Mountain Music: Live Concerts this Weekend Include Bluegrass, Folk, Pop Rock and Old TIme Mountain Music

August 6, 2015 - ASHEVILLE NC
Homegrown in Pritchard Park  This performance features Molly Rose.  Free performances by local singer/songwriters each Thursday between Memorial Day and Labor Day at Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville. Held from 6 PM - 8 PM and sponsored by 98.1 The River radio station.  

August 6 - 8, 2015 - ASHEVILLE NC
88th Annual Mountain Dance and Folk Festival   The nation’s longest running folk festival. The 88th annual edition of this three-day event showcases the best of the region’s old-time and bluegrass musicians, mountain dance groups, cloggers, and ballad singers. A different show every night, beginning at 7:00 PM nightly at Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place in downtown Asheville. 

August 7, 2015 - HENDERSONVILLE NC
 Music on Main Street   Horsefly / Rock & Blues  The annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June through August. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from jazz, pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music with room to dance. There will also be a classic car show corvette night sponsored by the Hendersonville Antique Car Club.  Bring a chair and enjoy the music from 7 PM - 9 PM. Admission is FREE. 

August 7, 2015 - ASHEVILLE NC  
The Biltmore Concert Series:  Natalie Cole and Peabo Bryson    Enjoy performances by award-winning artists at Biltmore with stunning views of Biltmore House and the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a perfect place to see a show under the stars. 

August 7, 2015 - SYLVA  NC
Concerts on the Creek -   Porch 40 Live concerts held every Friday night between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day. The free outdoor performances take place at the Bridge Park Pavilion beside Scott Creek in downtown Sylva on Fridays from 7:30-9:30 PM. All shows are family-friendly, drawing diverse audiences comprised of locals and visitors alike. 

August 7, 2015  - CASHIERS NC
Groovin' On The Green   This concert features " The Jackson Taylor Band "  (pop rock).  Live summer music concert with great music in a stunning venue in the beautiful weather. The summer concert series is held on Friday at 6:30 pm at the Village Commons. (Frank Allen Road – Next to the Post Office). FREE event, but tips appreciated.  

August 7 and 8, 2015 -  CHEROKEE  NC
Music on the River   Enjoy open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.   Friday night: David Lambert,  Saturday night: AM Superstars.  

August 7 - 8, 2015 -  FRANKLIN NC
 Mountain High BBQ & Music Festival   BBQ, Music and Car Show. This two-day event features authentic, mouth-watering BBQ, live entertainment ,a car show, cornhole tournament, crafters and tastin’ tent.  This is an official North Carolina State BBQ Championship with over $11,000 in cash and awards. Gate Entrance: $5 one day; $8 both days, Children 12 & under Free. Held at the Wayne Proffitt Agricultural Center, 1436 Georgia Road in Franklin.

August 7 - 8, 2015 -  LANSING
Ola Belle Reed Music Festival   A showcase of top notch local and visiting musicians honoring Ola Belle Reed, a local legendary bluegrass and gospel musician.  Musical acts will provide continuous day and evening concerts in addition to instrumental, songwriting, and voice workshops. The event also includes a Craft Market, Food Court and much more. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, overnight camping available. Purchase tickets online or at the gate.

August 8, 2015 -   ROBBINSVILLE NC
An Appalachian Evening - Mac Arnold and Plate Full O' Blues    This annual summer concert series offers an ever-changing schedule of bluegrass, folk and old-time mountain music by award-winning artists — quality entertainment for the entire family. Rich in cultural heritage, An Appalachian Evening continues to be a favorite with locals and visitors alike. All concerts at 7:30 pm in the air-conditioned Lynn L. Shields Auditorium. 

August 8, 2015 - ASHEVILLE NC
15th Annual RiverFest    Crafts, kid fun, a raft race, music and more.  RiverFest is an event especially for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Craft vendors sell local handmade goods, there are kids parades and activities and the popular Anything That Floats Raft Parade also takes place that afternoon. Live music continues into the evening. 1 PM - 7 PM.

August  8 - 9, 2015 - BLOWING ROCK NC
Riders in the Sky Perform at Tweetsie Railroad   Come hear America's Favorite Cowboys and Grammy award-winning singers. The shows are included in the Park admission but seating is on a first come basis. Showtimes at noon and 3 PM.  

