What makes the Hickory Music Factory so special?

• The Hickory Music Factory is a nonprofit (501-c3) performing arts school pursuing much of its growth through collaborations with local businesses, collaborations with other nonprofits and  like-minded individuals in the Greater Hickory area.

• With over 300 registered families, students of ALL ages (5-75) develop their musical skills through private instruction, 8 ensembles, regular classes and the monthly performance opportunities we provide throughout the year. 

• With  a talented 15-member team of instructors, the Music Factory maintains a school-wide philosophy that group music making and regular performance are core elements of effective musical development.

• With tremendous support from the City of Hickory, Arts Culture Catawba and our passionate private donors, we are committed to providing the Hickory community with affordable lessons and programs with top-notch instruction.

What we achieved in 2025

  • Taught over 10,000 private lessons

  • Brought HMF students to our “Sister Region” of Altenburgerland to perform music from Appalachia

  • 16 instructor led ensembles with over 40 ensemble performances

  • Initiated our new early childhood musical development class, “Little Amigos”

  • Served thousands of people in the community through events and performances like “Swingin Under The Stars”

  • Promoted culture in the community through our Joy To The World Event!

  • Awarded 20 quarterly Scholarships

  • Provided 12 Premier Open Mic Nights, 4 drum circles and several community outreach programs throughout the year

  • 12 Community Square Dances at Hart Square Village

  • 25 After School Program Scholarships for children in our underserved communities