The Shortleaf Band
The Shortleaf Band began about fifteen years ago in the clear river country of the Ozark Mountains. The band was named after the Shortleaf Pine which is the only pine native to Missouri.
Since relocating to the Kansas City area, the band continues performing the driving energetic music required for dancing.
Michael Fraser (fiddle) The band’s founding member moved to the Kansas City area about four years ago after spending twenty five years in the Ozarks learning the traditional music of the Scots-Irish who settled the area. In 1996 he was awarded a two year apprenticeship through the Missouri Arts Council to study with the late “Master Ozark Square Dance Fiddler”, Bob Holt.
Bob received Smithsonian’s prestigious “Heritage Fellowship Award” for his dedication to teaching traditional fiddling just before he passed away.
Tenley Hansen (keyboard/vocals) is a Kansas City native with extensive touring experience in the performing arts. A seasoned performer who has discovered a passion for folk music.
Joe Conklin (guitar) is also a Kansas City native who’s love for the guitar and banjo are evident when he is performing his rhythmic interpretations of traditional music.
Kevin Foiles (bodhran) appears with the Shortleaf Band on drum. This multi-instrumentalist also performs for the folk duo River Dawn.
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