American Roots Music Institute
UNCSA is launching the American Roots Music Institute, a new program dedicated to
preserving and advancing the traditions of a range of roots styles while preparing
performing artists for the future. Thanks to a historic $10.1 million gift from Randall
and Kamalakshi Dishmon, the institute will offer a Bachelor of Music in American Roots,
a minor for undergraduates, and opportunities for high school students.
Students will learn from distinguished artist-faculty and nationally recognized musicians,
engaging deeply with the cultural heritage of North Carolina — one of the birthplaces
of American roots music. With access to a thriving community of performers, educators,
and innovators, students will gain world-class training in the very place where these
traditions began.
Minor and high school offerings will launch in the fall of 2026, with the first class
of undergraduates expected to enroll in the fall of 2028.
American Roots Music Institute News
UNCSA received a record $10.1M gift from Randy and Kamu Dishmon to launch the American
Roots Music Institute, honoring N.C.’s music legacy and training future artists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the American Roots Institute at UNCSA?
The American Roots Music Institute is dedicated to preserving and advancing the traditions
of bluegrass, folk, and other roots styles while preparing artists for the future.
Thanks to a historic $10.1 million gift from Randall and Kamalakshi Dishmon, the institute
will offer a Bachelor of Music in American Roots, a minor for undergraduates, and
opportunities for high school students.
Students will learn from distinguished artist-faculty and nationally recognized musicians,
engaging deeply with the cultural heritage of North Carolina — the birthplace of American
roots music. With unparalleled access to a thriving community of performers, educators,
and innovators, students will gain world-class training in the very place where these
traditions began.
When does the program launch?
The program will roll out in phases: an undergraduate minor and high school offerings in Fall 2026, followed by the first class of Bachelor
of Music majors in Fall 2028.
Is this a degree program?
Yes. Once fully launched, UNCSA will offer a Bachelor of Music degree in American
Roots in addition to an undergraduate minor.
Who can apply?
All high school and undergraduate students with an interest in the American Roots Music may apply to UNCSA’s School of Music. Students will have access to course offerings and an undergraduate minor, through the School of Music, starting in Fall 2026. A concentration in American Roots will launch for undergraduate students in Fall 2028.
How do I apply?
Students interested in the American Roots Institute may apply to UNCSA's School of Music using the online application.
Will the program be available to commuter students?
Yes, the American Roots Institute will be available to commuter and residential students in UNCSA's high school and undergraduate Music programs.
Who will be on the faculty?
More details about the program, including faculty members, will be announced at a later date.
What styles or traditions are covered under "American Roots" in this program?
- Bluegrass & Country Traditions – string band music, old-time fiddling, and the high
lonesome sound that shaped rural American identity.
- Folk & Ballad Traditions – narrative songs, spirituals, and oral traditions passed
through Appalachian, Anglo-Celtic, and African American communities.
- Blues Traditions – the foundation of much American popular music, emphasizing expressive
phrasing, call-and-response, and “blue” notes.
- Gospel & Sacred Traditions – spirituals, gospel and shape-note singing, carrying deep
communal and spiritual roots.
- Jazz & Early Popular Traditions – ragtime, New Orleans jazz, and swing.
What are the tuition and fees for the American Roots Institute? Is financial aid or
scholarship support available?
What careers will this prepare me for?
Graduates will be ready to enter careers as performers, songwriters, producers, educators
and cultural leaders. The program is built to connect students with the music industry
while honoring traditions and encouraging innovation.
What outcomes can we expect?
Graduates will benefit from the full conservatory model — intensive study with faculty and guest artists,
interdisciplinary opportunities across UNCSA’s five arts conservatories, and professional
connections through performances, recordings and community engagement.
Will there be public concerts or events?
Yes. As part of the conservatory model, UNCSA’s School of Music offers a wide range of performance opportunities and collaborations with other arts disciplines. The Institute also intends to highlight regional talent through festivals and guest artist opportunities, connecting students with the thriving roots music scene.
Why start this program at UNCSA?
As a public conservatory in North Carolina, UNCSA is well placed to meet growing demand
for formal training in American roots music. The Institute will build on the state’s
roots music heritage, which dates to the 1700s, when Scots-Irish and African traditions fused to create Appalachian old-time music and where the banjo—brought
from Africa—developed into a defining American instrument. Today, North Carolina offers
unparalleled access to a thriving roots music community, providing a network of mentorship
that connects students to both tradition and contemporary practice. The state has
produced countless legendary artists who shaped American roots music throughout the nation. For students seeking to study roots music in its authentic context, North Carolina provides a historically,
culturally, and practically resonant setting.
