DAY EIGHT

Thursday, May 18, 2023

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

These Grammy-recognized artists merge their diverse backgrounds and talents to reimagine timeless songs from America’s past. By weaving the music, stories and experiences of many cultures into a beautiful musical tapestry, the American Patchwork Quartet draws connections between the nation’s contemporary culture and its immigrant roots, celebrating all that makes us different through the songs that bring us together, with selections such as “Wayfaring Stranger,” “Pretty Saro” and “Beneath the Willow.”

Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

18 Biltmore Ave.

Downtown Asheville

Adult: $55

Student: $50

Friday, May 19, 2023

3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Think pre-concert talk meets two friends catching up over a beer. Get closer to the music and hear from festival headliner Béla Fleck and Asheville Symphony Music Director Darko Butorac. They’ll discuss life as musicians, Fleck’s journey to the classical genre, the Festival Finale program — including Fleck’s The Imposter Concerto for banjo and orchestra, the first of its kind — and more. All this with the stunning greenery-filled backdrop of the Festival’s brewery partner, Cursus Kĕmē.

Cursus Kĕmē

155 Thompson St.

Near Biltmore Village

Free General Admission

Dayten

Saturday, May 20, 2023 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents a drop-in presentation, pairing American music and Ballet. Known for their delightful productions and world-class training, the Conservatory invites you into the studio to experience various stages of creating a premiere dance piece by Asheville-born choreographer Nick Kepley. The Conservatory will explore this intersection of music and movement. The afternoon also incorporates memoired bookreadings by dance writer/former principal ballerina and Conservatory faculty member Gavin Larsen. Hosted by Angie and Chris Lynn, Conservatory directors.

Ballet Conservatory of Asheville

6 E Chestnut St.

Downtown Asheville

Adult: $10

Youth: $5