MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

1PM – 5PM | RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER (RCC) MAIN LOBBY
PRE-REGISTRATION PICKUP AND ONSITE SALES


TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

8AM – 8PM | RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER (RCC) MAIN LOBBY
PRE-REGISTRATION PICKUP AND ONSITE SALES

8AM – 2AM | RCC 202
INSTRUMENT CHECK AND LOST & FOUND OPEN

9AM – 9:50AM | RCC 304
NEW ATTENDEE ORIENTATION
IBMA World of Bluegrass and the city of Raleigh have a lot to offer. Whether this is your first time, or you just want to get a fresh perspective on the most important week in bluegrass, this session will help you make the most of your time at the conference and in the city.

10AM – 10PM | RCC 203
IBMA YOUTH ROOM OPEN FOR JAMMING

10AM – 10:50AM | RCC 306
CELEBRATING BIG STRIDES IN INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS: WHAT’S NEXT FOR THIS FAST-GROWING COMMUNITY
Bluegrass is exploding across Europe, Asia, South America and more thanks to the proliferation of the internet and Youtube. This panel includes artists and actors from the USA, Europe and beyond, who perform the music, run festivals, and develop cultural exchanges around the world. Discussions will include the joys, successes and challenges, as well as the difficulties international acts face when attempting to bring their music to the United States. They will also discuss how, by working together rather than in isolation, they are growing the community and what advocates around the world can do to help.

11AM – 11:50AM | RCC 306
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI), BLUEGRASS AND BEYOND: CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION
AI can now generate music by sampling and rearranging bits of audio from existing recordings. This creates a gray area for the recorded music industry–who owns these songs? This session will explore this gray area through a discussion of two “bluegrass” songs generated “in the style of Dolly Parton” by an AI called Jukebox. This will be followed by a Q&A discussing bluegrass music ownership (legal and artistic), revenue streams, and artist rights in the age of generative AI.

11:30AM – 12:20PM | RCC 303
BREATHWORK TO REDUCE STRESS AND PERFORMANCE ANXIETY sponsored by Active Potential
Being present is key to performing your best, but life centered around performance, in combination with travel, management, relationships, and the actions of others you cannot control, can be stressful, exhausting, and overwhelming.

11:30AM – 1:00PM | RCC 305
PUBLISHER’S CORNER Q&A SESSION sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective, with an intro from the U.S. Copyright Office
The writing of a song is just the beginning of its journey. Then comes a series of steps including copyright, publishing, pitching, song holds, mechanicals, song licensing royalty payments and more. Bring along your questions and let our panel of seasoned music professionals help you gain a better understanding of the process…step by step. This is a session you won’t want to miss!

12PM – 12:50PM | RCC 304
STATE OF BLUEGRASS RADIO sponsored by Bluegrass Country Radio

12PM – 12:50PM | RCC 306
LIVE BAND COACHING WITH STEPHEN MOUGIN sponsored by Dark Shadow Recording
Stephen Mougin will work with a band to dig deep into musical performance concepts, geared to help them (and any band) improve. During the workshop, he will pause to explain strategies and take questions from the audience.

1PM – 2PM | RCC VARIOUS ROOMS
CONSTITUENCY MEETINGS

2PM – 3:30PM | RCC 302C & 303
SONG
CIRCLES sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective
Back by popular demand, song circles are an opportunity to share your songs with others in a casual setting. It’s a long-standing tradition in the songwriting world that helps keep you connected. Just bring along a new song or two, your instrument of choice, and join in the fun! Circles led by Dawn Kenney and Melody Williamson.

2PM – 4PM | RCC BALLROOM C
GIG FAIR sponsored by Midwood Entertainment
The event, a rare meet-and-greet opportunity in the midst of a hectic and fast-paced music industry event, serves as an organized information exchange for emerging artists and event producers. Using a speed-dating format, artists can take the first step in building important business relationships with the people who matter most. RSVP-Only

4PM – 5:30PM | RCC BALLROOM AB
IBMA KEYNOTE ADDRESS & RECEPTION BY MATT GLASER
Hidden Threads: Bluegrass in the American Musical Tapestry
In this dynamic presentation, Matt Glaser’s unbridled passion for American music in all its forms will take attendees through the lesser-known threads that went into the creation of bluegrass music; beautiful elements from early jazz, blues, and gospel, alongside old-time music and Tin Pan Alley. Matt will illuminate elements that bluegrass shares with other styles, discovering a myriad of startling origin stories alongside other fascinating nuggets of music history.

