TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - Guitarist Michael Kelsey will return to Indiana State University to perform Thursday, Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the Recital Hall of the Center for Performing Arts at Seventh and Chestnut streets.
A native of Lafayette, Kelsey cut his musical teeth on electric lead and bass guitars in a variety of cover bands from progressive jazz to rock. Prior to pursuing a solo career, he spent five years as a recording engineer and arranger. After placing as a finalist in a Guitar Player Magazine's national competition, he switched from electric to acoustic guitar to take advantage of the broader variety of sounds, moods and nuances.
Whether he's creating a song spontaneously for a lucky lady in the front row, telling a story complete with sound effects, or letting an inspired moment move his fingers around the fret board, Kelsey never performs the same show twice. His love of performance extends to his fans, which gain in strength with every show. He'd prefer them not to walk away saying, "Wow, what a great guitarist!" Instead he hopes they go home and paint a picture, write a poem, or make music with whatever is in their top kitchen drawer.
"Inspiration is contagious and I like to help get it started," he said.
In 2004 the music store chain Guitar Center held its "Guitarmageddon" competition. After three months of searching through 3000 guitar players to find the nation's best unsigned guitarist, Kelsey was selected the winner.
He has toured nationally with Blind Melon and Dishwalla and has shared the stage with everyone from Adrian Legg to John Wesley Harding. He has performed at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Blues Festival in Dallas and has supported such acts as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Santana, Pat Metheny, B.B King as well as sharing the stage with Tim Reynolds, Cowboy Junkies, The Bodeans, and John Wesley Harding.
Kelsey’s appearance is a fundraiser for ISU’s Music Industry Association (MIA). Admission is $6 for the general public and $5 for students at the door.
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Contact: Ted Piechocinski, ISU music department, (812) 237-3008
Writer: Paula Meyer, Communications & Marketing (812) 237-3783, pmeyer4@isugw.indstate.edu