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American Roots Series

As a musical tradition, American Roots was born out of early folk music, then shaped by the country’s political and cultural evolution through the 20th century. Today it bears the influence of a wide range of musical styles, including early jazz and gospel, folk, bluegrass, Cajun, country, spirituals, and many others, with a come one, come all bent.

Southern Rail, a bluegrass concert
Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Local bluegrass band featuring CCM faculty member Rich Stillman on banjo. As the Boston Herald said, Southern Rail gives us, “First rate bluegrass…precise harmonies, sharp instrumental work…soaring and lush.”

Concord Open Bluegrass Jam  A weekly, community driven jam session led by Maxfield Anderson. Open to acoustic musicians at all levels, as well as community members who wish to listen and enjoy the beautiful sanctuary. Thursdays, 7:30 – 9:00 pm

Bluegrass Band Scramble If you’ve ever played in a jam session, or if you can play three chords in rhythm, come out and try your hand. The Scramble is purely for experience and enjoyment.
April 29

Group Classes – Classes are taught with the folk tradition in mind in a community-based social setting.  Pick up songs shared in the Bluegrass and Roots tradition, learning melodies by ear.

Song-based and aural learning works a whole different part of the brain than reading music off the page.  Learning in this manner opens up a whole new world of musical and social possibilities. Whether you’re a beginner or the best on the block there’s a place – and a class – for you here.


Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances.

– Maya Angelou