Appalachian Music and Art
Our mission is to educate students about southern Appalachia's art, history, music, and nature through community service learning, undergraduate research and creative activities.
We are committed to working in partnership with organizations that support Appalachian music and art development, preservation, exhibition, and education.
Contact Us!
Interested in working together on Appalachian music or art projects?
Email appalachia@ung.edu for more information.
Appalachian Music
Genres of Appalachian music can include old-time, bluegrass, gospel, country, blues, and ballad-singing. Each has unique aspects of instrumentation, style, and repertoire, and expresses different stories and emotions. Some songs are about universal experiences like love or loss, while others recount specific events like an adventure in a new place. Song lyrics may be changed to fit the personal style, experience, or values of the performer. Experiences represented by Appalachian music can be adapted to new contexts and build community.
Appalachian music is alive and well at the Vickery House as we host the "Pickin' Porch" Appalachian Jam each week and partner with local programs and .
Appalachian Jam
"Pickin’ Porch" Appalachian Jam meets most every Friday from 1-3 p.m. inside the Vickery House.
Contact Ann Whitley to be included on the Appalachian Jam email list.
Sacred Harp
meets every other Tuesday from 7-8:45 p.m. in the Vickery House.
Contact Dr. Esther Morgan-Ellis to be included on the Sacred Harp email list.
Georgia Pick & Bow
Georgia Pick & Bow Traditional Music School in Dahlonega teaches music to children in grades 3-12.
Appalachian Art
Throughout history, a wide diversity of artistic forms have been influenced by the natural beauty and resources of Appalachia. Traditional crafts such woodworking, looms, quilting, and ceramics have been passed down through generations of Appalachians.
Art-based research is one way that Appalachian Studies promotes civic entrepreneurship and community-based research. Some examples of past community and art-based projects include:
"Art and Mt. Hope"
Student Project Spring Semester 2021 Painting of A.B. Holt's grave by Natalie Shorr, a student in Appalachian Studies class