Robby Steinhardt Kansas Founder And Violinist Passed Away At 71

Rest In Peace

Robby Steinhardt, violinist, vocalist, and founding member of progressive rock outfit Kansas, has passed away at the age of 71. He died from complications related to acute pancreatitis.

His family revealed that he was working on a new album that was slated for release later this year. He was even plotting a tour before he got sick. He was placed on life support in May.

“Robert Eugene Steinhardt, was well recognized as a founding member and original violinist and vocalist for the rock band Kansas,” his family said in a press release. “His violin and vocals on, ‘Dust in the Wind,’ ‘Point of No Return’ and ‘Carry On Wayward Son,’ have etched Robby a solid place in rock history.”

“Robby had been recording his new album with producer Michael Franklin, who put together an all-star cast of famous musicians in support of Robby’s comeback,” they continued. “Steinhardt was very proud of this project, slated for release in late 2021. He had begun rehearsals for a national tour when he became ill.”

Steinhardt helped forge Kansas’ violin-driven sound. He was a classic member from 1972 to 1983, he rejoined in 1997, and left again in 2006. In 2013, he suffered from a heart attack.

He is survived by his wife Cindy, and daughter Becky.