Pete:

Sorry it's taking so much effort for New Yorkers to contribute to your info-quest. I'll try to fill in as best I can.

You didn't say when you were coming, or what kind of music you'd like to hear. The 'catter who suggested checking out the Village Voice (free at sidewalk kiosks in Manhattan) was on target. You can also check out the mag Time Out New York (which also has a web site). I'm a native NYer (excuse me, native Brooklynite), and although I don't live in the city anymore, I still work there (midtown Manhattan). If time allows, take the ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island and make a pilgrimage to Mandolin Bros. guitar store, where you can sit and play new and vintage stringed instruments of all types to your heart's content.

Gimme some more info and maybe I can pin down some specifics for ya. (And maybe you can return the favor when it's my turn to cross the Pond.)

Cheers,

Pete