Missouri
Alan Ox
A 1-man musical/ stage play that dives into the UFO taboo heads-first. Actor/ singer Alan Ox portrays 6 actual military men coming forward with their accounts of what happened behind closed doors when 'visitors' came to call. With tunes ranging from the tin pan alley 'Call On The British' to the driving 'Radar Don't Lie' the stories move as quickly as the onstage costume changes- and in the end, the audience is left to ponder the revelations that could change one's world-view. From one playgoer: "I'm NOT nuts. This play has to be seen by everyone. I loved every aspect of it."
Digital Projection system & rear screen preferred. Computer HDMI interface capability. - Assorted, basic theatrical stage lighting. Adequate stereo audio system. Basic stage props.
Back to the 70’s Tributes
Back to the 70s Tributes brings the music of Neil Diamond and Karen and Richard Carpenters to your community.
Experience the “Feel of Neil” with Diamond look and sound alike Keith Allynn and A Neil Diamond Tribute . In this romantic comedy Keith unveils the story of Diamond’s life through Neil’s own songs while weaving though his own career change from a top ten Elvis tribute artist to A Neil Diamond Tribute, all for the love of a woman.
Celebrate the sounds of Carpenters Once More with vocalist Diana Lynn. This poignant tribute to this iconic brother – sister duo gives insight to their lives, struggles, and impact on the music industry. Diana delivers spot on vocals, multi- media, quick change, humor, and your favorite Karen tunes.
Having logged over 3,500 solo performances, these artists are experienced, professional, and courteous , delivering the music of the tapestry of our lives like no other tribute artist today.
We provide 90 minute award winning production, sound if necessary, production technician, load in /out, and digital marketing material for your promotion.
Candace Ivory, the originator of the genre "avant soul", offers eclectic original music. Former alum of The New School University and the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead residency at the Kennedy Center, Candice also has various accolades and awards stemming from a 20 year career in music.
This varies according to venue and style of event. Suitable back line and soundcheck at least 3-4 hours prior to event.
Chris Stephens – World Musician
Chris Stephens is a multi-instrumentalist like no other. It's difficult to explain what he does with his instruments - the Arabic Oud, Persian Tar, Indian Sitar, and Chinese Pipa - but however you describe it he's crossing musical boundaries and fostering connections between distant traditions. A true master musician and innovator, his music is based on the historic music from the world’s oldest cultures. His specialty is in the family of instruments known as "lutes", which are the ancestors of the guitar. Chris' performances are both an homage to these classical traditions and an exploration in contemporary improvisation. His main focus is to share these historic art forms with new audiences and to engage those who are familiar with them by honoring the old traditional styles and compositions. Each concert creates an enchanted musical scenery never to be heard again. Performances can go from melodic and meditative to rhythmic and explosive at any moment creating a rich and unique tapestry of sound that all can enjoy.
Comfortable stage floor seating
Founded in 1983, this brilliant and versatile trumpet and organ duo present an extraordinary range of styles, with performances featuring music spanning four hundred years. The name Clarion suggests the musical connections to both the trumpet and organ and its meaning for the duo as a “Clarion Call” for innovative ideas, in keeping with their interest in the unique flavor of new music for trumpet and organ. Clarion’s three commercial recordings feature works in every genre; the second and third CDs are all works commissioned for the duo, including Adam Schoenberg’s American Classical homage to the space program “Apollo,” to James Mobberley’s, a boisterous piece for trumpet, organ and electronics “Icarus Wept” to, believe it or not, pieces with a direct connection to the Canadian rock band “Rush.” Clarion’s electric and distinctive performances have pushed the envelope of the centuries-old association of trumpet and organ – the duo believes if the classics are the heartbeat of music, outstanding new works must be the lifeblood itself. Clarion is touring Scotland in June and July of 2023.
Performance space with a pipe organ and two music stands.
Cubanisms
This fun and diverse ensemble traces the evolution of Cuban music from its African origins to modern days and styles of music, in a range of rhythms from Rumba, Son, Bolero, and Salsa. Its repertoire includes Spanish, Brazilian, and English songs, classics arranged with a very heavy Cuban touch, and also original material. It’s a perfect choice in different formats, from an intimate event to a fun dance party.
Michael McClintock, Founder/Director of Cubanisms, has been invited two years in a row to perform at the Jazz Plaza International Festival in Havana, Cuba. The invitation was extended in 2019 for Cubanisms. The band had the chance to perform as part of the Festival in two of the most important venues of the island "Fábrica de Arte Cubano" and "Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht".