August 9, 2015 - ASHEVILLE NC
The Biltmore Concert Series:  Counting Crows: Somewhere Under Wonderland Tour with special guest Citizen Cope    Enjoy performances by award-winning artists at Biltmore with stunning views of Biltmore House and the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a perfect place to see a show under the stars. 

 

Where have all the Flowers Gone ? Gone to Hendersonville and the Flat Rock Playhouse Downtown with the Tribute to Peter, Paul and Mary

June 12-15   Flat Rock Theatre Music on the Rock Series: "A Tribute to Peter, Paul and Mary" Performances are at the Playhouse Downtown, 125 Main Street in historic Hendersonville, 8:00 PM. The 9 concert 2013 series is produced by The Flat Rock Theatre and offers a celebration of music from country to pop to folk.

The Music on the Rock Series began in 2010 in the Flat Rock Theatre's small rehearsal hall. The Serie's near immediate success required a larger venue and now is performed in the new facility in downtown Hendersonville to more than 10,000 music lovers annually.  Professional performers pay tribute in both style and emotional content to popular music's favorite songs and musicians in each Music on the Rock Concert.

Tickets are still only $24 per person and may be purchased at the the box office or online. Discounts are offered to students, seniors and AAA members.

Get a link for additional Hendersonville NC information HERE.

Brevard Music Center Prepares for the 2013 Festival

With the opening performance of The Brevard Music Center 2013 festival only three short weeks away, the campus is quickly becomes a hive of activity. Members of the summer administrative and production staffs have already started to arrive, and over the next few weeks they will be getting company. 

June is the month when the population of the 180 acre campus balloons from only 15 full-time staff members to over 600 students, faculty and staff.

students, faculty, and staff. This is the month that the Center's  troop of over 200 volunteers comes together and begins working to make the summer festival a success.

This is the month that 80 pianos appear overnight, and the occasional sounds of songbirds are replaced by a constant stream of beautiful music echoing through the mountains. June is always a very exciting month to be at Brevard. Students arrive on campus in just two weeks.  The life-changing experiences for these young, aspiring performing artists are possible only with your help. 

Scholarship Fund support gives more than 90% of the Center students merit and need-based help so they can pursue their dreams regardless of their financial circumstances. Your gift of $550 or more to the Scholarship Fund allows you to Sponsor a Student!  Click here for details about the 2013 Scholarship Program.

Contributions to our  Annual Fund help us recruit top students, secure our faculty, attract top guest artists, and maintain rehearsal, performance, and student and faculty residence facilities across our 180-acre campus. 

Gifts of any size support these annual needs and sustain our mission and daily life. Please consider making a charitable contribution today to Brevard Music Center!

  

Click here now to make your gift online or for information about how you can support the Music Center.

The Brevard Music Center is located at 349 Andante Lane in Brevard NC

Carl Sanburg Folk Music on Memorial Day in Flat Rock

May 27   Carl Sandburg Folk Music Festival  The grounds of the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site come alive with folk music which was an important part of Carl Sandburg's life along with his guitar playing and singing as well as his writing.

The 27th annual folk festival honors Carl Sandburg and his preservation of traditional folk music as found in his collection The American Songbag. The festival's performers each skillfully demonstrate the tradition of performing live music to tell stories while capturing the heritage of America through song.

This year's festival features The Shivers playing old time music, Charles Wood on banjo, Pat Corn and Buddy Davis performing bluegrass and folk music, Pop Ferguson and the Blues Revue, and Celtic musician Jamie Laval.

Learn more about Flat Rock NC HERE.

Memorial Day Weekend Events: White Squirrel Festial - one of the favorite Spring Music Festivals

May 24-26   The White Squirrel Festival  -  Go Nuts in Downtown Brevard NC, "Where Music Meets the Mountains". Two days of free, live music and nutty family fun with a special evening concert Friday night by Jupiter Coyote and Sol Driven Train. 

The Festival includes more than 16 free concerts, with headliners Acoustic Syndicate and Shannon Whitworth. This anniversary year's event promises to be even bigger and better than ever - with the Memorial Day Parade, Annual Squirrel Box Derby, white squirrel guided tours, white squirrel exhibit, children’s village and white squirrel photo contest.

