For both Al Schumm and Dan Grohnke, music has been a lifelong passion—one that has taken them from church performances and community bands to an opportunity to bring joy to audiences across northeast Indiana through Audiences Unlimited (AUI). As The RETROS, they share timeless hits from the 1940s through the 1960s, creating a trip down memory lane that invites audiences to sing, sway, and reminisce.
From Engineering to Entertaining
Al and Dan first met while working in the engineering department at Navistar, where they bonded over a shared love of music. Dan, a multi-instrumentalist, was playing trumpet in the Fort Wayne Community Band and at his church, and he played the keyboard casually. Al, a seasoned vocalist, was singing in barbershop quartets and choirs. Though they performed separately for years, their paths continued to cross—especially when Dan and Al got together to provide music for several services at Al’s church.
By 2017, Al, already familiar with AUI through his barbershop connections, saw an opportunity for them to perform together in a new and meaningful way. After a successful audition, The RETROS officially debuted as AUI artists in March 2018—and they’ve been making audiences smile ever since.
A Performance Style That Connects
The RETROS carefully craft their performances, mixing well-loved classics with lighthearted audience interaction. Whether sharing trivia about a song’s origins, cracking jokes, or leading singalongs, they create a warm, engaging atmosphere. “We change our program every month,” Al explained. “In March, we do spring and Irish songs. In April, we feature rain songs. May brings flowers, and patriotic pieces debut over the summer months.”
Some of their most memorable moments come when the music sparks an emotional reaction. Dan recalls one performance where a couple spontaneously stood and began waltzing when they played the Tennessee Waltz, filling the room with nostalgia and joy. “Almost always, someone comes up after the show to tell us how much a song meant to them. That’s what makes it special,” he said. 
The Impact of Music in Senior Care
For Al and Dan, AUI performances are about more than just music—they’re about bringing life and energy to senior care communities. “We think about what these residents would be doing if we weren’t in the audience,” Al shared. “Many spend their entire days watching TV. AUI performances give them something new and different to look forward to.”
With AUI handling scheduling and logistics, The RETROS can focus on what they love most: performing and connecting with audiences. “AUI does all the legwork,” Al said. “We just show up and make music.”
Beyond the Stage
When they’re not performing for AUI, Al and Dan pursue several different interests. Al, an avid golfer, die-hard OSU Buckeye fan, and frequent concertgoer, works part-time with the Red Cross. Dan enjoys camping and traveling throughout the Midwest, cheers for the Minnesota Gophers and Vikings, and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity.
Both dabble in other musical interests, with Al singing barbershop and Dan helping with band programs at Holy Cross Lutheran School. The duo even gets together every year for what began as a spontaneous jam session in Al’s driveway, a performance that friends and neighbors have come to cherish.
For musicians considering becoming AUI artists, The RETROS offer simple advice: Go for it. “It’s a great organization doing great things,” they said. “It’s an opportunity to share your passion and make a real impact.”
After seven years with AUI, The RETROS continue to bring joy through music, proving that the right song at the right moment can make all the difference.
