Join us on Sunday, Nov. 20, at 4 p.m. in the great room at FENCE for a wonderful concert with local musician Tom Fisch.

To describe Tom’s music is a bit like describing a favorite recipe. The first ingredient is tasteful acoustic guitar playing. Second, add Tom’s rich vocal style. Sprinkle in a dash of humor. Combine with the heart and soul of an eclectic mix of songs from the great American songbook in the folk/country style, and you’ve cooked up some enjoyable entertainment.

Growing up in Albany, N.Y., Tom won his first guitar in a raffle at a school bazaar when he was ten years old. It was an electric guitar/amp combo. Although that first guitar is long gone Tom still has the little tube amp. Thus began a lifelong love of music from a variety of genres.

Tom says, “As the years went by, I found myself getting into singers and players like Doc Watson, James Taylor, Dan Fogelberg, Tony Rice, the Byrds, and traditional folk and country artists. My playing and writing were also greatly influenced by singer-songwriters such as David Mallett, John Prine, Steve Goodman, and Jonathan Edwards.”

Tom entertained audiences for many years throughout the Northeast at colleges, clubs, coffeehouses, festivals and fairs. In 1991, Tom moved to Nashville, Tenn. to further his songwriting career. He co-wrote with many writers in Nashville and formed his own publishing company, Tom Fisch Music.

His songs have been recorded by a diverse number of artists including the Oak Ridge Boys and Swiss country singer Erica Arnold. While in Nashville, Tom also did studio work as a singer and acoustic guitarist. After 13 years in Music City, Tom was ready for a change and in 2004 he relocated to western North Carolina and its thriving acoustic music scene.

Now, with the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains for inspiration, Tom and his music have found a comfortable place to call home. Wherever he performs, audiences continue to connect with the warm, appealing style, diverse range of material and talent this seasoned performer brings to the stage.

This event is made possible by the Kirby Endowment at the Polk County Community Foundation. Refreshments will be served following the performance. FENCE is located at 3381 Hunting Country Road in Tryon, N.C. For more information about this or upcoming events call FENCE at 828-859-9021 or visit fence.org.

– article submitted by Amy Schmitte