Cubanisms has received 3 nominations in 2018 & 2019, by The Pitch and KC community: Best Local Band, Best musician (Michael McClintock) and Best Vocalist (Fedra Cooper, 2018) and (Bruno Bessa 2019)
Sound system (12 channel mixer, 2 monitors, 2 PA speakers, microphones, microphone stands, cables, and extension cords), if the venue doesn’t have these items we can bring ours for a fee.
Dean Christopher
Classic Vegas, Rat Pack and More. A tribute to the music, style, and entertainers of one of the greatest eras of entertainment. Dean Christopher, award winning actor, singer, and impressionist, has performed from NY to LA in casinos, theaters, performing arts centers, for corporate events as well as guest entertaining for the Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Azamara, and Oceania cruise lines. Dean was a favorite opening act for the late, legendary comedian Don Rickles and has opened for Frank Sinatra Jr. Based in St Louis, he now is one of the most sought after entertainers in the Midwest. His show features a seven-piece band but Dean can also simply bring to life the music of Sinatra and his contemporaries with smaller combos. He also offers a Classic Vegas Christmas show and a Dean Martin cabaret show where his impression captures the music, wit, and laid-back charm of the King of Cool. Travels any distance.
For Classic Vegas-Rat Pack and More show: Stage area at least 20x12 for 7 piece band and performer. Can provide own sound with two hour set up time.
For Dean Martin tribute: Tuned piano (preferably baby grand) and set pieces (i.e. love seat size couch, table)
Ed Reggi’s Paper Slip Theater
Ed Reggi is a nationally recognized and award-winning improv actor who brings his unique style of Viola Spolin Theater Games to schools and communities around the region.
The simplicity of Viola Spolin's Improvisational Theater allows Ed Reggi to require almost no technical requirements. A bare floor with basic lighting is the only requirement.
Eimear Arkins
An award-winning Irish singer, fiddle player, and dancer from the West of Ireland with 11 World Irish Music titles to her credit. Eimear has toured extensively and has taught at festivals worldwide. Eimear is proficient in the art of sean nos singing, a highly ornamented, unaccompanied style of singing in the Irish language. As well as being a performer, Eimear is also a qualified music and dance teacher. She holds a Performance Diploma in Traditional Music from the London College of Music (DipLCM) and a diploma in the instruction of Irish music from Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann (TTCT) and is a qualified Irish Dancing Teacher with An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha (TCRG). In 2019 she was awarded LiveIreland's “Best Newcomer” award and in 2020 she was granted an Artist Fellowship from the Regional Arts Commission of St Louis.
2 microphones and 2 stands
OR
1 vocal microphone and stand and an XLR for clip-on fiddle microphone.
Fine to Drive
Fine to Drive is an original Americana band residing in St. Louis, Missouri. Capturing the nature of traditional Americana they effortlessly blend country, folk and blues to create a fresh and yet comforting sound in their roots driven music.
Their first full length album What Whiskey Did was released February 2018. As versatile and energetic as they are true to the classic spirit of country music, Fine to Drive’s first album proves they are an undeniable powerhouse thanks to their distinct and dynamic male and female vocal harmonies, unique sound and authentic songwriting. The album starts off with just the right amount of twang and lyrical sass in the song “Everything but Love,” a playful take on the American dream and picturesque suburban life with that clap-your-hands and stomp-your-feet feel that invites you to the dance floor.
Requirements available upon request.
Finley River Boys
The Finley River Boys are a high-energy, acoustic bluegrass band that performs a wide variety of bluegrass, country, folk, and gospel songs. The band is the 2020 nominee of International Singer /Songwriter Association for Entertainer of the Year and Album of the year. Their unique, rich blend of tight, four-part harmonies and intricate instrumental breaks captivate audiences everywhere. The Finley River Boys feature Brad Reynolds (upright bass, vocals), Bill Crider (guitar, vocals), Brett Dudenhoeffer (fiddle, mandolin, vocals), and Alan Johnston (banjo, mandolin, vocals). The band has performed over a hundred shows yearly, including venues such as Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival, Silver Dollar City, Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Celebration, Missouri State Fair, churches, county fairs, theaters, civic centers, schools, and many more events throughout the United States. The Finley River Boys present a family-friendly show that will have your audience grinning, tapping their toes, and clapping their hands!
