Béla Fleck

The Lyric is my favorite venue! The sound is amazing in this beautiful, historic theater! We were on the second row so what a treat to be so close to the performers. Be'la and Abigail are so talented. They are also pretty funny and so sweet to each other! What a great date night!

We enjoyed the concert. Their talents were obvious. We would have liked to hear more of the traditional bluegrass songs. We did enjoy the songs of China.

Unless you are a fan of church music, skip this one. While an accomplished singer, Bela Fleck's new wife is a very average, old-time banjo player. The show leaned heavily on gospel songs though Fleck's enormous barrage of notes kept things moving and often mesmerizing. Two solos from him were not enough to justify the price of the tickets. After 35 years of seeing him play dazzling, upbeat and cutting edge newgrass and jazz music with incredible bands, this was very much a let-down for this long-time fan. She is a very nice lady however, and I wish them the best with their marriage and child... Just warn us about the church music next time, k?

Bela Fleck made the african artists the highlight of show. He didn't need to be the center of attention but let the East and West African musicians brought to the forfront.

This concert met, and at times, exceeded my expectations. The musical connections between the banjo of American folkloric music and the African comparative instruments was highly instructive and entertaining, and at times, surprising. The performances of the musicians were wonderful - evocative of exotic climes. Most welcome on a cold winter night. I would have loved to been able to examine some of the instruments the musicians from Mali and Tanzania were playing - to understand their use per construction. A warm THANKS to Bela for assembling this wonderful group of artists who seemed to enjoy playing together as much as we enjoyed the performance.

Bela Fleck is an amazing virtuoso. The musicians from Africa are equally talented and it was a pleasure to hear the mixture of musical cultures on stage.

I was not expecting the show I saw when I went to this performance. I saw Bela Fleck in 1982 in Winfield, KS with New Grass Revival. I haven't really followed him since, but my husband kind of has. Twenty some years has shown you can improve with age. I was blown away by him then, but somehow he improved on perfection. We were blown away with the talent he brought with him. He is phenominal and he brought forth some phenominal talent as well!!! AWESOME show!!

Throw Down Your Heart performance was way beyond the ticket price. Concert easily exceeded 3 hours. Performers were very personable and the melding of bluegrass and African music was amazing. There was energy, comedy, and great music that showcased both the underlying genres as well as the phenomenal capabilities of the musicians.

Great show. Especially the African music. I even bought the CD by Ngoni ba.

First time to see Bela Fleck live in concert. Read about the Africa Project and loved the idea. The mixture of the Eas/West Africa and American banjo created an unforgetable sound. Highly recommend the concert.

This concert was amazing, truly a one of a kind experience.

Bela is possibly the most versatile musician living. I've seen him 5 times now, and each time with a completely different set of people. Each time, he brings his own style to the songs, yet he seems to blend in perfectly with any genre he wishes to play. The entire concert lasted over two and a half hours, and for only $30 with convenience charge, I couldn't have asked for a better bargain.

If those weren't the best musicians Africa has to offer, then I'm moving to Africa.

TOUR DE FORCE....BRAVO...I've seen Bela a Number of times...always GREAT...I lived in Tanzania and it brought back wonderful memories...

Bela Fleck's "Throw Down Your Heart" performance was truly an awesome experience! The African instruments as well as the other performers made this a night of entertainment that will not be forgotten by this fan. Everyone.....and I mean everyone should find an opportunity to learn more about Bela's African Project and hear this group perform!! It is an event that is not to be missed.

If you want to watch a grammy performance of music at its deepest roots, then you must go.

The fusion of the three instruments was mellow and at the same time interesting.

This was the most amazing concert ever. Each of these musicians is a master in their own right, but together they achieve a synergism that was beyond description. Not an easy feat to combine such diverse sounds into one groove, but this was spot on. They were cohesive and tight, but organic at the same time. The light stage banter among the musicians showed the genuine admiration and respect they obviously share. No stage show frills to distract from the power of the music. After the show, they stayed to chat and sign autographs, and were so humble and approachable.

what was so cool was that there were 3 different crowds in the audience, with each group knowing about the performer of their choice (in my case I was there mainly to see Zakir since I'm a percussionist), but by the end of the concert you will be a fan of the other musicians. Edgar Meyer totally blew me away. These guys are each the pinnacle of their profession, and combined they make an experience that is a multiple of 3 times 3.

