The return of MerleFest means music for fans, support for students and community

The annual MerleFest returns for its four-day run Thursday. The festival is not just a celebration of traditional American music, but also an important way to bring in money for local causes.

Organizers say the festival is Wilkes Community College’s main fundraiser, pulling in more than $19 million to date for the school and its students.

MerleFest director Wes Whitson says among the beneficiaries is the Doc Watson Student Emergency Fund, which provides resources to those who are financially struggling so they can continue their education.

“MerleFest is a fundraiser first and foremost," he says. "All we do goes back into the college and into the students at Wilkes Community College to better the lives of folks in our community.” 

Like much of Appalachia, Wilkes County faces challenges including poverty, drug use and lack of education. 

Among the musicians at this year's festival is Sami Braman. She'll be playing MerleFest in Willie Watson’s band. Braman says many musicians benefit from nonprofit support, so she appreciates the festival’s philanthropic side.

“I feel like If you don’t have access to something like a teacher, or like an instrument that sounds good ... having access to those can be the difference.”

Some of the musicians performing in this year’s lineup include Old Crow Medicine Show, Turnpike Troubadours and Brandy Clark.