THIS THURSDAY | Asheville Rockestra: Celebrating 1976

Sound Effects Benefit Concert for Asheville Music School Event Details and Tickets

Asheville Rockestra, w/Minør, Dr. Funky Squirrel, & Lucia Bluebird, celebrating 1976…….plus, a performance of Songs In The Key Of Life by Asheville Music School teachers.

It’s been 50 years since 1976, a year of music that celebrated huge records from Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, Queen, ABBA, The Ramones, Heart, and so many more. Each year for their annual benefit concert Sound Effects, Asheville Music School selects a musical focus. For 2026, students and teachers alike have spent months studying and rehearsing some of the greatest hits of 1976. They’ve created a huge band – the Asheville Rockestra, made up of dozens of students, and some teachers, to celebrate (and perform live) the 50th anniversary of 1976.

The mission of Asheville Music School is strengthening communities through music education and outreach, while sustaining teachers and musicians in a vibrant music culture. At our West Asheville facility, more than 35 music educators conduct private lessons in a wide variety of music styles and instruments for students of all ages and abilities. Since its inception as a nonprofit, AMS has awarded more than $90,000 in need-based scholarships to those unable to afford private music lessons and summer camps. The Sound Education outreach program connects AMS students, faculty and underserved community members through free performances and group music classes for veterans, seniors, the homeless, people in recovery and those living with disabilities.  ashevillemusicschool.org