Bluegrass, Old-Time, Country Music

Department of Appalachian Studies

Welcome to the Home of Bluegrass, Old-Time, Country Music Studies in Higher Education!

The oldest established program of its kind at any four-year institution.

Founded in 1982 by Jack Tottle, Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies at East Tennessee State University is the oldest established program of its kind at any four-year institution. This unique program has thrived on the philosophies of preserving the musical traditions rooted in Appalachian culture while at the same time encouraging creativity and development of prevailing styles. Students from around the globe come to ETSU exclusively to study the music of the mountains in the rich cultural hearth of Northeast Tennessee.

If you are serious about pursuing a full-time career in music we suggest you look closely at our new Bachelor of Arts degree in Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies – the first degree of its kind in the world. If you are interested in working toward a degree in another profession, perhaps our minor in Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies will be a more suitable option. Non-degree students also are welcome to register for any courses that might be of personal interest.

Whether you will be learning a complicated instrumental in private lessons, arranging an original song to perform on stage with your band, studying the history of your favorite styles of music, or mastering technologies of the recording studio to achieve your own unique sound, ETSU is a place where you will work closely with qualified teachers who are eager to help guide you toward success. We welcome you to pursue your interests at the home of Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies in higher education.

Dan Boner, Director

 

 

 

Dan Boner

decorative image for Ask a Question

Ask a Question

Click on the question mark to send us a question. We will get back to you as soon as possible!

decorative image for Academics & Scholarships

Academics & Scholarships

Learn more about the different programs and scholarships we offer.

decorative image for About Us

About Us

Learn more about our program's rich history and the people who have contributed to its success.

decorative image for Book a Band

Book a Band

Book one of our bands to play at your event!

 

decorative image for Visit Us

Visit Us

Schedule a visit to come see us!

 

decorative image for Apply

Apply

Start your ETSU journey today.

 

Share