The N.C. Arts Incubator in Siler City is a collection of art studios and galleries featuring the works of local and nationally known artists. Designed to foster the business end of creativity, the unique facility is the only business incubator in North Carolina devoted to the arts. Tonight, Bluegrass Experience guitarist/songwriter/singer Tommy Edwards will be joined by friends for an evening of music to support the organization and its dedicated artists.

On Saturday, country superstar Tim McGraw will perform at Walnut Creek Amphitheater. One of country music's most popular stars, McGraw has amassed a streak of hits including "Don't Take the Girl," "Like We Never Loved at All" (with his wife, Faith Hill), "The Cowboy in Me" and "Live Like You Were Dying." Jason Aldean will also perform.

Banjo masters Tony Trischka and Bela Fleck will join forces Saturday for a PineCone-sponsored evening of 5-string magic at the Progress Energy Performing Arts Center's Meymandi Concert Hall.

Also Saturday, the Red Stick Ramblers bring their spicy blend of prewar Cajun fiddle tunes, Western swing and jazz to the ArtsCenter. The Ramblers will showcase songs from their Sugar Hill CD, "Made in the Shade," which was produced by Dirk Powell.

On Thursday, the 30th annual Bass Mountain Bluegrass Festival gets under way at the Bass Mountain Music Park near Snow Camp. Thursday's lineup will feature the legendary Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain, the Lonesome River Band, Constant Change, and the Bluegrass Brothers. www.bassmountain.com