Monticello is the home of The Foundation for the Preservation of Historic American Music, Inc, the creator and organizer of the “Southern Music Rising” annual music festival and other local music events.

    Jefferson Arts, Inc is made up of local artists who practice many different art forms including sculpture, painting, fiber art, potting, woodcarving and photography. The art center is housed in a historic school building and includes a gallery. The Jefferson Arts Gallery, Rosemary Tree, Tupelo’s and other local venues offer the work of local artists for sale.

    Nationally known and local historians, novelists and other writers present their works in reading and signing events and book launches. Several sell their books through local stores. Poets read original work in our library and other venues.

Monticello artists and artisans offer music, theatre and dance in our historic1890 Perkins Opera House and a Friday night Jamboree with music and dancing. Main Street Monticello hosts Singer/Songwriter events by local and Nashville songwriters. Musicians and music lovers from all over the country attend and enjoy our growing “Southern Music Rising” festival held every spring. As many as six stages are placed around Monticello’s streets for live music. The Opera House, empty lots and even some front porches are pressed into service to present dozens of performers.