Debut Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising a success

The Appalachian Cultural Music Association held their first annual Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising April 12-13 in Wytheville, VA. The event was designed to shine a light on the unique mix of old time, Americana, and bluegrass music that is native to the Southern Appalachian region.

More than 30 bands were featured alongside workshops, a trade show, special events and showcase opportunities for young musicians, the unveiling of a number of historical exhibits, and the distribution of awards for performers and others involved in this Appalachian folk art form.

ACMA hopes to build the festival into a destination event for talent buyers interested in authentic roots music from this region, and were delighted by the response from show producers and arts organizations this first year. Another goal is to bring greater visibility and awareness to the music, and offer a place for pickers, singers and music lovers to congregate at the start of the festival season each year.

ACMA President Tim White says that this first year’s success shows the viability of their vision.

“We are poised now for this event to evolve as a major attraction for music lovers and musicians to gather each April in Wytheville to celebrate our beloved music and to find creative ways to celebrate our music, musicians and our heritage to the world.”