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July 17 - Concerts in the Park: Lehto & Wright

  • Central Park Bandshell W 4th St & West Ave Red Wing, MN 55066 (map)

Lehto & Wright

Lehto & Wright is a MN-based Folk-Rock and Progressive Rock band whose first live performance was in 1999 and has continued, non-stop, to this day. Lehto & Wright have a sound that is a unique blend of traditional and modern styles. By taking cues from the British Isles and American folk traditions and interpreting them with contemporary guitar-based arrangements, Lehto & Wright have taken a unique approach to the world of Folk, Folk Rock, and Progressive Rock.

The three musicians - Wright, Steve Lehto and Matt Jacobs - had worked together in many different musical environments from Indie Pop to Latin Jazz to Irish Trad. As a trio, Lehto & Wright push the boundaries of Celtic and Progressive rock, utilizing all the tools of a rock band to achieve the effect of a six-piece band with three musicians. The band is currently at work on their 10th studio release due out in the Spring of 2024. 

JOHN WRIGHT: Acoustic Guitar, Bass Guitar, Bass Pedals and Vocals - With a long-standing dedication to traditional music, Wright's background spans many different musical styles including blues, fusion, pop Latin and rock. By incorporating all these influences, Wright has his own unique approach to the folk and folk rock genres. This is evident in his tasteful acoustic guitar and bass work. Other recent music endeavors include The Galactic Cowboy Orchestra and his work as a producer, arranger and engineer at The Villa Studio in Savage, MN.

STEVE LEHTO: Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Mandolin and Vocals - With influences ranging from Miles Davis to Martin Carthy, from King Crimson to Richard Thompson, Steve Lehto's impressive versatility and range on the guitar is matched only by the emotion he puts into his playing. Equally at home playing an Irish jig or a jazz standard, he brings a unique and accomplished style to the folk and folk rock world. 

MATT JACOBS: Drums and Assorted Percussion - Matt Jacobs' resume reflects his many talents as a percussionist. From blues with Big Walter Smith, pop with The Auto Body Experience and gigs with Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits, Jacobs is a seasoned pro that understand the folk rock tradition and provides a solid foundation for Lehto & Wright. 

Concert sponsored by: Xcel Energy

Concerts in the Park Season Sponsor: Treasure Island Resort & Casino

 

Concerts begin at 7pm / Food Trucks open at 6pm

Red Wing Arts Summer Concerts in the Park series will kick off on June 5th and continue every Wednesday until August 28th (except June 19 - join the community at the City of Red Wing - Juneteenth Celebration that day). Concerts begin promptly at 7pm, with food trucks opening at 6pm. These vibrant and energetic performances will take place in Central Park - the heart of our historic downtown, where the city's “living room” comes alive. Each year Red Wing Arts curates a diverse selection of regional bands, offering a wide range of musical genres to cater to varied tastes. Parking is allowed during the concert on both sides of East and West Avenues between 4th & 5th Streets. Families and friends are encouraged to bring their chairs and coolers to enjoy these free live music events suitable for all ages. All are welcome!  

Red Wing Arts thanks our community for their continued support - these events would not be possible without the collaboration and sponsorship of local businesses and foundations. Free parking will be available on both sides of East and West Avenues between 4th and 5th Streets during the concerts. Join us this summer as we celebrate the power of music, community, and creativity. Let's create unforgettable memories together!

For more information about the Red Wing Arts Summer Concerts in the Park series, please visit our Red Wing Arts website www.redwingarts.org.

Later Event: July 19
Adult Creative Social Hour