The Tray Wellington Band as part of the Spring 2026 Americana Series

Tray Wellington is an acclaimed banjo innovator whose genre-defying approach bridges folk, bluegrass, jazz, and contemporary roots music. Recognized for his fearless exploration of the banjo’s possibilities, Tray has been honored with some of the most prestigious accolades in acoustic music, including the 2024 Steve Martin Banjo Prize and 2019 IBMA Momentum Instrumentalist of the Year, and has been twice nominated for IBMA New Artist of the Year.

Tray’s artistry has taken him to stages across the world, from intimate house concerts to landmark performances on Saturday Night Live with Mumford & Sons. He has been featured at premier festivals including the Newport Folk Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and Bourbon & Beyond, among many others, captivating audiences with his virtuosic technique, expressive storytelling, and inventive arrangements. His performances are celebrated for their energy, precision, and the way he seamlessly fuses traditional roots music with bold, contemporary ideas.

Tray leads the Tray Wellington Band, a dynamic ensemble that brings his compositions to life with rich instrumentation and inventive arrangements. The band serves as a platform for Tray to expand his musical vision, blending banjo-led virtuosity with intricate rhythms, improvisation, and a modern sonic palette that pushes the boundaries of acoustic music. Together, they transform Tray’s compositions into immersive, high-energy performances that engage both traditional and contemporary audiences.

The concert begins at 6:30 PM. Beverages will be available for purchase.

Many thanks to Marion M. Connor, CPA for sponsoring The Tray Wellington Band as well as our Americana 2026 Sponsors: Plume Family Foundation, WNCW, WTZQ and NC Arts Council.