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Robby Steinhardt

Robby Steinhardt is remembered for his work with "Kansas". His distinctive violin playing and powerful vocals were integral to the band's sound and success. Here are some facts about him:


(Photo: Michael Putland)


= Robert Eugene Steinhardt was born on May 25, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois.


= He was adopted by Ilse and Milton Steinhardt, who raised him in Lawrence, Kansas.


= His father, Milton, was the director of music history at the University of Kansas.


= Robby began studying classical violin at the age of eight.


= During family trips to Europe, he performed with orchestras, showcasing his early talent.


= Steinhardt attended Lawrence High School, where he served as concertmaster.


= In 1972, Steinhardt joined a re-formed band "White Clover", which soon adopted the name "Kansas".


= Steinhardt was the only member of Kansas who read music. = "Kansas" released their debut album in 1974, establishing a unique sound with Steinhardt's violin interplay with guitars and keyboards.


= Steinhardt's co-lead vocals provided a contrast to Steve Walsh's high tenor, often harmonizing with him.



= He was a key member during the band's most successful period, contributing to hit albums like "Leftoverture" (1976) and "Point of Know Return" (1977).

= He served as the band's MC (Master of ceremonies) during concerts, connecting with audiences and enhancing live performances.


= Steinhardt's violin playing was a key part of what made "Kansas" music unique. "Kansas" used the violin as a solo instrument in a manner that was new and different.

= Steinhardt left "Kansas" after the "Vinyl Confessions" tour in 1982 due to personal reasons.


= He formed his own band, "Steinhardt-Moon", and later joined the "Stormbringer Band" from 1990 to 1996, recording two CDs with them.


= He contributed to the "Jethro Tull" tribute album "To Cry You a Song: A Collection of Tull Tales".


= Steinhardt rejoined "Kansas" in 1997, participating in extensive touring and album projects.


= During this period, "Kansas" averaged almost 100 shows per year.

= He once again served as MC, with bandmate Kerry Livgren noting his unique role in live performances.


= In 2006, Steinhardt left "Kansas" by mutual agreement due to the demanding touring schedule.


= In 2018, Steinhardt was invited by producer Michael T. Franklin to perform on Jon Anderson's track "Activate" for the album "1000 Hands: Chapter One".


= In 2020, Steinhardt and Franklin began working on a solo project, aiming for an album and tour in 2021.

= The solo album, "Not In Kansas Anymore / A Prog Opera", was released posthumously on October 25, 2021.

= Robby Steinhardt passed away on July 17, 2021, at the age of 71, from complications of acute pancreatitis in a hospital in Tampa, Florida.


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