International melodies: Beau Bledsoe Trio opens Summer Dusk concert series at the Colonnade

Photo by Dorri Partain

Emily Wheeler
Editorial intern

Northeast Arts KC kicked off its three-part Summer Dusk Concert Series with the Beau Bledsoe Trio on June 21 at 7 p.m. in the Colonnade – north of the Concourse Fountain (200 Benton Blvd). Since admission was free, attendees were asked to bring picnics, blankets or lawn chairs.

This trio offers a collection of international music played on guitar, cello and percussion. Led by Beau Bledsoe, the trio blends influences from genres such as classical, flamenco and jazz to create a unique sound.

“We reflect the current reality of the Northeast, our music is very international,” said Bledsoe. As a former Northeast resident, he said he was “always inspired by how closely connected the Northeast was to the Hispanic and Latino community.” This mix of cultural influences keeps the band’s sound fresh and evolving.

Bledsoe said he never knows what’s next for this trio.

“We’ve been playing a lot of traditional Irish music lately,” Bledsoe said. “I never expected to be playing something like this.”

Traditional Irish music is a folk music genre that includes dance songs, ballads and chant songs. The music is played on instruments such as fiddle, flute, harp, accordion and guitar. After traveling to Ireland and hearing the music in its traditional context, Bledsoe said he was inspired to take what he heard back to Kansas City.

He said the continuous journey of musical exploration leads to growth. “I always consider myself a beginner. It can be challenging and scary, but I’m always learning and getting better,” Bledsoe said.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Northeast Arts KC’s Summer Dusk Concert Series in a beautiful, historic setting. The second concert in the series, July 19, features singer and harpist Calvin Arsenia.