KANSAS performing with The Appalachian Symphony Orchestra

“From the beginning, we considered ourselves and our music different and we hope we will always remain so.” - KANSAS’ first public statement in 1974

Kansas has always achieved success by sticking to their instincts and playing only their original music. This "garage band" from Topeka was discovered in 1972 by Don Kirshner and released their first album, Kansas, in 1974. This album set the stage for a progressive rock sound that became the band’s foundation for years to come.

KANSAS has produced eight gold albums, two multi-platinum albums, a platinum live album and a million-selling gold single, "Dust in the Wind." With other hits such as "Carry on Wayward Son," "Play the Game Tonight" and "Point of Know Return," the band propelled into headlining status and appearing on the Billboard charts for 200 weeks throughout the 70s and 80s.

KANSAS band members include founder Phil Ehart (drums), Billy Greer (bass guitar and vocals), Dave Ragsdale (violin and guitar), Steve Walsh (keyboard and vocals) and Richard Williams (lead guitar).

KANSAS will be performing with The Appalachian Symphony Orchestra as part of their 2011 Collegiate Symphony Tour, which began as a way to raise awareness for college and university music programs.

“KANSAS and all the school symphonies just hit it off big time! The only people having more fun were all the students playing on stage with us!” - Phil Ehart, KANSAS