Duffy and, at the time, was called the “Firefighter’s String Band,” as its membership was largely comprised of Philadelphia Firefighters. Some years later, the band was renamed “Duffy String Band” in honor of its founder. Kunzig, Sr. Kunzig named himself Captain and continued in his roles as Captain and Owner of Duffy String Band until his retirement from active participation in the parade in 1985
. That year, Henry’s son, Ted Kudrick, was named Captain, a position which he holds to this day. The Duffy String Band has played a major role in Mummer history throughout the city of Philadelphia. The band celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2005, with the recording of their anniversary CD, "60 Years of Music and Mummery". In Summer 2003, the Duffy String Band was named the “Official String Band of North Wildwood, New Jersey” by Mayor Aldo A. Palombo. Duffy’s Captain, Ted Kudrick, and President, Charles Kochensky, are inducted into the String Band Association’s “Hall of Fame”. In addition, the first women to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, Cheryl Crowe, Treasurer, and Peggy Rullo, Secretary, are also members of the band. The band has made great strides over the past few years and has received praise from the mummer community with their recent themes ‘Sugar Rush’, ‘Batteries Not Included’, 'Animal Crackers', 'Back on Track', and 'All Decked Out'. The Duffy String Band has recently recruited new and talented musicians, and has proven to be a friendly and family-oriented band. In an effort to make the band an even bigger success in the upcoming years, the Duffy String Band is looking to recruit additional members, including musicians, dancers, and those who would like to help behind the scenes. Anyone can be a member - male or female, young or old, novice or experienced. All members play a significant role in the band’s success. We hold practices every Wednesday from 8-10 PM at the band’s clubhouse located at 2230 Cedar Street. Philadelphia, PA. Anyone is welcome to attend one of our rehearsals to hear the music, meet the band, and experience one of Philadelphia’s most cherished traditions. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We would be more than happy to answer your questions and discuss all that the Duffy String Band has to offer.
