Poster from the private collection of Tom Murphy

The complex traditions of bluegrass music have long been shaped by powerful voices, both on stage and behind the scenes. This talk moves from the stage to the perimeter of the festival grounds and industry, highlighting the ways women have impacted the genre (largely without recognition). Special attention will be given to women from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina; from festival promoters and managers to musicians, these women have not only contributed to the evolution of bluegrass, but have also shaped the culture and community surrounding it– and continue to do so. This approach not only highlights different areas of the industry, but also reveals the importance of how we study music (and culture) and why it matters. 

Speaker Bio:

Jordan Laney, PhD is a passionate scholar and community collaborator whose work spans the realms of cultural theory, Appalachian Studies, and bluegrass music. Holding a PhD in Cultural Theory, Jordan is an expert in the intersections of culture, research methods and identity. In addition to her scholarly work, Jordan is an intentional community organizer and advocate within the bluegrass community, serving as an organizer of the Leadership Bluegrass program for the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), working closely with musicians, festival promoters, and industry professionals to shape the future of the genre.

Throughout the region, Jordan is a passionate advocate for holistic wellness and community-building. She is the founder of Perennial Yoga and Movement Collective, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides accessible physical and social movement opportunities throughout Western North Carolina, ensuring that yoga is available to people from all walks of life, regardless of socioeconomic background. As a yoga instructor herself, Jordan believes in the transformative power of movement and mindfulness in fostering connection, resilience, and healing within communities.

This program is made possible in part by a grant from America 250 NC, an initiative by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.