ETSU Bluegrass Band

Description

East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee has been the leading institution for bluegrass, old-time, and country music in higher education since 1982. Prior to that, no four-year university had ever attempted anything like it. In fact, there were more than a few in the academic community—some highly placed—who were quite dismissive of the notion that these musical styles were appropriate for university level study.

One alumna, Jennifer McCarter, caused quite a stir both on campus and in the community when she and her twin sisters were signed by Warner Brothers Records. Their first album featured three different songs which showed up on the national Billboard Country Music charts. Two of the songs reached the #4 and #5 positions respectively. Soon afterward they were seen nationwide on Dolly Parton’s television show, and began touring as the opening act for Kenny Rogers.

ETSU students began performing at a variety of prestigious venues all over the world. These activities, of course, promoted awareness regarding our music’s value outside of our home region. However, just as significantly, newspaper and magazine feature articles—as well as radio and television coverage of these, and other related activities—have resonated powerfully within the Tri-Cities region. A music once regarded exclusively as old-fashioned blue-collar entertainment by many came to be seen as a true living art form. The prestige and respect with which the music was regarded far from its original birthplace helped many residents of the region look on bluegrass and country music in a new and more positive light.

Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies at ETSU has clearly played a major role in this renewed excitement about our region’s music. It regularly attracts students from ETSU’s traditional East Tennessee service area, but also from the entire United States (Texas to New England, Florida to Alaska, plus a multitude of points in between) and from foreign countries as well. Its alumni have won Grammy awards, and honors from the IBMA, the Academy of Country Music, and the Country Music Association (CMA).

How to find us: From Greeneville, go 321 toward Newport. Cross the Nolichuckey River and turn left onto St. James Rd. Go about 3 1/2 miles and you will see us on the right. This is the old St. James School auditorium, built in 1936. Wooden seats – feel free to bring a pillow 🙂

From Newport, go 321 toward Greeneville. Turn right onto St. James Rd. BEFORE crossing the Nolichuckey River.