The Viking Accordion Band formed in 1931 in Albert Lea, Minnesota by Leighton A. Berg and
Roy Simonson. The group grew to include eight members variously performing on accordion,
clarinet, trumpet, saxophone, banjo, piano, bass horn and drums. They were a popular
attraction at dance halls and radio stations throughout Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and the
Chicago area, performing Scandinavian old-time and popular dance music. Between 1933 and
1941, the band recorded 46 tracks for Gennett Records in Richmond, Indiana, Brunswick
Recording Co. and Decca Records in Chicago. In 1965 the band, now reduced to five members,
changed its name to the Skipper Berg Band and played a more modern repertoire. Leighton A.
"Skipper" Berg remained the leader of the group throughout its entire existence, and in
1992, published a book detailing the band's activities. Berg died in 1995.
