Carson-Newman hosts Wild Blue Yonder in Concert

Carson-Newman University presents Wild Blue Yonder in concert Monday, March 25. Sponsored by C-N’s Appalachian Cultural Center, the 4 p.m. concert will be held in Thomas Recital Hall located in Tarr Music Center. The event is free and open to the public.

Mountain Gospel, Celtic and traditional tunes in Appalachian style are the musical signature of Wild Blue Yonder band, based in Knoxville. Mandolin, banjo, guitar, cello, vocals and percussion combine in a rootsy blend, honoring the rich cultural traditions of Appalachia while serving up lively foot-stomping tunes too. The four-piece ensemble features classically-trained cellist/vocalist Kristiana McCombs Arnwine, recent winner of Sevier County’s Mountain Soul vocal competition.

“The Appalachian Cultural Center welcomes all kinds of culture and art from across the region, and we are really excited to bring music to campus, especially something that’s so seasonally appropriate following shortly after St. Patrick’s Day,” said Dr. Wesley McMasters, director of C-N’s Appalachian Cultural Center. “This band embraces multiple aspects of Appalachian heritage in exciting ways through music that is unique to our region.” 

The group’s sacred repertoire pays homage to the Christian foundations of Southern Appalachia, and its members enjoy sharing the Gospel message with every audience. They also infuse each show with a Celtic air, offering a few songs from the British Isles in celebration of the Scots-Irish heritage of East Tennessee. Wild Blue Yonder has performed professionally for more than 20 years across East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia and Western North Carolina and has produced three CDs. Their wide variety of roots music can be heard on Spotify and other digital platforms.