ETSU Singer-Songwriter Showcase highlights Appalachian musical traditions

Contributed/ETSU

East Tennessee State University’s Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music Studies program hosted its Singer-Songwriter Showcase on Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. in Powell Recital Hall at the Martin Center for the Arts.

The free concert featured original compositions by students enrolled in the program’s songwriting courses, highlighting the musical traditions of Appalachia while encouraging artistic creativity.

For those unable to attend in person, the department livestreamed the performance on its Facebook page.

According to the department’s website, ETSU entered “uncharted academic territory” in 1982 when it began offering bluegrass music studies at a four-year university. Since then, the program has emphasized preserving Appalachian musical traditions while encouraging students to explore new styles and approaches.

Program Director Dan Boner highlighted the department’s commitment to preserving traditional music while supporting artistic development.

The program aims to “honor the ways that these styles of music have been handed down for generations,” Boner said in a statement published on the department’s website.

He also emphasized the importance of encouraging innovation and exploring emerging musical styles.

Since its establishment, the program has provided opportunities for aspiring musicians, researchers and performers to develop their skills while studying the region’s musical heritage.

Among ETSU’s notable alumni is country music star Kenny Chesney, who graduated in 1990. In a statement featured on the department’s website, Chesney reflected on how his experiences in Johnson City helped shape his musical aspirations.

“Coming to East Tennessee State and meeting Jack Tottle … and having the friends that I had and being able to play music in this space and in this town … it truly is where I first learned how to dream,” Chesney said.

The Singer-Songwriter Showcase provided current students with an opportunity to share their original music with the community while gaining performance experience.

Through events such as the showcase, ETSU’s Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music Studies program continues to connect Appalachian musical heritage with a new generation of musicians and songwriters.

For more information about upcoming performances and the program, visit www.etsu.edu/cas/das/bluegrass/ or contact Boner at boner@etsu.edu.