Rocky Branch Community Center: Bluegrass & Gospel

If you ever want to be reminded about what's great in Blount County, I advise you go to Rocky Branch Community Center in Walland on any Friday night. I went last night with my sixteen year old daughter and two year old son. Rocky Branch offers the best of bluegrass and gospel music in a genuinely friendly atmosphere. The Community Center welcomes musicians to jam in six of the old classrooms of the converted schoolhouse and on the second Friday of each month invites them to perform on the small stage. Admission is free and children are welcome.

The truly wonderful thing about this gathering place is that you have a mix of oldtimers whose families have been in Blount County forever and newcomers who have come for the music. I met one man who has moved here from California and was just plain happy that he could walk around with his banjo around his neck. He proudly introduced me to his son who seemed as enthusiastic about the experience as his dad. I also met a CPA who recently moved to Townsend and was there with his wife to join in with their guitars. Of course, I introduced myself wherever I could and saw several people I knew and a couple from my church who like so many others just come to enjoy the music.

Whether you are running for election as Judge or just bored with your Friday nights, the friendly mix of the new with the old and some great music make Rocky Branch Community Center a must visit spot in Blount County. Thanks to the good folks who make this Center a truly great gathering place.