When folklorist Cecil Sharp traveled to the Laurel Community of Madison County in 1916, he gave it the moniker A Nest of Singing Birds based on the number of talented singers and old ballads he encountered. A century-plus later, Madison County is still known for its ballad-singing traditions. This Nest of Singing Birds centers around Sheila Kay Adams, the matriarch of the traditional ballad community in Western North Carolina and is led by 8th generation ballad singer Donna Ray Norton. Also joining them for this special concert is William Ritter, who learned from singer and storyteller Bobby McMillon.

We are proud to showcase their stories in music that records their myths, histories, and the culture from whence it originates. The concert is supported by a Grassroots grant from the Chatham County Arts Council, with support from the North Carolina Arts Council.