Young musicians snag Spirit of Virginia award

A group of young musicians dedicated to preserving the sounds of traditional mountain music captured the Governor’s Spirit of Virginia Award at the Old Fiddler’s Convention in Galax during the Aug. 10-11 weekend.

Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin yesterday presented the Spirit Award to Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc. (JAM), a non-profit organization that the Governor’s Office described as “dedicated to teaching traditional mountain music to children.”

As attendees enjoyed live performances of old-time and bluegrass music, the Governor and First Lady emphasized JAM’s vital role in preserving and promoting Appalachian musical heritage. They highlighted JAM’s commitment to enriching children’s lives through music and fostering a deep sense of community and cultural pride.

“Their commitment to education, tradition, and community impact is a model for all organizations striving to make a difference,” the governor said.

“Presenting the Spirit of Virginia Award to Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc. (JAM) highlights how important the arts are to fostering community, in this case through traditional mountain music,” said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. “JAM’s mission to provide tools and support for teaching old-time and bluegrass music to youth, bridges past to present and embodies the outstanding spirit of Virginia.”