6PM – 7PM | LINCOLN THEATRE
IBMA WORLD OF BLUEGRASS KICKOFF PARTY

7PM – 11:35PM | VARIOUS VENUES
IBMA BLUEGRASS RAMBLE OFFICIAL SHOWCASES

10PM – 2AM | VARIOUS VENUES
LATE NIGHT SHOWCASES


WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

8AM – 8PM | RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER (RCC) MAIN LOBBY
PRE-REGISTRATION PICKUP AND ONSITE REGISTRATION SALES

8AM – 2AM | RCC 202
INSTRUMENT CHECK AND LOST & FOUND OPEN

9AM-9:50AM | RCC 303
TAI CHI WITH JIM LAUDERDALE

9AM – 9:50AM | RCC 306
SUPERSESSION – WOMEN IN THE BUSINESS OF BLUEGRASS

Bluegrass has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated industry. However, there are now more and more women—and women of color—who are holding major leadership roles in companies, labels, and beyond. These women help shape how the genre is perceived and their presence is paving the way for other women to find a place in the business of bluegrass. Join the discussion with powerhouse women who not only work behind the scenes but are also leading the way and shaping the perceptions of the bluegrass industry today.

Jamie Deering (Deering Banjos), Claire Armbruster (Planning Stages), Lillian Werbin (Elderly Instruments), Michelle Lee (Broadcaster), Brandi Waller-Pace (Fort Worth African Amer Roots Music Festival & Decolonizing the Music Room), Marian Levy (Rounder), Mary Beth Martin (Earl Scruggs Center), Carly Smith (BGHOF).

9AM – 10:30AM | RCC 402
BREAKFAST 2 BUSINESS sponsored by Midwood Entertainment
This networking session over a gratis hot breakfast allows agents to foster new and strengthen existing relationships with talent buyers through a focused information exchange including agent rosters, showcase schedules, and booking dates for next year’s calendar!

10AM – 10PM | RCC 203
IBMA YOUTH ROOM OPEN FOR JAMMING

10AM – 10:50AM | RCC 303
YOGA ON THE ROAD sponsored by Active Potential
Join Lisa Joy for an energizing practice to increase presence, awareness, balance, accuracy, and dexterity, to optimize your ability to perform your best. Learn seated and standing movements and breathing techniques that you can use in any space and any outfit you find yourself in on tour.

10AM – 10:50AM | RCC 304
PAPER & PEN – WOMEN IN SONGWRITING sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective
We are blessed with an abundance of talented songwriters in bluegrass. New songs are what keep our music fresh and vibrant. Our panel for this WOB Songwriter Track Session will feature four women who represent the best of the best in the songwriting world: Irene Kelley, Donna Ulisse, Jaelee Roberts, and Kristen Bearfield. Each will offer insight into their own particular writing style. This session is “a must” for any serious songwriter!

10AM – 10:50AM | RCC 305
PRESERVATION CAFE: A BLUEGRASS MUSIC COLLECTIONS AND ARCHIVES CONVERSATION
Gathering of archival institutions to share issues, experiences, and best practices for bluegrass music legacy preservation with a small group discussion for institutional archivists, curators, staff members, directors, and private collectors to discuss collections, issues specific to music preservation, and exhibit development.

10AM – 10:50AM | RCC 306
PREFIX-GRASS: FUSION AND STRING BAND MUSIC
Bluegrass affords many ways of fusing sounds and styles in the present and includes many examples of fusions in its history. This discussion raises questions, hopes, and strategies with regard to the concept of fusion. Bring your questions, concerns, and hopes for fusion in and around Bluegrass. This session is an extension of the String Band Summit, where students, researchers, and music-makers consider and experience string band music across lines of geography, genre, and occupation.

11AM – 1PM | RCC BALLROOM AB
IBMA MOMENTUM AWARDS LUNCHEON Sponsored by Campbell University, School of Law
Individual awards sponsored by Bluegrass Country Radio, Pre-War Guitars Co., & Rounder Records
The IBMA Momentum Awards recognize artists and business people in the early years of their bluegrass music careers. This catered event will feature awards presentations and performances by Momentum Band of the Year nominees. Join us to support and celebrate emerging talent in the bluegrass community.

