North Carolina establishes NC Music Office

The NC music office will increase awareness of NC’s rich music history + current music scene and will be housed under the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

The Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts lit up at night with bluegrass banners.

IBMA World of Bluegrass is four days of bluegrass fun right here in Raleigh.

Photo provided by IBMA and Pinecone

Last week, Gov. Roy Cooper announced that a new office within the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources will be established to promote + celebrate NC’s music. The NC Music Office was announced by Cooper on June 21, Make Music Day.

The new office will:

  • Facilitate music-related programming and investments across the state.
  • Attract music industry investments (think: festivals like Dreamville, Lovin’ Life, and Merlefest).
  • Increase awareness of NC’s music scene + history.

North Carolina will be one of just a few states with a dedicated music office, joining Tennessee, Louisiana, and Texas.

“We are excited to expand our resources and opportunities for the state’s thriving music industry — one that creates jobs and improves quality of life in all 100 counties,” said DNCR Secretary Reid Wilson in a press release.

We have to say, we’re big fans of NC’s music scene too. Check out our playlist featuring songs about Raleigh + NC and artists who hail from the Tar Heel State.

More from RALtoday
Your personal library is about to get an upgrade. Read up on the independent bookstores of Raleigh.
Keep an eye on this article for all updates about the Carolina Hurricanes’ 2026 postseason and the Stanley Cup playoffs.
This new-construction home is filled with modern details and is steps away from 5,000 acres of protected forest.
Sponsored
A 4,000-unit residential living community called Asteria is Disney’s first Storyliving by Disney location on the East Coast.
In honor of National Poetry Month and Raleigh’s first poet laureate position, we’re inviting you to channel your inner Shakespeare, Dickinson, or Keats.
Dive deep into the record bins at these Raleigh music hubs.
Don’t already have a coffee in hand? You will after reading this.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Who doesn’t love shopping local? Pack the perfect picnic using only local items.