The Birthplace of Country Music

Weekly Music Lessons with JAM Kids at the Museum!
2025-05-17 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-05-24 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-05-31 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-07 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-14 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-21 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-28 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-07-12 10:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) and 4 more dates | VA
Date: Weekly on Saturdays
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ET
Location: The Learning Center, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: $5 per class or $45 for 10 lessons
Through a new partnership with Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM), the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is a new affiliate location for the program, offering weekly music lessons at the museum for children grades 4-8 and beyond. JAM Kids introduces music through small group instruction on acoustic instruments common to the Appalachian region, such as guitar, banjo, and fiddle. Students may bring their own instruments, or they can be provided as a loan while your child is participating in the program. Other instruments may be introduced as to be determined by instructors. Weekly classes will be held throughout the year, and students can join the program at any point in the year.
Registration is required to participate in this program. You can download the Registration Forms and bring it with you when you drop off your child for their first lesson or complete it at the museum’s front desk upon arrival. Each week, lessons will be filled based on arrival and capped at 30 students. Registration allows you to participate but does not guarantee your spot each week.
We do not offer online registration or spot reservations for this program. Lessons can be purchased as-you-go for $5 or as a bundle of ten pre-paid lessons for $45. The bundle is a discounted rate and will expedite your check-in process, but does not guarantee your spot each week. The class will be closed if capacity is reached before your arrival. Scholarships are available upon request. For more information about signing up for JAM or to inquire about scholarships, email Erika Barker at ebarker@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org.
Registration Forms: Please bring all three forms with you when you arrive for your first lesson.

Registration Form
Student Contract
Media Release Form

Junior Appalachian Musicians is a non-profit and the parent organization for 50+ after-school programs for children in grades 4 – 8. We provide communities with the tools and support they need to teach children to play and dance to traditional old-time and bluegrass music. JAM introduces music through small group instruction on instruments common to the Appalachian region, such as fiddle, banjo and guitar. Each JAM program is individually operated and funded. By affiliating with the JAM organization, each program is eligible to receive support and resources for free and is licensed to use “Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM)” to identify their traditional music education program.
Be sure to check out JAM Kids on Facebook and Instagram!

The JAM Program Model
JAM is an after-school program for children in grades 4 – 8 and beyond that introduces music through small group instruction on instruments common to the Appalachian region, such as fiddle, banjo and guitar. Each JAM program is individually operated and funded. By affiliating with the JAM organization, each program is eligible to receive support and resources for free, and is licensed to use “Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM)” to identify their traditional music education program.
Junior Appalachian Musicians ® is a registered trademark of Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc.
In JAM, instrument instruction is often augmented by dance and vocal instruction as well as string band classes and group enrichment lessons, which introduce children to additional Appalachian culture and history. The JAM program model provides children with opportunities to not only learn traditional music, but to also perform in small and large groups. Field trips, visiting artists and an introduction to the rich history of music unique to each local community further supplement program offerings. Each JAM program is encouraged to foster musical traditions by teaching local styles of traditional mountain music and dance to children. Instructors are also encouraged to teach students to learn music by ear, as to preserve oral traditions as much as possible. Other teaching methodologies and instructional skills are covered in regional professional development and training sessions held multiple times per year and hosted by JAM. JAM also encourages student engagement across programs with regional performance and learning activities throughout the year. For a full list of benefits to affiliates, click here.
JAM believes that all children should have access to traditional old time and bluegrass music. It is recommended that each program provide financial assistance through scholarships to children in need. The program model bases tuition fees on student lunch status: $10/week for full pay children, and $5/week for reduced pay children.
Class sizes typically have a student teacher ratio of 8:1 or less. JAM mandates that each affiliated program conduct criminal background checks on their instructors, directors, and other staff members and volunteers. Programs must be held in public facilities accessible to the community. Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc prohibits discrimination against any persons on the bases of race, color, national origin, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, political beliefs, familial or parental status, and sexual orientation.
For a full listing of affiliation requirements, click here.
History of JAM
Realizing the need to preserve a vital aspect of mountain culture as well as the need for positive activities to underserved youth, Helen White, then a guidance counselor at Sparta Elementary School, founded the first JAM program in Alleghany County, NC in the spring of 2000 with help from other local musicians and educators. Interest in the program spread rapidly with assistance from the National Endowment for the Arts, NC State Arts Council, Blue Ridge National Heritage Area and “The Crooked Road – Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.”
In 2007, the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation provided funding to allow the development of a regional infrastructure. The Dana Foundation, Virginia Commission for Arts, the Virginia Foundation for Humanities, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Harris and Frances Block Foundation and the Tides Foundation have provided funding for materials development.
“Junior Appalachian Musicians” was incorporated in 2008 as a non-profit 501(c)3 tax exempt corporation to promote a shared vision of JAM and to provide an umbrella through which to offer resources, training materials and activities to benefit programs individually and collectively. Currently in nearly 30 locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, JAM affiliates are providing access to the joy of music to thousands of youth while instilling renewed interest and pride in their heritage.
Interested in learning more about JAM? Click here.

