Old-time mountain and bluegrass music is more than a cultural treasure in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It can be an economic one, too. A recent study reported an analysis of music venues showed an economic impact of $20.7 million from 26 traditional music events in western North Carolina. The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership and the N.C. Dept. of Cultural Resources announced the findings at the annual meeting of the BRNHA Partnership. The study looked at 26 music venues in the Blue Ridge Music Trails. “This study shows that traditional music venues and events contribute to the economic well-being of our communities and provide a very satisfying experience for tourists,” said Angie Chandler, executive director of the BRNHA Partnership.