Abstract

Appalachian folk music has a rich heritage, although society has the misconception that Appalachian music is uncultured and closed off. To the contrary, the folk music of Appalachia has been directly linked to the music traditions of Ireland, Scotland, England, Africa, Germany, Spain, and Italy. The migration of people from other countries to Appalachia has been attributed to significant historical events such as the signing of the Treaty of Paris and the African Slave Trade. These migrants brought with them their musical traditions, which influenced the music of people living in the Appalachian region. These musical influences come in different forms, ranging from folk songs, melodies, and lyrics to the instruments native to these respective areas. While many Scots-Irish and English folk songs are found in Appalachia, these songs were passed down from generation to generation through aural transmission (storytelling) and, over time, made their way to Appalachia. These folk songs have been researched, preserved, and recorded by ethnomusicologists, but many sources say their origins have been overlooked and misassociated. Just as with the folk songs, this missassociation continues with folk instruments. Alongside my thesis, I made my own recordings to contribute to the preservation of Appalachian folk music. Through my creative work, I, along with other Appalachian musicians from Eastern Kentucky University, set out to define Appalachian folk music and protect its history.

Semester/Year of Award

Spring 2024

Mentor

Joyce Hall Wolf

Mentor Department Affiliation

Music

Mentor Professional Affiliation

Professor of Voice and Vocal Pedagogy

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Document Type

Bachelor Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelors

Department

Music

Presentation

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGDKMXgQSI/kSE2k5qpGab-o4CJxZLGWw/edit?utm_content=DAGDKMXgQSI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

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