Noam Pikelny and Friends on Oct 18, 2025 | UCSB Arts & Lectures

Noam Pikelny, banjo
Jake Eddy, guitar
Dan Klingsberg, bass
Julian Pinelli, fiddle
Teo Quale, mandolin

“One of the best banjo players in the world.” – Steve Martin 

“[Noam Pikelny] balances breathtaking speed with crystal clear melodic articulation.” PopMatters

Noam Pikelny, a founding member of the bluegrass quintet Punch Brothers and a core force behind the new supergroup Mighty Poplar, is widely recognized as a preeminent banjoist of his generation. Winner of the first Steve Martin Banjo Prize and a two-time International Bluegrass Music Association Banjo Player of the Year, his artistry bridges tradition and innovation with ease and continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music. Whether on stage or co-hosting The Energy Curfew Music Hour podcast with Chris Thile, Pikelny captivates with humor, heart and technical mastery. Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of banjo picking’s most inventive and compelling voices.