KA/PO - Karen Ashbrook & Paul Oorts

Music from the Cultural Crossroads of Europe

Karen & Paul joined forces in 1996, musically and soon thereafter matrimonially, creating “wonderfully energetic and exquisitely arranged collaborations” (Washington Post). They perform and teach at festivals around the USA as a duo and individually.  Their most recent recording, KA/PO in Concert from a 2013 live performance, showcases their dynamic ensemble music.

Their first recording together, Celtic Café on the Maggie’s Music label “explores pan-European music with uncommon enthusiasm, grace and imagination” (De Morgen, Belgium). 

The Flemish folk journal Goe Vollek! mused that “Denizens of the old country, should be very grateful to Ashbrook and Oorts for the way in which they introduce our traditional music to the Americans…we cherish this brilliant CD.”

 

Facebook Page: facebook.com/KAPO.AshbrookOorts

KA/PO recordings
“I loved the show...It was perfect. Paul has the voice of an angel. And I LOVE the accordion and the other instruments. Karen, your hammered dulcimer playing is heaven.” - Marty Summerour, Folklore Society of Greater Washington

— Comment after the concert that was recorded to make KA/PO in Concert

KA/PO represented Belgium at the Euaropean Union Showcase at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage

“You guys are the best!” - Steven Chow

— Host of Inwood Coffeehouse