Join us at Keynote Speechcrafters and

Discover the
Joy of
Public Speaking!

It’s natural to enjoy things you do well,
and you will get good at this.

Our members are committed to meeting each week because

steady progress
requires
steady practice.

Our motto:

When you show up
You speak
Every meeting
Every week

So come join us at the South Buncombe Library on Wednesday evenings and prepare to become a better you.

Please Click here to let us know you are coming.

Guests are always welcome. We look forward to speaking with you!

Hosted by the Asheville Guitar Bar, a discussion series provides
deeper understanding and greater enjoyment of classic albums and recording artists. Led by
Asheville speaker, author and music journalist Bill Kopp, Music to Your Ears is an interactive
experience that shines a light on important music and people. Music to Your Ears is a 90-minute
conversation, held at the Guitar Bar, a music magnet in Asheville’s historic River Arts District.
The November 1 event is a listening party and discussion focusing on Court and Spark, the
classic 1974 album from Joni Mitchell.
At the time of its release in early 1974, Joni Mitchell’s Court and Spark was merely the latest in
remarkable string of superb albums from Joni Mitchell. With the benefit of a half century’s
hindsight, the album – a seamless blending of folk, jazz, rock and more – can be seen as one of the most important works of the decade.
With Court and Spark, Mitchell demonstrated a seemingly effortless ability to draw from disparate musical styles and create an enduring
work.
Hugely influential, Mitchell’s sixth studio release helped point the way not only for other singer-songwriters but for artists across the
entire musical spectrum. Even beyond the album’s most well-known tracks – “Help Me” and “Free Man in Paris” – Court and Spark is
filled with adventurous musicality, incisive songwriting, dazzling arrangement and highly accessible songwriting. Universally
acclaimed, Court and Spark reliably shows up on nearly ever best-of list.
In celebration of the album’s 50th anniversary, Bill Kopp’s Music to Your Ears discussion
series presents and evening with Court and Spark. Helping lead a conversation about this
landmark and groundbreaking album is award-winning musician, singer and songwriter
Eleanor Underhill. As both a solo artist and as half of the duo Underhill Rose, Eleanor is a high profile and beloved fixture of the
Western North Carolina music scene and beyond. Counting Joni Mitchell’s Court and Spark among the most important albums that
influenced her, Underhill will share what Mitchell’s music means to her and how it helped guide her own acclaimed musical pursuits.
Join host and music journalist Bill Kopp for an evening in discussion with Eleanor Underhill about Joni
Mitchell. We’ll listen to key tracks and encourage questions from the audience. The evening is the latest
installment of the popular “Music to Your Ears’ discussion series, hosted by Asheville Guitar Bar and
sponsored by AshevilleFM.

ABOUT THE DISCUSSION SERIES
Music to Your Ears is Bill Kopp’s monthly discussion series hosted by Asheville Guitar Bar and co-sponsored by AshevilleFM. On the
first Wednesday of each month, music enthusiasts gather to discuss an important album, artist or musical movement. An interactive
evening, MTYE isn’t a lecture; it’s a discussion led by experts and designed to enrich the listening experience.
ABOUT BILL KOPP (blog.musoscribe.com)
With over 500 bylines in regional publications (Mountain Xpress, Bold Life, WNC Magazine and more), Asheville-based speaker, author
and music journalist is an acknowledged expert on popular music. Author of two books – Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to
The Dark Side of the Moon and Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave – Bill Kopp writes for publications across
the country and abroad. A contributing editor at Goldmine Magazine, he has authored more than 30 album liner note essays and
conducted more than 1000 interviews. He regularly hosts discussions on artists and albums of historical importance, and is a frequent
guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts.
About Eleanor Underhill (eleanorunderhillmusic.com)
Eleanor Underhill is a singer/songwriter and producer based in Asheville, North Carolina. She is the current and founding member of
two bands: Underhill Rose and Eleanor Underhill & Friends. Underhill’s prolific songwriting and passion for music has contributed to a
total of eight albums, notable accolades from the Americana, folk, and indie-rock worlds, as well as a touring history that has taken her
coast to coast in the USA and to the UK and Ireland three times. Her unique musical style and prolific writing ability has generated
significant attention outside of her bands, as she has won top honors at Asheville’s Songwriting Idol Contest and played on the Grammy
Award Winning Song “Mind Over Matter” by Kid-Hop artist, Agent 23 Skidoo.

