Libby Hanssen
CONTRIBUTOROriginally from Indiana, Libby Hanssen is a freelance writer in Kansas City. She is the author of States of Swing: The History of the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, 2003-2023. Along with degrees in trombone performance, Libby was a Fellow for the NEA Arts Journalism Institute at Columbia University. Learn more at Proust Eats a Sandwich.
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Kansas City used to be a hub for garment-making, and whether you're a knitting novice or crochet curious, there's no better time to make, mend and get into the textile arts. Check out this guide to fabric stores, craft recycling resources, classes and clubs in the area.
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Once a lacking part of Kansas City's classical music community, string quartets are filling up venues around the metro. From candlelight concerts to Carnegie Hall, learn about some of the groups that have been a part of the growing scene.
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With a small-but-mighty restaurant culture, its own newspaper, and a vision for the future, the neighborhood of Martin City is a cultural hub in South Kansas City.
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Kansas City is known as the "City of Fountains," and it's earned the name — with more than any city other than Rome. From opulent displays to more simple spouts, these water features beautify our environment and connect us to the Kansas City of the past.
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You might think that house shows are reserved for punk bands in grimey basements. But before music was ever played in concert halls and theaters, intimate shows in private residences showed off the talents of great composers and performers. Now, classical organizations are bringing back this tradition in Kansas City.
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Once prairie and then a major transportation hub, Waldo has transformed into a funky southern Kansas City neighborhood with a growing restaurant scene and a lot of local pride.
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From Kansas City to Carnegie Hall: These local ensembles are headed to the world's most famous stageCarnegie Hall is a name that is world-renowned and for a few Kansas City ensembles, they have the rare opportunity to step onto that stage themselves. Learn about the groups that will be headed to New York to perform there this upcoming season.
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There aren't many saxophone concertos that exist, let alone one written for a Black musician, by a Black composer, and commissioned by a group of major orchestras. This month, saxophonist Steven Banks will perform the world premiere of Billy Childs' new saxophone concerto with the Kansas City Symphony.
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Amateur music-making is an integral part of Kansas City's arts scene. Whether you're looking for creativity, connection, or a chance to see your neighbors perform, learn more about a sampling of Kansas City's vibrant ecosystem of community music ensembles.
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Want to discover something new in our region? Here are some of Kansas City's best-kept secrets, recommended by residents like you.