If you love old-time music and the lively energy of Appalachian traditions, mark your calendar for Fiddler’s Reunion 2024 in Elkins, West Virginia.
Hosted by the Augusta Heritage Center, this long-time event gathers West Virginia’s top fiddlers, pickers, and singers for a full day of workshops, performances, and dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or simply a fan of authentic mountain music, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Event Highlights
Fiddle Workshop with Tessa McCoy | 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. | Augusta Heritage Center Dance Hall (303 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241)
Start the day by learning from one of West Virginia’s finest, Tessa McCoy, a State fiddle champion. This hour-long session, hosted in the Augusta Heritage Center Dance Hall, will focus on teaching a fiddle tune and technique. While it’s tailored for intermediate players, beginners who are willing to keep up with the pace are welcome too. Admission is $20, or $10 for students and AmeriCorps members.
West Virginia Tune Workshop with Chance McCoy | 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Augusta Heritage Center Dance Hall (303 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241)
Bring any instrument and join Chance McCoy, a musician known for his time with Old Crow Medicine Show, for a workshop that dives into classic West Virginia tunes. This session is also aimed at intermediate players but welcomes all levels. Admission is $20, or $10 for students and AmeriCorps.
Square Dance and Flatfoot workshop with Tony and Kyre-Anna Minney | 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. | Augusta Heritage Center Dance Hall (303 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241)
Come dance! Learn some flatfoot steps and square dance moves that you can immediately put to good use at the square dance in the evening! This workshop is free and open to the public.
Fiddler Showcase | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Elkins Town Square Rotary Amphitheater
Head over to the Elkins Town Square Rotary Amphitheater for an incredible Fiddler Showcase featuring 20-minute sets from some of the best fiddlers in the state. Expect performances from well-known musicians like Mack Samples, Joe Herrmann, Jenny Allinder, Jimmy Costa, Chance McCoy, WV State Fiddle Champion Tessa McCoy, and many more. This outdoor event is free and open to the public, making it a perfect stop for anyone passing through town.
Youth Old-Time Music Showcase | 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Elkins Town Square Rotary Amphitheater
Stick around for the next generation of West Virginia’s music scene as players 17 and under take the stage. This showcase will include students from the Augusta Strings Program and is also free to enjoy at the Elkins Town Square Rotary Amphitheater.
Cherokee Dance, Storytelling, and Musical Extravaganza | 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Randolph County Community Arts Center (2 Park Street, Elkins, WV 26241)
Venture to the Randolph County Community Arts Center for a mesmerizing cultural experience. The Cherokee Dance, Storytelling, and Musical Extravaganza brings the rich traditions of the Cherokee people to life through social dance, storytelling, and music. This portion of the day is co-sponsored by the Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area and offers a great family-friendly activity.
Square Dance | 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. | Randolph County Community Arts Center (2 Park Street, Elkins, WV 26241)
The evening wraps up with a lively square dance at the Randolph County Community Arts Center. Calling will be led by Mack Samples, with music provided by Jesse Milnes and Friends. It’s a perfect way to cap off a day full of music, community, and fun! Admission is $10, or $5 for students and AmeriCorps.
Why You Should Attend
Fiddler’s Reunion is more than just a gathering of musicians—it’s a vibrant celebration of Appalachian heritage and a wonderful opportunity to experience the deep musical traditions of West Virginia. Whether you’re playing, dancing, or simply soaking in the sounds, this event is a must-attend for anyone who appreciates old-time music and the cultural richness of the region.
Plan your trip to Elkins-Randolph County now and immerse yourself in the sounds and stories of the 2024 Fiddler’s Reunion!
For more information or inquiries, contact the Augusta Heritage Center at 304-637-1209 or visit their website at http://augustaheritagecenter.org
For other events happening in Randolph County, visit https://elkinsrandolphwv.com/events