This was such a musical feast. This trio took me on a musical journey beyond my imagination. To witness three gifted souls, being so raw was a pure inspiration!

Simply amazing, anyboby looking for a great time will love this. They are simply the best at what they do

The concert was wonderful. A night of eclectic, thoughtful music designed to surprise the mind and please the ears. I highly recommend this show. It was refreshing to hear musicians play joyful compositions skillfully.

Three absolutely amazing musicians blending styles, genres, and personalities. It is truly tough to explain in words. Go see them!

These three extraordinary performers combine their amazing talent to make some really amazing music.

Anything Zakir has his magical hands on is gold! I was amazingly surprised how well the melody of the banjo and the rhythm of the double bass works so well with the tabla. The solos each artist performed had me in tears. If I could be there again to watch them I would!

Zakir hussain is the master of percussion. I haven't heard anybody better till yet. It was an astnoishing music concert.

Bowled over with the breath of talent, and scope of music - would go see them again.

These guys had great chemistry on stage, very intense songs with intricate melodies. They were in perfect harmony with each other and the audience. They kept it lighthearted by cracking jokes between songs, everyone in the audience seemed very happy. I thought it was really cool that they actually hung out after the show for a long time signing cd's and actually speaking with their fans one on one. I was very happy that I got the chance to not only see them perform but also to speak with them afterwards. I couldn't have hoped for a nicer experience.

This was a unique and captivating concert, featuring three masterful musicians. Their individual styles and skills were highlighted throughout, yet over and over they blended together as if these three seemingly disparate instruments were meant to be together from the beginning. The artists were relaxed, and played and talked as if we were all in a large living room, full of warmth, humor, and beautiful music. Miami needs more superb performances like this. On a cool October night just hours after the weather turned, this was truly a breath of fresh air. I would recommend that the producer/venue management make an announcement that the screens of people's cell phones are huge distractions. People in front of me were using them and it was like having a bright light shining back while trying to focus on the stage. Also, if we were allowed to take pictures (which I saw several people doing) how about letting us know beforehand?

Excellent performance! This instrumentalist are at the top of their game. Great interaction between the players.

Three masters gracefully shared the stage and worked together to produce some amazing sounds, songs in the round, and really relaxing music. It was amusing to hear the quips and commentary of three musicians who really had a high level of respect for each other shining through the whole performance.

Banjo player extraordinaire Bela Fleck went to the western African home of the banjo to link up with the amazing Toumani Diabate on the kora to create an evening of outstanding music. They played new pieces and traditional African pieces together. Each player played solo pieces as well. They closed the show with "Dueling Banjos". It is rare to hear two such virtuosi together, which was treat enough. The instruments blend so well it is no surprise they come from the same part of the world. A rare eveing.

This event was put together very well. The theatre is beautiful and complimented their music nicely.

Mind blowing!!! The whole musical event was inspiring and amazing. Bela is a genius and this current project only proves that!

The old Lyric Theatre in Birmingham has been renewed to former glory. It was the perfect venue for the lyrics and music from Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn. Their banjos and voices were heard beautifully in the acoustics of the Lyric, so all their songs and banjo-picking made a great night of story-telling music for me!

We loved it. They played the gamut across all of banjo music. Great singing by Abigail. Wonderful playful exchanges with each other.

These two gifted musicians combined their individual talents to create a unique combination of sound that takes the experience to a higher level. They compliment each other in time , rhythm, and sound. Bella and Chris are so accomplished at their instruments that intricate riffs and melodies are seamless while at the same time ,they appear to be done without much effort. .

The venue, the performance, the music, the performers- everything was absolutely top notch. Engaging, mesmerizing, beautiful, soulful, funny, and entertaining. There are not enough words to properly explain what an experience Chris Thile and Bela Fleck provided.

I had heard that Bela Fleck was great from a few friends...I hadn't listened to him much at all. This was a fantastic concert, great songs, great skilled playing, Chris Thile has a fantastic voice and his mandolin sounds wonderful. I would definitely go again... I loved that the concert wasn't too loud. The volume was comfortable and appropriate to the music being played.

