Discover Summer: Sounds of Summer
July 3-July 9
The roots of American music run deep in North Carolina. Musicians from North Carolina have made brilliant, groundbreaking contributions to many of America’s most important musical genres. This week we are learning about North Carolina’s rich music history and heritage and providing activities to help you get involved! Here are 7 ways to engage with North Carolina music, and maybe make some of your own! As always, share your fun with us on social media using the hashtag #DiscoverSummerNC!
- MAKE YOUR OWN BANJO
North Carolina is home to a strong banjo tradition. The banjo’s origins are in Africa, and musicians like Rhiannon Giddens and Bela Fleck have traced the instrument’s evolution and its historical weight. In the early days of the United States, enslaved peoples of African descent developed the banjo as we recognize it today, and became among the best banjo players, their expertise and practice forming a sort of homecoming, born of tragedy and resilience. Making a professional banjo takes time and expertise but you can make your own at home with surprisingly few materials! Here is a very simple version for younger children, and a more advanced project for older kids (and adults!).
2. NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY SUMMERFEST
The North Carolina Symphony’s Summerfest series is back with fun selections for those hot summer nights. Pack a picnic, bring those lawn chairs, and relax under the stars. Kids under 12 are admitted free on the lawn!
3. EXPLORE NORTH CAROLINA MUSIC ONLINE
To discover current musicians in the triangle area, check out Tracks Music Library! Tracks Music Library celebrates and supports North Carolina’s Triangle Area music community. A collaboration between Chapel Hill Public Library and Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture, Tracks offers commercial-free, curated music and features albums from over 70 local musicians and bands. This is a great way to discover and support local artists who might not have access to large online platforms.
4. NORTH CAROLINA MUSIC TRAILS
During your summer travels, plan stops along one of the North Carolina Music Trails. The African American Music Trail of Eastern North Carolina takes you to the places where eastern Carolina’s most celebrated Black musicians made their marks. Not only is the music divine, but the food along the trail is mighty fine, too. The Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina take you through the roots of Appalachian traditional music. Along the way you’ll find plenty of history, culture, festivals and jam sessions to fill those summer days.
5. MAKE A HISTORICAL PLAYLIST
This is an exercise for the aspiring DJ’s and music historians in the room. North Carolina has produced an incredible variety of musicians from a diverse range of traditions. From Elizabeth Cotton to J. Cole to Doc Watson, there is so much beautiful music to explore that it can be overwhelming! One way to grasp the complexity of the NC musical experience is to organize some of your favorites in chronological order. Many of these artists are available on major streaming platforms that allow custom playlists. See how far back in time you can go, and what patterns emerge when you listen to your creation. Share your work with us on social media! Here’s another NC playlist to get inspired!
6. EXPLORE COME HEAR NORTH CAROLINA
The State of North Carolina, through the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources and the North Carolina Arts Council, launched Come Hear North Carolina after Governor Roy Cooper declared 2019 the North Carolina Year of Music. This program is a clearinghouse for a huge variety of North Carolina music and artists. Keep an eye on the Come Home NC website and follow social media. You can also sign up for the Come Hear NC monthly newsletter to get the latest news about music in NC.
7. PUT ON YOUR OWN CONCERT!
Now that you’ve been inspired by the breadth of NC music, it’s time to get creating! Set up a jam in your driveway or garage, on your front porch or deck. Play an instrument or share your playlist!
