For the first time, the PacJAM program will offer adult classes at the Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Avenue, Tryon. Adults age 16 and over can register for basic folk guitar instruction from beloved folk performer Phil Johnson.

Adult classes will be offered on Wednesday evenings from 7-8 p.m. from Sept. 14 through Nov. 16. Classes will teach beginning guitar skills and provide a solid background in folk music. The small class size will allow plenty of one-on-one instruction and opportunities for jam sessions with the group. No prior experience is necessary.

Classes are also available for students ages 8-16. The 10-week fall session begins Sept. 14, and offers instruction in a choice of guitar, banjo, mandolin, or fiddle on Wednesdays from 4-6 p.m. Classes will also include singing instruction, folklore, contra dance, and periodic jam sessions. There will also be a field trip to visit the Scruggs Center in Shelby, N.C. for a hands-on journey, exploring bluegrass music originating in our area. PacJAM offers a 20 percent sibling discount for more than one child in a family. No prior music experience is required.

For both adult and student classes, a limited number of instruments are available for rent.

To register for this semester of PacJAM classes, or find more information, email pacjam@tryonarts.org, call TFAC at 828-859-8322 or stop by to pick up an application.

PacJAM (Pacolet Junior Appalachian Musicians) is in its third year at Tryon Fine Arts Center. PacJAM relies on master musicians from our region as teachers and advisors, and is dedicated to fostering appreciation for traditional music from our region.

Funding for the program has been provided through grants from the Ann L. Turner and Geoffrey M. Tennant Foundation, the D’Addario Foundation, the Wayne Henderson Foundation, Duke Energy Foundation and individual donors.

– article submitted by Michelle Fleming