12:30 PM – 5:30PM | RCC 201
BLUEGRASS COUNTRY RADIO SESSIONS

12:30PM – 1:00PM: Corner House
1:00PM – 1:30PM: Grain Thief
1:30PM – 2:00PM: Rick Faris
2:00PM – 2:30PM: Missy Raines & Allegheny
2:30PM – 3:00PM: The Faux Paws
3:00PM – 3:30PM: The Faux Paws
3:30PM – 4:00PM: Henhouse Prowlers
4:00PM – 4:30PM: Stillhouse Junkies
4:30PM – 5:00PM: Big Howdy
5:00PM – 5:30PM: Thomas Cassell

1PM – 5PM | RCC EXHIBIT HALL C presented by Martin Guitars
EXHIBIT HALL OPEN

1PM – 2PM | RCC BALLROOM C
DJs, MEET YOUR LABELS! INFORMATION EXCHANGE sponsored by Bluegrass Country Radio
Sixty minutes of speed dating format, allowing label reps, publishers, and songwriters to exchange contact info with broadcasters, podcasters, and DJs. Bring your business cards and merch for the ultimate DJ/Label exchange!

1PM – 1:50PM | RCC 306
SUPERSESSION – OH, DIDN’T THEY RAMBLE: THE BLUEGRASS SIDE OF ROUNDER RECORDS
Rounder Records has played a foundational role in bluegrass history, releasing classics by Norman Blake, J.D. Crowe & The New South, Béla Fleck and hundreds more. Marking the publication of “Oh, Didn’t They Ramble: Rounder Records and the Transformation of American Roots Music,” this panel convenes Rounder founders/IBMA Hall of Fame members Ken Irwin, Marian Leighton Levy and Bill Nowlin with broadcaster Daniel Mullins and author David Menconi to talk history.

1PM – 2PM | RCC VARIOUS ROOMS
CONSTITUENCY MEETINGS

2PM – 5PM | RCC 302C
BILLY BLUE RECORDS SHOWCASE sponsored by Billy Blue Records

2PM – 4PM | RCC 203
YOUTH MINI-CAMP presented by the California Bluegrass Association

2PM – 2:50PM | RCC 304
AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PODCASTING sponsored by The Bluegrass Situation and Bluegrass Country Radio
The BGS Podcast Network editorial team gathers together to provide a step by step look into producing and distributing the fastest growing (and fastest changing!) content medium in the market: podcasts. Moderated by Picky Fingers Banjo Podcast creator and host Keith Billik, this panel will provide insight on development, recording, post production, marketing, distribution, and everything in between.

2PM – 2:50PM | RCC 306
AVOIDING TOKENISM IN TRAD MUSIC sponsored by Ear Trumpet Labs
Recruiting marginalized people to increase diversity, without addressing the conditions that create exclusion, results in tokenization. This makes marginalized people feel treated like stand-ins for their entire communities. Panelists will discuss the nuances of tokenization and how to avoid it.

2:30PM – 3:20PM | RCC 303
A VOCAL WORKSHOP WITH DEDE WYLAND
Dede Wyland is an acclaimed bluegrass vocalist and sought after vocal instructor who teaches workshops across the country and abroad. In this workshop you will gain a clearer understanding of some basic vocal principles that can transform your singing experience. Learn tips and techniques that improve breath support, tone quality, range and overall vocal quality. Join this class for an hour of illuminating instruction and fun! Class involves some attendee participation in breathing and vocal exercises.

2:30PM – 3:20PM | RCC 305
THE JOYS AND CHALLENGES OF RAISING A MUSICIAN

This session will offer an opportunity for parents to gain perspective about the questions that surround daily life, and fostering a musician. How to balance music, school, and other interests. How to encourage without creating problems, how to support in times of disappointment, and share joy in times of success. Deanie Richardson (Sister Sadie), Tristian Scroggins (Missy Raines and Allegheny) and David Moultrup (therapist) will offer their personal experiences growing up in this industry and traveling professionally since young teenagers.

