Margaretville Central School Welcomes East Tennessee State University Bluegrass Pride Band for Special Student Performance

MARGARETVILLE — On April 16, students at Margaretville Central School experienced a lively and educational musical event as the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Bluegrass Pride Band visited campus to perform for Music Appreciation classes and the broader school community.

Music Appreciation students were treated to an engaging performance that also welcomed many K–12 students and staff, who joined in to listen, clap along, and immerse themselves in the music.

During the visit, students explored the origins of bluegrass music, its connections to American folk traditions, and the cultural roots of Appalachian music. The performance also introduced students to acoustic string instruments and highlighted the roles, collaboration, and improvisational dynamics that bring a band together.

The ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band is a premier, auditioned ensemble within the university’s nationally recognized Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies program. Directed by Professor Dan Boner, the group features award-winning student musicians and has performed internationally at prestigious venues including the Kennedy Center, NATO Headquarters, and the Smithsonian Institution.

“This was an incredible opportunity to bring music to our students in a meaningful, hands-on way,” said music teacher Jenna Tucker. “Experiences like this help students connect with musical traditions while seeing firsthand the creativity and collaboration that go into live performance.”

Margaretville Central School extends its sincere thanks to Music on the Delaware for making this experience possible and for helping bring the wider world of music into the classroom.