Who's who in the band

Terry Walsh

Bandleader/Singer/Songwriter

As the charismatic frontman and driving force behind the Belfast Cowboys, Terry Walsh brings a wealth of experience and passion to every performance. With his powerful, soulful voice and captivating stage presence, Terry has earned a reputation as one of the most compelling and authentic singers on the scene.

 A native of South Minneapolis Minnesota, Terry's musical roots run deep, influenced by the city's rich cultural music heritage and his own family's love of music. Over the years, he's honed his craft, blending elements of rock, soul, and Americana to create a unique sound that's both deeply personal and universally relatable. 

With the Belfast Cowboys, Terry has built a loyal following and garnered critical acclaim for their high-energy live shows and genre-bending sound. When he's not touring or recording with the band, Terry can often be found performing solo or collaborating with other musicians on various projects.

Dave Kirby

Drums/cofounder

As a drummer, musician, and music lover, Dave Kirby brings a lifelong passion for rhythm and groove to the Belfast Cowboys. With a background that spans rock, blues, jazz, and beyond, Dave's eclectic musical tastes inform his dynamic drumming style. 

A native of Minnesota, Dave has been a fixture on the Twin Cities music scene for years, playing with a variety of bands and musicians. When he's not behind the kit with the Belfast Cowboys, Dave can often be found cheering on his beloved Minnesota sports teams or exploring the great outdoors.

Joe Loskota

co-Founding member/ Piano/ Vocals

As a pianist, composer, and educator, Joe Loskota brings a rich musicality to the Belfast Cowboys and St. Dominic's Trio. With a background in classical music and a passion for jazz, blues, and rock, Joe's keyboard playing is a perfect blend of elegance and energy. 

A dedicated musician and teacher and mentor, Joe has inspired countless students to explore their own creativity and love of music. With the Belfast Cowboys and St. Dominic's Trio, he's found the perfect outlet for his own musical expression, weaving intricate piano lines and soulful melodies into the band's eclectic soundscapes.

Dan Kowalke

Lead Guitar/Vocals

As a versatile and accomplished guitarist, Dan Kowalke brings a distinctive voice to the Belfast Cowboys and St. Dominic's Trio. With a background in rock, blues, and roots music, Dan's playing is marked by its emotional intensity, melodic sensibility, and technical flair. 

A lifelong music lover and enthusiast, Dan has played with a variety of bands and musicians over the years, honing his craft and developing his unique sound. With the Belfast Cowboys and St. Dominic's Trio, he's found a perfect fit, contributing his signature guitar work to the band's dynamic live performances and recordings.

"Jumpin" Joe Baumgart

Bass/Vocals

With his infectious energy and unstoppable grooves, "Jumpin'" Joe Baumgart brings the low-end thunder to the Belfast Cowboys. A seasoned bassist with a passion for roots rock, blues, and Americana, Joe's playing is all about the feel, the vibe, and the unstoppable momentum.

 A man of many talents, Joe is also a skilled linguist, fluent in Japanese. With his irrepressible spirit, undeniable talent, and global perspective, Joe is the perfect fit for the Belfast Cowboys' dynamic sound.

Vic Volare

Tenor Sax/Flute Co-Founder

As a saxophonist, songwriter, and co-founding member of the Belfast Cowboys, Vic Volare brings a wealth of musical experience and expertise to the table. With a deep background in jazz, blues, and roots music, Vic's playing is marked by its emotional intensity, technical precision, and undeniable soul. 

A key contributor to the Belfast Cowboys' distinctive sound, Vic's saxophone and flute work adds a rich, melodic dimension to the band's eclectic blend of rock, soul, and Americana. With his passion for music, his dedication to his craft, and his irrepressible stage presence, Vic is an integral part of the Belfast Cowboys' magic.

Paul Gronert

Alto, Bari and Soprano Sax

As a highly respected and versatile saxophonist, Paul Gronert brings a wealth of musical experience to the Belfast Cowboys. A former member of the acclaimed local band Three Minute Hero, Paul has also played with numerous other groups and artists, solidifying his reputation as one of the Twin Cities' most sought-after horn players. 

In addition to his work with the Belfast Cowboys, Paul leads the Northside Horns and performs with various other local bands. His playing is marked by its technical precision, emotional depth, and unmistakable soul. With his impressive musical pedigree and ongoing contributions to the local music scene, Paul is a valuable asset to the Belfast Cowboys' sound.

Tim Martin

Trumpet, Flugel Horn, Piccolo Trumpet

As a highly respected and versatile trumpeter, Tim Martin brings a wealth of musical expertise to the Belfast Cowboys. With a collection of trumpets that's the envy of many a brass player, Tim is a sought-after musician who performs with a variety of ensembles around the Twin Cities. A key member of the Star of the North Jazz Orchestra and other local bands, Tim is also an integral part of the Northside Horns.

 By day, he's the beloved band director at Washburn High School, sharing his passion for music with the next generation of musicians. With his impressive musical credentials, technical mastery, and infectious enthusiasm, Tim is a vital part of the Belfast Cowboys' sound.

Matt "Salty" Hanzelka

Trombone

As a versatile and in-demand trombonist, Matt "Salty" Hanzelka brings a unique blend of style and sophistication to the Belfast Cowboys. A key member of the band, Matt's trombone playing adds depth, nuance, and a touch of elegance to the Cowboys' eclectic sound. 

When he's not performing with the Belfast Cowboys, Matt can be found sharing his talents with other notable local bands, including Davina and the Vagabonds and several Latin salsa ensembles. With his impressive musical range, technical mastery, and infectious energy, Matt is a valuable asset to the Belfast Cowboys' lineup.

As the Belfast Cowboys' longtime drummer, Dave Haugen brings a dynamic energy and unbridled enthusiasm to every performance. With a playing style that's equal parts power, precision, and reckless abandon, Dave's drumming is the perfect complement to the Cowboys' eclectic sound. 

A veteran of the local music scene, Dave's earned a reputation for his incendiary drum solos – including a legendary 30-minute "Wipeout" marathon that got him banned from a club (a badge of honor, if you ask us!). With his irrepressible spirit, technical chops, and sheer love of playing, Dave is an integral part of the Belfast Cowboys' magic.

Eric Johnson

Trombone

When Matt Hanzelka is on the road with Davina and the Vagabonds, Eric Johnson steps in to bring his own brand of trombone magic to the Belfast Cowboys' horn section. A seasoned musician with a rich history in the local scene, Eric's credentials include stints with Three Minute Hero, the Star of the North Jazz Orchestra, and the Southside Aces.

 But Eric's talents go far beyond his impressive musical resume. This charismatic trombonist is also a gifted showman, bringing a spark of energy and unpredictability to every performance. His legendary dance moves are a highlight of the show, and his enthusiasm is infectious. Whether he's soloing, dancing, or just bringing the house down with his trombone playing, Eric is a welcome addition to the Belfast Cowboys' lineup.

Bart Bakker

Bass

When "Jumpin'" Joe Baumgard takes a night off or embarks on his annual sabbatical to Japan, Bart brings his own unique flavor to the Belfast Cowboys' low-end landscape. A longtime friend of the band, Bart's a skilled bassist with a distinct style that adds a fresh twist to the Cowboys' sound. 

While still honoring the spirit of the band's eclectic rock 'n' roll, Bart puts his own stamp on the bass lines, injecting his own personality and flair into every performance. The result is a thrilling new dimension to the Belfast Cowboys' music, and a testament to the band's ability to evolve and adapt while staying true to their roots.