Hendersonville – As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of community and music is set to shine brightly in Henderson County. On December 28th, singer-songwriter Aaron Burdett, a Henderson County native and member of the Grammy-winning Steep Canyon Rangers, will headline a special concert at Trailside Brewery. This event, dubbed “A Holiday Homecoming,” aims to raise funds for the Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) program, which nurtures young talent in traditional old-time and bluegrass music.
Supporting Young Musicians in Henderson County
The JAM Kids program has become a cornerstone of music education across the mountains. One of the newest programs, Henderson County’s JAM kids boasts over 50 students in just six years. Carol Rifkin, Executive Director of the French Broad Valley Music Association, emphasizes the importance of community support in keeping the program alive. “We’ve all grown with the program and the kids have become a community together,” she said. “It takes a lot of community members pulling together to make it happen.”

Despite being one of the largest programs in North Carolina, JAM Kids of Henderson Co. operates without direct funding from the North Carolina State Arts Council’s Traditional Arts Program. This makes fundraising events like the upcoming concert crucial for providing instruments, scholarships, and performance opportunities for students.
A Night of Music and Connection
The concert will not only feature Burdett but also other special guest stars, creating an evening filled with musical talent and camaraderie. The funds raised will directly benefit the JAM Kids program, ensuring that students have access to loaner instruments and subsidized instruction. “Performing is a big part of the program and one of the JAM kids’ favorite things,” Rifkin noted. The children have showcased their skills at various events, including the NC Mountain State Fair and local celebrations.
The concert is more than just a fundraiser; it’s an opportunity for young musicians to connect with seasoned professionals. “Getting to play with professionals like Aaron Burdett and Jim Lauderdale is a great opportunity,” Rifkin explained. “It makes them part of the process of making JAM kids happen.”
Building a Sense of Place Through Music
The impact of the JAM Kids program extends beyond music education. It fosters a sense of pride and community among participants. “Cultural heritage and musical heritage are great connections for kids,” Rifkin said. “If you are from here, moved here, or are just passing through, kids all benefit from an understanding of how people were and are.”
As the concert approaches, excitement builds not just for the music but for what it represents—a celebration of tradition, community, and the future of mountain music in Henderson County. Tickets for the event can be purchased online, along with options for pre-ordering food and making donations.
For those looking to support local talent while enjoying an evening of heartfelt performances, “A Holiday Homecoming” promises to be a memorable night that highlights the importance of music in shaping young lives and preserving cultural heritage.