AOS is a music festival by and for lovers of the arts and music. It began as a local festival, and by word of mouth has grown into a respected regional event. AOS now attracts headliner acts from the national scene. In spite of being bigger and better, it retains its hometown charm. 

The Art of Sound is not your typical music “festival” in fact it almost has the feel of a weekend concert series. Our festival supports local and regional musicians and serves as a gift to the community from the Arts Council as it is FREE! 

The festival is in uptown Shelby, N.C., the home of Earl Scruggs and Don Gibson. It is held on an outdoor stage on the historic court square and is also occasionally nestled in several indoor venues that afford the listener an up-close experience with the artists. Jack Lawrence once said it reminded him of the European festivals he and Doc used to play.     

AOS prides itself on a presentation of a variety of traditional music styles. You might hear bluegrass or jazz then Cajun, county rock, or old time later. Like MerleFest, there are often spontaneous moments of improvisation in jam sessions you won’t hear elsewhere. Click here to view to the schedule.

In an effort to not only support local musicians, the Arts Council encourages folks to dine at the many fine eating establishments in Uptown Shelby.  Several will feature local musicians as part of the Art of Sound Friday and Saturday nights. 

Call the Cleveland County Arts Council at 704 484 2787 for more information.