Westcott Community Center
Corner of Euclid Ave. and Westcott St., Syracuse

Tony Trischka is perhaps the most influential banjo player in the roots music world. For more than 35 years, his stylings have inspired a whole generation of bluegrass and acoustic musicians. He was not only considered among the very best pickers, he was also one of the instrument's top teachers, and created numerous instructional books, teaching video tapes and cassettes. With fearless musical curiosity as the guiding force, Tony Trischka's "Territory" roams widely through the banjo's creative terrain.

"Territory" (Smithsonian Folkways/Ryko) is considerably more than a showcase for the virtuoso banjo playing of Tony Trischka, though that may seem like its principal function. The album is a full-bore banjo tutorial—Mr. Trischka's track-by-track notes include 20 tunings and occasional tips—and a familial jaunt through folk and bluegrass terrain. Featured on the CD are two up-and-coming acoustic artists who have toured extensively with Tony: guitarist and singer Michael Daves, and fiddler Brittany Haas. Mr. Trischka provides a steady connecting line, weaving into his folk and bluegrass musical mix not only Celtic reels but also West African kora music and Hawaiian slide guitar.