Being a musician can be a quite fulfilling experience since you are able to tell your story through your songs. However, you should find a suitable place where you and your music can grow. For this reason, you should consider moving to North Carolina. This state has an interesting music scene where you can find your place and establish yourself as a musician. For this to happen, you need to choose the right city for you. For this reason, here are the best cities for musicians in North Carolina. After you finish this article, pack your bags, take your guitar and set off to your new home.
The music scene in North Carolina
There is something for everyone in North Carolina. This state is known for the tradition of old-time music. Various recordings came from the 20th century, most famous being folk singer Bascom Lamar. However, country music is also a popular genre in this state. Numerous country musicians, such as North Carolina Ramblers and Lunsford helped to define this genre. Influential bluegrass musicians such as Earl Scruggs, Doc Watson, and Del McCoury are from North Carolina. Furthermore, Arthur Smith is the most notable figure from this state. He made the all-time best selling guitar instrumental “Guitar Boogie” and he had the first nationally televised program for country music. Additionally, both North Carolina and South Carolina are cradles for traditional country blues. To be more specific, they are the cradle for a notable style of music called Piedmont blues.
Best cities for musicians in North Carolina
We cannot talk about the best cities for musicians in North Carolina without mentioning the Triangle. The Triangle is composed of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. Other cities are following.
- The Triangle
- Asheville
- Greensboro
- Greenville
- Charlotte
These cities are popular places for indie rock, metal, punk, jazz, country and hip-hop scene. Additionally, you can enjoy the annual three days Carolina Rebellion hard rock music festival if that is something that interests you. However, if you plan to move to North Carolina, you will need some help to relocate your musical instruments and equipment. For this reason, find reliable local movers North Carolina.
The Triangle
As already mentioned. The Triangle or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area is the best place to start. These are THE cities for musicians in North Carolina. This area has sixteen colleges and universities, which means you will have no problems finding the audience for your music. Furthermore, the Triangle is not only famous because of the large population of college students. It hosts two annual music festivals where you can also show your talent. The first one is The Hopscotch Music Festival. It takes place in September where you can see acts from various artists ranging from hip-hop to folk, classical and everything in between. The next one is ProgDay, also in September but it focuses on progressive rock music. The Triangle’s cities are also the best cities in North Carolina to get a job if you find yourself in a need of one.
Asheville
The second place on our list of the best cities for musicians in North Carolina goes to Asheville. You might not know this, but many legends and Grammy-winning musicians are from this city. Nina Simone, Roberta Flack, The Steep Canyon Rangers, Warren Haynes, and Doc Watson are among those legends. You will have the honor of making your music in the city of these music giants. However, that is not all. Rolling Stone and Garden & Gun recognized venus like The Orange Peel and The Grey Eagle as the ones you should visit. There are many more unique and interesting venues where you can play your music. Additionally, All Go West, LEAF Downtown Asheville, Riverfest, and RiverMusic are festivals in Asheville that deserve your attention. People from Asheville are quite talented as they make the most unique instruments. Maybe you will pick a new hobby once you move to this city.
Greensboro
Greensboro’s underground music scene was popular even before the Triangle. However, it experienced a few downfalls and lost interest from the public. Fortunately, in recent years, Greensboro saw a revival of its famous underground scene. Now, you can visit Greensboro Fest to enjoy some good music. Additionally, College Hill Sundries, Ace’s Basement, and New York Pizza are some of the popular venues for playing music. Furthermore, Greensboro is an attractive city for bands. There are some labels here looking for talented bands musicians.
Greenville
Greenville is yet another entry on our list of the best cities for musicians in North Carolina. The Village of West Greenville is a place where you must go. It is home to annual music festivals and summer concert series. In other parts of Greenville, clubs are quite popular since they all moved into larger locations due to popular demand. Additionally, they expanded their artistic horizons and feature various artists. If you wish to take a break from a crazy music scene, take your dog for a walk. You can always dog-friendly places in North Carolina with your furry friend.
Charlotte
Charlotte’s music scene is also quite colorful. For example, The Music Yard is hosting a concert series which is free, you just need to register to get a ticket. The Shed Amphitheater will host a festival Digital Garden for electronic music. Crown Station offers weekly jazz and reggae shows. Lastly, venues at Camp North End host various shows and events, including bands and other artists. There are many opportunities to play your music here in Charlotte. If you need help moving your musical instrument to this city, check out piano movers NC.
Best cities for musicians in North Carolina
As you can see, you have many options in North Carolina if you want to build a music career here. Any of these cities will be perfect for you, just pick one that you like the best. Good luck!