WELCOME TO MUSICAL COMEDY HEAVEN!

Featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, an updated book from Harvey Fierstein based on the original classic by Isobel Lennart, tap choreography by Ayodele Casel, choreography by Ellenore Scott, and direction from Michael Mayer, this love letter to the theatre has the whole shebang!

The sensational Broadway revival dazzles with celebrated classic songs, including “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” This bittersweet comedy is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage. Everyone told her she’d never be a star, but then something funny happened—she became one of the most beloved performers in history, shining brighter than the brightest lights of Broadway.

Students will receive a solid foundation in beginner Ukulele skills for vocalists. Chords, Rhythm patterns, and basic theory will be introduced through songs with an uplifting message. Students will also learn to play the song that the Songwriting Class will be writing and get to record it in the One Mic Studio.

Queer Music Exploration – Students will explore guitar, bass, drums, singing and piano with a focus on learning music by artists from the LGBTQ+ community. Students will have the chance to interact with their peers and share their experiences through music.

Steve Simon & The Kings of Jazz are Brevard’s newest and most exciting and entertaining jazz band with a sound that combines the funkiness of George Benson, the soulfulness of Ray Charles and the smoothness of Diana Krall all wrapped together in big Count Basie style arrangements of American and Latin jazz classics. If you are looking for an amazing live jazz experience then check out the hottest jazz band in the coolest city in North Carolina performing every Thursday at The DFR Lounge from 7pm to 9pm

Featuring Sean Mason, Kim Nalley and Sasha Dobson

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate 100 years of Disney through the lens of Jazz. From Snow White to Lady and the Tramp, Mary Poppins and Toy Story to The Jungle Book, popular songs from these famous films have been interpreted and recorded by Disney music fans such as Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, Dianne Reeves and many more. “Someday My Prince Will Come,” “He’s a Tramp,” “Everybody Wants to be a Cat” and “The Bare Necessities” are just a few of the iconic songs which will be celebrated as we look back on the impact of jazz on 100 years of Disney magic!

When You Wish Upon a Star will be performed by the newly created house band of The National Jazz Museum in Harlem, featuring pianist and musical director, Sean Mason, and vocalists Kim Nalley and Sasha Dobson, who will bring these famous songs to life.

This production is not affiliated with, sponsored, or authorized by The Walt Disney Company.

WELCOME TO MUSICAL COMEDY HEAVEN!

Featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, an updated book from Harvey Fierstein based on the original classic by Isobel Lennart, tap choreography by Ayodele Casel, choreography by Ellenore Scott, and direction from Michael Mayer, this love letter to the theatre has the whole shebang!

The sensational Broadway revival dazzles with celebrated classic songs, including “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” This bittersweet comedy is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage. Everyone told her she’d never be a star, but then something funny happened—she became one of the most beloved performers in history, shining brighter than the brightest lights of Broadway.

OPENING RECEPTION: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | 5-8 pm
LOCATION: 60 BILTMORE AVE, #002 LOWER LEVEL, ASHEVILLE, NC 28801

FEATURED ARTISTS
Allison B. Cooke | Anna Carll | Dorothy Ganek | Eric Abrecht | Kento Saisho | Kieta Jackson | Lauren Betty | Rand Kramer | Ruth Hunter | Victoria Pinney

ADDITIONAL WORKS
Elliott Schuessler | Joshua Meyer | Kim Goldstein | Steven Seinberg

Citron Gallery is pleased to present the opening of Evolving Visions: A Contemporary Collective, a group show that celebrates the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of contemporary art. This captivating exhibition brings together a diverse group of talented artists, each with their unique perspectives and artistic voices.

Showcasing the evolution of artistic expression over time, the featured artists draw inspiration from various sources, including cultural and urban influences, personal experiences, and memories. This show serves as a snapshot of the current artist’s expression and vision of where they are now and a clue as to where to where they move creatively from here.

The collective will be exhibiting a captivating blend of abstract and figurative works, with traditional and experimental techniques. This eclectic mix invites viewers to engage in a visual and intellectual journey, fostering a deeper appreciation for the power of art.

