The evening begins with an optional potluck dinner and social hour at 6 p.m., followed by the concert at 7 p.m. Guests who would like to participate in the potluck are encouraged to bring a dish to share.
With a career spanning five decades, Lorković brings together the elegance of classical music, the freedom of jazz, and the earthy energy of blues, country, and soul. His inventive playing moves fluidly from rolling boogie-woogie to the intricate New Orleans rhythms of Professor Longhair and James Booker, with accordion adding another dimension to his broad musical palette.
Born in Zagreb, Croatia, and raised in Iowa, Lorković grew up surrounded by music. One grandmother sang him Croatian, Slovenian, and Czech folk songs, while his paternal grandmother, internationally renowned classical pianist Melita Lorković, helped shape his early exposure to classical music. At fourteen, a friend taught him a blues scale, sparking a fascination that would redirect his musical path.
His first touring work with Bo Ramsey and the Sliders launched a career that has made him a valued collaborator among celebrated folk and roots artists. Lorković has recorded or performed with Odetta, Jimmy LaFave, Greg Brown, Richard Shindell, Ellis Paul, Dan Navarro, and Shawn Mullins. His extensive touring experience also includes three years with Grammy-winning western swing band Asleep at the Wheel.
Inducted into the Iowa Blues Hall of Fame in 2020, Lorković has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, major folk festivals, Italian castles, and remote Alaskan villages. His recordings include eight studio albums and three live albums, showcasing his distinctive approach to blues, boogie-woogie, and roots music.
The Bishop Hill concert offers an opportunity to experience that musicianship in an intimate listening environment, where Lorković’s improvisational spirit and decades of musical exploration can unfold up close.
The concert is open to all ages, with a suggested donation of $20–30. Seating is limited, and advance reservations through Eventbrite are encouraged. Guests may reserve a seat and choose to pay cash at the door.
Presented by Crossroads Cultural Connections, this concert continues the organization’s mission of bringing meaningful, high-quality live music experiences to Henry County and surrounding communities.
