The Handmade Music School is excited to announce the Handmade Youth Stringband Program starting January 24th, 2024! This weekly gathering is, at its core, a group music program for youth (ages 7-18) to explore traditional music, dance, and arts from the Blue Ridge Plateau of Southwest Virginia. More expansively, it is a community of youth and families connected by their interest in learning about and taking care of the traditions of our Appalachian people and places.
Meeting Wednesdays from 3:30-5:30PM in 12 week-long semesters, this program is open to all experience levels, from first-time players to advanced players.
At our weekly gatherings, students will take interactive classes in their choice of fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin, advanced stringband, and bass taught by dedicated musicians and instructors. Regular components also include dance, singing instruction, and inspiring sessions with visiting artists. Music is taught with a focus on playing together in community.
This program will take place at the Floyd Events Center, which is part of the Floyd EcoVillage. The facility features a beautiful setting on 75 acres just a few miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and the charming town center of Floyd.