~Building Futures Through Music~
Music instruction for all ages through private lessons, ensembles, and group classes. It would be pointless.
Non-profit organization based in Hickory, NC The Hickory Music Factory or (HMF) was founded 2012 by Tony Eltora and Rick Cline. Their vision was to provide Their students and the community with more meaningful opportunities to learn, create and experience music in-addition to fostering an environment of creativity and originality. They wanted to place a particular emphasis on youth, and have progr
ams designed to empower them through a variety of musical avenues. In starting the Hickory Music Factory, Tony and Rick found that there was a void not being met for students and people in the community in regard to music and wanted to focus on three areas that they though they could have an impact on. Teaching: Tony and Rick noticed that most places that taught lessons didn’t have adequate teaching space and therefor making it harder for students to learn. They wanted to have a place where students would be inspired to want to learn and hang out. They also noticed music programs were being cut in schools in the area and wanted to starting a middle and high school community big band and jazz combo. In addition to 6 teaching rooms at the Hickory Music Factory facility, there is a music library where students and members can check out music books, CD’s and records, a performance area where HMF host recitals and clinics, a computer lab where students can learn about recording software, and a jam room set up with drums and amps for kids to come by after school and practice with their bands. HMF also provides private lessons, classes and camps for ages 5 years old and up. They offers lessons for guitar, piano, drums, bass, violin, flute, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, voice and more…
The organization isn’t classically based in its approach to musical education. Rather, the Hickory Music Factory takes a well-rounded, inter-disciplinary approach and strives to address each child on an individual basis. Unfortunately, many music programs have rigid guidelines that don’t allow for all children to succeed. Therefore, we seek to address the system and nature of teaching music that inhibits growth and success. They don’t offer a strict curriculum but a malleable model meant to encourage all. Catering to each student’s unique passion, they offer individual lessons in several genres. Every person is different and learns differently and, in turn, music serves a different purpose in every life. The Hickory Music Factory believes in celebrating students and their differences and helping them find their individuality in music. Performance: The 2nd area Tony and Rick wanted to focus on was performance. They believe that if you don’t have a goal, then you’re not living up to your potential. Imagine being on a soccer team and going to practice every day, but never having a game. There would be no reason to put forth all your effort to make the starting line up. For musicians, the gig is the game and performance opportunities are key to helping a person develop as a musician. HMF provides their students and people in the community with a number of performances throughout the year such as the “Swinging Under the Stars” and the Hickory Music Factory Stage at “Oktoberfest.” HMF also brings national and regional artists to our area for clinics and concerts. In addition, many students participate in their community drum circles, open mic nights, student concerts, and their annual Rock Camp and Recording Camp. Community Outreach: The 3rd and final area that Tony and Rick wanted to focus on was community outreach. They felt that every person should have the opportunity to learn and play music regardless of finances or physical disabilities. HMF takes music programs to community centers, schools and churches in the area and have recently partnered with the City of Hickory and the Hickory Parks and Recreation Department to help make music more accessible to people in the community. HMF also provides scholarships and work study programs for students in the community who want to further their musical education and need financial assistance. Ultimately, the Hickory Music Factory wants to provide a musical experience for the individual and community that is void of all barriers, whether from learning differences, financial struggle, or physical ability.
06/12/2026
Tonight Hickory!!! An air-conditioned entertainment option!! Featuring HMF students/instructors with several bands and artists from the Hickory community, this month’s concert will include performances from students Grace Kehl, Cohen and Maddox Sigmon, Charlie Moses, Nina King and “Better Than Nothing!” There will also be guests from the community including the Ray Shook Band, Earl the Llama, the Gray Man Group, J Patrick, Glitch Lord, Ed and Sands and local rapper, 66Ave. Show starts at 6pm and goes til 10pm!
The Premier Davi Justice Tonnio Covington The Premier Ray Shook
05/25/2026
What a wonderful evening. Thanks to City of Hickory, NC - Government for their partnership.
