The trio Kalos, known for its fluid and ever-evolving approach to traditional music, will perform in Pasadena, offering audiences a concert shaped by spontaneity and deep-rooted folk influences. Drawn to water as both metaphor and muse, the group describes each performance as stepping into a river, no two renditions of a song are ever the same.
By Melanie Hooks
Kalos creates music inspired by the maritime traditions of Scotland, Ireland, Scandinavia, and North America. Their albums, including Harbour and Headland, reflect the intersection of land and sea, with songs that explore themes of shorelines, seafarers, and drownings. While their sound embraces the lively, danceable qualities of Irish tunes, it also incorporates the pastoral melodies and nature-driven imagery found in Scottish music. The result is a style rooted in tradition but shaped into something fresh and unexpected.
The trio features accomplished musicians with connections to groups such as Ensemble Galilei and The Syncopaths. Ryan McKasson (fiddle, viola, background vocals) is widely recognized as a performer, composer, collaborator, and teacher. Eric MacDonald (guitar, mandolin, lead vocals) has established himself as one of the United States’ premier accompanists across multiple styles. Jeremiah McLane (accordion, piano, background vocals) has recorded more than a dozen albums with groups including Nightingale, the Clayfoot Strutters, and others.
The concert is scheduled to begin at 7:30 pm at Knox Presbyterian Church. Tickets are available through Eventbrite, with advance pricing set at $33.85 for adults and $12.51 for Caltech students and younger students through high school.
The event is organized by the Pasadena Folk Music Society, a volunteer-driven group that has presented live music at accessible prices for over four decades. More information can be found on the organization’s website.
Pasadena Folk Society: Kalos Trio Saturday, May 9, 2026 7:30 pm Location Knox Presbyterian Church 225 S. Hill Ave. Pasadena, CA 91106 Tickets: $12.51-$33.85 online.










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