ORCHESTRA - Key Persons

Anthony "Tony" Kawalkowski is a Chicago native, renowned violinist and orchestra leader. Tony's energy on stage and off is contagious. His lifelong dream led him to form his own company - From the Heart Musical Productions, Inc. In 2013, Tony's new AKO Christmas Show - The Love and Peace of Christmas - became a new holiday tradition for AKO fans, gaining critical acclaim and national coverage with appearances by our military and Chicago's Wayne Messmer! Tony was named after his uncle, who was also a renowned musician and his first teacher. He also studied with Herb Miska, concertmaster from The Wayne King Orchestra, and George Perlman at the American Conservatory of Music. Tony has played for national and international dignitaries such as Pope John Paul II, Cardinal Bernadine, Cardinal Francis George, Lech Kaczynski (former President of Poland), Michel Legrand, Jenny Mancini, Arnold Palmer and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Tony has released 2 albums, Playing from the Heart and Timeless Romance and has appeared on local radio and television programs.