Richard Bona and the Asanté Trio kick off Vilar’s 2025 Live in the May Gallery at Beaver Creek

Grammy award-winning musician Richard Bona and his trio launch this year’s May Gallery Series, which presents a global landscape of acoustic music within the intimacy of the Vilar Performing Art Center’s private lounge.

As one of the most accomplished international bass players, composers and multi-instrumentalists, Bona conveys his African origins, while incorporating other world music.

“My music has evolved as a reflection of my journey, experiences and encounters with cultures around the world. Over time, I’ve become more intentional about creating music that transcends genres and speaks a universal language. While my ‘Afreekhan’ roots remain at the heart of my sound, I’ve embraced influences from jazz, pop, Latin, Brazilian and other global styles to create something that feels authentic and boundary-less. It’s always about growth and staying true to the stories I want to tell,” he said.

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He has become renowned in the world, jazz and Afropop music scenes, earning a Grammy for Best Contemporary Jazz Album in 2002 with “Speaking of Now,” as well as two other Grammy nominations in 2002 and 2006. He has worked with legendary musicians, including Herbie Hancock, Harry Belafonte, Quincy Jones, Pat Metheny, Stevie Wonder, Bobby McFerrin and many more.

“Collaborating with legends like Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock and Pat Metheny is like going to the best school in the world. Each of them brings a mastery that is both humbling and inspiring. They’ve taught me to listen deeply, take risks and never stop learning,” he said. “Their guidance has helped me refine my voice, yet they’ve always encouraged me to remain authentic to my roots. It’s a gift to stand alongside such greatness and carry their lessons forward in my own work. But I am also inspired by young talent and look forward to producing for new artists, as this is where our future is.”

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The Vilar’s artistic director, Owen Hutchinson, calls Bona “nothing short of a musical genius.”

“His mastery of the bass, coupled with his unparalleled ability to connect with audiences worldwide, has earned him countless accolades and a place among the greatest musicians of our time,” he said. “Simply put, his voice is heavenly. Richard navigates French, English, his native language of Douala and other African languages with such fluidity and musicality, all while playing brilliant bass lines rooted in jazz, funk, Latin and African folk music. The man is a musical gift to the world.”

African culture resides in Bona’s DNA. It emerges through rhythm, melodies and storytelling, as he weaves these traditional elements with modern sounds.

“My view on music today is that it gives me the freedom to improvise and explore. By blending styles, I create music that honors Africa’s rich heritage while inviting listeners from all over the world to join the celebration,” Bona said. “It’s a bridge between the past and the present, between continents and traditions.”

He’s currently producing and recording for Latin and Brazilian artists in the realm of pop, Brazilian songbook, flamenco and Caribbean music.

“Working with Latin and Brazilian artists has been transformative. Their rhythmic complexity, emotional depth and passion resonate with my own roots. I’ve always felt a deep connection between African and Latin music — they’re cousins in many ways,” he said. “Collaborating with these incredible artists has taught me to think about music differently, to feel it in new ways and to incorporate those rich, danceable rhythms into my compositions. It’s been a mutual exchange that keeps my music alive and evolving.”

He also has collaborated with Italian-based MARKBASS on his Signature Series of custom bass guitars and amps.

“(They) are extensions of my soul. Every instrument is designed to deliver the precision, warmth and versatility I need for my music. They allow me to express myself fully and explore new tonal possibilities,” he said. “Beyond my personal use, I hope these instruments inspire other musicians to push boundaries and find their unique voice. It’s not just about the tools; it’s about how they empower artists to innovate and shape the future of music.”

Through Sunday’s two shows, audiences can expect to be whisked on “a journey of musical conversation spanning continents and connecting hearts,” he said.

“It will be a night of groove, melody and storytelling,” he said. “I am bringing my Asante Trio with Jesus Pupo on piano and Ludwig Afonso on drums — both brilliant. We’ll celebrate the universal language of music together, and I promise to bring my best to make it an unforgettable experience.”