Open to all 4th-8th graders (at any school), the Junior Appalachian Musicians program provides instruction in traditional mountain music. Elkin JAM participants may choose between banjo, guitar, fiddle*, or mandolin. Instruments provided as needed.

*new fiddle students with no previous experience only begin in the Fall semester. 

First class: Wednesday, January 21

Fall Break: Wednesday, April 15

Spring Break: March 25

Last Class/Final Performance: Wednesday, April 15

Please email elkinjam@reevesmusic.org with any accessibility requests upon registration, and with general questions.

Full refunds minus processing fees are available up to one week before class begins only. Payment plans and scholarships are available—feel free to register and select “Pay by check,” then email us for specifics. Want to sponsor another student? Your tax-deductible donation can help fund scholarships and make music classes accessible to all!

Have you been practicing on the banjo, fiddle, bass, or guitar and have been itching to get together with some other folks to make some music in a relaxed community setting? Then this class will be a perfect fit!

We will compile a list of traditional string band tunes that everyone is familiar with at the beginning of the semester so you will have plenty of time to dust them off before we play them together. We’ll be focusing on playing at a good danceable rhythm, phrasing, and intonation as we become more proficient at making music as a group.The instructor plays the instruments listed above, but if you play another traditional instrument, you’re very welcome to join in! Advanced beginner/intermediate skill level.

This is an adult level class but is open to students with a basic understanding of their instrument. Younger students are welcome if accompanied by an adult - we love parent/grandparent/grandchild combinations!

What to bring: String instrument of choice, notebook and/or recording device.

Prerequisites: Beginner level knowledge of your instrument. Feel free to email us if you have questions! 

Please note, this is a 12-week class taught over 13 weeks. No class the week of March 22-28.

Take your violin skills to the next level with this class. Intended for students with a fundamental knowledge of how to play their instrument, Fiddle Exploration will help students grow more confident in their playing in a supportive group setting. If you have questions about your skill level matching this class, don't hesitate to email us so that we can put you in touch with instructor Jonathan Owens.

This is considered an adult class, but younger students may be admitted with permission from the instructor.

Please email info@reevesmusic.org with any accessibility requests upon registration, and with general questions. Full refunds minus processing fees are available up to one week before class begins only. Payment plans and scholarships are available—feel free to register and select “Pay by check,” then email us for specifics. Want to sponsor another student? Your tax-deductible donation can help fund scholarships and make music classes accessible to all!

Please note, this is a 12-week class taught over 13 weeks. No class the week of March 22-28.

REQUIRED MATERIALS: fiddle/violin, notebook & pencil, recording device (such as a smart phone).

RDSM and Elkin JAM are inviting rising K-3rd graders to attend our "Tunes and Trails, Jr" summer camp June 15-19. Students will learn about the traditional music of the Blue Ridge and receive fundamental music lessons using singing, rhythm, and dance. In addition, kids will learn about the beauty of our region through nature studies, and get creative with arts and crafts.

Students should bring a refillable water bottle and wear sunscreen every day.

Parents should send students with snacks. Students will be outside daily (weather permitting) on the school grounds at 129 Church Street. Email info@reevesmusic.org with questions, including scholarship and accessibility requests. 

Each additional sibling registered can receive $20 off registration. Contact us to apply the discount.

Schedule: August 4-8, 9 AM - 12 PM

RDSM and Elkin JAM are inviting rising 4th-8th graders to attend our "Tunes and Trails" summer camp June 29-July 3, 2026. 

Students will learn about the traditional music of the Blue Ridge and receive basic instruction in how to play guitar, fiddle, or banjo in the old-time way. In addition, kids will explore the local natural beauty of downtown Elkin, including the Big Elkin Creek watershed.  From stream ecology to hiking and biking, kids will be able to enjoy time in nature and learn about the local watershed. Instruments and bikes provided as needed. Space is limited. Scholarships available. Special thanks to Watershed NOW and Trips for Kids for trail and bike assistance.

Students should bring a bagged lunch, refillable water bottle, snack, and sunscreen every day. Rain gear and a change of shoes/socks are recommended in case of inclement weather.

Some light snacks will be provided (please email any food allergies). Instruments and bicycles available upon request. Students will be walking from the school at 129 Church Street to local trails and parks. Email info@reevesmusic.org with questions, including scholarship and accessibility requests. 

Each additional sibling registered can receive $25 off registration. Contact us to apply discount

Schedule: Monday, June 29 - Friday, July 3, 9 AM - 3 PM