Bluegrass Music Academy begins group sessions; spots still available

The Bluegrass Music Academy aims to shape future leaders by promoting bluegrass music education. Group sessions have begun, though spots remain available for those still interested in joining the program.

Lessons are held at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum. After receiving a grant from the Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation, the academy expanded its programs to offer students more comprehensive music instruction and leadership opportunities.

Randy Lanham, who leads the academy’s efforts, said the grant has expanded programs that are building a new generation of leaders in bluegrass music.

“With so many ideas for growing our lessons and outreach programs, we realized we needed more dedicated time to build these initiatives and empower others to step into leadership roles,” Lanham said.

Under Lanham’s direction and with help from local musicians Chris Armstrong and Randall Howard, the academy now offers private lessons, online instruction, expanded group classes, and special programming. Lanham said the focus is not just on playing music but also on inspiring leadership.

Former students Mackenzie Bell and Braydon Hood are among those stepping up as instructors. Bell is a fiddle player who began in group lessons and now teaches both group and private lessons while pursuing a degree in Traditional Music at Owensboro Community Technical College. Hood has a classical violin degree from the University of Kentucky and joined the staff as a mandolin instructor, blending his love for classical and bluegrass music.

Lanham said volunteers play a crucial role in the academy’s success. Sarah Malone and her son Parker, both former students, now lead kids’ classes and organize performances at local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Retiree Orville Snyder, a fiddle player, also volunteers by assisting with lessons.

The academy is known for its community outreach. Lanham said musicians donate their time to perform at nursing homes, hospitals, and other nonprofit organizations. Lanham added that the joy music brings to residents shows how powerful a few simple notes can be.

“So many people think they have to be a trained teacher to serve through music, but that’s not the case,” Lanham said. “You can start with a few simple notes or chords and teach a lot of music. A song doesn’t have to be hard to be fun to play — the smiles from residents show that being present and sharing music is what truly matters.”

The next session of group lessons began on October 22. For more information or to sign up, visit bluegrasshall.org/education/lessons.

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}