Wanna hear the best local music ​and​ drink the best local beers? Hop aboard LaZoom’s Purple Bus and rock out with a local band while we take you on a journey to Asheville’s premiere local breweries.

WELCOME TO MUSICAL COMEDY HEAVEN!

Featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, an updated book from Harvey Fierstein based on the original classic by Isobel Lennart, tap choreography by Ayodele Casel, choreography by Ellenore Scott, and direction from Michael Mayer, this love letter to the theatre has the whole shebang!

The sensational Broadway revival dazzles with celebrated classic songs, including “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” This bittersweet comedy is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage. Everyone told her she’d never be a star, but then something funny happened—she became one of the most beloved performers in history, shining brighter than the brightest lights of Broadway.

It’s here, the last official Haywood Road Clean Up Day of the year with the West Asheville Business Association. Join us at Westville Pub at 10am on Saturday, November 4. We’ll have a yummy breakfast provided by Sunny Point Cafe, Biscuit Head, West Village Market, and West End Bakery, then head out to pick up trash along Haywood Road and neighboring streets.   Upon your return to Westville Pub there will be rewards from All Sevens Brewing and The Hop Ice Cream

Embrace the beauty and culture of the Appalachian Mountains at Hickory Nut Gap Farm in Fairview, NC, in support of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. Appalachia Day will be held on Saturday, November 4th as a celebration for everything “Appalachia.” Come out and celebrate what you love about the mountains – the raffle, food, music by The Holler Choir, crafts and more!

Appalachia Day invites attendees to immerse themselves in the essence of Appalachia with an array of engaging activities. You can take part in a private farm tour guided by Farm Director Virginia Hamilton, offering insights into the workings of this regenerative farm.
While enjoying the festivities, you can savor delectable offerings from food trucks on-site and cold beers, including the Appalachia Session IPA by Wicked Weed Brewing. What’s particularly noteworthy is that the proceeds from beer sales and a raffle held during the event will also contribute to the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy.

Our partnership with Wicked Weed Brewing underscores their commitment to supporting the preservation of local farms, streams, watersheds, mountains, forests, and outdoor recreation areas. They do this through their #BeersThatBuild program, and your participation in this event acknowledges and appreciates their dedication to protecting the places we all cherish in the Appalachian region. We’re also grateful to our friends at Hickory Nut Gap Farm for donating the space for this event.  Their partnership over the years as landowners and as donors to the SAHC has been invaluable. Appalachia Day offers a unique and enjoyable way to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, natural beauty, and community spirit of the Appalachian Mountains while actively supporting conservation efforts crucial to preserving this treasured region for generations to come.

“This is a great partnership event,” says Membership Director Cheryl Fowler. “The land at Hickory Nut Gap Farm was permanently protected by Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy in 2008 with a farmland conservation easement, and SAHC is grateful to Wicked Weed Brewing for supporting ongoing local conservation efforts as a corporate partner. We look forward to enjoying a great day on the farm with friends and neighbors!”

If you’re interested in being a vendor, there’s still time. Please contact Cheryl Fowler at [email protected] and join the many groups of like minded artists that are participating.

We will also host a hike as part of Appalachia Day – Details TBA!

– ALL AGES
– STANDING ROOM ONLY
– LIMITED VIP TICKETS AVAILABLE

It’s back! Tacos & Tequila Throwdown makes its triumphant return on November 4 at The Outpost. Enjoy live music and tacos from Asheville’s best restaurants + tequila of all varieties. Stay tuned for participating restaurants …

WELCOME TO MUSICAL COMEDY HEAVEN!

Featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, an updated book from Harvey Fierstein based on the original classic by Isobel Lennart, tap choreography by Ayodele Casel, choreography by Ellenore Scott, and direction from Michael Mayer, this love letter to the theatre has the whole shebang!

The sensational Broadway revival dazzles with celebrated classic songs, including “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” This bittersweet comedy is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage. Everyone told her she’d never be a star, but then something funny happened—she became one of the most beloved performers in history, shining brighter than the brightest lights of Broadway.

The Appalachian mountain dulcimer is a fretted stringed instrument of the zither family. It’s closest European ancestor is felt to be the German scheitholt. The mountain dulcimer was “born” in the Appalachian Mountains in the early 1800s. It was, and remains, a major contributor to the development and spread of traditional music of the Southern Appalachians.

