Live From the Mountains
Live From the Mountains: Theres no shortage of pickers, players, and songbirds in WNC. Hit the road to catch great music at these down-home venues
A. Marianna Black Library
The first and third Thursday each month, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., Larry Barnett hosts community jams at the library. Held on the front lawn in warmer months, a dozen or so pickers and guests gather 'round for the free show. (828) 488-3030
B. Feed & Seed
Cushioned pews, couches, and rocking chairs seat 160, who, with RC Colas and Moon Pies in hand, fill the space most weekend nights for free performances. www.feedandseednc.com
C. Union Mills Learning Center
This school-turned-community center hosts bluegrass and gospel shows in its auditorium on Friday evenings starting at 7 p.m. The $5 admission helps further the nonprofit’s educational goals. www.unionmillslearningcenter.org
D. Old Hampton Store
Barbecue and bluegrass go hand-in-hand on Friday and Saturday afternoons at the Old Hampton Store’s outdoor stage. There’s also a fish fry and concert most Friday nights in the summer. www.oldhamptonstorenc.com
E. Hometown Opry
Every second Friday of the month at 7 a.m., there’s a crowd at Main Street Music & Loan, where WKBC’s Hometown Opry radio show broadcasts live performances. Wayne Henderson performs May 8. www.north-wilkesboro.com/hometownopry/
F. Phipps General Store
A hootenanny ensues on Friday nights, starting around 7 p.m. James “Dog” Wood and his wife, Rita, run the store and informal jam session. A donation is all that’s asked for a listen. (336) 384-2382