Grammy Award for Best Polka Album

Beginning in 2001, award recipients included the producers, engineers, and/or mixers associated with the nominated work in addition to the recording artists.

President and CEO Neil Portnow stated that the Academy needed to do so in order to remain a "relevant and responsive" organization within a "dynamic music community".

[31] Three-time award winner Walter Ostanek admitted he "[felt] sorry for the future artists" that would fail to be recognized by the Academy.

[4] Carl Finch of the group Brave Combo stated the following: "Having a polka category was the most important step to legitimacy that we could ever hope to achieve.

"[32] Apart from ensuring that the "awards process remains representative of the current musical landscape", the Academy cited dwindling competition as one reason for the category retirement.

Frank Yankovic , the award's first winner
18-time winner Jimmy Sturr in 2009
Seated, smiling man with wire-frame glasses, playing a piano accordion that is decorated with the name "OSTANEK".
Three-time award winner Walter Ostanek in 2011
Four people on a stage; from left to right, they are playing a keyboard, a trumpet, a drum set, a guitar, and a saxophone. In the background are various signs, and on the stage are microphone stands and other audio equipment.
Members of the two-time award-winning band Brave Combo