Registration is Open

Sponsored by Martin Guitar

June 12-14, 2026

Since 2005, the Wind Gap Academy for Kids (BGA) has taught kids to play, sing, and perform bluegrass music on-site at the festival. The free three-day program consists of guitar, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, bass, dobro, and cello instruction; group sessions; harmony singing; and guest appearances by musicians performing at Wind Gap. The grand finale is a ‘Graduation Gig’ Sunday afternoon on the Main Stage. Approximately 25 kids participate each year. They have fun, learn new skills, grow in confidence and make friends that can last a lifetime.

We are committed to keeping traditional bluegrass alive by passing it on to the upcoming generation through education.

BGA Staff

For 2026, the Academy is led by Sara Larsen. Sarah is a dynamic educator and versatile musician whose career spans classical, jazz, bluegrass, and contemporary styles. With extensive formal training and a rich performance background, she brings both technical depth and creative flexibility to her teaching. As a sought-after clinician and private instructor, Sarah creates a supportive, inspiring environment where students of all levels can grow and find lasting joy in music.

Classes

We offer instruction in banjo, bass, cello, dobro, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin. Singing is part of the program every day.

BGA Schedule (subject to change)

FRIDAY— ORIENTATION

6:00-6:30 pm Sign in and be in seats by 6:30.
6:30 pm General orientation for all students. Bring your instruments! You will be playing the first night!

SATURDAY — CLASSES
10:00-Noon Harmony Singing, Sectional Instruction & Ensemble Practice
Noon-1:30 pm Lunch with your family
1:30-3:30 pm Harmony Singing, Sectional Instruction & Ensemble Practice

SUNDAY — GETTING READY FOR THE BIG GIG!
10:00-11:30 Rehearse, Certificates, Class Photo, etc.
11:30-12:30 pm Lunch with your family
12:45 Meet Backstage

1:00 Perform on the Main Stage


Program Requirements

Before enrolling, please be sure your child:

  1. Can attend classes all three days, from Friday night’s orientation through Sunday’s Main Stage performance.

  2. Will have an instrument for all sessions, including orientation.

  3. Has a basic knowledge of his/her instrument. For instance, fiddle students should be able to play an A scale and play a simple tune such as Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. Guitar students should be able to play A, D, and E chords and change comfortably between chords.

Recommendations

  1. BGA is designed for kids aged 8 and up. However, if your child has not quite turned 8 but has been taking lessons, plays with basic proficiency, AND has an adequate attention span, we will consider accepting him or her if space allows.

  2. We recommend that students bring a tuner to classes with them, either an electronic tuner, tuning fork, or pitch pipe.

  3. Guitar, dobro, and banjo students should also bring a capo suitable for their instrument.

Registering Your Child

  1. Registration begins on end of February.

  2. There is no charge to participate in the academy.

  3. Kids 15 and under are admitted free with a ticketed parent or guardian. Please visit our TICKET PAGE to purchase tickets.

  4. To register your child for BGA, click the registration link at the top of this page (available by end of February), fill in all questions, and click “Submit” ONCE.

  5. Many of you will want to know what the BGA tunes will be this year. Links are posted on Mark Panfil’s website by early May.

Thank you!

REGISTER