Monthly Bluegrass Jam
2025-05-24 14:00 - 17:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, in partnership with the East Tennessee Bluegrass Association, hosts a monthly gathering of local musicians for a bluegrass jam session. The jam events are intended to provide a space for local musicians to gather and pick, collaborate, share their experiences, and—most importantly—to have fun. The jams are acoustic and only feature traditional bluegrass instruments: acoustic guitar, upright bass, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, and dobro.
The jams are free and open to the public. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Those just interested in joining as a spectator are welcome at no charge.
Bluegrass Jams will be held every fourth Saturday of the month from 2-5 p.m., serving as a great warm-up for Saturday night gigs. Musicians are asked to bring their own instruments.
The sessions will be held in the Learning Center at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
For more information call 423-573-1927.

Museum Storytime - Women Musicians & Songwriters
2025-06-06 10:30 - 11:30 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Date: Friday, June 6, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. EST
Location: The Learning Center, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: Free and open to the public
Theme: Women Musicians & Songwriters
Join us in the museum’s Learning Center for our monthly Museum Storytime program. Aimed at toddler-age children and their grown-ups, we will gather on the first Friday of each month for a music- or Appalachia-related storybook, a tune or two by WBCM Radio Bristol show host Ella Patrick, and a related activity or coloring sheet. The craft will be swifty friendship bracelets.
Books that will be featured at Storytime include:

Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow
Little People, Big Dreams: Ella Fitzgerald by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara (Author), Bàrbara Alca (Illustrator)
Little People, Big Dreams: Taylor Swift by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara (Author), Borghild Fallberg (Illustrator)

Music and Art Workshop for Kids
2025-06-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Join Ellen Elmes for an Art & Music workshop on Saturday, June 7, 1-3 p.m. for youth artists or artists-to-be! With this program, you’ll get the chance to enjoy your artistic side through hands-on art exercises and live music. Ellen will guide participants in the creative process using a variety of materials to discover the shapes and colors of music – singer-songwriter Ella Patrick will play a tune or two while the art is being made. The cost of this program includes the necessary art supplies.
Date: Saturday, June 7
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Birthplace of Country Music Museum Learning Center
Cost: $25.66 (includes art supplies)
Class Size: Limited to 16 participants
Age Range: 3rd–5th graders, allow as young as 5 years old if accompanied by a parent or guardian

REGISTER TO ATTEND HERE
This event is complementary programming to the Ellen Elmes: The Art of Music & Mountains exhibit on display at the museum through September 30. Special thanks to the United Company Foundation for their support of programming related to this exhibit.

Online Speaker Session: Charles Hughes, You Don't Know My Mind: Country, Blues, and their Connections
2025-06-10 19:00 - 20:30 | https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/niCMY_DvS4OAACTT-daojg
Join us on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 for our virtual Speaker Session with Charles Hughes.
Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Time: 7 p.m. ET

Location: Online only on Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/niCMY_DvS4OAACTT-daojg

Cost: Free and open to the public

No two kinds of music have a closer and more complex relationship than country and blues. With this Speaker Session, historian and author Charles L. Hughes will discuss the historical relationship between the two genres. Hughes will consider their shared roots, their continuing overlaps, and what the relationship between them tells us about the larger history of the United States.
Charles L. Hughes is the author of the acclaimed books Country Soul: Making Music and Making Race in the American South and Why Bushwick Bill Matters. He has also written numerous book chapters and essays in publications including Oxford American, Slate, Washington Post, Southern Cultures, and American Quarterly. He is the co-founder of the digital music newsletter No Fences Review, a former regular contributor to the podcast Teaching Hard History, and a voting member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He is Associate Professor of History and Urban Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee.

Songwriters Circle
2025-06-14 14:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-09 14:00 - 17:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Dates: Monthly, every 2nd Saturday
February 8, March 8, April 12 (showcase), May 10, June 14, July 12 (showcase), August 9, September 13, October 11 (showcase), November 8, December 13
Time: 2-5 p.m. ET
Location: The Learning Center, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: Free and open to the public, donations encouraged at quarterly showcases
In partnership with Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum will host a monthly Songwriters Circle every 2nd Saturday, 2-5 p.m. ET, in the Learning Center. Beginners, experienced songwriters, and aspiring songwriters are invited to share songs, brainstorm ideas, and encourage each other to keep writing. There is no fee to participate.
At the end of each session, the group will choose three prompts to inspire ideas for the following month. The prompts may be objects, phrases, feelings, colors, senses, or any other topic. Writers may use those topics to help them write a song or two to share for the following session. Songwriters do not have to play an instrument in order to participate.
Songwriters Circle is an opportunity to perform, workshop, and network with other artists, with an emphasis on clarity and telling a story. The goals of the group are to encourage songwriting, introduce songwriting shows to audiences in the region, and enlighten the public about the craft of songwriting and its value as an art form.
Fans of music and songwriting are welcome to sit in for a listen at no cost.

About Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia

Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia is led by Mary Munsey, a local musician and educator, recently retired from Virginia Highlands Community College. The program offers a great deal of flexibility in its format for attendees, with varied songwriting interests and abilities. Some of the attendees play instruments and some are curious about songwriting and the process. Lyrics can sometimes only pare up with others that play instruments and put music with the words. Some writers don’t sing, but enjoy hearing others perform their songs. Some of the performances can be a cappella. Some members of the group write one to three songs between sessions and some write more. Sometimes as busy as life gets, writers don’t get to write new material between meetings. We don’t pressure anyone to write, and we don’t criticize anyone. We treat each other with respect. We don’t discuss politics, use profanity, or write antagonistic lyrics.

The focus is not on the beauty of the voice or skill of the instrumentation, but the clearness of the pronunciation and the effect of the song. We work on making sure the audience can hear every word. We are not professional musicians but we are creators of musical stories and that is the beauty of it. The sessions are open to anyone visiting the museum. Genres are not specified. Songs can be instrumental, folk, country, bluegrass, Americana, blues, humorous, jazz, R&B, electronic, and even pop, to name a few. Writers are allowed to bring CDs for sale and to accept tips after performances.
As an extension of this program, each quarter we invite songwriters to attend “Writers-in-the-Round” or WITR concerts. WITR consists of three to five writers together in a circle or on stage. Each writer introduces themselves, gives the title of their song, and then sings it with or without accompaniment. Discussion will follow concerning the origins of the song, how they wrote it, and the song’s inspiration, along with any questions from the audience.

To learn more about Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia, visit the website at HighlandsAppalachia.org.

Community Square Dance: A Partnership with Bristol Ballet
2025-06-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Bristol Ballet, 330 Buford Street, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern
Location: Bristol Ballet, 330 Buford St, Bristol, VA 24201 (Please park at the back of the building and go in the entrance framed by columns)
Cost: Free but any donations at the door will support the museum and Bristol Ballet.
RSVP HERE
Come do-si-do and promenade with us!
Join the Birthplace of Country Music and Bristol Ballet for a community square dance on Saturday, June 14. Caller Tyler Hughes will lead a square dance with a lively string band with John Bills.
This event is open to all ages and no experience or partner is required; we recommend sturdy shoes so you can dance all night! Space is limited so sign up to participate soon!

2025 Pick Along Summer Camp - Beginners
2025-06-16 09:00 - 2025-06-20 15:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
At Pick Along Summer Camp, kids will receive foundational skills from instructors on the same style of acoustic instruments played on the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings (banjo, guitar, and fiddle). Campers also get to explore the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, learn about the music of Bristol and our region, work on projects with Radio Bristol, and receive instruction in singing, dancing, and more while making new friends. Campers receive the opportunity to hone their skills as a budding musician while busking in Historic Downtown Bristol and will give a final performance for parents at the museum at the end of the week.
No previous musical experience required just an interest in music and a desire to learn more!
Pick Along Summer Camp for beginners is designed for students aged 8-14. No previous musical experience is required, just an interest in music and a desire to learn!
June 16-20, 2025
Beginner Level – First time campers and those wanting a refresher in the basics
June 23-27, 2025
Intermediate Level – Return campers & those who already have basic skills in music

Schedule

Monday – Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Fees

$200 for Birthplace of Country Music Museum members
$250 for non-members

Optional Instrument Rental

$25

* Discounts are available for families with multiple campers. Scholarships may be available upon request.
If you are selecting the Beginners option June 16-20, see below to pay registration fee and fill out registration form:
PAY REGISTRATION FEE

Summer Camp - 2025 Registration Form

Date*

MM slash DD slash YYYY

Which week are you registering your child for:*

June 16-20, 2025 (Beginner)

June 23-27, 2025 (Intermediate)
Camper's full name*Name camper wishes to be called*Name of Person Submitting Payment for Camp*

First

Last

Camper date of birth*MonthMonth123456789101112DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920Grade*T-shirt size*Does your camper have an instrument they will be bringing to camp?*

Yes

No
If "Yes", which instrument?

Acoustic Guitar

Banjo

Fiddle
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum's Pick Along Summer Camp offers the opportunity to learn about several traditional string band instruments and then choose one to focus on for the week. Please use the dropdown menus to select the order of instruments that your camper is most interested in learning:First ChoiceAcoustic GuitarBanjoFiddleSecond Choice:Second Choice:Acoustic GuitarBanjoFiddleThird choice:Third choice:Acoustic GuitarBanjoFiddleAre parents living in the same household? If "Yes", then it is not necessary to fill out address information for secondary parent/guardian, however, phone numbers should be entered.*

Yes

No
Parent/Guardian #1 living with child*Parent/Guardian/Child Address*

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

ZIP Code

Email*

Primary phone*Secondary phone*Work phoneParent/Guardian #2 name (if applicable)Address (if living in a separate household)

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

ZIP Code

Email

Primary phoneSecondary phoneWork phoneDoes your child have any known allergies (including foods) or general dietary restrictions?*

Yes

No
If "Yes", please specifyDoes your child require medication on an ongoing basis?*

Yes

No
If "Yes", please specifyIf "Yes", is the medication self-administered or do you require camp staff member to administer the medication?

