Don performed at the first Shakey’s Pizza Parlor in Sacramento for seven years.  Van Palta is known for his role as "The Flying Dutchman" in the Mickey Finn Show in San Diego.

When the Mickey Finn Show moved to Las Vegas, Van Palta decided to go solo. He was asked to replace the late Eddie Peabody at a national festival, and then performed with Jerry van Dyke’s night club act for five months. Eventually he created his own act which he has presented world wide aboard cruise ships.

Don Van Palta also developed a series of instructional tapes to help young banjoists become productive players. His methods are highly successful and are marketed internationally.  He is respected as a teacher and performer and continues to entertain as "The Flying Dutchman."