For a few beautiful sunny hours on Saturday, the front lawn of ETSU University School filled with bluegrass, old-time and laughter as families gathered for the annual Pickin’ in the Schoolyard fundraiser. Ticket proceeds from the event went to benefit the Upper East Tennessee Junior Appalachian Musicians, a program dedicated to empowering kids by teaching them old-time and bluegrass music. 

“It’s not only a fundraiser, but a great way to showcase what everybody is learning,” said Kim Greenland, director of JAM Upper East Tennessee.

At noon, current JAM students had the opportunity to showcase their skills by performing for an audience of family, friends and community members. The mission of JAM centers around the belief that all children should have the opportunity to learn traditional mountain music and experience the joy of playing it in community with others. 

“We are teaching them small group instruction in bluegrass and old-time music,” said Greenland. “We’re carrying on that tradition to generations ahead of us.”

Not only is the fundraiser being held on ETSU property, but JAM has strong ties with the Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music program at ETSU. Thirteen years ago, Roy Andrade, director of Old-Time, helped Greenland start the Upper East Tennessee JAM program, the first in Tennessee. Since then, around a dozen more in Tennessee have been established.

“A large percent, probably 95%, of our JAM teachers are ETSU students from the program or alumni,” said Greenland. “We have the ETSU Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music bands play for [Pickin’ in the Schoolyard].” 

One band playing for the fundraiser was State of Franklin, who found out about the event from their ETSU band professor.

“We figured it would be a really fun time to just spread some music on a beautiful day,” said Grey Fisher, a member of the band. 

Another member, Amelia Morgan, teaches for JAM occasionally. State of Franklin was the first band to play, setting the stage for a wonderful spring day of music in support of the program. 

Opportunities for students through the Upper East Tennessee JAM program are available at ETSU University School, Ashley Academy and Sullivan Central Middle School. More information can be found at jamkids.org. 

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