Also back this year is the Annual 5K/10K White Squirrel Race/Competitive Walk, along with a 1-mile kids' fun run. Find out why the White Squirrel Festival was voted "Best Spring Music Festival in Western North Carolina".

Get a link for The White Squirrel Festival and other local events on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide.

Looking for more to do in the NC mountain on Memorial Day Weekend?  CLICK HERE for dozens of events and festivals on our NC events Calendar. 

Purple Onion March Music Schedule

The Purple Onion, located at 16 Main Street in historic downtown Saluda NC, s offering its own version of March Madness.  Some of the favorite winter brews will be served in a nod to Ole Man Winter, Bell's Winter White, Founder's Breakfast Stout and Bells Hopslam. It's your last chance to enjoy these seasonal beers until next winter. 

Special March Event: March 11 -  the first wine tasting of the year which will feature Spanish Wines and Tapas. The cost of the tasting is $40 and includes a taste of seven wines and several tapas chosen to complement them. The cost of the tasting will be waived for every two cases purchased. 


March 2 - The Danberrys
a superb blend of bluegrass, old-time country, folk, and a little jazz with inspired original tunes, strong harmonies and dynamic musicianship

March 7 - Marshall Ballew & Wanda Lu Paxton
Old friends from days gone by return to the Onion

March 9 - Marc Yaxley
Jazz  guitar virtuoso from Brevard returns

March 14 - Dylan Sneed
Kevin Oliver of the SC Free Times said "Sneed's songs give a contemporary spin to the Lone Star country and folk of Guy Clark, Steve Earle and others, coming out more like the acerbically literate North Carolina ongwriters Jonathan Byrd or Malcolm Holcombe."

March 16 - JPQ Band
Jim Peterman returns with his Hammond B, funky jazz and R&B

March 21 - One Leg Up
Great Gypsy jazz from this audience favorite

March 23 - Wendy Hayes
Energetic and entertaining renditions of cool, bop, and post bop standards delivered with passion and skill 

March 24 -Sunday Concert Mac Arnold & Plate Full O' Blues
See below for more information

March 28 - Jeffery Hyde Thompson
"a cross between Martin Sexton and Jeff Buckley, blessed with a four and a half octave vocal range, a scatman's spontaneity, and an arsenal of well-penned lyric"

March 30 - Phil & Gaye Johnsona unique blend of traditional and contemporary Folk, Bluegrass, and Country music along with generous portions of Western Swing, Cowboy, Blues, and Old-Time traditions

Brevard Music Center First Monday Concert

March 4 at 12:30 PM in the Scott Concert Hall at the Porter Center of Brevard College The Brevard Music Center presents the First Monday Concert.

Cellist Alistair MacRae has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral principal throughout the United States and in Europe, Asia, South America, and the Middle East. His playing has been praised for its "rich sound and lyrical phrasing" (Palm Beach Daily News) and his performances have been featured in radio broadcasts across the United States.

As a New York-based chamber musician, he has appeared on Carnegie Hall's Making Music Series, as a member of Fountain Ensemble (NY) and the Berkshire Bach Ensemble (MA), with the Manhattan Sinfonietta, Suedama Ensemble (NY), and counter)induction (NY); and at summer festivals such as Monadnock Music (NH), Music Festival of the Hamptons (NY), and the Central Vermont Chamber Music Festival. He has been heard at major New York chamber music venues such as Carnegie's Zankel and Weill Halls, BargeMusic, Merkin Hall, the 92nd St Y, and Miller Theatre at Columbia University. His recent se asons have included premiere performances of new works at Princeton, Yale, Columbia, and Harvard Universities; recordings of chamber music by Telemann and Laurie Altman; music for The Discovery Channel; and ensemble CDs of music by Mozart and Scott Joplin. His eclectic collaborations have found him on stage with Paul Taylor Dance Company, the Westminster Choir, tap dancer Savion Glover, jazz bassist Ben Wolfe, the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra, and the rock band The Scorpions. 

