Robby Steinhardt

Robby Steinhardt (born May 25, 1950) is a rock violinist, and singer best known for his work with the group Kansas, for which he was co-lead singer / "frontman" and emcee along with keyboardist Steve Walsh, from 1973–1982 and 1997–2006. In the interim, he had a band called Steinhardt-Moon. He has said that unless he has a writing credit on a song (his only writing credits with Kansas are "All the World", "Magnum Opus", "Point of Know Return", and "Stay Out of Trouble"), the violin, viola, or cello part was written out for him to perform, usually by Kerry Livgren. His departure from the band in the early 1980s was for personal reasons.

Early life

Steinhardt grew up in Lawrence, Kansas and was the son of the director of music history at the University of Kansas. He started violin lessons at an early age and was classically trained. He has often said that joining a rock band caused him to develop poor playing habits, one of which is awkwardly holding his violin to the side of his head in order to hear himself better through the guitar amps and PA system.

Work with Kansas

Steinhardt produced a very lush and warm violin tone that helped define the Kansas sound, along with guitar and the organ. His vocal harmonized with lead singer Steve Walsh's high tenor. In addition, he sang a counter lead with Walsh on several Kansas songs, creating brilliant harmonies.

In early 2006, Steinhardt once again left Kansas, due mostly to overtouring and conflict with other band members. Since Steinhardt rejoined the band in 1997, the touring pace had been pretty hectic, averaging almost 100 shows per year. As part of a mutual agreement, he left Kansas once again. Violinist David Ragsdale (Steinhardt's original replacement), quickly replaced Steinhardt.