The Pellissippi State Bluegrass Ensemble was established in 2009 at the urging of then college president Allen Edwards. Led by Larry Vincent, Associate Professor of Music at the college, the ensemble has performed internationally in China, Austria, the Czech Republic and Italy. The ensemble participated in IBMA’s college band showcase in 2017, and has performed in prestigious venues in the Knoxville area such as the Tennessee Theatre, the Bijou Theatre, the Museum of Appalachia and has appeared on multiple occasions on WDVX’s Blue Plate Special. Hardin Valley Thunder, the group’s unofficial name, is made up of students attending PSCC who wish to share their musical talent with our community. “Bluegrass music is a part of East Tennessee,” Edwards says. “Bluegrass has a special place in our community because of its origins in this part of the country. The Bluegrass Ensemble is a reflection of that.” Students enrolled in the course are eligible to receive scholarships for their participation.
