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Week concludes with PacJAM Fest performances

TRYON—Pacolet Junior Appalachian Musicians (PacJAM) is a blossoming community of youth and adults who create traditional music together throughout the year at Tryon Fine Arts Center. The last week of June is a perfect opportunity to hear, feel, and support the joys of this local program offered by TFAC.

There is still limited space in the PacJAM Summer Camp, meeting Monday, June 24, through Friday, June 28, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at TFAC. Youth from age five through high school may enroll in beginning, intermediate, or advanced classes, play an acoustic instrument, and learn about Appalachian arts from inspired and highly experienced teachers. 

The cost is $150 for a single child and $120 each for siblings; scholarships are available by contacting Julie at pacjam@tryonarts.org or (864) 420-6407. A final concert will be open to the public at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 28, in TFAC’s auditorium. Learn more about the camp and register at tryonarts.org/pacjam. 

Adults wishing to grow their bluegrass skills and knowledge through renowned musicians can attend PacJAM’s Adult Summer Workshops between Monday, June 24, and Thursday, June 27, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The price is $40 for a Monday / Tuesday workshop or a Wednesday / Thursday workshop; $75 is the discounted price for all four days. See the TFAC website for bios of the excellent qualifications of these teachers and to register.

On Friday, June 28, PacJAM Fest will showcase PacJAM students and activities in downtown Tryon and at the TFAC site. Advanced musicians will play on Trade Street from 5 to 7 p.m. during Tryon’s 4th Friday celebration. Patrons can “Pay What They Want” to enjoy grilled hot dogs and beverages outside TFAC’s Pavilion from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with an open jam from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Amphitheater. Families can also folk dance to traditional music in the Pavilion, with free entry and a cake walk.

To learn more, email PacJAM Program Director Julie Moore with questions at pacjam@tryonarts.org or call (828) 859-8322.

 

Submitted by Marianne Carruth