3PM – 3:50PM | RCC 304
ANALYZE THIS: USING NUMBERS TO MAKE YOUR EVENTS SUCCESSFUL sponsored by Midwood Entertainment
All events can benefit from analytic assessment. The numbers are out there; you just need to know where they are and how to apply them. This session will tap into the minds of both event bookers and band representatives to unlock the tools you need to increase attendance at your venues, theaters, and festival fields.

3PM – 3:50PM | RCC 306
THE DIY MUSICIAN: HOW TO RUN A SONG CAMPAIGN sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective
Song promotion is nothing like it used to be, and there’s a world of difference between those succeeding at it and those making videos about it. In this panel we will discuss what has been working, what hasn’t, and dispelling antiquated practices using case studies of successful song campaigns I’ve managed. There will be an open discussion on defining your relationship with social media both creatively and boundary-wise. And finally, we’ll talk about breaking into playlist algorithms on streaming services.

3:30PM – 4:20PM | RCC 305
INSTRUMENT VALUE, PRESTIGE, AND ACCESSIBILITY: PHILOSOPHIES BEHIND HIGH-END AND ENTRY-LEVEL INSTRUMENTS
Bluegrass musicians treasure high quality and artistically refined instruments, but the entry-level category is extremely important to cultivating new players. In this panel we’ll hear multiple perspectives from luthiers that straddle both worlds, opening the doors for new musicians and refining their craft to appeal to the most discerning ears.

4PM – 5PM | RCC 306
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION (DEI) TOWN HALL
This session will provide an update about the work of the IBMA’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee, including a discussion of key topics related to fostering diversity in our community, brainstorming ways the IBMA can improve and/or take our work further, and opportunities to get involved.

5PM – 6 PM | RCC 306
Y’ALL COME! OPEN JAM SESSION WITH THE PO’ RAMBLIN’ BOYS
Bluegrass is an “open arms” music more than ever and continues to be the music for anyone and everyone. The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys are proud to help celebrate diversity, equality, and inclusion during the bluegrass industry’s biggest week.

5PM – 6:30PM | RCC BALLROOM RECEPTION AREA
AGENT / TALENT BUYER RECEPTION sponsored by Midwood Entertainment
DJ / ARTIST RECEPTION sponsored by Bluegrass Country Radio
INTERNATIONAL RECEPTION sponsored by Alys and Paul Schiminger
SONGWRITER MEET & GREET sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective

7PM – 11:35PM | VARIOUS VENUES
IBMA BLUEGRASS RAMBLE OFFICIAL SHOWCASES

10PM – 2AM | VARIOUS VENUES
LATE NIGHT SHOWCASES


THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

8AM – 5PM | RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER (RCC) MAIN LOBBY
PRE-REGISTRATION PICKUP AND ONSITE SALES

8AM – 2AM | RCC 202
INSTRUMENT CHECK AND LOST & FOUND OPEN

9AM-9:50AM | RCC 303
TAI CHI WITH JIM LAUDERDALE

9AM – 10:30AM | RCC 306
IBMA TOWN HALL MEETING
The IBMA is more than 2,500 people in countries around the world who are passionately involved in the business of bluegrass music. Don’t miss this opportunity to sit down and discuss the state and future of the industry with the IBMA Board of Directors and membership.

10AM – 10PM | RCC 203
IBMA YOUTH ROOM OPEN FOR JAMMING

11AM – 1PM | RCC BALLROOM AB
IBMA INDUSTRY AWARDS LUNCHEON Sponsored by the California Bluegrass Association
Join us for lunch as the IBMA recognizes outstanding work in non-performing industry categories with the IBMA Industry Awards. This catered event will feature presentations of the seven Industry Awards categories, a special presentation of the IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award honorees, and live music.

12:30 PM – 5:30PM | RCC 201
BLUEGRASS COUNTRY RADIO SESSIONS

12:30PM – 1:00PM: Appalachian Smoke
1:00 PM – 1:30PM: Full Cord
1:30PM – 2:00PM: Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers
2:00PM – 2:30PM: Amanda Cook
2:30PM – 3:00PM: Golden Shoals
3:00PM – 3:30PM: Country Current
3:30 PM – 4:00PM: Becky Buller Band
4:00PM – 4:30PM: Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
4:30PM – 5:00PM: Nu-Blu
5:00PM – 5:30PM: AJ Lee & Blue Summit

1PM – 5PM | RCC EXHIBIT HALL C presented by Martin Guitars
EXHIBIT HALL OPEN

1PM – 3PM | RCC BALLROOM C
DJ TAPING SESSION presented by Bluegrass Country Radio
This is a broadcaster and artist session designed for conducting short interviews and collecting station IDs and other content.

