Chris Thile, a founding member of Nickel Creek and the Punch Brothers, is currently on a solo tour, playing originals, favorite songs, and improvisations. He's also featuring music from Bach's Partitas and Sonatas for violin, transcribed for mandolin (Nonesuch Records released Thile's first volume of Bach in 2013).
In the interview, Thile discusses the music he'll play for the sold-out crowd on Friday night, saying it may change, depending on how the audience responds. He recalls a memorable visit to Kalamazoo's Kraftbrau Brewery, and defends his instrument as a worthy vehicle for performing Bach's violin works. He also pays tribute to Garrison Keillor and A Prairie Home Companion, citing its early influence on his life. Thile will become the new host of the long-running public radio variety show next year.
