Original 1963 liner notes by Al Csiky

This is a uniquely different album. Here we stand in the days of the blaring brass section and the sometimes uninhibited rhythms. We long for something different. We travel from place to place, much as Diogenes with his lamp, looking for a sound that is not stereo-typed. In this album, The Society Notes, under the direction of Lou Sikora, present a traditional, yet a new approach to standard Hungarian melodies. The Society Notes, in a larger sense, are able to convey more than what is written on a sheet of music. Listening to the tracks on this album, we hear the personal touch of each musician - his own personal feelings about the music he is playing. On does not need to have an Hungarian background to listen to and enjoy the moods created in “A Bouquet Of Hungarian Songs”.

The versatility of the musicians is another point at which to be marveled. Not only do the Society Notes play Hungarian music, but they perform modern American dance music with equal finesse. It seems that nothing in the field of music is out of the reach of the Society Notes.

As a group, the Society Notes began functioning in the late 1940’s, lending a welcome change to lovers of fine music in the Youngstown area. The original idea of being confined strictly to Hungarian melodies was soon laid aside to meet the demand for “good music” dance groups. However, the Hungarian aspect of music would not and could not fall out of the picture. Radio listeners soon became familiar with the Society Notes via the airwaves. Even though live radio broadcasts are a thing of the past, the Society Notes are very much a part of the present and future of fine music.

Lou Sikora, the leader of the Society Notes, is not only an accomplished violinist, but he doubles on the saxophone and clarinet as well. His previous experience includes playing with the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. Aside from this, Lou also has an excellent singing voice.

Pianist Ben Gagyi is what is known to musicians as a business piano player, meaning a serious and astute musician. His solo work has enough polish to make it sound pleasing, but not sticky or sugary.

George Galambossy has also played with the Youngstown Symphony as a bass violinist. His driving bass sounds create a background and lend additional depth to the group sound.

Accordionist Frank Molnar is a smooth, versatile musician, able to play all styles of music. In addition he is a superb vocalist.

A fine technician on the violin is Ted Csiky who has played all types of music from cowboy, on the road, to classics with the Youngstown Symphony.