The Asheville Dulcimer Orchestra is a group of 18 Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer players. Come hear the group play a varied program that includes music from many classical periods, as well popular and traditional music.

Wanna hear the best local music ​and​ drink the best local beers? Hop aboard LaZoom’s Purple Bus and rock out with a local band while we take you on a journey to Asheville’s premiere local breweries.

The project of Jamie Stewart and Angela Seo, Xiu Xiu confronts difficult emotions with music ranging from harsh to tender. Using an intense mix of post-punk, synth pop, folk, Asian percussion music, experimental music, noise, modern composition, and more, the group explores the complexities of love, sex, death, and injustice. From the beginning, Xiu Xiu combined these sounds in striking ways, whether on their brass and percussion-dominated 2002 debut album Knife Play or the hushed electro-acoustic experiments of 2003’s A Promise. Starting with 2004’s Fabulous Muscles, their pop elements became more prominent, but Xiu Xiu’s viewpoint — and Stewart’s impassioned vocals — remained uncompromising. While they often expressed alienation brilliantly, Stewart and Seo frequently worked with artists such as Mary Halvorson, Merzbow, and Charlemagne Palestine. Over the years, the band’s music spanned the rousing synth pop of 2012’s Always to the cathartic darkness of 2019’s Girl with a Basket of Fruit. In the 2020s, the empowering collaborations of 2021’s Oh No and the stark dualities of 2023’s Ignore Grief reaffirmed that Xiu Xiu’s emotional honesty was still as genuine as ever.

Ignore Grief is a record of halves.

Angela Seo sings on half of the record. Jamie Stewart sings on half of the record.

Half of the songs are experimental industrial. Half of the songs are experimental modern classical. Half of it is real. Half of it is imaginary.

The real songs attempt to turn the worst life has offered to five people the band is connected with into some kind of desperate shape that does something, anything, other than grind and brutalize their hearts and memory within these stunningly horrendous experiences. The imaginary songs are an expansion and abstract exploration of the early rock and roll “Teen Tragedy” genre as jumping off point to decontaminate the band’s own overwhelming emotions in knowing and living with what has happened to these five people.

Old friend and new member David Kendrick (Sparks, Devo, Gleaming Spires) joins Angela Seo and Jamie Stewart through whatever this may be and whatever it may mean and why ever it may have occurred. The point of aesthetic examination is to see if there is any way to come out the other side or if there is even any reason. In either case there may not be but to simply turn away would be yet a further act of destruction.

Secret Shame

The members of Secret Shame are driven by their collective passion for creativity, experimentation, and the understanding that some feelings can only be expressed through music.

They’re not decidedly comfortable with those feelings- but no longer afraid of them.

https://secretshame.bandcamp.com/album/autonomy

This is an 18+ event

R.Carlos Nakai, of Navajo-Ute heritage, the world’s premier performer of the Native American flute, joins pianist/composer Peter Kater for two evening performances, possibly their last live performance together. Piano and Native American Flute, however an unlikely combination of instruments, when performed by two of the worlds most sensitive performers of those instruments, produces a powerful and profound musical chemistry, of an almost spiritual nature, and unlike any two instruments ever played together! Their music has been described to be of a sacred quality. Kater with two recent Grammy wins for best New Age album, produces a sound on piano often described as hypnotic and healing. Nakai approaches each performance in a ceremonial manner, singing ancient Navajo chants while playing his flutes and blowing his Eagle Bone whistle. “Every concert they have played together in Asheville, leaves audiences in absolute awe. The chemistry of these two musicians and their instruments does something to us all that is impossible to describe in words”. They have numerous recordings together over the last 30 years and have performed in Asheville 10 previous times to always SOLD OUT audiences. Their recording “Improvisations In Concert” was recorded live at their breathtaking 1995 performance at Diana Wortham Theatre. You can find samples of their music on Spotify and Amazon. Their award winning albums, Migration, Natives and Improvisations in Concert are great examples of the music you will experience at their performances.

The Heat Is On is an explosive yet moving solo musical production which celebrates and reveals the woman behind the “Love Goddess,” Rita Hayworth.