“A culture’s identity is embodied in its folk music. Communities have invested their genius in this music for generations, across the centuries, and its vitality is our legacy and its perpetuation our responsibility. We are engaged in the transmission of culture.”

- Purpose Statement, The Swannanoa Gathering

If you’re anywhere near Western North Carolina during July or August, have we got a hot tip for you. Stop reading this right now and click on swangathering.com to get tickets for at least one public performance during The Swannanoa Gathering.

Just folks: The Swannanoa Gathering

Founded in 1991, The Swannanoa Gathering is a folk music education program guided by some of the best performing artists and teachers in the world. Hosted by Warren Wilson College every summer, The Swannanoa Gathering welcomes participants from all over the country and world to experience an intimate, personalized learning experience. Students of all ages design their own curriculum by choosing from a variety of courses during their week-long stay.

The good news for the rest of us? Throughout July and August, The Swannanoa Gathering hosts a number of public performances.

“Preserve, promote and pass on traditions”

The mission of The Swannanoa Gathering is to “preserve, promote and pass on the traditions that will insure the future of our priceless folk heritage.”

Western North Carolina's folk music is deeply rooted in Appalachian culture. It incorporates many unique traditions such as African American music, including banjo, and Cherokee influences. Settlers from England, Scotland, and Ireland who arrived in the 17th and 18th centuries introduced a wealth of musical styles including ballads, fiddle tunes and dance music. The folk music scene in North Carolina today is becoming increasingly diverse, with artists from many backgrounds perpetuating traditional styles while incorporating new and innovative sounds.

While you’re on campus

The Swannanoa Gathering is held on the campus of Warren Wilson College, which is nestled between Asheville and Black Mountain, North Carolina (just off I40 or US70). When you attend public performances of The Swannanoa Gathering, you’re invited to explore the beautiful campus grounds, which feature living classroom spaces that are worked by WWC student crews.

Warren Wilson College Farm: The farm likes to have visitors, but please remember that they’re a working farm and not a petting zoo. Do not touch or feed the animals! Please park in designated parking spots. Click here for guidance on visiting the farm.
Warren Wilson College Garden: Stroll through nearly three-acres of organically raised crops including vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs.
Warren Wilson College Trails: There are miles of beautiful trails surrounding the college campus. Please note that the River Trail is still closed for repairs following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. Non-river trails are open.

For more information, visit swangathering.com/camp-experience/non-sg-activities

Tickets and more information

For more information about The Swannanoa Gathering program and public performance schedule, visit swangathering.com.

Bonus performance

On July 3 at 7pm, the Black Mountain Center for the Arts is hosting a gig by four of The Swannanoa Gathering’s esteemed faculty members and musicians: Don Stiernberg, Evan Price, Greg Ruby, and Kevin Kehrberg. Get your tickets now at blackmountainarts.org

About the author

This blog story was written by Amy J. Schultz, an award-winning author, brand/marketing strategist, and overall creative type. She, her husband Brian, and their giant dog Bentley love their downtown Black Mountain neighborhood.

IYKYK: The Swannanoa Gathering is an internationally known folk music mecca