We're building community one tune at a time.

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JAM believes

that children who are actively engaged in traditional mountain music are more connected and better prepared to strengthen their communities for future generations.

We envision

a world in which all children have the opportunity to experience community through the joy of participating in traditional mountain music together.

Our mission

is to provide communities with the support and tools they need to teach children to play and dance to traditional old time and bluegrass music.

What’s Happening in the JAM World

JAM Presents: Bridging the Gap Video Series

Jan 18, 2022

Junior Appalachian Musicians would like to introduce our Bridging the Gap Video Series A video series surrounding the traditions of Appalachian music and culture. Showcasing local musicians and personalities. We will be sharing each video here on our Facebook page according to the below lineup: Evolution of Musical Instruments - Friday, December 3rd A Visit with Otto Wood the Bandit - Monday, December 6th...

JAM Performing Band Seeks Students

Nov 11, 2021

JAM is opening submissions for the future to the regional JAM performing band centered around Southwest VA and NW North Carolina. The full information is at the link. Please feel free to spread the word to possible interested students and families! JAM Band Interest Form

Teaching Tradition Workshop

Nov 11, 2021

( The Teaching Tradition virtual workshop will take place on November 13, 2021, from 9:00am - 12:30pm ET. Registration is open to folk arts instructors who work with In These Mountains partners, including Junior Appalachian Musicians, North Carolina Traditional Arts Programs for Students (TAPS), Hindman Settlement School, and Appalshop. Teaching Tradition is developed in partnership with Local Learning: The National Network for Folk Arts in Education. Local Learning founding director Paddy...

JAM Program Affiliates

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