If needed Finley River Boys has a state of the art digital sound system for large and small events. When using an event provided system 4 vocal mics, 3 instrument mics, and 2 direct inputs or 5 instrument mics.
FIRE DOG
FIRE DOG is my three-piece rock band. The show features electric guitar, bass, and drums. Our high energy show of original tunes can be geared toward young audiences, families, teens, and adults. FIRE DOG has toured extensively and has released six albums of original music on our homemade label LOVE-O-RAMA records.
A PA system and sound person is a plus. But all programs can be self-sustainable. All I need is power.
IMI Chamber Players
The Intercultural Music Initiative is an innovative concert and educational outreach program featuring classical and contemporary works by composers of African, Hispanic and Asian-descent, along with standard repertoire. Our programs offer a unique concert experience and help integrate new musical works by lesser-known composers into existing performance repertoire. Concerts, Lectures, Lecture-recitals and short-term artist residencies are customized to fit your departmental budget.
Concert stage for chamber musicians. PA system with 2 speaking microphones.
Kirk Hanser
Kirk Hanser is known as “…an authentic musical personality” (Erik Erikkson, DC Advocate) whose performances have “…transported the audience to lusher climes” (The Hawk Eye, Burlington, IA). Hanser has performed in some of the world’s top venues in the US, Europe, and Japan. His performances are recognized for being fun and entertaining, yet with a focus on high-quality music.
By including the steel-string acoustic guitar, Hanser is able to feature music by modern-day composers such as Michael Hedges and Andrew York, while still using the standard classic (nylon-string) guitar for established crowd favorites from 500 years of music from Europe and South America.
Kirk can also offer special “in-formances” and master classes. He has done several clinics sponsored by the NEA and others, and was recently a resident guest professor of guitar at the Paris Conservatory
Hanser is an endorsee for D’Addario Strings, Gibson Guitars, and Keith Adams Concert Guitars.
Access to hall ~2 hours prior to event start for soundcheck and warmup
Armless chair onstage (not a barstool, adjustable pno bench OK)
Sound reinforcement IF NEEDED (can be provided for small venues if needed - please inquire)
Sound engineer (as needed, depends on audience size and venue)
Reasonable lighting for performance area
Cover from environmental elements
Lindley Creek
Lindley Creek is an acoustic family band showcasing beautiful, traditional bluegrass & gospel music, soulful, soaring lead vocals, soothing family harmonies, intricate instrumental breaks and original songwriting, Lindley Creek presents compelling acoustic music and a sincere family ministry.
Independent, pioneering and faithful, the family performs throughout the Ozarks and around the US and Canada at churches, concert series, active living senior RV parks, fairs, festivals, and community and performing arts centers. Their bluegrass and gospel harmonies will inspire your community gathering and infuse your audiences with joy during their up-beat, family-friendly performances.
Lindley Creek, has performed regularly since 2003 at venues such as Silver Dollar City and were featured at the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia performing to over 4000. They also return yearly to the KSMU Youth in Bluegrass Competition to play among friends and lend their support to young performers.
Lindley Creek has a passion for heart-touching music and a gift for encouragement. Community events are enhanced by this family’s inspiring musical performance. They work with your organization to bring your audiences the best in family-centered entertainment.
We prefer to have 2 hours to set-up sound system and show. Larger venues may need additional time to coordinate patching into their sound system.
Mt. Thelonious
Formed in the practice rooms of the Webster University Music Department, the trio has always strived for something greater than its individual parts. With their high-energy shows and thoughtful records, Mt. Thelonious has garnered the attention of audiences all over the country. From the Kerrville Folk Festival in the Texas hill country to college basements in Wahington DC, they will always leave you wanting more.
The band’s influences run wide, creating a true fusion of many different types of music. Mt. Thelonious has been compared to artists such as the Punch Brothers, Andrew Bird, and Fiona Apple.
Their new music takes influence from modern artists such as Frank Ocean and Bon Iver while still retaining a true sense of Americana.
Specific requirements available upon request
Old Souls Revival
From their humble beginnings playing 4-hour cover sets, Old Souls Revival has grown into a solid heartland rock band with subtle nods to roots, Americana, and blues influences. Frontman and songwriter Neil C. Luke spews poetic ramblings in an unexpected juxtaposition to the harmonized guitar riffs of Josiah Joyce and Matt Maher, and the tight rhythms of bassist Dan Ficocelli and drummer Jeremy Reidy.
