Voice Masters of American Music Concert Series

Masters of American Music is a concert series that highlights the pioneers of American music while also shining a light on the performing and teaching artists who carry the ROOTS mission forward. The first concert featured Kari Ann Rutushin and ROOTS founder Kevin Richards celebrating the music of Memphis Minnie. To the delight of a full room, they were joined by Dallas Coffey (upright bass), along with a special surprise appearance by Dan Bode (harmonica). Together, they brought Minnie’s music and story to life in a way that felt both intimate and deeply engaging.

This first concert successfully set the tone for what feels like a meaningful series - connecting with American musical history through an engaging mix of performance, storytelling, and community. The beautiful amphitheater space at Visible Voice Books provides the perfect backdrop for the series, which takes place on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

The upcoming April 22 concert will feature Evelyn Wright and Joe Hunter performing the music of one of the most groundbreaking musicians of the twentieth century: Ray Charles.

Charles pioneered the sound of soul music and played a key role in shaping the American popular music by blending sounds of jazz, blues, and gospel. His career produced iconic recordings such as “What’d I Say,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Hit the Road Jack,” and his influence continues to resonate across genres today.

Vocalist Evelyn Wright and pianist Joe Hunter are two of Northeast Ohio’s most accomplished musicians, each with extensive performance experience and undeniable talent. Together, they captivate audiences and will bring to life both the musical brilliance and emotional depth of Ray Charles’s work.

Admission is $15 at the door, with proceeds supporting the mission of Roots of American Music to educate, inspire, and connect communities across Northeast Ohio through live performance and music education programs in schools, senior centers, and community spaces.