Fans of bluegrass, in particular, welcome spring and the musical news that the Opera House in Boothbay Harbor is bringing two nationally acclaimed bluegrass-inspired bands to the stage in early May. The Spring Bluegrass Weekend includes the current patron saint of banjo players, Tony Trischka with his band, and the Boston based pickin’ talents of Barnstar. Trischka appears on Friday, May 3, followed by Barnstar on Saturday, May 4.

Grammy-nominated banjo master Tony Trischka has raised the instrument’s profile in myriad ways. Through performances on A Prairie Home Companion, Mountain Stage and From Our Front Porch, he’s been a frequent presence on National Public Radio. His work with his friend, Steve Martin, has helped the banjo gain a wider audience. He produced Martin’s Grammy-winning album, “Rare Bird Alert,” featuring Opera House favorites the Steep Canyon Rangers. Trischka has been an architect of progressive bluegrass, teaching generations along the way, including his teenage student Bela Fleck.

The New York Times has called Trischka “the father of modern bluegrass,” while the Wall Street Journal proclaims he is the “father of banjo fusion.” On May 3, this legend brings his band to Maine to pay tribute to the grandfather of bluegrass, Earl Scruggs.

Night two of Bluegrass Weekend features Zachariah Hickman, Mark Erelli, Jake &and Taylor Amerding and Charlie Rose coming together as Barnstar. Their music has been described as “song-based, gloriously harmonized and raucously played. Keep your eyes open, sit up close, and watch some powerful pickin’ on Saturday, May 4.

Audiences are warned to prepare for a “sonic explosion of positivity” as Barnstar! gears up to release their highly anticipated third album, “Furious Kindness,” set to hit the airwaves on April 19, 2024. Unapologetically shouting in your face about how awesome you are, Barnstar! delivers an aggressively joyful and passionately positive musical experience that reflects the true mission statement of these mischievous music makers – a beacon of joy in a world that could use a bit more kindness. The concert at the Opera House is part of the band’s new album release tour.

Tickets for each show are $25 in advance from the box office at 86 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor, or by calling 207-633-5159. Regular tickets are $30 and available online at boothbayoperahouse.com and on the day of the concert at the door. Doors for seating open at 7 p.m. and the pickin’ gets underway at 7:30. Come to one, come to both, but do not miss the chance to hear some unforgettable music this May at the Opera House’s Bluegrass Weekend