Ben Schmidt Band

Singer Songwriter Ben Schmidt hails from Chicago, Il, but has planted roots firmly in the Iowa soil. His songs are steeped in the poetry of the Iowa landscape, drawing imagery from the everyday routines, struggles, and miracles of the human experience. Schmidt has developed a rich texture of sound inside of which his characters can dance, pray, celebrate, and mourn.

For The Now Hear This concert series, Schmidt will play a mix of his original music and songs that feature the “Ben Schmidt Band”. You’ll hear everything from “coffee house” to “barrel house” with the help of the Power Plant Rhythm Section— Matt Bernemann (drums), and Rich Wagor (bass); and featuring Sean Seaton on keyboards, this quartet celebrates everything from blues, funky soul, to outlaw country, folk and rock and roll. “The Band” focuses on the joy of playing live music with supremely talented musicians. Digging in with a mix of original tunes and old favorites, the band likes to “keep it greasy”, to stretch out and reimagine arrangements on the fly. The veteran core of the BSB is linked to many of the regions’ finest bands. This evening promises the easy going, playful dynamic of the live experience coupled with a deep respect for songcraft.

Health & Safety

As of March 8, 2022 masks will not be required to be worn in our facilities or at our concerts. If, as a member of our audience, you feel more comfortable wearing a mask, please feel free to do so. Orchestra Iowa reserves the right to change this masking policy in response to changes in public health conditions, CDC recommendations, and updated policies by federal, state, and local jurisdictions. Additional Details