“Genre-defying musical genius”
—NPR
In his 2025–2026 solo program, GRAMMY ® Award-winning mandolinist, singer, composer, and MacArthur Foundation “genius” grant recipient Chris Thile brings his signature blend of virtuosity, humor, and heart to the stage. This evening features selections from his acclaimed solo recordings of Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas, including new pieces from an upcoming second volume, woven together with a mix of classical, folk, and improvisational pieces. Whether interpreting centuries-old works or performing his own playfully ambitious compositions, Thile’s solo sets deliver an experience that intertwines tradition and new forms of expression.
Event Details
- Digital program book: Click here to access
- Runtime: approximately 75-90 minutes, with no intermission
- Additional information: visit our FAQ page
- Late seating policy: limited late seating available
Ticket & Discount Information
Tickets available starting at $29. Student tickets always $11. Eligible for CLE Credit.
Discount Information
We offer several discounts for CPA series performances only. Partner and rental events are not eligible.
Important Notes:
- Discounts must be applied at the time of purchase and cannot be added retroactively.
- Only one discount can be used per order.
- We reserve the right to cancel tickets that do not follow these guidelines
Available Discounts:
Military & First Responders
- Discount: 15% off
- Limit: 4 tickets per person, per performance
- How to redeem: Use promo code SERVICE2526 online or call our box office
Seniors (65+)
- Discount: 15% off
- Limit: 4 tickets per person, per performance
- ID Required: Yes
- How to redeem: Use promo code SENIOR2526 online or call our box office
UNC-Chapel Hill Faculty & Staff
- Discount: 25% off
- Limit: 4 tickets per person, per performance
- ID Required at Entry: Yes (UNC One Card)
- How to redeem:
- Current faculty/staff: Use promo code UNCFS2526
- Retired faculty/staff: Use promo code UNCRET2526
UNC Health Staff
- Discount: 25% off
- Limit: 4 tickets per person, per performance
- ID Required at Entry: Yes (UNC Health ID)
- How to redeem: Use promo code UNCFS2526 online or call our box office
UNC-Chapel Hill Students
- Discount: $11 tickets (Zones 3, 4, and 5)
- Limit: 2 tickets per student, per performance
- ID Required at Entry: Yes (UNC Student ID)
- How to redeem: Use promo code UNCST2526 online and select price type “UNC Student,” or call our box office
Non-UNC Students (K-College, Statewide)
- Discount: $11 tickets (Zones 3, 4, and 5)
- Limit: 2 tickets per student, per performance
- ID Required at Entry: Yes (UNC Student ID)
- How to redeem: Use promo code UNCST2526 online and select price type “UNC Student,” or call our box office
Carolina Alumni Members
- Discount: 15% off
- Limit: 4 tickets per order
- How to redeem: Use promo code GAA2526 online or call our box office
Watch our video on applying discount codes when checking out!
Visit our FAQ page for more details.
Why We’re Presenting This
We’re excited to welcome Chris Thile back to Carolina Performing Arts for the first time since 2019 to open our 2025–2026 season. Well-known for the genre-defying style he has previously brought to Chapel Hill with Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers, Thile’s performances are joyful, spontaneous, and wildly inventive—setting the tone for a season that celebrates connection, creativity, and the unexpected.
About Chris Thile
Thile is a MacArthur “genius” grant recipient, celebrated for his genre-crossing brilliance and innovative artistry. Thile is a founding member of Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek and has collaborated with artists from Yo-Yo Ma to Fiona Apple. He also served as host of Live from Here, bringing his eclectic taste and boundless musical curiosity to public radio audiences nationwide. Thile continues to shape a distinctly American musical voice rooted in tradition and inspired by today.
For more information about Chris Thile, please visit christhile.com.
Go further
Want to dive deeper into Thile’s past work? Start here.
Listen:
Live From Here with Chris Thile: A captivating podcast welcoming a wide range of talent to share the stage and create a beautiful listening experience.
Watch:
Learn:
Want to see more performances?
Check out the full lineup for the 2025-2026 CPA Season, and discover more incredible shows!