Old Souls Revival released their first album Common Ground in 2013, followed by I Will Let You In in 2016. Their third self-titled album (2018) showcases the band’s growth in both style and cohesiveness. Songs by both Joyce and Ficocelli make an appearance, blending together their various stylistic influences of Dawes, Tom Petty, 2000s indie and 90s prog rock. Old Souls Revival has made a name for themselves in St. Louis and is fast on their way to spreading beyond this Midwest music town. Old Souls sure knows how to throw a party and you won’t want to miss it.
Requirements available upon request
Pablo Sanhueza & KC Latin Jazz All-Stars
Since his arrival to Kansas City from Santiago, Chile in 1996 Pablo Sanhueza has dedicated the past 20+ years of his distinguished career to the music of the Latin American experience, as a percussionist, bandleader, and educator who has worked with three generations of musicians.
Pablo brings the charisma and precision of the Maestros of the Mambo and Big Band era. Sanhueza studied with Jesus Alfonso, Sandy Perez, (Muñequitos de matanzas), and has shared the stage with Poncho Sanchez, David Valentin, Titos Sompa, and toured Europe appearing at Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, Red Sea Jazz Festival in Holland and Champs Elysees Paris, France.
In 2018, Sanhueza co-founded the Kansas City Latin Jazz Orchestra. KCLJO is the first performance & education non-profit in the Midwestern United States dedicated to Salsa, Latin Jazz, and the intersection of Latin American folkloric dance. KCLJO is an intercultural, intergenerational organization, bringing transnational experiences to the stage, the dance floor, and diverse communities.
Technical requirements to be determined for each engagement. Accessibility to electricity. For outdoor events shade coverage when necessary.
Ragged Blade Band
The band focuses on, but is not limited to, music from 1895-1930. We play ragtime, early blues and jazz, standards, and originals. Includes historic "firsts," music by women & African-American composers, many Missouri artists. By combining older music with often a more modern take, we keep the history, yet bring the music alive in a way that makes it relevant for modern audiences. We play many familiar tunes but also introduce our audiences to rarely heard music of the era.
Members of the band are available for educational concerts, either remote or in person. around themes such as Missouri Composers, Women Composers, African American Composers, Early Blues, Hits of the Era, etc, which will combine performance with short takes on music history.
We have our own sound system if needed. It's helpful to have enough time to set up and sound check, 60-90 minutes for a full band, less for a smaller ensemble. We need an outlet for our electrical equipment.
Richie Kihlken
Richie is an introspective and old soul, dynamic vocalist, emotionally driven songwriter, and multifaceted instrumentalist transitioning proficiently amidst piano, guitar, drums and the occasional bout of harmonica. As a performer, he brings an undeniable energy and authentic sound to both his solo shows and his adventures fusing with fellow musicians in the Richie Kihlken Band. Striving to make his unyielding passion for music be his lifelong career, he continues to devote his time to making and performing his music and constantly evolving as an artist.
Richie leads the band with his timeless voice, groovy piano riffs, and charismatic personality. The group blends blues, jazz, and funk to create modern soul music that brings people to the dance floor.
Requirements available upon request
Songs of Africa Ensemble
Songs of Africa Ensemble, is a multicultural and eclectic group of highly trained musicians promoting new genres of choral music from around Africa and its diaspora. Our songs teach about Africa’s music, people, languages, cultures and creates opportunities for incorporating new styles of African-descent music into modern choral repertory. A majority of the songs are drawn from Songs of Africa: 22 Pieces for Mixed Voices, the choral collection published by Oxford University Press, but includes more songs that are yet to be published! Songs of Africa Ensemble is a community outreach and partnership program of the African Musical Arts organization.
Our ensemble usually travels with its mics and mixer unit for singers. However, the venue should provide great house PA system, 4 stage monitors, 4 condenser mics for acoustic instruments and optional grand/upright piano. Lighting requirement is very flexible.
The Bosman Twins
Mesmerizing, dazzling and exhilarating are the words that continuously come to audience’s minds to describe the Bosman Twins. Masters of several woodwind instruments, the Emmy Award-winning duo are true ambassadors of music. Whether performing as a duo, with their quintet, or accompanying jazz greats, their renditions of jazz, R&B, funk and gospel have gained them international notoriety. Jazz in all its permutations (Straight-ahead, contemporary, Gospel, etc)
The Matching Shoe
The core of the Matching Shoe consists of hypnotizing guitar and bass lines, mesmerizing keys and dynamic percussion. Led by multi-instrumentalists Dillon Wilfong (vocals/drums/guitar) and Ben Vennard (keyboards/upright bass/vocals). Their repertoire consists of both original and cover songs that combine the sounds of Classic Rock 'N' Roll, Art Rock, Folk, and Blues.
