Next Stage Arts Project and Twilight Music present International Bluegrass Music Association Banjo Player of the Year Tony Trischka and his band, plus and double banjo bluegrass quartet Hot Mustard at Next Stage on Friday, August 22 at 7:30 pm. In a consistently adventurous musical career that spans nearly half a century, Tony Trischka has established himself as one of America’s foremost visionaries of the five-string banjo and perhaps the most influential banjo player in the roots music world. Widely regarded as the most innovative banjoist of his generation, Tony’s dexterity and restless creative spirit have inspired generations of fans and acoustic musicians, including Bela Fleck – one of his early students.
Tony’s influence in igniting the world of progressive acoustic music permanently altered the face of American roots music. He has been a key figure in opening the banjo and acoustic music in general to wider influences, having shared the stage and studio with the likes of Steve Martin, David Grisman, John Denver, The Boston Pops, Jorma Kaukonen, Sam Bush, Chris Thile, Peter Rowan, Earl Scruggs and countless others. He has appeared on “Late Night with David Letterman,” Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion” and “Mountain Stage,” and is featured on the soundtrack of the film “Driving Miss Daisy’ and the theme song of the NPR show “Books on the Air.” Tony embraces all manner of possibilities, while keeping one foot firmly planted in the traditional bluegrass roots that first inspired him to make music.
Tony’s instrumental expertise and boundless imagination are as sharp as ever on his latest album “Great Big World.” One of the most ambitious and accomplished of the artist’s career, the album is a deeply compelling showcase for his expansive instrumental talents, far-ranging musical interests and distinctive songwriting skills.
“… the great banjo liberationist …” – Tom Ashbrook (NPR “On Point”)
“the godfather of what’s sometimes called new acoustic music” – New York Times
“One of the most impressive banjoists alive” – Billboard
Tony’s band includes Grant Gordy (guitar), who has played with David Grisman; Mike Barnett (fiddle), recently of the Deadly Gentlemen; and sought-after session musician and ensemble player, Ethan Jodziewicz (bass).
Jenny Brook Bluegrass Festival band competition winner Hot Mustard features hard-driving double banjos, close harmonies and old-time fiddle tunes, all hot and spicy. The Vermont/New Hampshire-based quartet includes Bruce Stockwell (banjo, vocals), April Hobart (guitar, vocals), Bill Jubett (banjo, fiddle, vocals) and Kelly Stockwell (acoustic bass). Bruce Stockwell is a member of newgrass/folk trio The Stockwell Brothers, and the winner of the 2005 Merlefest bluegrass banjo contest.
Next Stage is located in the former United Church at 15 Kimball Hill in downtown Putney, VT. Tickets are $20 Advance / $22 At the Door. For information, call 802-387-0102. Advance tickets are available at www.nextstagearts.org, Turn It Up in Brattleboro and Offerings Jewelry in Putney. JD McCliment’s Pub will provide a beer and wine cash bar at the concert. For more information, visit www.tonytrischka.com, www.hotmustardbluegrass.com, www.www.nextstagearts.org and www.twilightmusic.org.