Self-Administered

Staff-Administered
Please include dosage, schedule of dosing, and storage instructionsFor the safety of your child, it is important that we be made aware of any possible health issues he or she may be experiencing. In addition, please make us aware of any special needs or medical problems in the field belowDate of student's last tetanus shot*MonthMonth123456789101112DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920Emergency Contact #1 (Besides Parents/Guardians)*

Name

Relationship to child

Primary phone

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

Secondary phone

Emergency Contact #2 (Besides Parents/Guardians)*

Name

Relationship to child

Primary phone

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

Secondary phone

Other Persons Approved to Drop Off & Pick Up Campers:Please list the names and contact information of all persons other than Parents/Guardians who are allowed to pick up and drop off your child from Pick Along Summer Camp at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.

NOTE: Your child will not be released to anyone not listed here and designated individuals will be required to show photo ID.

*Additional rows created by selecting the + symbol with mouse click.Name:Primary Phone #:Secondary Phone #:Email Address: Does the parent/guardian(s) authorize the Birthplace of Country Music to obtain immediate medical care and consents to the hospitalizations of, the performance of necessary diagnostic tests upon, the use of surgery on, and/or the administration of drugs to his/her child or ward if any emergency occurs when parent/guardian(s) cannot be located immediately? It is also understood that his/her agreement covers only those situations which are true emergencies and only when parent/guardian(s) cannot be reached. Otherwise parent/guardian(s) can expect to be notified immediately.*

Yes

No
Name of Insurance CompanyPolicy NumberOther ArrangementsChild's Physician Contact Information

Name

Phone number

Please check any of the following that can be administered to your child by our camp counselors:

Tylenol

Bactine

Bee sting topical treatment

Aspirin

Benadryl

Peroxide

Ibuprofen

Neosporin

Ice or heat packs
I authorize the Birthplace of Country Music to capture, use, publish, and reproduce photographs, slides, moving pictures, or television video tapes of my child/ward for its records, public relations programs, social media, news coverage, and promotional purposes. Permission is granted for the camper to participate in all planned activities and programs, except as otherwise noted.*

Yes

No
I understand that payment is due in full at the time of registration to reserve a spot for my child. No refunds will be given to camp registrants if canceled less than two (2) weeks in advance. I also understand that no refunds or transfer funds will be made for withdrawal, failure to send, or incomplete attendance.*

Yes

No
In choosing "yes" below I state that I release and agree to hold harmless the Birthplace of Country Music, its agents, officers, employees and instructors, from any and all liability, claims, demands, or actions in any way related to injury and/or sickness which the child may suffer or incur as a result of program participication.*

Yes

No
Additional Comments:The information contained in this form will remain valid for one year unless amended by a parent/guardian/child. For more information or assistance, please call 423-573-1927 or email education@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org.

2025 Pick Along Summer Camp - Intermediate
2025-06-23 09:00 - 2025-06-27 15:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
At Pick Along Summer Camp, kids will receive foundational skills from instructors on the same style of acoustic instruments played on the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings (banjo, guitar, and fiddle). Campers also get to explore the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, learn about the music of Bristol and our region, work on projects with Radio Bristol, and receive instruction in singing, dancing, and more while making new friends. Campers receive the opportunity to hone their skills as a budding musician while busking in Historic Downtown Bristol and will give a final performance for parents at the museum at the end of the week.
No previous musical experience required just an interest in music and a desire to learn more!
Pick Along Summer Camp for beginners is designed for students aged 8-14. No previous musical experience is required, just an interest in music and a desire to learn!
June 16-20, 2025
Beginner Level – First time campers and those wanting a refresher in the basics
June 23-27, 2025
Intermediate Level – Return campers & those who already have basic skills in music

Schedule

Monday – Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Fees

$200 for Birthplace of Country Music Museum members
$250 for non-members

Optional Instrument Rental

$25

* Discounts are available for families with multiple campers. Scholarships may be available upon request.
If you are selecting the Beginners option June 23-27, see below to pay registration fee and fill out registration form:
PAY REGISTRATION FEE

Summer Camp - 2025 Registration Form

Date*

MM slash DD slash YYYY

Which week are you registering your child for:*

June 16-20, 2025 (Beginner)

June 23-27, 2025 (Intermediate)
Camper's full name*Name camper wishes to be called*Name of Person Submitting Payment for Camp*

First

Last

Camper date of birth*MonthMonth123456789101112DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920Grade*T-shirt size*Does your camper have an instrument they will be bringing to camp?*

Yes

No
If "Yes", which instrument?

