Banjo legend Béla Fleck brings bluegrass tour to West Michigan

Béla Fleck’s highly acclaimed "My Bluegrass Heart" tour stopped in Grand Rapids on Thursday, Nov. 5, at the St. Cecilia Music Center. The 68-year-old banjoist performed with an all-star band, featuring Michael Cleveland on fiddle and Mark Schatz on bass, alongside fresh talent like mandolinist Dominick Leslie. The concert, which was sold out, showcased songs from Fleck’s Grammy-winning 2021 album as well as tracks from his earlier records and New Grass Revival.

Fleck has long praised Ionia County-bred guitarist Billy Strings, inviting him to play on "My Bluegrass Heart" and noting his significant impact on the bluegrass community. The legendary musician described the Grand Rapids performance as part of a long-term project supported by his management team, highlighting the history of the venue and the quality of the musical cast.

The tour also highlighted Fleck’s connection to the local music scene, with the artist expressing his love for the St. Cecilia Music Center. Following the Grand Rapids stop, Fleck outlined post-tour plans that include a potential 2027 tour with The Flecktones, an orchestra recording with his wife Abigail Washburn, and a duet album with Cleveland.

Read the full story at ottawanewsnetwork.org.