GOTTA BE NC

North Carolina’s arts and music scene blends tradition with modern creativity. From bluegrass roots and jazz legends to Broadway tours and vibrant galleries, culture is alive across the state.

Music Heritage

• NC is the birthplace of bluegrass, Piedmont blues, and Appalachian folk traditions.
• Famous musicians from NC: Nina Simone, James Taylor, The Avett Brothers, and J. Cole.
• Asheville has a strong live music scene with everything from jazz to indie.

Performing Arts

• Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC): Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy.
• Charlotte Symphony & NC Symphony (Raleigh): Classical music with national reputation.
• American Dance Festival (Durham): One of the world’s top modern dance festivals.

Visual Arts & Creativity

• Folk Art Center (Asheville) – Premier showcase for Appalachian folk art and crafts.
• 21c Museum Hotel (Durham) – Contemporary art in a hotel-museum hybrid.
• 5 Points Gallery (Durham) – Artist-owned gallery with contemporary works.
• GreenHill Center for NC Art (Greensboro Cultural Center) – Dedicated to North Carolina artists.
• African American Atelier (Greensboro Cultural Center) – Showcasing African American artists and culture.
• Eno Mill Gallery (Hillsborough) – Contemporary art in a historic mill setting.
• Seagrove Pottery (central NC) is famous for traditional ceramics.
• Public art, murals, and street performances thrive in cities like Raleigh and Greensboro.