Composers' Corner
Listening-Room Experiences in Our Main Art Gallery
Not only do we proudly host a rotating array of impressive art exhibits, but our primary art space is also a listening room. Each month, on the third Sunday of the month, we now host local music performers. Our Composers' Corner performances are intimate late afternoon listening-room events devoted entirely to original music.
Composer’s Corner is a curated listening experience where new works are shared in a focused, artful setting. This is not background music. These are compositions meant to be heard, felt, and experienced.
Rob McHale
Rob McHale is a North Carolina-based songwriter, storyteller, and author.
Rob is the International Music and Entertainment Association Folk Artist of the Year 2019 ( IMEA ), and “Prophets on the Boulevard” was awarded the Folk Album of the Year. He was featured on the cover and in an accompanying article in Music and Sich, a legacy music magazine based in Berlin, Germany. Rob performs internationally and in the US.
Three of Rob’s songs have placed in the Top Ten globally on the Folk DJ Charts.
"Music of a hundred years ago, from yesterday or today - whenever you place them, the songs of Rob McHale should be taught in school because they reflect vibrant history, the value of tradition and living social comment. This North Carolina-based poet, musician, and composer writes folk Americana songs that walk you through their narratives in an entirely involving way. They bring home the wealth of heritage and place it firmly in the present, they observe the days we live in and offer valuable meaning."
Tom Franks
Folk Words Magazine, London
“On October 25, 2019, I was personally convinced of the power of his songs when I saw him live.”
Wolfgang Geise
Music and Such Magazine, Berlin, Germany
David Ray Cecil
Before Dave Ray Cecil performed at The Lincoln Center in New York City, or Nashville’s famed Bluebird Cafe he was a young child simply putting notes together on the piano. Lyrics soon came easily to him, and while secretly playing his older brother’s guitar, he wrote his first song. Dave has rarely slowed in his creative output, and his musical craftsmanship has been recognized by a variety of songwriting competitions.
“Dave Ray Cecil is one of the best songwriters and performers I have ever worked with. His insights and abilities are above reproach, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!” - Rebecca Kress, DJ at WQFS 90.9, Rythmn, and Blues & Interviews
“Listening to Dave Ray Cecil’s music is like you want to laugh and cry at the same time!” - Brandi Leigh Beck WIZS Radio 100.1 FM
May Composers’ Corner Artists - Sunday, May 17th 4:30-6:30pm. Register here to save your seat
What to Expect
Each program features composers and performers presenting thoughtfully-crafted pieces in an inspiring art gallery atmosphere. Chairs and café tables are arranged for comfortable listening, creating a relaxed yet attentive environment where the music can truly shine.
This recurring monthly series offers a rare opportunity to hear music at its beginning—where ideas are fresh, creative voices are bold, and audiences become part of the artistic journey.
This Event Includes:
• Free admission (however, tipping is encouraged)
• Advance seat reservation required, so we can ensure appropriate event staffing
• Limited seating to preserve the intimate listening experience
• Cash bar available (credit card only)
• Guests are welcome to bring their own food
• No outside beverages permitted
Whether you are a devoted classical listener, a curious creative, or someone who simply loves discovering something new before the rest of the world does, Composer’s Corner invites you into the listening circle.
Crafted notes. Captive hearts.
Register here to save your seat
Performance Opportunities
If you are a performer interested in being considered for a future Composers’ Corner event, please use the form below to reach out to event curator, Kris Ferris.
Other Music Events at The Muse
Although we’ve launched Composers’ Corner as a regular event, on occasion we also host musical performances of other kinds. Visit our Music Events page to see if we have anything else on the books for your listening pleasure!