Join us for the Music School!
June 22nd ~ 26th, 2026
For the 25th year, the Cowan Community Center is proud to present the Cowan Creek Mountain Music School. We bring together some of our country’s finest old time musicians with students of all levels for a week of learning and fun.
Come join us as we share and celebrate our rich mountain heritage of lively tunes, heart-felt singing, spirited square dancing and storytelling. Whether an absolute beginner or an advanced musician, all students will improve their playing, dig deeper into the rich repertoire of Kentucky music and gain experience playing with other musicians.
Your Week at Cowan Creek in the Summer Time
Join Kentucky’s finest traditional musicians along with students of all ages as we celebrate our rich mountain heritage. Experience lively tunes, heart-felt singing, spirited square dancing and the authentic local stories and community that set our camp apart from all the rest.
Old Time Music Classes
Each day, students will spend the morning studying their primary instrument, learning repertoire and techniques, and hearing about important players from the region.
Evening Concerts and Dances
Something fun is happening every night, from concerts by our faculty and resident masters, to square dances called in a traditional mountain style.
Community and Culture
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of eastern Kentucky. Our school is more than just a place to learn music; it’s a community where you can experience the warmth and traditions of mountain life.
Jams & Workshops
Each afternoon, students have the chance to jam with students at their same level and speed. Then, they get to select from a variety of one-off workshops in music and more.
Topics can include things like: Mountain Singing Styles, Women Musicians of Kentucky, Exploring Two-Finger Banjo, and even Crankie-Making.
Our Teaching Style
The Cowan Creek Mountain Music School is dedicated to preserving and sharing the music of East Kentucky as a living tradition.
Whether you attend our online Winter Cowan or join us in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains for our summer program, you’ll have the chance to learn from instructors who’ve been immersed in Kentucky music their whole lives.
Here, we carry on not just the tunes but also the lore, stories, and memories of the elder musicians who taught us.
We offer classes for all skill levels, so whether you’re just starting out, or looking to hone your chops and dig deep into the unique repertoire of Eastern Kentucky, check out our classes and find your perfect fit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the tuition cover?
Tuition covers your classes, relative workshops and events for the week and most lunches. There are opportunities for scholarships. Lodging is not included.
What is the class size?
Classes are small, no more than 15 students in a class.
What if the class you want is full?
Please contact us to be placed on a waiting list.
ccmms@cowancommunitycenter.org
How do I know if my child is ready to take an instrument class?
It depends on their interest in music, their maturity and if they have the attention span necessary for a three hour class.
Exceptions to the age limit of 11 years old and up may be made for younger children who are already learning an instrument or who have an adult relative in the same class.
Children not yet ready for an instrument class should register for Kids on the Creek, a music, arts and outdoor activities class for kids 5 to 10.
What class level should I be in?
First, be sure to read the class description for your preferred class, that should give you an idea.
Select a class as best you can and if it turns out you or your teacher feel you’re mismatched, you can be shifted to a different class on the first morning.
Who puts this on?
Cowan Creek Mountain Music School is produced by the Cowan Community Action Group, Inc. CCMMS receives support from Appalshop and the Letcher County Board of Education.
Cowan Community Center is the hub of social, educational and cultural activities on Big Cowan and is run by the Cowan Community Action Group, Inc., a non-profit organization.
In 2008 the Cowan Community Action Group was awarded the Governor’s Folk Heritage Award for its work in promoting Kentucky’s traditional arts and in 2009 was semi-finalist for the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities’ Coming Up Taller Award.
More Answers…
If you have any questions or problems with registration, or if you prefer to pay by check, contact Stacy Dollarhide at ccmms@cowancommunitycenter.org or call her during work hours at the Cowan Community Center: (606) 633-3187. She’ll be glad to hear from you!
Stay Tuned…..
SPECIAL 25th Anniversary Events
2026 marks the 25th Anniversary for Cowan Creek Mountain Music School.
Special events and celebrations are in planning stages. Stay tuned!