Kearney, Nebraska music is founded in musicians' collaboration and friendship, and the venues that provided stages and corners for musicians to give back their music to the community. Music has been an essential part of Kearney and Midwest culture since its pioneer days. Its vibrant beginning with the Kearney Opera House, 1891-1954, provided national entertainment to the small pioneer community. And this music creativity continues today with Kearney Symphony Orchestra, high school bands and orchestras, and local bands, all which bring a diverse music listening collection to the Kearney community.

The story of art in Kearney, Nebraska, is diverse. It includes the art of indigenous peoples of the prairie, the art of the artist explorers, and finally the art of European settlers. When Europeans started to settle in the Nebraska Territory in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, they discovered what Stephen Long called the Great American Desert. It was in reality a very fertile area and a wonderful place to call home. The pioneers also brought with them the notion of European art. As settlements grew throughout Nebraska, so did the need and desire for art. Art has grown and flourished in Kearney from its earliest time until today and is an important aspect of life for its community.

Who knows what the first words written in or around Kearney, Nebraska, might have been? A Pawnee ceremonial? Overland traveler's diary? Pioneer gravestone? Teacher's lesson plans?

Pretty early on the creative spirit visited our Kearney, Nebraska, community to write poems and novels, our stories and history, our newspapers and journals. On Kearney Creates website you'll discover a full portrait of Kearney's writing life from early times to today, including writing organizations and reading venues. You'll see and hear Kearney's VOICE.