Menze, who died in November 2011, is remembered for his contributions to a wide variety of art forms. For many years Menze taught art in Jackson County public schools. His interest in the music of this region resulted in his contribution towards the founding of a Junior Appalachian Musicians Program in Jackson County. 

JAM is an after-school program that provides young people instruction and performance opportunities in Mountain Heritage Music on traditional Appalachian instruments. All Jackson County youth in grades three to eight can join.

It is an affiliate program of the regional JAM, INC. Funding is provided by the North Carolina Arts Council and Jackson County Arts Council and sponsored by the NC Cooperative Extension and 4-H. 

For information on how to donate to the fund, call 828.586.4009 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..