Ethno USA 2024

Coming into its fourth year, JM International’s world folk program, Ethno USA returns in 2024 to Greensboro, North Carolina continuing its partnership with the North Carolina Folk Festival, and domestic partner organization, Folk Alliance International.

Scheduled to take place from August 29th to September 9th, Ethno USA 2024 promises an array of performances, starting with a community concert at the University of North Carolina Greensboro’s Recital Hall and two opening act performances on the main stage at the North Carolina Folk Festival’s 10th anniversary edition for several thousand people.

The music education outreach of the program includes workshops at three elementary schools and a masterclass at UNCG, providing a unique learning experience for students and participants alike.

This year Ethno USA aims to expand by gathering 35 participants, supported by four artistic mentors and six crew members. Special mention goes to confirmed guest mentors: Billy Two Rivers (local indigenous Tuscarora-Lumbee drum keeper), Mägnus Bäckström (Swedish founder of the Ethno program), Rissi Palmer (North Carolina African-American Country musician), and Professor James Shields (Black American historian), who all bring their expertise and insights to enrich the Ethno USA learning experience.