Their originals ring of early Jethro Tull, Revolver-era Beatles, and psychedelic pop while their carefully selected covers span the Doors, Grateful Dead, Elton John and more.
Fueled by the same musical styles, the band released their first album 'Out Thru the Window’ in August 2016. Their next EP titled “Don’t Hide It. Divide It” was recently released fall of 2017, which was recorded between St. Louis and Aftermaster Studios in Hollywood, California. Some of their big influences include Wilco, Johnny Cash, Pink Floyd and The Beatles. Their next full-length album is expected to release early 2019.
Requirements available upon request
The Missouri Brass Quintet
The Missouri Brass Quintet, founded in 1983, has broad performance experience throughout the Kansas City area and the Midwest. In residence at the UMKC Conservatory of Music, on the University of Missouri’s designated performing arts campus, the MBQ performs music drawn from an all-embracing repertoire of musical styles. This versatile and exciting ensemble is equally at ease in the music of the Renaissance or Kansas City Jazz, Baroque masterpieces or dramatic new 20th-century works; even a bit of music with a mildly preposterous sense of humor, such as “The Broken Horn Rag” (you have to see that one to believe it!). Audiences, presenters and other musicians have applauded them on their superb virtuosity and their unique ability to reach out to diverse audiences.
10X10 space, five music stands and five arm-less chairs.
The People’s Key
Combining the happy swinging feel of the Kansas City jazz scene with the hard, soulful groove of St. louis funk, soul and blues; the people’s key blends these midwestern styles into one cohesive sound.
They swing in the traditional style of jazz, but provide listeners the opportunity to ride along as they relive the sounds of their lifetimes, with tunes by modern artists from Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder to Green Day, Jay-Z and Bruno Mars. This band puts the classic organ group sound of the ‘50s & ‘60s on all your favorites from the ‘70s and beyond.
The People’s Key is designed to connect the jazz vernacular with a modernized songbook. The People’s Key performs material from popular artists, genres, songs and themes to engage in the maximum connection possible with their audiences.
The People’s Key can be found playing some of the hottest jazz rooms around such as Jazz at the Bistro, The Sheldon and The Dark Room.
Debuting in 2013, the group has had the opportunity to open for national acts such as The Jeff Coffin Mu’tet and Fareed Haque’s Math Games. The band has released six albums: The People’s Key (2013). The Sean Carter Jazz Suite with Lamar Harris (2014) and Heal The World (2015). “Within You” (Fall 2016), “Time of the Season” (2018). The band’s current release “Unlocked Doors” released summer 2018.
Requirements available upon request
Tommy Halloran
Tommy Halloran performs over 300 shows per year, playing everywhere from airports and smokey clubs to historic theaters and grand outdoor festivals. His music is a gumbo of jazz, blues, bossa nova, folk, and rock n' roll. Tommy Halloran's Guerrilla Swing was voted "Best Jazz Band" in the RiverFront Times Music Awards in 2014, 2015, and 2016, and was named St. Louis' "Best Band" by that paper's editorial staff in 2014.
Contact for technical requirements. Most are open to negotiation.
Woven Voices
Storytelling and music have been said to be a way of communication and an ancient way of teaching lessons in life. Dianne Moran is an award-winning folklorist and naturalist, who captivated audiences with her living history performances and live animal programs for over 30 years. Dianne and Pat Frank started 'Buffalo Gals' in 2001, their first venture with blending storytelling and music. Pat researched historical songs from the era, intrigued by what she had found she went on to compose her original music and lyrics. Since then, Pat and Dianne have performed in over 25 different venues. Pat and Dianne have been blending stories and music in performances of Mary Surratt, Sacagawea, Olive Oatman, and Calamity Jane. Pat and Dianne presented: ‘An Evening of Storytelling’ at the Bryan Haynes Gallery, on March 10, 2018. Woven Voices also performed ‘The Real Calamity Jane’ on February 9, 2019, at the Gallery. Calamity Jane was also presented in Defiance, MO as part of the ‘American Classics’ on July 26, 2019.
3 microphones on mic stands (or wireless clip-on microphones)
6 jacks to plug in microphones and instruments in PA sound system (Woven Voices can supply sound system for an extra charge)
Long table for display items