Living Trad

Community Development through Arts & Culture

Our Story: Kentucky Old Time Music, Inc., was founded in 2006 by a group of community-minded traditional artists at the forefront of a creative placemaking movement to celebrate, practice and share living Kentucky folk traditions; while exploring deeper, more diverse and therefore more authentic histories of our place and cultural inheritances. The Morehead Old Time Music Festival was our flagship event from 2006-2016, attracting festival-goers from all over the world to Morehead, KY to play Kentucky fiddle tunes, sing traditional ballads, dance traditional dances, observe crafts demonstrations and join in neighborly discussions about the contributions and complexities of our ancestors. To sustain these efforts we officially obtained our 501(c)3 nonprofit status in 2011. Today, we serve as an all-volunteer network of Kentucky traditional artists who share resources in order to strengthen the state-wide infrastructure dedicated to the practice, celebration and preservation of these precious art forms.

Our Vision: Kentucky Old Time Music, Inc. believes that Kentucky's folk and traditional arts should be highlighted as unique, diverse, and influential on the local/global stage.

Our Mission: Through various programs, resource sharing, and advocacy, Kentucky Old Time Music, Inc.’s efforts support a network among artists and opportunities that broaden the community's reach and honor the complex histories that shape our living traditions.

Through our Living Trad program, we offer:

  • Mini-grants and consultations to grassroots traditional arts organizers and organizations in Kentucky.

  • KOTMI maintains an international network of partnerships that open opportunities for Kentucky artists and strengthens Kentucky’s traditional arts infrastructure.

River of Earth by Pam Oldfield Meade

The Importance of Supporting Local Independent Artists and Musicians

In an era dominated by mass-produced commercialism, it is crucial that we recognize and support the talented pool of local independent artists and musicians who constantly breathe life into our communities. They are the ones who bare their souls through their art, ignite our imagination, and create an indelible impact on our culture. Therefore, it is imperative that we rally behind them and celebrate their contribution. Here, KTA presents a compelling argument outlining why supporting local independent artists and musicians is essential for the enrichment of our society.

1. Cultivating Vibrant and Diverse Artistic Expression

Local independent artists and musicians are a treasure trove of creativity and innovation. They often explore uncharted territories and defy conventional norms, daring to challenge established paradigms. By supporting them, we foster an environment that encourages the flourishing of diverse artistic expression. It is through this diversity that our culture thrives, benefiting us all by offering a broad range of artistic experiences, perspectives, and narratives.

2. Nurturing Local Culture and Identity

Local independent artists and musicians are the keepers of our distinctive local traditions and cultural heritage. They embody the essence of our history, stories, and values, showcasing them in their work. By supporting them, we help preserve and promote our unique local culture, preventing it from being swallowed by a homogenized globalized mainstream. Supporting these artists is a way to honor our roots, protecting our cherished traditions for generations to come.

3. Economic Growth and Sustainability

Supporting local independent artists and musicians is not merely a cultural endeavor but also an investment in our local economy. These artists contribute significantly to the growth and vibrancy of our communities. When we purchase their music, art, or attend their performances, we directly inject money into the local economy. This enables these artists to continue their work, pay their bills, and invest back into the community, creating a sustainable cycle of economic growth.

4. Fostering Creativity and Inspiration

Local independent artists and musicians provide inspiration beyond measure. Their compelling stories, sounds, and visuals have the power to uplift, move, and induce reflection. By supporting them, we inspire others to unleash their creativity and pursue their passions fearlessly. We create an environment where young artists and musicians feel encouraged to share their voices, knowing that their community values their unique talents.

Over the past decade, the music industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in the rise of independent artists. Armed with passion, creativity, and digital platforms, these artists have managed to break free from the constraints traditionally imposed by major record labels. The advent of social media, streaming services, and DIY production tools has empowered these independent musicians to reach a global audience without relying on the traditional gatekeepers. This newfound autonomy has given rise to a diverse range of musical styles and voices, fostering a rich and vibrant landscape in the industry. Independent artists are not only proving that they can produce high-quality music, but they are also redefining what it means to be a successful artist in today's ever-changing music landscape. With their genuine connection to fans, innovative approaches to promotion, and artistic autonomy, independent artists are shaping the future of the music industry.

The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain, is floating in mid-air, until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life.” — Jane Addams

We are so grateful for the presence of Kentucky Traditional Arts in our community. Not only is it a vibrant force in keeping the mountain music traditions we love alive and thriving, it directly supports independent bands like ours. Because of our partnership, we’ve secured multiple touring grants making possible tours and cultural exchanges in Wales and Ireland.” — CornMaiz String Band