Welcome to the Home of Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies in Higher Education!
The oldest established program of its kind at any four-year institution.
Click Here to Fill Out Our Interest/Mailing List Form!
“When it comes to collegiate bluegrass programs, the nationwide gold standard is East
Tennessee State University’s Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music program.”
-David Menconi, Raleigh News & Observer
From the Director
ETSU has been the leading institution for bluegrass, old-time, and country music in
higher education since 1982. It is our purpose to honor the ways that these styles
of music have been handed down for generations, while also encouraging innovation
and exploration of related and newly emerging musical styles. Whether your goal is
to work toward a professional musical career, develop your skills as a researcher,
or simply take some lessons to get better at your instrument, ETSU is a place where
you can do all of this and much more.
Let me invite you to browse our website and learn more about our course offerings and scholarships. Be sure to check out our calendar of upcoming performances and events, and feel free to contact us if you would like more information about our program.
Thanks for visiting!
Dan Boner
Upcoming Events
ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band
SEPTEMBER 10th 2022 / Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion / Bristol, VA More Info
**Band Placement Auditions - Fall semester 2022 auditions will be held August 18th at 12:00 pm. Any student who is registering for band class for the first time will need to attend the band placement auditions. Arrive 10 - 15 minutes early to register. Be prepared to play a short piece of your choosing to be no more than 2 minutes, i.e., a verse and chorus. Call 423-439-7072 with any questions.