Acoustic Guitar

Banjo

Fiddle
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum's Pick Along Summer Camp offers the opportunity to learn about several traditional string band instruments and then choose one to focus on for the week. Please use the dropdown menus to select the order of instruments that your camper is most interested in learning:First ChoiceAcoustic GuitarBanjoFiddleSecond Choice:Second Choice:Acoustic GuitarBanjoFiddleThird choice:Third choice:Acoustic GuitarBanjoFiddleAre parents living in the same household? If "Yes", then it is not necessary to fill out address information for secondary parent/guardian, however, phone numbers should be entered.*

Yes

No
Parent/Guardian #1 living with child*Parent/Guardian/Child Address*

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

ZIP Code

Email*

Primary phone*Secondary phone*Work phoneParent/Guardian #2 name (if applicable)Address (if living in a separate household)

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

ZIP Code

Email

Primary phoneSecondary phoneWork phoneDoes your child have any known allergies (including foods) or general dietary restrictions?*

Yes

No
If "Yes", please specifyDoes your child require medication on an ongoing basis?*

Yes

No
If "Yes", please specifyIf "Yes", is the medication self-administered or do you require camp staff member to administer the medication?

Self-Administered

Staff-Administered
Please include dosage, schedule of dosing, and storage instructionsFor the safety of your child, it is important that we be made aware of any possible health issues he or she may be experiencing. In addition, please make us aware of any special needs or medical problems in the field belowDate of student's last tetanus shot*MonthMonth123456789101112DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920Emergency Contact #1 (Besides Parents/Guardians)*

Name

Relationship to child

Primary phone

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

Secondary phone

Emergency Contact #2 (Besides Parents/Guardians)*

Name

Relationship to child

Primary phone

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State

Secondary phone

Other Persons Approved to Drop Off & Pick Up Campers:Please list the names and contact information of all persons other than Parents/Guardians who are allowed to pick up and drop off your child from Pick Along Summer Camp at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.

NOTE: Your child will not be released to anyone not listed here and designated individuals will be required to show photo ID.

*Additional rows created by selecting the + symbol with mouse click.Name:Primary Phone #:Secondary Phone #:Email Address: Does the parent/guardian(s) authorize the Birthplace of Country Music to obtain immediate medical care and consents to the hospitalizations of, the performance of necessary diagnostic tests upon, the use of surgery on, and/or the administration of drugs to his/her child or ward if any emergency occurs when parent/guardian(s) cannot be located immediately? It is also understood that his/her agreement covers only those situations which are true emergencies and only when parent/guardian(s) cannot be reached. Otherwise parent/guardian(s) can expect to be notified immediately.*

Yes

No
Name of Insurance CompanyPolicy NumberOther ArrangementsChild's Physician Contact Information

Name

Phone number

Please check any of the following that can be administered to your child by our camp counselors:

Tylenol

Bactine

Bee sting topical treatment

Aspirin

Benadryl

Peroxide

Ibuprofen

Neosporin

Ice or heat packs
I authorize the Birthplace of Country Music to capture, use, publish, and reproduce photographs, slides, moving pictures, or television video tapes of my child/ward for its records, public relations programs, social media, news coverage, and promotional purposes. Permission is granted for the camper to participate in all planned activities and programs, except as otherwise noted.*

Yes

No
I understand that payment is due in full at the time of registration to reserve a spot for my child. No refunds will be given to camp registrants if canceled less than two (2) weeks in advance. I also understand that no refunds or transfer funds will be made for withdrawal, failure to send, or incomplete attendance.*

Yes

No
In choosing "yes" below I state that I release and agree to hold harmless the Birthplace of Country Music, its agents, officers, employees and instructors, from any and all liability, claims, demands, or actions in any way related to injury and/or sickness which the child may suffer or incur as a result of program participication.*

Yes

No
Additional Comments:The information contained in this form will remain valid for one year unless amended by a parent/guardian/child. For more information or assistance, please call 423-573-1927 or email education@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org.

Museum Volunteer Orientation
2025-06-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
We want YOU to join our wonderful team of volunteers at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum!
Dates: Every other month on a Saturday

February 15, 2025
April 26, 2025
June 28, 2025
August 23, 2025
October 18, 2025
December 13, 2025

Time: 10 a.m.-Noon
Location: Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Learning Center
If you have a passion for Bristol and its musical legacy and love helping others, our museum volunteer program is the perfect fit for you!
Museum volunteers play a vital role in a number of key areas behind the scenes and on the front lines, such as working as a gallery assistant or docent, helping out in The Museum Store, working with the public at events, concerts, and programs, assisting with behind the scenes administrative or collections work and so much more! Our Museum Volunteer Orientation session gets you acquainted with every aspect of the museum to help you find your area of interest. Volunteer schedules are flexible and fun!
If you are interested in coming to our Museum Volunteer Training, call 423-573-1927 or email volunteercoordinator@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org.