When the ticket says starts at 8pm and it starts at 8:20pm that is wrong...especially for a Tuesday show...most of us had work the next day...those 20 min are precious... Other than that one of the best shows I have been to...two skilled players...doing what they do best

Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn's show at the Bijou was totally delightful! I knew it was going to be good, but it was even better than I imagined. Bela is such a master and Abigail is a great player as well. Their show had a lot of variety, great singing from Abigail, and wonderful stories and stage banter that really kept the audience entertained. Bela even did some backing vocals, which was new to me! If you get the chance to see them, don't miss it!

These two artist are incredibly talented and put on a fantastic show! Not only were they great to listen to but they were funny and really connected with the audience. You can't help but to love them! Would definately see them again. Worth every penny and More!

We had just seen Bruce Springsteen two nights before in Atlanta. I enjoyed this one much more. The audience, although not nearly as loud, was just as appreciative of what was happening on the stage. I actually could understand all the words and hear most of the notes (although Bela plays a bunch of them). It is impossible to match the energy generated by Bruce and the E St. Band, but Bela and Abigail generate an enormous energy in their own way.

I appreciate the talent of Bela Fleck but thought that all of the songs, whether instrumental or with vocals, droned on and on endlessly. I also believe that Abigail Washburn is talented however her voice is harsh at times. I would love to recommend this concert because it is an amazing experience to see a prodigy like Bela Fleck but I frankly, I can't because of the above.

Bela is an amazing musician and Abigail is a real stage pro

Abigail commented that you are not supposed to make a banjo do what Bella can make it do. Amazing. He should make a similiar comment about Abigails,` voice. A remarkable couple.

It's like Bela and Abby were my buds and just came over to jam! Best show I've ever been to!

Both he and Abigail Washburn were fantastic! 5+ stars

Bela Fleck was fantastic as always. He never disappoints. Christian McBride's performance was equally great. His manner of playing makes it look so easy. Brooklyn Rider is definitely one of the best string quartets around. They take classical music and cross it over to rock and mainstream music. The show was one of the best we've ever seen.

Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn should have their own musical/variety show on tv. They are so personable, so real! Talented doesn't begin to describe the musical genius of these two. I had seen Bela with the Flecktones twice before and wasn't sure of how I would react to the duo and their lower-keyed performance. I worried that I would be bored. BORED? With Bela Fleck, impossible! With the addition of Abby's vocals and equally skillful with her own banjoes, I was ready to go see them again at a festival nearby the very next day!

This was a great concert - both groups were wonderful. I couldn't have enjoyed it more!

Bela Fleck is superbly gifted. His work with his wife, Abigail Washburn, is entertaining, and their interplay is sweet to watch. His work reaches across the spectrum, while hers focuses on folk and gospel, with something of an oriental twist. I would go see them again.

What talent. Audience was into the laid-back chatter and the best banjo(s) in the world. They both sing, but only one voice is recordable. Bella agrees, she sings like an angel.with a banjo, not a harp.

Great evening for two generations of banjo fans. Would welcome back for another performance

I was very disappointed in the concert. Bela Fleck is a stunning musician. I loved every second of his solo playing. His wife Abby Washburn is an accomplished banjo player in her own right, but nowhere near his caliber. What disappointed me was that except for Bela's brief solo trio of songs, the concert showcased Abby -- she did all the singing, and she did almost all the talking. At one point, she went off on a riff about her ability to speak Chinese and her love for the Chinese people, calling out in Chinese to the audience. Bela seemed happy to back up his wife, but I had not paid $120 [2 tickets] to hear her. The concert was advertised with his name in bold print and large letters -- her name was much smaller. I had no idea that she would be the centerpiece of most of the show. I am happy for the Flecks in their marriage and new baby, but I will not go to a duo concert again. Bela is wonderful, and I hope he will tour alone in the future.

Absolutely amazing. Great choice of musical selections. Loved the "your choice" time! I would attend again if they were close to the Williamsburg-Norfolk area. My 12 year old banjo player son loved it as much or more than I did. Best Wishes!

