Tour to Jerry Read Smith's instrument-making studio.
Visitors exploring Western North Carolina have many reasons to come: perhaps for the fine craft and art that’s so abundant in this region (my favorite reason); or for the majestic Biltmore Estate; possibly outdoor hiking and biking on the Blue Ridge Parkway; or glamping in the area!
One other significant draw to this beautiful part of our country is music. Music and handcrafts have always been partners in life and tourism in this region, so it’s fitting to bring you a little news in the music arena this month!
There are music venues around the region offering concerts in all genres.
Music heritage is very strong: Asheville hosts the annual Shindig on the Green every summer, and nearby in Mars Hill, NC you can attend the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Festival held every October.
A huge advocate of local music is the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. In 2012 they developed the Blue Ridge Music Trails encompassing 29 Western NC counties. The Blue Ridge Music Trails recently partnered with WNCW-FM to further their reach. You can now hear Laura Boosinger, Director of the Madison County Arts Council, tell the story of the rich heritage of traditional bluegrass and old-time music in this region.
Also, if you’re curious about handcrafted instruments, be sure to learn about these Asheville area artists: Chris Abell, flutes; Jerry Read Smith, hammered dulcimers; and Lee Entrekin, Native American flutes.
