When Pete, Rick and Ron Ipach were children, their father and grandfather delighted in teaching them to appreciate music -- especially in the tradition of their German ancestors. Starting all three off with an abundance of accordion lessons, their efforts were soon rewarded. By the mid-70s, the Ipachs decided to invest their energy in a band of their own and the Fidelen Jungs, one of Cincinnati's premiere German groups, was born. Joining forces with other friends from the Donauschwaben Verein (a german club they all belonged to), the FJ's enjoyed eight years of regional success, playing Oktoberfests, Maifests, Folk Festivals, and dances all over Southwestern Ohio. While still at the height of the FJ's popularity, Rick, along with Pete and Ron, decided it was time to move on and up. By October, 1984, the Alpen Echos were formed.

Wishing to perform in a more free, lively and individual style, which would attract younger as well as retain their older audiences, they recruited the talents of singer Steve "Chip" Schoepf and guitarist Jamie Leising. Both were instrumental in forming the sound and energy that has become synonymous with the Alpen Echos. A couple years later Jamie Leising left the group for a "behind the scenes" job in the entertainment industry and is currently working for Performance Magazine in Dallas, Texas. Dave Johnstone was then enlisted to take over the duties as the Alpen Echos versatile guitarist. One more personnel change occurred when Ron decided to spend more time with his family of four and a new business. Nick Gulacsy (their Hungarian Connection) gladly took over the drumsticks and became the main time-keeper for the Alpen Echos. Being an accomplished accordionist as well, Nick has also allowed the Alpen Echos to expand in their versatility.

The Alpen Echos, with their infectious rhythms and obvious enthusiasm have been heralded as one of the "must see" bands in the country. They have become the purveyors of what's new coming out of Germany and Austria. From AlpenRebellen to d'Feldberger to the Schurzenjager and all groups in between, they bring this exciting music to all types of Festivals. Whether they're performing the latest Volksmusik, Alpen Rock, maybe a traditional waltz or even a hot Cajun tune, people of all ages can be seen enjoying the "Stimmung" und "Gute Laune" of the Alpen Echos. It's like a memorable trip to Germany without the expense.

Live performances, though are not the only staples of the Alpen Echos. To date they have now recorded six albums that include their original "White Album", Just Because, Off the Autobahn, Kajun Kraut, Musik Aus Der Lederhose, and their newest Lieber Ledig und Live!. In keeping with their desire to please their audiences, look for Rick, Chip, Dave and Nick to have something new up their sleeves, or rather, their lederhosen.