East Tennessee State University showcases five bands at ‘Bluegrass Extravaganza’

BOONES CREEK, Tenn. (WJHL) – The Boones Creek Museum and Opry hosted East Tennessee State University’s (ETSU) ‘Bluegrass Extravaganza’ on Saturday.

The two-hour show featured five bluegrass bands from ETSU’s Bluegrass, Old-time and Roots Music Studies program.

News Channel 11 spoke with the Chair of Appalachian Studies at ETSU, Ron Roach:

“This is a venue that celebrates the musical heritage of the southern Appalachians, where we had the birthplace of string band music and country music. It’s a great opportunity for these students to not only get out into the community and support the work at Boone’s Creek Opry and Historical Society, but it’s a great chance for them to get experience and play in a live venue on stage.”

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The bands showcased roots, old-time and gospel bluegrass.

“People have a hunger for community events, for live music, and, you know, music has an ability to speak across cultures and to connect people of all ages and backgrounds. And that’s exactly what you see happen every Saturday night here at Boones Creek Opry,” Roach said.

Bailey George and Juke Box Jess hosted and emceed the ‘Bluegrass Extravaganza.’

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