Mr. MacRae teaches cello at Princeton University and is on the faculty of the Brevard Music Center (NC). He has given master classes and lecture-performances through the American String Teachers Association and at Marshall University (WV), the University of Utah, Palm Beach Community College (FL), and Kings College (PA). He holds degrees from Princeton University and the Manhattan School of Music.

The program includes BACH Suite No. 3 in C major for Solo Cello CASSADÓ Suite for Violoncello.

Mountain Heart Performs at Asheville's Diana Wortham Theatre

November 9 at 8 PM the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square in Asheville NC - Mountain Heart, winners  or nominees of  Grammys, IBMAs, CMAs, ACMs, performs for one evening in Asheville NC.  Don't miss one of the most highly awarded and virtuosic acts in progressive bluegrass and American roots music in the world as they return to the Diana Wortham stage this week.

Get a link for the Diana Wortham Theatre and other Asheville entertainment attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

 

Art on the Mountain Today in West Jefferson

September 22   Art on the Mountain   Pottery, paintings, photography, quilting, knife making, leather crafts, barn quilts, jewelry, baskets, fiber, knitting, felting, spinning, rug hooking and more! Unique art for sale and Artist demonstrations. Door prize drawings each hour.

Hear it all LIVE - The Gary Poe Show (580 AM, WSKS) will broadcast in real time  from the Arts Center, featuring the Garden Variety String Band.

Find more local information on the West Jefferson NC Visitor Guide.

Music on the Mountain today at Chimney Rock Park

September 16, 3:30 - 7:30  Music on the Mountain Concert Series will feature some of Western North Carolina’s most talented bluegrass and string musicians at Chimney Rock State Park. The concerts are held at the Pavilion, an intimate covered venue in the Meadows, and are limited to only 300 tickets each.

This concert features Asheville’s Town Mountain, 2011 Official Showcase Artists at IBMA, and Darin & Brooke Aldridge, the “Sweethearts of Bluegrass” from Cherryville, NC, nominated IBMA Emerging Artist of the Year and SPBGMA gospel group, album, song and female vocalist of the year.

Complimentary Park Admission Included with Your Ticket! Come early to check out the Park’s 75-mile panoramic views, scenic trails, ancient geological features and rock climbing. Featured in The Last of the Mohicans, the Park’s 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls of its kind east of the Mississippi River. Concert tickets are valid for Park admission on the concert date. Non-passholders can return any day this year and enjoy a complimentary one-day Park admission by showing their used concert ticket. One complimentary admission per ticket; expires December 31, 2012.

Ticket Prices: $22 advance, $25 at gate; youth (ages 6-15): $12 advance, $15 at gate. Includes a complimentary one-day Park admission. Event will be held rain or shine; no refunds.
Annual Passholders: $12 advance, $15 at gate. Grady’s Kids Club Members: $7.

Get a link for Music on the Mountain details and other Chimney Rock Park information on the Chimney Rock Visitor Guide.

Blue Ridge Music Center presents Bluegrass and old time Pickers

August 25 at the Blue Ridge Music: Center Hot Pickers, New Bands in Concert.  Two great bands for a memorable night of bluegrass hot picking and spirited, old-time music that will make you want to dance. Come on out and support local music and musicians at one of BRMC's last mainstage concerts of the season. Bring a picnic and enjoy beautiful, traditional music at sunset!

Jus' Cauz is a popular bluegrass band that hails from Danville, Virginia that formed three years ago. Mark Hudson is the lead singer and guitar player for the group. David Lewis plays mandolin, Larry Hall - bluegrass banjo and Jerry Steinberg will play the low tones on the doghouse bass. Tim Smith, formerly of the Bluegrass Cardinals, will be fiddling in place of regular fiddler, Tim Martin, who is on medical leave. Jus' Cauz performs regularly all over the Blue Ridge and their concert on Song of the Mountains will be airing soon on PBS. The band scored big at the Virginia Folk Music Association festival in Chesterfield, VA. Recent awards there include: first place lead vocals, first-place fiddle, banjo and guitar ribbons as well as second place bluegrass band. Expect to hear the best in traditional bluegrass from this new band of seasoned players.

