Elmer Scheid
(1922-2012)
Inducted in 1995
Elmer Scheid started playing with his father’s 2-row button concertina as a toy, and by the age of four had learned his first tune. At age eight, he received his very own small concertina, and at age 16 he received a new concertina from his father, which he played for his 50-year music career. Elmer played his first professional dance at age 13 with the John Fritsche Band of New Ulm. He also played with the Six Fat Dutchmen and managed the Babe Wagner Band until he formed his own band in 1951. Elmer recorded for two major labels, Decca and Epic Records, and released dozens of records. The Elmer Scheid Band began playing about 95% of the wedding dances at George’s Ballroom in New Ulm and the Orchid Inn in Sleepy Eye. As the band’s popularity grew, they entertained audiences in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin and throughout Minnesota. Elmer has always been proud of the musicians who entertained with him and considers them the best.
