Bluegrass is a genre of music that originated in the Appalachian region of the United States. It is characterized by its use of acoustic instruments, such as fiddle, banjo, guitar and mandolin, and features tight harmonies and fast tempos. The term "bluegrass" also refers to a specific style of playing these instruments, which emphasizes quick, intricate melodies and improvisation. Bluegrass music often tells stories about rural life, love, and hard times, and is deeply rooted in American folk traditions.