Founded in 1982, Bluegrass, Old-Time, & Roots Music Studies at East Tennessee State University is the oldest established program of its kind at any four-year institution. Uniquely situated in the heart of southern Appalachia, one of the birthplaces of country music, ETSU presents an unparalleled opportunity to study the music while immersing oneself in the region’s outstanding musical and cultural experiences. Our program has thrived on the philosophy of preserving longstanding musical traditions rooted in Appalachian culture, while at the same time encouraging creativity and musical development. Student bands perform many varieties of music, both traditional and progressive, often using songs written by the students themselves. ETSU bands have performed in numerous countries around the world, including the Czech Republic, Japan, Scotland, England, Belgium, Mexico, and Germany. Groups have performed at the Lincoln Center in New York City, NPR’s Mountain Stage, and at festivals and theaters throughout the United States. If you are serious about studying traditional music, we welcome you to pursue your interests at the home of Bluegrass, Old-Time, & Roots Music in higher education—East Tennessee State University.
