Alleghany JAM is a non-profit organization for youth in Alleghany County. It gives children lessons and immersion in the old-time music and dance of the region, bringing the community together, providing opportunities for the county’s youth, and keeping Appalachian traditions alive!

It was truly a community effort, under the direction of artist José Luis Vilchez, and involving Arts Council members, teachers, students, and community members all working together. It is amazing what art and community can do!

The mural weaves together a few very special elements. It honors the founder of Alleghany Junior Appalachian Musicians, Helen White, a Counselor at Sparta School, who sadly and suddenly passed away a few days before the arrival of the artists to Sparta. It also incorporates the traditional Appalachian music instruments from the JAM logo designed by a local graphic artist. All intertwined together in the region's beautiful mountain landscape.