Our Story: 100 Years of Music
Proudly made in Kitchener Waterloo
A lot changes in 100 years but some things stay exactly the same, the name Wappler is one of those steadfasts. From humble roots dating back to 1926 Wappler Music has been a staple in Waterloo region.
Karl Wappler immigrated to Canada from Saxon Germany in 1924 at the age of 16. Three years later he joined his family in the music store business with Wappler’s Music Store. A few short years later found himself as the sole proprietor of the shop, located in the Dietrich block of downtown Kitchener.
A one man business for nearly 60 years. He established shop in two other King St locations before settling in his final location across from the Walper Terrace Hotel on Queen Street. There were only four music merchants in the city at that time, of which he was the dean of merchants for the region.
With clients like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Edward Johnson, the late general manager of the Metropolitan Opera in New York and Walter Susskind, former conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Wappler’s music was truly a destination in the heart of KW.
Karl worked for various retailers in “the best little town in Canada”, Kitchener for years after closing up shop. He continued to perform piano across the city until he passed at the age of 94.
Two generations after Karl’s venture into the music business came Kyle. Inspired by his great grandfather’s playing, he took over the passion of playing and performing himself at the age of 6, even being able to share the stage with Karl at piano recitals at a very young age.
Kyle’s passion for music continued to grow and by 18years old he had started his first promotion company supporting local and developing acts from across the country. Two years later he joined forces with Have Hope, which he has ran independently since 2012, producing hundreds of concerts and events since.
This passion and creativity led to festivals, College and University Campus events and frosh festivals, conferences and showcase management, and so much more. KW Events & Entertainment is the final iteration and culmination of 100 years of music, passion, creativity, knowledge, and Wappler’s supporting the arts in KW.
A lot can change in 100 years, some things stay the same….
KW Events & Entertainment is a boutique, one stop shop for events, specializing in events planning, consulting, talent buying/booking, live entertainment, and so much more.
With nearly 20 years of experience creating and producing live events, we bring our knowledge, expertise and passion into everything we create. From concerts to student events, corporate and more, we can help!