The Old-Time Pals are a hard-driving, traditional, old-time band from Grayson and Carroll counties in Virginia. The group includes Tim Donley on fiddle, Trish Kilby-Fore on banjo, Steve Kilby on guitar and Erin Creed on bass. Influences for the group include: Harold B. Hausenfluck, the Spencer and Birchfield Families, Enoch Rutherford, Larry Pennington, Barbara Poole and others. All members of the band have won top honors at fiddlers' conventions and contests across the country. The Old-Time Pals are, as their name suggests, good friends who play fine music together. You won't want to miss hearing them perform!

The Hot Pickers, New Bands Concert starts at 7 PM. Concert seating opens at 5:30 PM. Admission $8/$5 students and seniors. Children 12 and under are free.

As always, there will be free Mid Day Mountain Music in the BRMC breezeway from 12-4pm and the free Roots of American Music museum will be open 9am-8pm on this concert night. Bring lawn chairs and the whole family. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available. No pets or alcohol. For info call (276) 236-5309 x112.

Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr's Fiddle Shop, online and at the gate. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

Find more NC music events and concerts on the NC Event Calendar.

The Blue Ridge Music Center hosts Blues Masters

August 18 -  Blues masters will converge at the Blue Ridge Music Center and explore the blues of the Piedmont, the mountains and beyond at the Country Blues & Songsters concert. Performers include three top bluesmen: Dom Flemmons of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, 84-year-old blues songster Boo Hanks of Virgilina, VA, and North Carolina ace guitarist/singer Lightnin' Wells. There will also be a pre-concert performance talk called, "Talkin' About the Blues," led by folklorist, Gregg Kimball.

 Boo Hanks grew up sharecropping tobacco in Vance County, N.C. His father played blues guitar in the style of Blind Boy Fuller and would entertain those in his small community at local events and all-night tobacco curings. Boo Hanks grew up hearing this music and listened to blues records. He bought his first guitar from Sears-Roebuck for $2 and entertained his local community much like his dad did. In recent years, Boo has gained national recognition and started performing further afield from his home. Boo released a new album this June with Dom Flemons called "Buffalo Junction," named after Boo's hometown. Tim Duffy, Music Maker founder, says, "Boo Hanks is the last remaining beacon of pure Piedmont blues."

Dom Flemons is a grammy award winning artist who has played all over the country with his band the Carolina Chocolate Drops. On stage, Dom, rolls from one instrument to another, (guitar, harmonica, banjo, bones), with a fearless attitude toward tradition and repertoire. He is also a great singer and a deep well of information on all aspects of the tradition of black stringband music in America.

Lightnin' Wells breathes new life into the vintage tunes of the 1920s and depression era America and has been performing for over thirty years at almost every festival, camp and blues venue in the country. He is an avid researcher and accomplished guitar, harmonica, uke and banjo player. With his experience, knowledge and well-honed performance skills, Lightnin' Wells has established himself at the forefront of the traditional blues revival.

The Country Blues & Songsters concert starts at 7pm on Saturday, Aug 18th. Concert seating opens at 5:30pm. Admission $10/ $8 students & seniors. Children 12 and under are free.

A"Talkin' About the Blues" performance-talk will take place in the small theater at 5 PM. Free. Reservations for the talk recommended. As always, there will be free Mid Day Mountain Music in the BRMC breezeway from 12-4pm and the free Roots of American Music museum will be open 9am-8pm on this concert night. Bring lawn chairs and the whole family. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available. No pets or alcohol.

For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr's Fiddle Shop, online at www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org and at the gate. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak. Sponsors for this concert include: NCTA, ArtWorks, NPS, BRPF and the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities.

Riders in the Sky, a favorite western quartet, Returns to Tweetsie Railroad

Famed Cowboy Quartet Visits Tweetsie  For a true Wild West experience, join America’s favorite cowboys, Riders In The Sky, during their upcoming visit to Tweetsie Railroad. The cowboy quartet will be at the park August 18-19  to perform their Grammy-winning song from the movie Toy Story 2, as well as traditional Western favorites. The spectacular group brings a wide repertoire of music and outrageous comedy to Tweetsie during their daily noon and 3 PM performances.


Get a link for Riders in the Sky at Tweetsie Railroad and other local attractions on the Blowing Rock NC Visitor Guide.

