When the bluegrass community gathers in Chattanooga this October, the IBMA Foundation will be working around the clock to support the artists, students, educators, and fans who drive our music forward. World of Bluegrass (WOB) week is a major highlight on our yearly calendar. From high-energy showcases to educational resources, here is a breakdown of how the Foundation is shaping this year’s event to support the future of bluegrass.
Featured Activities:
College Bluegrass Educators Luncheon | Friday October, 23 | An annual networking event connecting educators who teach bluegrass at the college and university level.
College Bluegrass Band Reception | Friday, October 23 | An evening of networking, pizza, and collaborative jam sessions for college students. It’s an opportunity for these students to connect, exchange musical ideas, and participate in jam sessions that foster creativity, musicianship, and community.
Bluegrass College Band Showcase | Saturday, October 24 | The Foundation looks forward to hosting a dedicated stage showcasing talented college bluegrass bands from across the country!
This stage is in Miller Plaza and is generously sponsored by the Segal Bluegrass Collective featuring the following bands,
- Berklee College of Music Bluegrass Ensemble, Gentlemen’s Gambit
- Bethel Renaissance Bluegrass Band | directed by Sophia Wright and Scott Shepherd
- Colorado College Bluegrass Ensemble | directed by Keith Reed
- Denison University American Roots Ensemble | directed by Adam Schlenker
- The East Tennessee State University Bluegrass Pride band | directed by Dan Boner
- JMU String Band | directed by Dr. Annie Savage
- OCTC Capital Bluegrass Band at Owensboro Community College | directed by Scott Napier
- Pellissippi State Community College Bluegrass Band | directed by Larry Vincent
- The Mountain Music Ambassadors from the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music at Morehead State University | directed by Daxson Lewis
- The UNG (University of North Georgia) String Band | directed by Esther Morgan–Ellis
- Tigertown Roots at Clemson University | directed by Ryan Wilson
- Lotsa Lonesome Bluegrass Band, UNC Asheville | directed by Wayne Erbsen
- UT Appalachian Strings | directed by Evie Andrus & Sean McCollough
- Bluegrass at Virginia Tech | directed by Noah Lohr
2nd Annual Biscuits for Bluegrass Fundraiser | Friday, October 23 | This morning event is about more than breakfast—it’s about investing in the future of bluegrass. Come rub elbows with bluegrass stars, bid on unique items in our silent auction, and connect with leaders in the bluegrass community. Only a few tickets still remain, get them here!
Whether you’re near or far, you can support the IBMA Foundation this October. Our online silent auction features over 50 unique items and packages. Get ready to bid and look for our auction here.
IBMA Foundation Expo Booth | Wednesday – Saturday | We’d love to meet you at our booth at the Trade Expo #17! Learn about our programs, grants, and scholarships, and the inspiring impact we’ve had on the future of bluegrass. Find out about our new projects and grants. Are you looking to create your own bluegrass legacy? Ask us how we can help you as we’ve done for many others.
How You Can Get Involved
Every event the IBMA Foundation hosts at World of Bluegrass is made possible by the generosity of our donors and sponsors. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation online, or reach out to Executive Director Cassie Wright at info@bluegrassfoundation.org to discuss legacy giving and sponsorship opportunities. Stay tuned for more details, and we’ll see you in Chattanooga!
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