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Be one of the first to hear and experience the next wave of emerging artists in Western North Carolina. This spring, the Blue Ridge Music Trails� trailblazing musical project, Fine Tuned, supports the next generation as they take to the stage. These performances are a chance to witness the creative process at play as seasoned musicians collaborate with a select group of emerging artists in Western North Carolina to create fresh sounds and new compositions.

The special performance includes Benjamin Barker with David LaMotte, and The Allen Boys with DaShawn Hickman and Kelley Breiding. The musical performance is possible thanks to the support of the North Carolina Arts Council�s Spark the Arts Grant.

* Benjamin Barker is a national champion hammered dulcimer player who has been mentored by Asheville-area songwriter, author, and speaker David LaMotte. Together, they blend Benjamin�s immense instrumental talent with David�s own musicality and gift for language to create nuanced and emotion-filled music.

* The Allen Boys and DaShawn Hickman carry the torch for the Sacred Steel musical tradition out of their church in Mount Airy. Kelley Breiding is well-versed in Surry County�s Round Peak style as well as country and Western Swing stylings. Together, these musicians have fused their respective Surry County styles into one exciting sound.