About the NC Music Office

The North Carolina Music Office, established within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, is dedicated to promoting and celebrating North Carolina's rich musical heritage, musicians, and vibrant music industry. Announced by Governor Roy Cooper, this new office will serve as a central hub for music-based programming and investments across the state, enhancing economic development driven by our creative economy and attracting further music industry investments.

Housed in the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the office will bring together the department’s diverse music assets and initiatives under one umbrella. A dedicated team is developing a comprehensive state music strategy in coordination with DNCR divisions and partners, including the N.C. Arts Council, the Come Hear NC initiative, the N.C. Museum of Art, the N.C. Museum of History, N.C. State Historic Sites, the N.C. Symphony, the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences, Hometown Strong, the N.C. African American Heritage Commission, and the N.C. American Indian Heritage Commission. The office will also collaborate with other state agencies and organizations, such as Visit NC, the N.C. Department of Commerce, and PBS North Carolina.

Celebrating North Carolina's Musical Heritage

Music and the arts play a critical role in our state’s history, culture, economy, and education systems. North Carolina's vibrant music industry is a cornerstone of our state's creative economy, driving economic growth and supporting nearly 45,000 jobs. In 2022 alone, North Carolina’s nonprofit arts and culture industry generated an impressive $2.23 billion in economic activity.

A State Rich in Musical Traditions

North Carolina is nationally recognized as a music state, boasting unique traditions in bluegrass, blues, jazz, funk, beach music, indie rock, and hip hop. Legendary artists such as John Coltrane, Nina Simone, James Taylor, Earl Scruggs, Doc Watson, Elizabeth Cotton, Rhiannon Giddens, The Avett Brothers, and Ben Folds all hail from our state, contributing to our rich musical tapestry.

Economic Impact and Cultural Significance

Music drives tourism to North Carolina, enhances education, and improves the quality of life for our residents. The North Carolina Music Office will spotlight the importance of music to our state, coordinate music-related activities, and facilitate the multitude of music-based programming and investments across North Carolina.

A Unified Vision for Music and Arts

Under the leadership of Secretary Wilson, we have already seen great music programs through the department and the Arts Council. The establishment of the North Carolina Music Office marks a new chapter, enhancing economic development spurred by creative economies, attracting further music industry investments, and increasing awareness of our vibrant music heritage, culture, and education.

Joining a Distinguished Group

North Carolina proudly joins a small number of states, including Texas, Louisiana, and Tennessee, in supporting a state-sponsored music office. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a thriving music industry, celebrating our musical roots, and driving future growth in this dynamic sector.