A community arts center is offering educational opportunities for young musicians in the Commonwealth. The Leeds Center for the Arts in Winchester is opening their Bluegrass University. The program is available on Monday nights from 7-9 p.m., and students age 11-18 can apply.
Jayd Raines is a volunteer for the Leeds Center and an educator for Bluegrass University. He said the importance of the arts cannot be understated.
“I think the arts, in general, are so important. Especially for young people. We live in a day and time where there’s so much negativity everywhere. If we can give them an opportunity and a positive experience, we are going to work as hard as we can to do this,” said Raines.
Raines, an eastern Kentucky native, said he believes fostering a love for regional music in today’s youth is important, and vital for the continuation of the bluegrass genre. He also said he hopes the academy will inspire a new generation of bluegrass artists.
“We’ve lost several phenomenal bluegrass musicians over the last couple years. It’s kind of on us to help keep the tradition of that music going by fostering an interest and a love for it in younger generations that can continue to take it forward,” said Raines.
He said Bluegrass University was inspired by another music education program at the Leeds Center, Rock University. He added that that program has seen a lot of interest over the years, and said he is proud to bring more opportunities like it to the children of Kentucky.
Raines said the program will help musicians develop their skills, including ensemble skills, and musical understanding through practice and performance. Placement auditions will be held on August 4, registration costs $25, and monthly tuition is $130. Participation is not limited to just those who live in the Winchester area, Raines said anyone who can make the drive is encouraged to audition.
A form to sign up for auditions, as well as more information about the Leeds Center and their other programing can be found here.