Celebrating Music in the Blue Ridge

Part of the mission of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge is to celebrate the cultural uniqueness and environmental beauty of the Blue Ridge region. While much of the work our FRIENDS volunteers perform is physically impacting their local outdoor communities, FRIENDS ultizies our special events to showcase the cultural heritage, often through music and art. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the inaugural Blue Ridge Jamboree in 2022 was the first major fundraising event held since 2019. 

The 2022 Blue Ridge Jamboree was the kick-off of Doc Watson at 100—Tribute Concert Program featuring “Doc's Legacy" by author and music scholar Dr. Ted Olson and music by T. Michael Coleman, Jack Lawrence, Wayne Henderson, and Jack Hinshelwood. With two shows, one in Roanoke and one in Asheville, over 800 attendees enjoyed an evening together hearing Doc Watson stories and songs.

Future Blue Ridge Jamboree events will continue to honor the music and cultural history that makes the Blue Ridge region so special.

About FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer and membership organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the Blue Ridge region. Members financially support FRIENDS programs. FRIENDS chapters are community-based organizations that empower and coordinate volunteers, projects, and events in their local areas.

We extend our reach by working with local and regional government, common-minded nonprofits, clubs and other organizations.