Walter W. Kolar

Walter W. Kolar is recognized as the foremost authority in the tamburitza field in America. Recognized as a man of many accomplishments, recipient of many honors and awards, a capable and respected leader, Mr. Kolar has proided direction to the Tamburitzans' present-day success. His contributions in the field of tamburitza include literature, arranging, composing, and teaching. Mr. Kolar was born in Ambridge, Pennsylvania, on November 8, 1922. His tamburitza experience began quite early when he joined a youthful orchestra called the Bright Star Tamburitzans of Ambridge, under the direction of Paul Perman. His musical talents were soon rewarded when he was sent to Duquesne University's Prep School to play in the Tamburitzan's ensemble. Upon enrolling in the University, his education was interrupted by enlistment in the Air Corps. During his service, he received many decorations including a Purple Heart and several presidential citations. After serving four years, Kolar returned to Duquesne as Assistant Director under Matt L. Gouze, and to earn his Bachelor of Education degree in 1950. He was married to a former Tammie, Jennie Peternac, and has a son, David, who was to become a Tammie himself. The position of Managing Director was given to Mr. Kolar in 1952. He was chosen because of his outstanding familiarity with the music of the tamburitza. His background as a teacher, coupled with his vast knowledge of Slavic music has been responsible for the success enjoyed by the Tamburitzans. He founded the Tamburitza School of Music in 1954 and published the only instructional manual in English for the art of tamburitza playing. The Tamburitzan Cultural Center became a reality in 1965. He has assisted tamburitza groups from Tucson, Arizona, and San Francisco, California, to Steelton and New York with organizational materials, instructional materials, music, instruments, and consultation. Despite his busy schedule, he found time to return to a student role and in 1960 received a Master's degree in Educational Psychology from Duquesne University. A skillful administrator with a dynamic drive and store of energy, Mr. Kolar continuously strives for further growth and development in every area of the Tamburitzan's corporate structure. Scholarship advantages for students have increased along with academic achievements. Cultural relations with every Slavic country have been strengthened and research programs embarked upon. Mr. Kolar founded and is the director of the Pittsburgh Tamburitza Philharmonic Orchestra. He was the past director and present consultant for the Pittsburgh Folk Festival. His musical and production abilities equal that of his keen business and educational abilities, coupled with a deep sense of dedication, have made him a leader among men. Return to Hall of Fame Membership List