Beau Bledsoe Trio opens the SummerDusk concert series at the Colonnade Building

Northeast Arts KC kicks off its three-part SummerDusk concert series with the Beau Bledsoe Trio on June 21 at 7 p.m. in the Colonnade Building – north of the Concourse Fountain (200 Benton Blvd). Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged 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 perform that.”

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 chance to experience the international sounds of the Beau Bledsoe Trio in a beautiful, historic setting. Mark your calendar for an evening of music, culture and community at the Colonnade Building in Concourse Park.