Ten years ago, a grant program in the Basin area schools brought Appalachian studies to the curriculum, including traditional music. Students learned to play the banjo, guitar and fiddle from local artists, eventually forming the Rural Challenge band. At the time, there were those who thought the program was a waste of valuable school time.

For Jarrod Payne, however, it was a life-changing experience. A recent graduate of Copper Basin High School, he recently received a $2,000 Share America Foundation scholarship to help with expenses as he attends Cleveland State in the fall. “Music is pretty much a way of life for me,” he said. “It tells a story and helps expand the mind in a different direction.

Payne was 11 years old when the Rural Challenge program led him away from his initial disgust of traditional Appalachian music and the banjo and “nasally singing” in particular. “I still love rock ‘n roll,” he said, but the banjo is his chosen instrument now. He said he began to listen to the lyrics and hear the stories and the passion the musicians put into it. “Any theme you want is in there.”

Payne said Rural Challenge was a looked-down-on program “but I’m glad they did it. Rural challenge made a big difference in my life,” he said, adding, “I hope in a lot of others too.” He said music gives him a new perspective and he has learned to analyze music in a completely different way.

After leaving Ducktown Elementary, Payne took lessons his Rural Challenge teacher, Charles Little, and began playing with Little and guitarist Charles Stiles on the stage at the flea market in Copperhill. Both musicians took Payne under their wing, sharing their traditional music. Lisa Jacobi saw Payne’s performances and, before long, he was invited to join Ducktown Station, now known as Steel String Session. He continues to play with the band and hopes to continue while in college.

At first, he said, being part of a band took so much time that he couldn’t join his friends as they hung out, went to parties, and participated in typical teenage activities. It didn’t take him long, though, to decide “it’s all fun. I loved it.” He said he has gotten to travel, meet new people and see new places. “It’s been one big adventure.”

He admits to being a little stressed about going to college – he’s the first in his immediate family to do so – but is excited as well. Ultimately, he plans to study music and become a professional musician or a teacher. “I hope to spread my influence and show kids to keep at it.”

Payne is the son of John Payne and Jennifer Cheatham of Ducktown. He is the stepson of Joe Cheatham. He is the grandson of Luke and Linda Coleman of Ducktown and the late Avery and Loney Payne.

The scholarship was given in memory of the organization’s late benefactor Dottie Rambo. The organization’s scholarship committee, including both education and music professionals reviewed the applicants and scored them on academics and musical abilities.

The award was announced at the July11 Sacred Sounds Fridays concert. Payne appeared at the event playing “Amazing Grace” and playing “Beethoven’s Old Hen” along with a full set of gospel songs performed with Steel String Session featuring his bandmates Lisa Jacobi, Pete Dasher, Denny Mixon, and John McLeod.

“I was greatly impressed by the depth of knowledge and interest in the variety of styles that Jarrod has,” said Joe Turner, Share America chairman. “He is certain to touch people around the world with his talents.” Randall Franks, Share America Foundation president. “I know that Jarrod is a talented young man with a great vision for his music. He will use these funds to study and expand the opportunities for his life and the potential for his impact on the lives of others.”