Melvin Kublanski

January 13, 1918 – November 14, 1991

Mel, as he was known as, was born in a small farming community in Amaranth, Manitoba. His love for music was apparent at a very young age, and he purchased his first violin from a pawn shop in Portage la Prairie, having worked all summer thrashing for a neighboring farmer to earn the money.

Mel had never taken a music lesson and was quite proud of the fact that he played by ear. Once he had heard a particular piece of music, he would practice playing it until he mastered the tune and was capable of recalling the piece time and time again. While Mel could not read music, but when provided with a particular key to play the piece in, he would immediately know what the music should sound like. Eventually, Mel purchased a tenor saxophone and once again taught himself to skillfully play the instrument.

Mel started playing in the early 1940s and he played with many bands and great musicians such as Tommy Buick, Al Demski, Peter Picklyk, Peter Hnatiuk, Mike Domish’s Orchestra and Al Miller's Orchestra. His love of music and the traditional Ukrainian music continued all his life.

He was one of the originating band members of “The Golden Airs”, which included Al Demski, Wally Bogan and Peter Andrushak. They played at weddings, dances, and socials in small communities throughout Manitoba, and were often found playing at such places as Patterson's Barn, Rainbow Dance Gardens and Royal Canadian Legions.

During the last 10 years with the “The Golden Airs”, on several occasions, his son Ken played with him and when Mel became ill and decided to finally retire from music and retire “The Golden Airs”, his final performance was recorded at the 141 Legion.

Mel Kublanski -- a fine musician remembered by all. 

“Vichnaya Pamyat”