In early 1997, Mike and Monica Bing, Dave and Sue Bing, Ron and Sherrell Wigal, and Kirk and Marsha Judd sat down at a meeting at Kirk’s house in Huntington, WV to discuss how to put on a festival/conference/workshop for WV Old Time music and poetry featuring real, live WV musicians and poets.  Allegheny Echoes, Inc. was born.  Now, for the 30TH year, we are pleased to present our annual study and celebration of West Virginia and Appalachian culture and heritage. It is an opportunity for students of all ages to join accomplished, honored performers for a week of instruction and fun in beautiful Pocahontas County, West Virginia. In addition to learning in intimate workshop settings, students will be invited to participate in exciting outdoor activities in the heart of the mountains that provided inspiration for some of the greatest work of West Virginia musicians and writers. Participants will be exposed to a type of interactive, collaborative instruction that is fresh and unique, yet preserves the honesty and emotional legacy of the culture.

Allegheny Echoes is the concept of a group of West Virginia musicians, writers and artists who wish to promote, support, preserve, and traditionally teach their art in a traditional setting. Their goal is to provide an accurate representation of West Virginia art that is not packaged and altered to appeal to a specific market. There is a strong emphasis placed on West Virginia style with an acknowledgement of the encompassing Appalachian culture. The Summer Workshops provide an opportunity for students of all ages and abilities to come together and learn about, appreciate, and enjoy the unique aspects of West Virginia.

“My People Was Music”