Bay Area banjo ace Bill Evans takes the spotlight as bandleader with the Bill Evans String Summit, a six-piece ensemble featuring some of the West Coast's hottest acoustic musicians. In this stellar group, Bill brings together guitarist Scott Nygaard (Darol Anger's Republic of Strings, Tim O'Brien), bassist Cindy Browne (Wake the Dead, Due West, Lionel Hampton, Mel Torme), the incredible twin fiddling of National Champion fiddlers Tristan and Tashina Clarridge, plus special guest John Reischman on mandolin.

Bluegrass is the stylistic meeting ground for this diverse group of musicians, who bring with them jazz, classical folk and world music influences. The Summit spotlights original instrumental pieces, many of them from Bill's two acclaimed solo CDs, Native and Fine and Bill Evans Plays Banjo.

In the words of Sing Out magazine's Tom Druckenmiller, "There are a handful of banjoists who are moving the tradition forward while keeping it close to the heart. Bill Evans is just such a player." Over the years, Bill has played with eminent groups like Dry Branch Fire Squad and local bands Due West and Bluegrass Intentions, but be prepared for another level of musical intensity and virtuosity with the String Summit!

Tonight's shows will also be graced by the presence of an incredible vocalist, Chris Webster. Familiar to many from her performances with her sister Cassie and Scott Nygaard, and as the lead singer of the dance band Mumbo Gumbo, Chris' soulful singing adds grace and sparkle to any performance. Chris opens the show accompanied by Scott, on guitar.