"Fresh Preserves" - an Original Play Special Event atThe Folk Art Center

August 3-5  at The Folk Art Center, Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville NC   Fresh Preserves,  an original play by Tom Godleski,  was the 2009 winner of Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre's Annual Scriptfest Playwright Competition. The work is a wonderful blend of mountain storytelling and songwriting,  a true expression of southern Appalachian culture. Godleski is a native of western North Carolina and well-known for his bluegrass band Buncombe Turnpike.  As a songwriter, Godleski has been inspired by the area's history and by his own family's stories.  In 2008, he produced a CD called Fresh Preserves  based on stories handed down to him from his grandfather, mother and uncle. Writing the play in 2009 completed the process of honoring  those people in his life.  

All the songs from the CD are woven into the production of the play with actors and musicians sharing roles, making the play a multimedia experience for the audience.  Fresh Preserves also features visual art with original paintings by Asheville artist Scott Allred  brought onstage spotlighting characters and scenes.

Show times are: Friday, Aug. 3, 7:30 PM;  Saturday, Aug. 4, 2:30 PM. and 7:30 PM;  Sunday, Aug. 5, 2:30 PM. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students.  Tickets available at the door or call 828-252-9534 to reserve them in advance.

Get more information about The Folk Art Center and other Asheville Attractions on The Asheville NC Visitor Guide

This Weekend at The Brevard Music Center

This is an active weekend at The Brevard Msic Center:

Dialogues of the Carmelites returns to the Porter Center this week for two more matinee performances on Thursday, July 26 and Saturday, July 28 at 2:00pm. Thursday’s performance has only a few tickets left, and Saturday’s performance is already sold out. Don’t miss your last chance to see Poulenc’s beautiful and tragic opera performed in the intimate setting of Morrison Playhouse.

Friday at 7:30 is your opportunity to see not one, but two outstanding pianists play alongside the Brevard Music Center Orchestra as Robert Blocker and Bruce Murray perform Mozart’s Concerto for Two Pianos. Conductor David Stewart Wiley will lead the concert which also includes Dvořák’s Carnival Overture and Sibelius beloved Symphony No. 2. 

Saturday at 7:30 Maestro Wiley will return to the podium to lead the Brevard Sinfonia in an evening of unparalleled beauty as they perform Strauss’s exquisite tone poem Death and Transfiguration. Saturday’s concert will also include Hovhaness’s Symphony No. 2, “Mysterious Mountain” and Ravel’s Suite No. 2 from Daphnis et Chloé.

On Sunday, BMC students will take center stage in two special performances and at two venues. At 3:00pm in Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium, Carol Nies will lead the Brevard Music Center Orchestra in Soloists of Tomorrow featuring the winners of the 2012 Jan and Beattie Wood Concerto Competition. Then at 7:00pm at Scott Concert Hall, the BMC Piano Competition Finals, sponsored by The Zimmerli Family Opera Endowment, will finish out the day. Join us as some of our most talented young pianists compete live on stage. 

Call the box office at (828) 862-2105 or purchase tickets online.

The Shane Pruitt Band Performs Live at The Purple Onion

July 15, 7:00 PM at The Purple Onion, 16 Main Street in historic  Downtown Saluda NC -  the Shane Pruitt Band performs as part of the Purple Onion Sunday Evening Music (POSEM) series. Seating is limited, so reserve your seats early by calling the Purple Onion (828-749-1179) during normal business hours. Admission is $10. Doors open at 6:00 PM with light fare on the patio.

Spartanburg's instrumentalist of the year for the past 8 years, Shane Pruitt is a staple of the local music scene. Touring relentlessly with The Shane Pruitt Band performs as a feature artist with such acts as The Marshall Tucker Band, The Lee Boys, Flannel Church featuring Duane Trucks, Jeff Sipe, Ike Stubblefield, Yonrico Scott and many more.  Shane Pruitt has earned his mark as "THE" up-and-coming guitarist in the southeast in part through his undeniable hard work.

