Lunchtime at Nashville Public Library is about to take on a whole new meaning with the return of its free concert series.
Nashville Public Library's (NPL) free Courtyard Concert series made its return on Sept. 1, highlighting local Music City talent. The stacked lineup includes a range of artists and bands across R&B, jazz, folk, and alternative rock.
The lunchtime concerts will continue being held at the main library located at 615 Church Street. A performance will take place every Tuesday from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. until the series wraps on Oct. 13.
"The popularity and joy of NPL’s Courtyard Concerts series highlights Nashville's passion for music of all genres, and it’s wonderful to be able to bring people together to celebrate local creativity
in this way," said Nashville Public Library's Director Terri Luke. "Whether it's our free music programs, instrument lending, our vinyl collection or our open-mic showcases, there’s something for everyone who wants to experience Music City’s public library."
R&B act and Nashville native Sheldon Thomas, who goes by the stage name shelldhn, kicked off the series with a performance on Sept. 1.
"As a Nashville native, it means a lot to perform at a place that serves and brings together so many people throughout the city. Being the first act also gives me the opportunity to set the tone for what I know will be an incredible season," he told The Tennessean.
Shelldhn has also used his platform to help spotlight Nashville’s R&B community, both hosting and performing at the R&Babu Cafe concert series, a recurring showcase for R&B artists and talent living in Nashville.
"As a Black R&B artist born and raised here, I’m grateful for spaces that recognize the R&B, neo-soul, rock, gospel, pop, and other communities that also make Music City what it is," he said, adding that he hopes the R&Babu Cafe series also "helps people discover new artists, connect through music, and walk away with a fuller picture of Nashville's creative community" while encouraging more venue owners to "continue investing in diverse local talent."
Next up will be the Alex Murphy Trio, which blends jazz with R&B and hip-hop influences, will perform on Sept. 8, followed by a lineup of diverse artists.
Courtyard Concerts lineup 2026
Sept. 1: shelldhn (R&B)
Sept. 8: Alex Murphy Trio (jazz)
Sept. 15: Esi (R&B and neo-soul)
Sept. 22: Pump Action (funk rock)
Sept. 29: Elliott Robinson (classic American music, soul)
Oct. 6: Jess Nolan (indie-folk, rock, and soul pop)
Oct. 13: Walker Burroughs (folk)
Guests can park at either nearby garage for a discounted rate of $4, excluding service fees and applicable taxes. The McKendree Garage is located at 140 Sixth Ave. N. There is an additional parking garage at 144 Rep. John Lewis Way N.
Follow USA TODAY Network and The Tennessean's music reporter Caché McClay on Instagram, TikTok and X as @cachemcclay.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Free Courtyard Concerts bring jazz, R&B and pop to Nashville's library
