing not just the instrumentals that The CAR Trio is known for, but we will be doing some vocaling, which will be easy-listening and lounge music”.

The group also incorporates old-time singalongs and campfire favorites, making their concerts feel both nostalgic andfresh.

Spotlight on Carole Cadarette, Al Zdan, and Rick Staeb

• Carole Cadarette, who has been a member of Trinity since 1942, plays her Yamaha keyboard — which she affectionately calls “Miss Yamaha.” Now 83, Cadarette still performs regularly in the Alpena area. “If we’re gonna do this, we’ve gotta get ’er done,” she said.
• Al Zdan has been playing bass guitar for over 70 years, performing in at least 11 different bands across country, polka, rock, gospel, and big band genres.
• Rick Staeb, the trio’s drummer, first began playing in grade school and later enjoyed a broadcasting career spanning 40 years before returning to music. Today, he brings both rhythm and storytelling to the group’s performances.

Eddie Siwiec: A Polka Hall of Fame Musician

Special guest Eddie Siwiec brings an impressive career to the stage. Known for his work in polka, rock, gospel, big band, and easy listening, he has earned numerous honors, including induction into the International Polka Association and Polka Music Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Michigan State Polka Music Hall of Fame in 2008.

“Eddie Siwiec is a man that I would say is everyone’s friend in music, and it doesn’t take long to figure out he is one of the most sincere people you will ever meet,” Cadarette said. “His playing finesse is a treat to a listener’s ear.”

Siwiec has performed with countless bands, recorded widely, and appeared on both radio and television. One highlight of his career was his appearance on “The Mollie B. Christmas Show” on RFD TV in Branson, Missouri.

Supporting Local Community Programs

Though admission to the concert is free, a freewill offering will be accepted. Donations will help support Trinity Episcopal’s community programs, including scholarships, Sunday Supper, a food pantry, and Habitat for Humanity housewarming supplies.

Will you be attending the Alpena concert this weekend? Which part of The CAR Trio or Eddie Siwiec’s music are you most looking forward to hearing live? Share your thoughts and concert stories in the comments.