ETSU’s bluegrass bands will be playing a semester finale at the Down Home in Johnson City on Tuesday. This is one of three main events put on annually to showcase these groups’ talents.
There are 10 different bands within the program, but there are four main bands that do regular public performances. All 10 bands will be playing on Tuesday. Among those performing at the Down Home are: ETSU Bluegrass Ambassadors, ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band, ETSU Bluegrass Bucs and ETSU Bluegrass Band.
ETSU’s bluegrass program is the only one in the United States. Students come from as far away as Japan and Norway to be a part of it. Founded by Jack Tottle in the ’80s, the program has nurtured many who have gone on to be famous after graduation.
One of the performers Tuesday, Tyler Kufta, a member of the ETSU Bluegrass Band, moved from Georgia to Johnson City to be involved in the bluegrass program.
“I was so excited to finally get to be in an area where playing the music I love is easily accepted,” he said. “I had only a few friends from home that I could jam with. The program has definitely made my experience at ETSU.”
When Kufta spoke about the changes he has seen in the program since he has been here, he was pleased to say: “The program has done nothing but grow each year.”
Kufta plays the bass for the ETSU Bluegrass band and will be graduating with a degree in history and a minor in Appalachian studies at the end of the semester.
He was just offered a graduate assistant position through the bluegrass program and will be staying two more years at ETSU.
“This is just another bonus of being a part of the program.” he said.

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