After filling Thursday and Friday evenings with incredible musical performances from local bands, Tryon Fine Art Center’s first annual 100% Local Festival pulls out all the stops for the Saturday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m. finale with three musicians filling the Peterson Amphitheater.

Chris Blalock, Marc Yaxley and Aaron Burdett perform vastly different genres, but share a love of the Foothills that’s evident in their music.

Chris Blalock, with drumming ensemble Joy Planet, has trained extensively in traditional West African drumming. Blalock uses these healing rhythms in his therapeutic work at CooperRiis, and offers 100% Local Festival audiences a glimpse at the energizing power of the drum.

As an accomplished jazz guitarist, Marc Yaxley has performed his impeccable classical and jazz melodies across the country, making his appearance at the 100% Local Festival a rare treat.

Saluda-based Americana artist Aaron Burdett winds up the evening with his unique mix of folk-rock, bluegrass, and blues that has a deep connection to the places, people, and simple pleasures of life the foothills.

“We’re excited to offer a variety of artists on the last night of the 100% Local Festival,” said TFAC Marketing Manager Michelle Fleming. “There’s an incredible diversity of artists in our area, and this is just scratching the surface. We’re already looking forward to welcoming even more performers to next year’s festival.”

The music will start at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for food trucks, local restaurants and concessions. Donations will be accepted at the door.

The 100% Local Music Festival is sponsored by the Plume Family Foundation and Mountain Brook Vineyards. Donations will be accepted at the door.

– article submitted by Michelle Fleming