Efforts are being made to preserve folk music traditions in rural areas

Stacie Everett — Many people know "Virginia is for Lovers" as the mid-Atlantic state’s motto, but far fewer are aware that certain portions of the state have a deep history of old-time, folk, and bluegrass music. In Southwest Virginia, a remote area nicknamed "The Crooked Road" has been praised as a musical center. It recently got some extra assistance from non-profit organization, too.

Not Just a Random Stretch of Highway

This area of Virginia spans across 253 highway miles, and much of it passes through extremely picturesque areas. To someone who doesn't have a musical background, their appreciation might not be linked to the musical culture. However, even though the highway comprises a relatively short distance, it goes through 10 separate counties, and is home to several famous landmarks including the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum, the Ralph Stanley Museum, and the Rex Theater.

Furthering Traditional Musical Values

Although many areas of the United States have a deep background in music, there's always a danger of losing some of those roots as time passes. For several years, this particular area of Southwest Virginia has initiated efforts to attract tourists to the area by promoting it with its full name: The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.

However, area residents also realize that educating others about local music isn't just about spreading the word to tourists. It's also necessary for local children to grow up in an environment where traditional music is not only familiar, but offered as a creative outlet.

School systems in Southwest Virginia already have several programs geared towards students of all ages. Beyond taking classes led by qualified instructors, participants may also have performance opportunities throughout the state. Some have showed their skills on large stages, such as that of the Virginia Folk Festival, which occurs on an annual basis, usually in the state capital of Richmond.

Grants from a Famous Company

Musicians around the world already know the D'Addario company as one that's notable for creating high quality strings since the early 1900s. However, their contribution to the music world doesn't merely focus on producing accessories for musicians. There’s also a D'Addario Foundation, which regularly offers grants to programs that use music to educate others. By partnering with them, the foundation believes that it’s possible to increase the overall growth and appreciation of music around the world.

Help for the Crooked Road

The youth programs offered through The Crooked Road's programs shed light on specific styles of music that are embedded in the local way of life. Now, thanks to a $2,000 grant from the D’Addario Foundation, program leaders will have even more opportunities to make a positive impact, particularly through new performances, and four additional after-school programs.

Additionally, teachers will get the benefit of new materials, workshops, plus a recertification course that’s specific to rural parts of Southwest Virginia. Although educating others about music on a general scale is important, there is sometimes even more value in helping students keep their musical passions close to home.

Through their continual efforts, staff members who are involved with the Crooked Road program are demonstrating by example that music should not only be taught, but also spread in a collaborative way. Here, the full appreciation of an educational impact comes when learned concepts are constantly shared with others.

 

About the Author

Stacie Everett writes for various music sites.