Instead of simply canceling its long-running and popular Concerts on the Quad series, UNC Asheville should charge for admission and make it a self-sustaining operation.

The spring and early summer outdoor concert series, which was free and open to the public, featured a variety of musical genres, ranging from gypsy jazz to bluegrass.

On the grassy expanse of the university’s Quad, students and local residents lounging on blankets or in lawnchairs,, enjoyed listening to the music up on the temporary stage, socializing and sometimes even dancing.

A news release from UNCA stated that the series is being canceled for this year “because of financial pressure and the likelihood of further budget cuts,” but that the series could be resurrected if donors come forward with money.

The concerts had become a summer institution in Asheville, with 28 consecutive seasons offering free Monday evening concerts that helped expose UNCA in a positive way to the community.

As UNCA noted, the series had been funded by student fees, and although it had been popular with faculty, staff and members of the community, few students attended.

“As part the university’s efforts to preserve the academic core and the student experience, funds formerly set aside for Concerts on the Quad will now be used to preserve the level of service we offer to students,” said Edward Katz, UNCA’s associate provost. “This is a sad announcement to make, but it comes from our effort to make sure that all student fees directly benefit the student experience.”

The concerts are a delightful addition to Asheville’s cultural and social scene, and we think attendees would be willing to pay an admission charge to keep it going.