Monthly Bluegrass Jam
2025-06-28 15:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-26 15:00 - 17:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, in partnership with the East Tennessee Bluegrass Association, hosts a monthly gathering of local musicians for a bluegrass jam session. The jam events are intended to provide a space for local musicians to gather and pick, collaborate, share their experiences, and—most importantly—to have fun. The jams are acoustic and only feature traditional bluegrass instruments: acoustic guitar, upright bass, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, and dobro.
The jams are free and open to the public. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Those just interested in joining as a spectator are welcome at no charge.
Bluegrass Jams will be held every fourth Saturday of the month from 3-5 p.m., serving as a great warm-up for Saturday night gigs. Musicians are asked to bring their own instruments.
The sessions will be held in the Learning Center at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
For more information call 423-573-1927.

Weekly Music Lessons with JAM Kids at the Museum!
2025-07-05 10:30 - 11:30 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
The July 5 Weekly Music Lessons with JAM Kids at the Museum is canceled due to the July 4 holiday.
Date: Weekly on Saturdays
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ET
Location: The Learning Center, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: $5 per class or $45 for 10 lessons
Through a new partnership with Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM), the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is a new affiliate location for the program, offering weekly music lessons at the museum for children grades 4-8 and beyond. JAM Kids introduces music through small group instruction on acoustic instruments common to the Appalachian region, such as guitar, banjo, and fiddle. Students may bring their own instruments, or they can be provided as a loan while your child is participating in the program. Other instruments may be introduced as to be determined by instructors. Weekly classes will be held throughout the year, and students can join the program at any point in the year.
Registration is required to participate in this program. You can download the Registration Forms and bring it with you when you drop off your child for their first lesson or complete it at the museum’s front desk upon arrival. Each week, lessons will be filled based on arrival and capped at 30 students. Registration allows you to participate but does not guarantee your spot each week.
We do not offer online registration or spot reservations for this program. Lessons can be purchased as-you-go for $5 or as a bundle of ten pre-paid lessons for $45. The bundle is a discounted rate and will expedite your check-in process, but does not guarantee your spot each week. The class will be closed if capacity is reached before your arrival. Scholarships are available upon request. For more information about signing up for JAM or to inquire about scholarships, email Erika Barker at ebarker@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org.
Registration Forms: Please bring all three forms with you when you arrive for your first lesson.

Registration Form
Student Contract
Media Release Form

Junior Appalachian Musicians is a non-profit and the parent organization for 50+ after-school programs for children in grades 4 – 8. We provide communities with the tools and support they need to teach children to play and dance to traditional old-time and bluegrass music. JAM introduces music through small group instruction on instruments common to the Appalachian region, such as fiddle, banjo and guitar. Each JAM program is individually operated and funded. By affiliating with the JAM organization, each program is eligible to receive support and resources for free and is licensed to use “Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM)” to identify their traditional music education program.
Be sure to check out JAM Kids on Facebook and Instagram!

The JAM Program Model
JAM is an after-school program for children in grades 4 – 8 and beyond that introduces music through small group instruction on instruments common to the Appalachian region, such as fiddle, banjo and guitar. Each JAM program is individually operated and funded. By affiliating with the JAM organization, each program is eligible to receive support and resources for free, and is licensed to use “Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM)” to identify their traditional music education program.
Junior Appalachian Musicians ® is a registered trademark of Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc.
In JAM, instrument instruction is often augmented by dance and vocal instruction as well as string band classes and group enrichment lessons, which introduce children to additional Appalachian culture and history. The JAM program model provides children with opportunities to not only learn traditional music, but to also perform in small and large groups. Field trips, visiting artists and an introduction to the rich history of music unique to each local community further supplement program offerings. Each JAM program is encouraged to foster musical traditions by teaching local styles of traditional mountain music and dance to children. Instructors are also encouraged to teach students to learn music by ear, as to preserve oral traditions as much as possible. Other teaching methodologies and instructional skills are covered in regional professional development and training sessions held multiple times per year and hosted by JAM. JAM also encourages student engagement across programs with regional performance and learning activities throughout the year. For a full list of benefits to affiliates, click here.
JAM believes that all children should have access to traditional old time and bluegrass music. It is recommended that each program provide financial assistance through scholarships to children in need. The program model bases tuition fees on student lunch status: $10/week for full pay children, and $5/week for reduced pay children.
Class sizes typically have a student teacher ratio of 8:1 or less. JAM mandates that each affiliated program conduct criminal background checks on their instructors, directors, and other staff members and volunteers. Programs must be held in public facilities accessible to the community. Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc prohibits discrimination against any persons on the bases of race, color, national origin, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, political beliefs, familial or parental status, and sexual orientation.
For a full listing of affiliation requirements, click here.
History of JAM
Realizing the need to preserve a vital aspect of mountain culture as well as the need for positive activities to underserved youth, Helen White, then a guidance counselor at Sparta Elementary School, founded the first JAM program in Alleghany County, NC in the spring of 2000 with help from other local musicians and educators. Interest in the program spread rapidly with assistance from the National Endowment for the Arts, NC State Arts Council, Blue Ridge National Heritage Area and “The Crooked Road – Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.”
In 2007, the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation provided funding to allow the development of a regional infrastructure. The Dana Foundation, Virginia Commission for Arts, the Virginia Foundation for Humanities, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Harris and Frances Block Foundation and the Tides Foundation have provided funding for materials development.
“Junior Appalachian Musicians” was incorporated in 2008 as a non-profit 501(c)3 tax exempt corporation to promote a shared vision of JAM and to provide an umbrella through which to offer resources, training materials and activities to benefit programs individually and collectively. Currently in nearly 30 locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, JAM affiliates are providing access to the joy of music to thousands of youth while instilling renewed interest and pride in their heritage.
Interested in learning more about JAM? Click here.