05/22/2026
RAIN OR SHINE. Hickory Music Factory invites the community to step back in time with “Hickory Swings,” its annual swing dance concert, taking place on Sunday, May 24th from 6:30–9:00 PM at Sails on the Square in downtown Hickory. Pre-event ceremonies for our service men and women will be provided by the Hickory Elks.
This free outdoor event will feature the Hickory Music Factory Jazz Orchestra, performing lively big band arrangements from the Great American Songbook. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair, enjoy the evening atmosphere, and hit the dance floor as classic swing tunes fill the square.
“Hickory Swings” is part of Hickory Music Factory’s ongoing mission to make high-quality music accessible to the community while showcasing the talent of its student and community musicians. The event offers a fun, family-friendly opportunity for people of all ages to experience live jazz and swing dancing in the heart of downtown.
Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just want to enjoy great music under the evening sky, “Hickory Swings” promises an unforgettable night of rhythm, community, and classic American sound.
We would like to thank all of our AMAZING sponsors for their support.
05/19/2026
Join and this evening for our monthly community square dance! New to square dancing? No problem! An experienced caller will teach you the steps and guide you through each dance throughout the evening. This intergenerational dance is a great form of fellowship, so put on your dancing shoes and join us from 6pm to 8pm while the Hickory Music Factory String Band lays out some trad dance bangers!:)
Hickory Music Factory invites the community to step back in time with “Hickory Swings,” its annual swing dance concert, taking place on Sunday, May 24th from 6:30–9:00 PM at Sails on the Square in downtown Hickory. Pre-event ceremonies for our service men and women will be provided by the Hickory Elks.
This free outdoor event will feature the Hickory Music Factory Jazz Orchestra, performing lively big band arrangements from the Great American Songbook. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair, enjoy the evening atmosphere, and hit the dance floor as classic swing tunes fill the square.
“Hickory Swings” is part of Hickory Music Factory’s ongoing mission to make high-quality music accessible to the community while showcasing the talent of its student and community musicians. The event offers a fun, family-friendly opportunity for people of all ages to experience live jazz and swing dancing in the heart of downtown.
Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just want to enjoy great music under the evening sky, “Hickory Swings” promises an unforgettable night of rhythm, community, and classic American sound.
We would like to thank all of our AMAZING sponsors for their support.
04/30/2026
Including hot sets from established groups like VooDoo Reign, Kennon Knight, Juke Box Johnny Savage, Coty "Big City" Robinette, this concert will feature 5 student bands, 28 students as well as 15 great musicians from the tremendous musical community in Western Piedmont. Show is FREE and will run from 6pm-10pm this Friday, May 1st! This magic only happens at Bring your people and POST UP with the Hickory Music Factory 😎
04/28/2026
🎶☀️ SUMMER SOUNDS KIDS MUSIC CAMP IS HERE! ☀️🎶
Looking for a fun, creative, and engaging way to kick off summer? Join us for Summer Sounds Kids Music Camp at Hickory Music Factory!
🗓 June 1st–5th⏰ 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM👧🧒 Ages 6 & Up
Kids will explore music through singing, instruments, rhythm games, and group collaboration—all in a supportive and high-energy environment. Whether your child is brand new to music or already loves to perform, this camp is designed to inspire confidence and creativity!
🎤 Led by experienced instructors Maria Grosso and Sarah Goodson
Spots are limited—don’t miss out on a week full of music, fun, and new friendships!
👉 Message us or visit our website to register today!
HickoryMusicFactor
04/21/2026
Help your child build confidence, make friends and ROCK this summer. Slots are filling up quick for this summer’s HMF ROCK CAMP. Sign up in the link below.
Introducing SCAMP! A half-day enrichment camp for ages 4-8 years old, dates June 8th-12th from 9am-1pm (12-1pm is lunch & outdoor play!) What is SCAMP??
S – Spanish: Learn vocabulary and play games while having fun
C – Creativity: Dive into artist-inspired projects and hands-on crafts
A – Arts: Explore music, singing, and instruments
M – Movement: Dance, yoga, and active games to get moving
P – Play: Enjoy outdoor time, lunch, and making new friends
06/12/2026
05/25/2026
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04/16/2026