The Shane Pruitt Band has released two studio albums since 2005, which have received such honors as Blue Breaker of the Week on The House of Blues Radio Hour, #3 top Blues release of 2010 as voted by fans on 88.7 WNCW (behind Derek Trucks and Buddy Guy) and #2 Regional release, also voted by fans on 88.7
WNCW. SPB has been seen supporting such acts as Robert Cray, Robert Randolph, Johnny Winter, Gary Hoey and many many more

Get a link for The Purple Onion and other Saluda NC attractions on the 
Saluda NC Visitor Guide

Hendersonville Music on Main Street

July 6  Music on Main Street   The 14th annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June 8 through August 17, 2012. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from jazz, pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. Bring a chair and enjoy the music from 7 PM - 9 PM. Admission is FREE.

Get a link for Music on Main Street and other local events, restaurants and lodging on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide

Blue Ridge Bands at the Blue Ridge Music Center this Weekend

June 9     Blazing Blue Ridge Bands at the Blue Ridge Music Center   Country Bluegrass with Don Rigsby / Whitetop Mountain Band -­ Acclaimed singer/instrumentalist, Don Rigsby joins local supergroup Big Country Bluegrass for an unforgettable night of music. Jump-starting the evening and the flatfoot dancing is favorite old-time group, the Whitetop Mountain Band. 7pm. $12/$10 students & seniors Children 12 & under free. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located Just north of Boone in Galax VA.
Two of the most popular bluegrass and old-time bands in the Blue Ridge will deliver one of the hottest shows of the season this Saturday.  Big Country Bluegrass is renowned for their traditional bluegrass sound, old country songs, barn-burner instrumentals and powerful stage presence. They have a strong following of fans everywhere they go as a result.  They have joined forces with the legendary Kentucky singer and multi-instrumentalist, Don Rigsby, from the band Midnight Call. Back by popular demand on the same show, is Whitetop Mountain Band. Dancers of all ages will not be able to resist the driving rhythm of this renowned stringband. And Emily and  Martha Spencer’s soaring vocals on bluesy and traditional old-time songs will fill you with mountain spirit.

Music in the Mountains this Weekend

Date: June 8
NC City: SYLVA
Event: Concerts on the Creek Rafe Hollister (www.rafehollister.com) will be playing. Concerts on the Creek are held at the Bridge Park Pavilion in downtown Sylva from 7:30 - 9:30 PM on Friday nights beginning ...read more   

Date: June 8
NC City: HENDERSONVILLE
Event: Music on Main Street The 14th annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June 8 through August 17, 2012. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from jazz, pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. Bring a chair and  ...read more   

Date: June 8-9
NC City: LENOIR
Event: Pop Fergeson Blues Festival IV A two day Blues Festival featuring Pop Ferguson and Blues Legends Mac Arnold, Drink Small, Boo Hanks and Beverly "Guitar" Watkins. The Festival starts on Friday at 7:00 PM with workshops for Slide Guitar, Country Style Pickin' Guitar and Blues Harmonica followed by a jam session at 8:30 PM on the outdoor Hogwaller Stage. The Festival continues Saturday with ...read more   

Date: June 8-9
NC City: TRYON
Event: 19th Annual Blue Ridge Barbeque and Music Festival The Blue Ridge Barbecue Festival is one of the area's biggest annual events with fantastic Barbecue, phenomenal music and incredible arts and crafts. Bring the kids, friends, family and more.  ...read more   

Date: June 8-10
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Asheville Percussion FestivalThe first annual Asheville Percussion Festival will take place at the Creative Technology and Arts Center, the Odyssey School, 90 Zillicoa in Asheville, NC. The mission is to provide a creative environment where percussionists of all traditions gather to explore, create and innovate. The festival will be hosted by Asheville's  ...read more   

Date: June 9
NC City: CHEROKEE
Event: Cherokee Voices Festival Celebrate thousands of years of tradition in the southern Appalachians with Cherokee people from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, North Carolina’s only federally recognized tribe. Experience traditional music and dance, gospel singing, Cherokee flute playing and storytelling. Talk with Cherokee people in living history encampments and see demonstrations of basketmaking, pottery, carving, beadwork, mask making, blowgun making and more. Traditional food will be available. A unique opportunity to meet  ...read more   

