Taiwanese businessman found passion in Kansas City arts as advocate, philanthropist
Some of Benny Lee’s most cherished memories as a child growing up in Taiwan were inviting his young friends over to his boyhood home where they would listen to music on vinyl records for hours. For Lee, music has always been more than something playing in the background. It was a way to bring people together.
Today, after decades as a successful businessman in Kansas City, Lee still feels the same way about the power of music. But these days the gatherings are at his own home and they have grown. Instead of playing records, he invites world class musicians to perform for more than a hundred guests at a time.
Lee spent most of his career in business, navigating the rigors of import and manufacturing. But in retirement, he has emerged as a quiet but passionate patron of the arts, significantly enriching Kansas City’s cultural landscape.
Since 2000, Lee, 78, and his wife Edith, have hosted private concerts in their home, bringing together guests from all walks of life to share in the joy of live music. Though his business accomplishments are impressive, he said he believes his true calling lies in supporting musicians and nurturing the arts.
At his most recent concert at his home on Ward Parkway, Lee welcomed people ranging from lawyers, doctors and politicians to performers, business owners and journalists to enjoy the music of the trio Latitude 39 — a local ensemble fusing jazz and classical.
Lee opened the evening thanking those in attendance. He told a few jokes and gave a short speech on the health benefits of live music.
His commitment goes far beyond writing checks. Lee serves on multiple Kansas City arts organization boards. His intimate home concerts also inspired him to take up the clarinet several years ago, an experience that deepened his appreciation for the skill, discipline, and emotion that music requires.
Lee recently sat down with Kansas City Star culture and identity reporter J.M. Banks to talk about his life as an arts advocate, his private home concerts and the importance of supporting musicians in the metro.
Banks: What brought you to Kansas City?
Lee: I was born in Taiwan, and coming to the United States had always been a dream. It wasn’t easy. Taiwan had many restrictions at the time, but I managed to come and start my first company, Transworld Products, in 1979. We were in export and import services. I sold that company in 1992 and officially immigrated to the U.S. in 1995.
That same year, I founded Top Innovations here in Kansas City, designing and importing steam products. One of our biggest clients was QVC (Quality Value Convenience). I sold that business in 2008.
I thought about retiring then, I was around 61, but I felt too young. So, I became an investor in DuroComm, a manufacturing company. When the founder retired in 2011, I took over the business and grew it from 7 to 27 employees. We built a large facility here in Kansas City and I eventually sold the company in 2022. Since then, I’ve been fully retired and able to dedicate more time to music, which now takes up more of my life than anything else.
Which organizations are you involved with?
I’ve been a trustee at Park University for many years. About 20 years ago, I founded the International Center for Music (ICM) there. I also serve on the board of the Kansas City Museum and the Spire Chamber Orchestra. I was previously a trustee for the Youth Symphony of Kansas City. I’m active in the Asian Chamber of Commerce as well.
When did you develop a love for the arts?
I’ve loved music since I was a child. When I first moved to Kansas City I was fortunate to meet many musicians, especially through my children’s music lessons. One of my friends was a Russian violinist, and through him I got connected to more people in the local arts community.
In 2000, I hosted my first home concert. It was an intimate event, and people really enjoyed it. It became a way for me to promote music. In 2013, I decided to start learning the clarinet. A clarinetist performed at one of my events and later offered to teach me. I’ve been her student ever since. Just 10 days ago, I played at a party in my home. Listening to music is beautiful, but playing it yourself lets you understand and appreciate it on a whole new level.
What was the most difficult part of learning an instrument as an adult?
I think it is very much easier as a child. When you are a child your brain is still learning and good at learning new things. When you get older your mind is more fixed so it might not pick up things as fast. I think learning an instrument is good because it helps you with so many other things and keeps your mind sharp. I was very shy about playing it in front of people but then I started to play at my home when I have people over and the more I play the more I wanted to play in front of people. So music will also help with confidence.
What inspired the home concerts?
Even as a kid, I loved sharing music. I had a friend who would come over and we’d listen to records for hours. That spirit stayed with me. In 2000, I invited an Italian violinist to perform at my house, I even paid for his ticket. Since then, many world-class musicians have performed in my home. I’ve even installed special acoustic materials to improve the sound and minimize noise outside. It’s become something very special.
What’s the most fulfilling aspect of your arts involvement?
The International Center for Music is where I focus most of my time and resources. I’m also proud of my six years as a trustee for the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra, and I’ve hosted events at my home to support them. I find great joy in helping talented musicians grow and thrive.
What challenges have you faced in supporting the arts?
Fundraising is always a challenge. I constantly encourage people to donate because the need is real. Being a musician is hard. You dedicate years of your life to mastering your craft, and still, steady income is uncertain. Many artists sacrifice a lot, and it’s easy for them to get discouraged. I want to help keep their dreams alive.
Why do you believe supporting the arts is so important?
Music enriches our lives in ways we often don’t realize. It can lift your mood, change your day, and even affect your health. I truly believe that humanity couldn’t exist without music. It’s essential, not just for artists, but for everyone.
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