The show was excellent. The outstanding banjo playing of Bela and the great voice of Abigale were a perfect partnering. Although we were not familiar with many of the songs, we were never less than enthralled with the music. Also, the on stage chemistry was evident in the way the performers interacted with each other and the audience.

Super concert!!! Only complaint is that seating was on flat ground and visibility was poor. A different venue with theater style seating would be much better or a higher stage at the Williamsburg Lodge. The seating was so close together and very uncomfortable for long concert.

Fantastic music by two of the best. The sounds, the humor, and the moments of wonderful were among the best I've ever seen.

Bela and Chick together were a tremendous combination! The technical profficiency of both is already at it's highest as soloists, put the two together and they challeged each other in excellence. I would recomend this tour to anyone who is a fan of either performer. This was a winning collaboration.

Two amazing musicians at the top of their game. I've seen Chick and Bela in other settings, with their original famous groups, (Return to Forever and the Flecktones respectively), which were fantastic, but it's really fun to see them in other settings also. This is one of them, with both musicians playing off each other and demonstrating fantastic musicianship.

This was by far the best concert I have ever seen. I have been to hundreds of concerts and this was a jaw dropper. I could not believe what I was hearing. The seats were perfect, 4 th row. It's been four days and I am still blown away. Great place. Great show. Going to Kalamazoo in November to see Bela. Can't get enough. I have seen Chick 8 times and this was the best ever!

The smooth sounds that flowed from Chick and Bela's instruments coupled with their amazing communication, expressions and improv made this a memorable concert.

I had already seen Chick Corea and Bela Fleck play together at the Schermerhorn auditorium in Nashville and was so taken by their collaboration that I attended this second concert in Detroit. The musical interplay between the two is an awe-inspiring event. The only negative here relates to the venue, the Sound Board at the Motor City Casino. The sound system was great, and the television monitors were helpful, but they had to be because so many seats have obstructed views of the stage. Further, many of the attendees arrive late and create on ongoing distraction while the players are performing. It's a relatively low-class collection of tipsy gamblers, and many of them would rather talk loudly than listen to the music.

Two extremely talented, gentle fellows, obviously friends and with a strong connection, purred with a wonderful blend of both styles. Chick was fabulous as always and Bela made love on a banjo which was more a twelve string Spanish guitar than a blue grass axe. It was a wonderful concert.

My husband and I were Béla Fleck fans years ago. Bought my husband tickets for Christmas and the show was on Valentines Day. Béla and Abigail were so sweet on stage. Wonderful way to spend Valentines Day. The Del McCoury Band was a bonus. Super talented and entertaining.

Having grown up a fan of Béla Fleck since I was a teenager I was very excited to finally see him in concert. The added gem was his wife Abigail and her amazing voice. The two of them together was absolutely unforgettable. Both Béla and Abigail not only performed beautifully, but also came out to meet their fans. I have never met a nicer, more approachable couple than they are. I find them to be genuine and caring about their fans. Great people with good hearts and amazingly accomplished musicians.

This was an awesome performance with great musicianship and fun!

We have never seen such a wonderful musician - regardless of the instrument played! His skill with any and all kinds of music is amazing. He plays the banjo with a style that is acoustic, classical, jazz, and Blue Grass!

Been a follower of Bela Fleck and his Flecktones for years, but hadn't heard Abigail Washburn. What a great duo! Awesome talent on both sides, and a very interesting stylistic mix. Great thing is that they seem to be genuinely having fun with what they are doing along with displaying their artistic excellence. Abigail's Chinese is very interesting, especially in bluegrass style music. Bela's playing was, as usual, technically dazzling and artistically full of interesting ideas and styles.

Show was entertaining. Would like to hear some familiar songs.

These two performed great with each other. The talent in the room was awesome.

This show was a super valentine's day evening. These are nationally recognized musicians. The personalities, musicality, and variety of the show were worth every cent of the price. I would see these talented performers any time I can find them in the area.

A fun evening with some great bluegrass music. Bella Fleck with Abigail Washburn were entertaining as they showcased their uncanny musical talents. The Del McCoury band let lose with their award winning bluegrass style that had the crowd clapping, cheering, and begging with favorite requests. All in all it was a memorable Valentines evening. Ames loves bluegrass and we want MORE!