Date: June 9
NC City: Just north of Boone in Galax VA
Event: Blazing Blue Ridge Bands at the Blue Ridge Music Center Country Bluegrass with Don Rigsby / Whitetop Mountain Band -­ Acclaimed singer/instrumentalist, Don Rigsby joins local supergroup Big Country Bluegrass for an unforgettable night of music. Jump-starting the evening and the flatfoot dancing is a favorite old-time group, the Whitetop Mountain Band ...read more   

Date: June 9
NC City: WAYNESVILLE
Event: Appalachian Lifestlye Celebration A full day celebration of mountain heritage, music, dance, craft, and Appalachian life skills. Educational and entertaining, the event features craft demonstrations such as basketry, wood carving, quilting, along with storytelling, traditional mountain music, clogging, and  ...read more   

Date: June 9
NC City: DILLSBORO
Event: Dillsboro Art and Music Festival Rafters and Crafters - Celebrate traditional mountain crafts and enjoy lively regional musicians, dancers and storytellers at this historic Dillsboro’s Annual event. In addition to Dillsboro’s unique shops and studios, Front Street is lined with tents featuring all kinds of art and fine crafts including basketry, pottery, weaving, quilting, woodworking, jewelry ...read more   

Date: June 9
NC City: HOT SPRINGS
Event: Bluff Mountain Festival Music all day featuring some of the region’s best Traditional Old-Time and Bluegrass Music, ballad singing and clogging followed by an evening Square Dance until dark. Bring the family and the lawn chairs to enjoy a day full of music under the shade trees. Food will be available from vendors and the event includes a local arts and  ...read more   

Date: June 9
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: A Taste of Opera The Diana Wortham Theatre hosts an evening of food, wine and music ofr a "grand feast of the world". Cuisine from from an array of Asheville restaurants with wine are paired with an exclusive on stage concert at Diana Wortham Theatre featuring performances of opera’s past, present  ...read more   

ate: June 9
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Ooh La La Curiosity Market An outdoor market in Pritchard Park featuring works by local painters, leather smiths, jewelry makers, potters ,up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas. In addition to the artists, the market will also feature live local music with up three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic.  ...read more         

June Live Music at The Purple Onion

June's schedule of live music at the Purple Onion, 16 Main Street in Saluda NC:|

June 2 - Kyle Carey Trio - Unique combination of Celtic, gospel, and Appalachian music full of stories.

June 3 -  Sol Driven Train See more below.

June 7 - Johnson's Crossroads  - Roots, blues, soul, bluegrass from this Asheville group here for the first time.

June 9 - Roy Schneider Duo  - We could not wait to get them back after their debut with us last year.

June 14 - Peggy Ratusz & The Swing Dad  - Dance-friendly acoustic swing band plays most every style of music you know.

June 16 - The Zealots - Bringing us songs from their newly-released CD from Asheville.

June 21 - Bruce Piephoff  - We can't get through a year without having this singer/songwriter join us again.

June 23 - Lauren St. Jane And The Dead Westerns - Country swagger and Americana rock from Georgia here for the first time.

June 28 - Dana Cooper - Nationally-known singer/songwriter returns with his new recording "Road Show."

June 30 - The Honeycutters - They were terrific at the recent Art Festival so you need to hear them now if you missed them then.

Every Friday Night - Fred Whiskin at the piano.

June 3, 7 PM - POSEM Concert Series presents SOL DRIVEN TRAIN   The Purple Onion Sunday Evening Music (POSEM) series continues with the energetic  Sol Driven Train.  Sol Driven Train's music weaves through genres like images in a Tom Robbins paragraph. The band's sonic schizophrenia absorbs songwriting influences like Jon Prine and Paul Simon, and afro-caribbean rhythmic explorations, into honest songs of life, love, loss, and long johns. The 5-piece band, based in Charleston, SC, features rotating lead vocalists, and multi-instrumental talent spread across horns, strings, and percussion. The band members share a musical history dating back to childhood, and their music and live shows are filled with a spirit of positivity and joy, even while traversing subjects of suffering and death.

Admission to the 7 o'clock show is $15 per person and seating will be limited. The doors open at 6 PM and light fare will be available on the patio prior to the concert.  Reservations can be made by calling the Purple Onion Café at 828-749-1179.