Core Members: Frank Stetar leader, trumpet, fiddle Barry Niccolai accordion Blake Haskins drums Steve Molish accordion Steve Rossi trumpet Frank Stetar Frank Stetar, leader of the Mon Valley Push, is a native of the Mon Valley. Starting his musical career at the age of three, Frank earned his first music degree in 1999 at IUP. Currently completing a Masters of Music degree, Frank is responsible for the arranging of the Push’s music and playing trumpet. After growing up listening to Polish Music at Fiedor’s Grove, Seven Springs, Conneaut Lake etc, forming the Push was the next step in the love for the music. “Its all about keeping it alive and taking it to the next level”. Frank currently resides in Daisytown, PA with his wife Audreya and son Stush. Barry Niccolai Barry Niccolai started playing the accordion at the age of eight taking lessons from the late Ed Czerwinsky from Denbo, PA. Barry started playing professionally at the age of 15 with an area combo called Randy's Royals. For the past 20 years he has performed with another local band, The Best of Times. The "Push" is the culmination of his dream of playing with a polka band. The only polka dancer in the band, his keen sense of good polka rhythm keeps the dancers happy. Niccolai is Associate Vice President of Student Development and Services at California University of Pennsylvania and resides in California, PA with his son Kyle. Blake Haskins Blake Haskins, also of the Mon Valley, is the youngest member of the band. Playing drums since a very early age, Blake was previously known for his skills in the marching percussion world. As a World Class DCI drum technician and high school drum line instructor, Blake wanted to take his career to the next level and decided to give Polka a try. Listening to many other types of music, Blake joined the band in December 04, and has helped take the Mon Valley Push to the next level. Steve Molish Steve Molish of Daisytown PA, is the only band member with previous polka experience. Playing accordion for the Melody Kings and the Imperials, Steve Retired from the polka field many years ago only to come out of retirement and play with the Mon Valley Push as the newest member. Steve Rossi Steven Rossi plays trumpet and bass with the Mon valley Push. A Police officer by trade and currently pursing a nursing degree, Steve joined the group in June 05. Influenced in the Polka field by the Versatones, Polka Family and Charm City, he also enjoys listening to many other types of music such as Jazz, Blues, Blue Grass, and Acapella groups. A well rounded musician being able to play many instruments, Steve currently lives in Greensburg. Steve is an active member of the Greensburg Fire Department, Dive Team and Swift Water Rescue.