Speaker Session: The History and Archives of Maggard Sound Studios with Ryan Bernard
2025-07-08 19:00 - 20:30 | https://www.youtube.com/@radiobristolwbcm/streams
Join us on Tuesday, July 8 with Ryan Bernard as we explore the history and archives of Maggard Sound Studios in our next Speaker Sessions. Ryan will share the background and history of the Archives of Appalachia (the current repository for this collection); the importance and relevance of Maggard Sound Studios; why it is important to preserve this collection and how it came to the Archives, and the future prospects for the collection and scholarship.
Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Time: 7 p.m. ET

Location: In-person at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and streamed on Radio Bristol’s YouTube Channel

Cost: Free and open to the public
REGISTER TO ATTEND IN PERSON

Ryan Bernard is the Education and Outreach Archivist at the Archives of Appalachia, where he is responsible for offering primary source instruction, developing workshops and other public programs, and coordinating reference assistance for patrons onsite and via distance. In addition to these duties, Ryan also maintains audio and video digitization projects and requests for the Archives of Appalachia. Bernard is also an instructor in the Appalachian Studies Department at ETSU, where he teaches courses on the history and culture of the region. Prior to his work at ETSU, Bernard worked at King University as an Outreach Librarian and Program Coordinator/Associate Professor of Appalachian Studies. In 2013, he was part of the curatorial content team that designed the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol, Virginia. Bernard holds master’s degrees in Appalachian Studies from East Tennessee State University and Library and Information Science from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.

Museum Storytime - Moon Bound Girl
2025-07-11 10:30 - 11:30 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Date: Friday, July 11, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. EST
Location: The Learning Center, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: Free and open to the public
Theme: Moon Bound Girl
Join us in the museum’s Learning Center for our monthly Museum Storytime program. Aimed at toddler-age children and their grown-ups, we will gather on the first Friday of each month for a music- or Appalachia-related storybook, a tune or two by WBCM Radio Bristol show host Ella Patrick, and a related activity or coloring sheet. The craft will be creating moon craft plates.
Books that will be featured at Storytime include:

Moon Bound Girl: Melody’s Music by Leigh Ann Agee
Moon Bound Girl: Harmony’s World Tour by Leigh Ann Agee

Songwriters Circle Showcase
2025-07-12 14:00 - 15:30 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Songwriters Barnett Carr, Patrick Alan Green and Peter Gagnon share the spotlight in July’s Songwriter Circle Showcase.
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum and Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia are proud to present an exciting event designed to highlight the art of songwriting and the talented songwriters of our region. The public is invited to attend at no cost, though donations are appreciated.
Held quarterly each year, the Songwriters Circle Showcase features participants of our monthly Songwriters Circle. The Songwriters Circle meets every 2nd Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. ET.
Upcoming Showcase Dates: July 12, October 11
Upcoming Songwriters Circle Dates: August 9, September 13, November 8, December 13
Time: 2 p.m. ET
Location: Birthplace of Country Music Museum performance theater
Cost: Free and open to the public, though donations encouraged
REGISTER TO ATTEND

About the Songwriters
After years of failing to write what Barnett Carr perceived as the “perfect song,” he re-invented himself in the hill country of Texas and began writing from the heart. His album, “Dark Side of the Mountain,” is a concept album about Appalachia and features two GRAMMY winners.
Patrick Alan Green, a singer-songwriter from Bluff City, Tenn., describes his style as “genreless.”The first artist to record at downtown Bristol’s Audioasis, Green began his musical journey later in life. His music, including his latest album “Without A Halo & Wings,” is available on all streaming platforms.
Peter Gagnon, originally from New York, developed a love for the mountains during family vacations and later gravitated toward music, spending 15 years playing bass in his local church’s band. In 2021, he and his wife Barbara moved to Northeast Tennessee where they’ve found a new home among the mountains, its music and welcoming community. Peter regularly performs in local venues and with fellow songwriters from Songwriters of Highlands of Appalachia.

