Mount Hope Regional Band

"The bandwagon is always rolling"

A living symbol of Appalachian resilience, intergenerational unity, and the enduring power of music in rural West Virginia since 2011.

Our Appalachian Story

🎺 Born from Crisis (2011)

When Mount Hope High School closed, threatening to end generations of musical tradition, our community refused to let the music die. Alumni Carrie Kidd rallied neighbors to create something new—a band for everyone.

🤝 Radical Openness

No auditions. No dues. No closed doors. If you own (or can borrow!) an instrument and show up with love for music and community, you belong here. Middle schoolers play alongside retirees.

🎭 Living Heritage

From our famous "flatbed bandwagon" performances to nursing home serenades, we carry forward Mount Hope's musical legacy that began with the town orchestra in 1897.

💛 Service & Healing

Beyond entertainment, we serve our community through 9/11 tributes, food distribution events, and bringing comfort through music to isolated populations across Fayette County.

The Mount Hope Way

🎵

Inclusive Repertoire

Patriotic marches, gospel hymns, Appalachian folk songs, pop classics—our music reflects our community's diverse heart and heritage.

👥

Intergenerational Learning

Weekly practices are informal town salons where young musicians gain mentors, elders stay engaged, and everyone shares stories alongside sheet music.

🚐

The Rolling Bandwagon

Our famous flatbed performances bring music directly to the people—at parades, festivals, and community celebrations across central Appalachia.

Your Seat is Waiting

No experience necessary, only a love for music and community. Join us at Mount Hope Christian Church for weekly practices and become part of Appalachian musical history in the making.