Béla Fleck Unites With Edmar Castañeda and Antonio Sánchez for Unprecedented Trio at Newton Theatre

New Jersey music fans are in for a groundbreaking performance as Béla Fleck joins forces with harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer Antonio Sánchez for a one-night-only concert at the Newton Theatre on Friday, April 17th at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10 a.m., and the show promises an evening of genre-defying virtuosity and improvisational brilliance. For more information on live music events across the state, visit https://explorenewjersey.org/music/.

Béla Fleck, a 19-time Grammy Award winner and universally acclaimed banjo innovator, has continually expanded the boundaries of the instrument. From his early bluegrass roots to the eclectic explorations of the Flecktones, collaborations with Chick Corea, and reinterpretations of classical compositions like Rhapsody in Blue, Fleck’s career is defined by bold experimentation and extraordinary musicianship. His work consistently pushes genres into new territories while maintaining a deep connection to the banjo’s traditional spirit.

Joining Fleck for this unprecedented ensemble are two of the most respected instrumentalists of their generation. Colombian harpist Edmar Castañeda brings a distinctive sound and unparalleled agility to the trio. Known for his solo projects and collaborations with artists such as Hiromi, Paquito D’Rivera, and Grégoire Maret, Castañeda blends jazz, Latin rhythms, and classical sensibilities to create an entirely new sonic landscape for the harp.

Complementing the group’s unique textures is Antonio Sánchez, a five-time Grammy Award-winning drummer whose career has spanned jazz, contemporary fusion, and cinematic composition. Born in Mexico City, Sánchez has earned global acclaim through collaborations with jazz icons like Pat Metheny, Chick Corea, Gary Burton, and Charlie Haden. Beyond his jazz credentials, Sánchez gained mainstream recognition for his Golden Globe-nominated drum score for Alejandro González Iñárritu’s 2014 film Birdman, showcasing his innovative approach to rhythm and cinematic storytelling. His leadership of progressive ensembles such as Bad Hombre further underscores his versatility and vision as a musician.

The combination of Fleck’s banjo, Castañeda’s harp, and Sánchez’s dynamic drumming creates a soundscape unlike any other, where jazz, world music, classical motifs, and improvisation intersect. Fans can expect intricate arrangements, spirited improvisations, and moments of sheer musical magic, making this concert a rare opportunity to witness three virtuosos at the peak of their creative powers.

For anyone seeking a transformative musical experience, the Béla Fleck–BEATrio performance at the Newton Theatre offers a masterclass in innovation, collaboration, and instrumental brilliance. To stay updated on upcoming shows and discover more live music events throughout New Jersey, visit https://explorenewjersey.org/music/.