Bela and Abigail were excellent and the Del McCoury Band were "in the groove"!

I have to confess that I was not familiar with these people except from youtube. I like most live music including bluegrass so I decided to see the show. It was great so I'm glad I went. The expertise of the musicians was quite impressive as well as entertaining. Every one of them is a skilled professional, as you should expect. I would not hesitate going again if they ever come back to this area. I would also recommend this to anyone who likes bluegrass music.

The show was fine although I thought the event was slightly over priced. My problem with the show was the performers both had record tables but none of the performers made themselves available for autographs. I think it reflected in their cd sales also, not to many bought because nobody was there to sign them. I can buy the same cd's cheaper on amazon

Amazing talent! They are an adorable couple. Abigail's voice is amazing live! And of course Bela is an astounding musician.

02/08/14 The Smith Center, Las Vegas, Bela Fleck and Brooklyn Rider I was trained classically since age 6. What I heard last night was what I call "intellectual dissonance"...appropriate for a Tuesday night at a college university full of music theory/composition students...but not a Saturday night at a world-class venue full of people wanting to ENJOY an evening of music. Geez...even the very short tribute to Pete Seeger where he asked us to sing along if desired was spoiled ... 15-30 second into each medley number as soon as we figured out the fav Pete Seeger song he was playing #a fun game really# and quietly the low voices would bravely start to sing out...he would go into a minor riff and spoil the whole thing! Boring, not fun at all...I don't care how amazing an instrumentalist you are #and they ALL displayed musical perfection#...if it isn't ENTERTAINING by throwing in, oh I don't know, MAYBE O N E piece that had a semblance of a melodic line!!! Just ONE for grins. Pompous musicians that seem to ignore the entertainment side of music...what MOVES and audience emotionally...are best left ALONE. I saw half the audience left at intermission -- and heard very audible grumbling echo throughout the venue and valet parking area -- and the other half seemed just curious enough to wait it out...get their money's worth so an entire Saturday night wasn't wasted...with hopes of something they could tap their foot to...not Roy Clark...just a MELODY!! No go...the applause was merely to say, well you are talented, so I'll clap for that...and GET ME OUT OF HERE. They didn't share their gift with the audience...they entertained their pride with their virtuosity. Blah.

I've heard Bela Fleck and the Flecktones and loved it, and i love string quartet music, but this was not for me unfortunately. All performers are incredibly awesome musicians but what they were playing was very "out there"and sounded very random and non musical to my ears. I was very disappointed. >_<

too much strings/classical bluegrassish encore was the highlight

Great gathering of expert banjo players along with a guitar, mandolin, fiddle and double bass.

The venue was great, easy to find and park. The show was exiting to say the least. Eric Wiessberg's medly, combined with just enough humor, was clearly the most crowd pleasing part of the evening. Bela's band is outstanding. I tried to count the number of notes played but lost count after the first two million. I'd love to see them again.

Excellent artists. I had a great time. I'd be happy to see them again.

Performers and audience had fun this night. Intimate and high energy performances by all.

I had mix-feelings regarding this event - as I noticed others who left during intermission may have. There is no doubt that they are superb at their craft but, we expected more traditional bluegrass music. Then again, we are in our 70s. We considered leaving during intermission. We were pleased about our decision to stay when the Mccoury Band commenced their segment. It was excellent. Regarding the introduction by Mark Johnson. He is an affable chap but dwelled more on himself than the artists who were a out to perform.

Really enjoyed the event. Every musician was incredible. The play of the banjo against the other instruments was really different, and fascinating.

Bela & Marcus played so well together that at times it sounded like a new instrument.

Very uneven....great playing by Bela Fleck and bass player. Much of the rest was very much similar riffs.

It was a great evening of listening and watching very talented musicians.

Bela Fleck and the Marcus Roberts Trio together was marvelous ! Each of the four musicians was tremendously talented and together it was a marvelous joining of talent. One of the best concerts I have attended.

Banjos and more banjos....it was a Fantastic show. Bela as usual was good, and Richie Stearns off the charts!