Laura Ford is a local bluegrass musician and with many generations of musical history in her background, she is bound for success. ETSU’s bluegrass program is known for their compelling students that join from all over the world.

However, Ford is from no further than our backyard. She is enrolled at ETSU as an art major with a focus in painting, but hopes to switch to bluegrass in the fall term.

This 19-year-old sophomore is quite motivated and dedicated to her music. Inspiration comes to Ford in the form of family.

“My family has been playing music for probably 100 years,” Ford said proudly. She is excited about carrying on a family tradition with her mandolin, guitar and fiddle at her side. She mentioned that her stronger instruments are the mandolin and guitar, which were the two she had in tow during our interview.

It was a sight to see a petite girl lugging around two heavy instrument cases. The determination in her face never faded and her attitude towards carrying them showed she was conditioned for it.

Ford’s heart is consumed by her love of music and her goal is to strive to her fullest potential.

“I just want to produce the best music possible,” said Ford. Ford is grateful to be a part of the bluegrass department and encourages fellow and prospective peers to “never give up.”

Ford is taking the program seriously. She talked about how it will help her understand the music industry as well as the logistics of an actual band. Stage fright was the least of her worries.

She has taken a class that specializes in stage performance. Ford’s advice to someone that is being held back by stage fright is to simply “break them in.”

Daniel Boner, the assistant director of the bluegrass department, speaks highly of Ford by saying, “Laura is one of our many talented and hardworking students, and it is great that she’s interested in the program because she’s from right here in Johnson City.

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