WiseJAMS Music Program

Location of Southwest Virginia Museum in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Victorian Parlor
Main Park Address: Southwest Virginia Museum, 10 West First St. N., Big Stone Gap, VA 24219.

When

Oct. 1, 2026. 3:45 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.

The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is delighted to announce the 2026 fall semester of the WiseJAMS Music Program! WiseJAMS celebrates and preserves the rich Appalachian Mountain music traditions by offering affordable, hands-on classes in fiddle, old-time banjo, and guitar for small groups of young musicians in an after-school setting.

Classes will start Sept. 3 and end Nov. 19 with graduation being on Dec. 1. Classes will meet on Thursdays from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. and are open to students in grades 3–8. Participants are expected to attend each weekly session. During class, students will enjoy a light after-school snack followed by a fun and engaging 90-minute instructional lesson.

We are committed to keeping this program accessible to all families. Tuition is $180 per semester for full pay, $90 for partial pay, and scholarships are available for any student who needs assistance. We want every child who is interested to have the opportunity to join us. Instruments will be provided on loan at no cost for the duration of the program.

For more information about the WiseJAMS Music Program, please contact Doretha Cole at Doretha.cole@dcr.virginia.gov or call the park at 276-523-9640.

Music

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: No.
Extra fee: $180 $90.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-523-9640
Email Address: SWVAMuseum@dcr.virginia.gov