About the Program
The quarterly Songwriters Circle Showcase is an extension of the weekly Songwriters Circle program, organized by Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia, and will consist of artists who participate in the monthly Circle. The Showcase event is structured similarly to “in the round” events, with each songwriter introducing themselves and their song, which will be performed with or without accompaniment. The songwriter will then hold a discussion about the piece–the origins of the song, its structure, and inspiration–and take questions.
Led by Mary Munsey, a local musician, educator and founder of Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia, the monthly Songwriters Circle is open to songwriters of all ages and skill levels. The Circle encourages participants to share songs, brainstorm ideas, and support one another in their creative endeavors. Songwriter Circles are held the second Saturday of each month at the museum, 2-5 p.m. There is no cost to participate.
“The Songwriters Circle aims to foster a collaborative environment for songwriting,” said Munsey. “Importantly, aspiring songwriters do not need to play an instrument to join in the fun.”
The Songwriters Circle not only provides an opportunity for performance and networking, but also emphasizes the importance of clarity and storytelling in songwriting. The group’s mission is to encourage creativity, introduce songwriting shows to regional audiences, and elevate the appreciation of songwriting as a valuable art form.

About Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia

Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia is led by Mary Munsey, a local musician and educator, recently retired from Virginia Highlands Community College. The program offers a great deal of flexibility in its format for attendees, with varied songwriting interests and abilities. Some of the attendees play instruments and some are curious about songwriting and the process. Lyrics can sometimes only pare up with others that play instruments and put music with the words. Some writers don’t sing, but enjoy hearing others perform their songs. Some of the performances can be a cappella. Some members of the group write one to three songs between sessions and some write more. Sometimes as busy as life gets, writers don’t get to write new material between meetings. We don’t pressure anyone to write, and we don’t criticize anyone. We treat each other with respect. We don’t discuss politics, use profanity, or write antagonistic lyrics.

The focus is not on the beauty of the voice or skill of the instrumentation, but the clearness of the pronunciation and the effect of the song. We work on making sure the audience can hear every word. We are not professional musicians but we are creators of musical stories and that is the beauty of it. The sessions are open to anyone visiting the museum. Genres are not specified. Songs can be instrumental, folk, country, bluegrass, Americana, blues, humorous, jazz, R&B, electronic, and even pop, to name a few. Writers are allowed to bring CDs for sale and to accept tips after performances.
For more information about the Songwriters Showcase and Songwriters Circle programs, visit the Events page at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org. For more information on Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia, HighlandsAppalachia.org.

Teacher In-Service Workshops
2025-07-14 08:00 - 2025-07-15 15:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
THESE WORKSHOPS ARE NOW AT CAPACITY AND CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE ADDED TO THE WAITING LIST, PLEASE EMAIL RRODGERS@BIRTHPLACEOFCOUNTRYMUSIC.ORG WITH YOUR NAME AND DATE CHOICE.
Dates: Monday, July 14, 2025 (Elementary)
Tuesday, July 15, 2025 (Middle & High School)
Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: FREE
Professional Development Credit: Six (6) hours
This summer the Birthplace of Country Music Museum (BCMM) is offering free K-12 Teacher In-Service Workshops, scheduled for Monday, July 14 (elementary) and Tuesday, July 15 (middle and high school). Each workshop will consist of:

8:30–9 a.m. – Sign in, pick up educator packets, enjoy doughnuts and coffee
9 a.m.–12 p.m. – Birthplace of Country Music Museum activities and resources
12–12:30 p.m. – Lunch (provided)
12:30–3 p.m. – Activities and learning experiences with William King Museum of Art and Steele Creek Nature Center

With the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, educators will get an introductory museum tour, exploring the different TN and VA state standards that connect with museum content, including ELA, social sciences, music, STEM, and physical education; an introduction to museum-based lesson plans and/or learning activities, such as Banjo Bingo, Instrument Petting Zoo, or the History of Listening/Science of Sound; and access to a variety of educational resources.
We are awaiting confirmations on the second part of the workshop so watch this space (and we will update anyone who signs up as we have further details). In the past, we have partnered with a variety of cultural organizations for this section of the in-service, including the Tennessee State Museum, Teaching with Primary Sources, Virginia Humanitites and Virginia Folklife, Local Learning, and several local and regional museums.
Teachers will each receive an educator packet filled with information and resources, classroom and other swag, a complimentary ticket to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and a VISA gift card. They will also receive a certificate recording six (6) hours of professional development (licensure) credit, and there will be door/raffle prizes!
Sign up today for a distinctively fun and educational professional development opportunity to learn more about a variety of learning resources and ideas!

Museum Storytime - Country Music History
2025-08-01 10:30 - 11:30 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Date: Friday, August 1, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. EST
Location: The Learning Center, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cost: Free and open to the public
Theme: Country Music History
Join us in the museum’s Learning Center for our monthly Museum Storytime program. Aimed at toddler-age children and their grown-ups, we will gather on the first Friday of each month for a music- or Appalachia-related storybook, a tune or two by WBCM Radio Bristol show host Ella Patrick, and a related activity or coloring sheet. The craft will be creating a paint stick guitar.
Books that will be featured at Storytime include:

The Long Gone Lonesome History of Country Music by Bret Bertholf
