More Than Music

Why We Host
The House Sessions

Here at Wayfarer Appalachia, the sounds of our region are the heartbeat of our community. Nestled in Historic Tazewell, Virginia, we are more than just a restaurant and live music bar; we are a gathering place dedicated to the vibrant culture of Appalachia. A core part of our mission is our "On the House Sessions," a series that embodies everything we stand for. This is our way of giving back, fostering talent, and ensuring the rich musical traditions of our home continue to thrive.

The name says it all. "On The House Sessions" are free live music events. There's no cover charge, no ticket price—just an open invitation to experience the incredible artistry our region has to offer. But why do we do it? The answer is simple: we believe in the power of music to connect people and the importance of providing a stage for our local storytellers.

A Platform for Appalachian
Voices and beyond

Appalachia, with its deep-rooted history, has always been a cradle for extraordinary musicians, poets, and storytellers, much like the rest of the world. We proudly host gifted artists from beyond our cherished Southwest Virginia to join us in nurturing a new generation of Appalachian music, a passion that pulses at the very heart of our community. From the soulful strum of a banjo to the heartfelt lyrics of a modern folk singer, our mountains sing with talent. We see it as both our duty and our honor to provide a stage for these voices to be heard.

Our On the House Sessions are designed to be a launchpad for both rising stars and a welcoming stage for established artists. For emerging musicians, it's a chance to perform in a professional venue, build a following, and share their passion without the pressure of selling tickets.

For seasoned performers, it's an opportunity to connect with an intimate audience, try out new material, and celebrate the community that supports them. By removing financial barriers for both the artist and the audience, we create an environment focused purely on the music and the connection it fosters.

Building Community,
One Song at a Time

Wayfarer Appalachia was founded on the idea of community. We wanted to create a space in Historic Tazewell where neighbors could become friends and visitors could feel like family. The On the House Sessions are a cornerstone of this vision. When you walk through our doors for one of these events, you are joining a collective experience.

These days and nights are about more than just listening to a performance. They are about sharing a meal, raising a glass, and celebrating the shared culture that makes our corner of Virginia so special.

It's a chance for people from all walks of life to come together, united by the universal language of music. We believe that a strong community is one that actively supports its artists, and these sessions are our commitment to being a central pillar of that support system.

Cultivating and
Preserving Our Culture

The musical heritage of Appalachia is a precious resource. The stories, melodies, and traditions passed down through generations are a vital part of our identity.

At Wayfarer Appalachia, we are passionate not only about preserving this legacy but also about helping it evolve. The On the House Sessions are a living, breathing showcase of this dynamic culture.

On any given night, you might hear a traditional bluegrass band that sounds like it's straight from the front porch, followed by a contemporary singer-songwriter pushing the boundaries of Appalachian folk. This blend of old and new is essential.

It ensures our traditions are honored while also making space for new interpretations and fresh voices. By providing a consistent and accessible venue for this music, we help keep the cultural conversation alive and vibrant for future generations.

It's a Gift,
From Our House to Yours

Ultimately, the On the House Sessions are a gift. They are our way of saying thank you to the artists who enrich our lives and to the community that sustains us. We believe that art and music should be accessible to everyone, and this series is our tangible commitment to that principle. It allows us to invest directly in the cultural capital of our region, nurturing the talent that makes Appalachia unique.

We invite you to join us for our next On the House Session. Come discover your new favorite artist, connect with your neighbors, and experience the authentic spirit of Historic Tazewell. See firsthand why supporting local talent is at the core of everything we do.

To see our full schedule of events, view our menu, and learn more about our mission, please visit www.wayfarerappalachia.com. We look forward to welcoming you.