1PM – 2PM | RCC VARIOUS ROOMS
CONSTITUENCY MEETINGS

1PM – 5PM | RCC 302C
AFTERNOON SHOWCASE sponsored by WNCW

1:15PM-1:45PM: Amanda Cook Band
1:55PM-2:25PM: Basset
2:35PM-3:05PM: Bourbon Revival
3:15PM-3:45PM: Nick Chandler & Delivered
3:55PM-4:25PM: The Cox Family

1:30PM – 2:20PM | RCC 305
YOUTUBE: FINDING YOUR COMMUNITY, GROWING YOUR AUDIENCE
In recent years, there has been an enormous trend toward online communities. An online presence offers the ability to share with people globally, find a niche audience and develop content for a unique topic. Heading up this online social movement for the bluegrass community are four awesome YouTubers and content creators, Marcel Ardans of Lessons With Marcel, Eli Gilbert of Eli Gilbert Banjo, influencer Hillary Klug, and David Benedict of David Benedict Mandolin. All four of these musicians have utilized their various skills to develop educational material and have nurtured these online spaces to help the bluegrass community grow.

2PM – 2:50PM | RCC 303
SONGWRITER MENTOR ONE-ON-ONE Sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective
Due to the overwhelming response from last year, we are bringing back our Songwriter Mentor One-On-One Session. This offers a unique opportunity for each mentee to spend the entire fifty-minute session with one of the most accomplished Bluegrass songwriters, in person, face-to-face. Invitation-only.

2PM – 4PM | RCC 304
NAVIGATING THE COMPLEX INTERSECTIONS OF FESTIVAL SAFETY, SUSTAINABILITY, ACCESSIBILITY, AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT presented By Majestic Collaborations
This two-hour symposium will explore the four-pillar framework for resilient gatherings: safety, sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement. These factors are critical for the safety and success of public gatherings of all kinds, from festivals to political demonstrations to disaster response sites. RSVP-Only

2PM – 3PM | RCC 203
YOUTH MINI-CAMP WITH GRANT FLICK (FULL CHORD) presented by the California Bluegrass Association

2PM – 2:50PM | RCC 306
CLIMBING THE BLUEGRASS LADDER: LESSONS IN FINDING YOUR NEXT RUNG
Reaching the next step in a musician’s career often feels elusive (at best) and the journey never truly really ends. The goal of this panel is to illuminate that path by focusing on several artists who have climbed the ladder successfully in their own ways. We’ll have an up-and-coming IBMA Showcase Artist moderate a robust conversation with accomplished industry pros who have experienced the ups and downs and everything in between. Bands, musicians, and managers at all levels are encouraged to attend!

2:30PM – 3:20PM | RCC 305
RECORDING ACADEMY: MUSIC, PURPOSE & COMMUNITY

Please join members of the Recording Academy® including Nashville Chapter Senior Executive Director, Alicia Warwick,  Nashville Chapter President, Armand Hutton and San Francisco Chapter Trustee, Anna Frick as they discuss the importance of being involved in the Recording Academy community. Find out how your participation in the GRAMMY Awards submission and voting process is critical to ensuring the best recordings each year receive a nomination. In addition to honoring artists during Music’s Biggest Night®, the Recording Academy supports creators through its many programs including MusiCares®, The GRAMMY Museum® and important advocacy initiatives.

3PM – 4PM | RCC 306
IBMA SONGWRITER SHOWCASE sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective
An integral part of our 2023 Songwriter Track, the Songwriter Showcase is a coveted opportunity which shines a spotlight on ten selected songwriters/co-writers and their original compositions. The writers will perform for an audience of some of the best bluegrass artists and producers in the industry.

4PM – 5PM | RCC 306
IBMA WOMEN’S COUNCIL MEETING
This meeting is for all who are interested in discussing ideas for the Women’s Council. There will be a facilitated and moderated discussion about where there is most interest and need. Discussions thus far have focused on mentorship, opportunity, and regular networking.

5:30PM – 7PM | MARTIN MARIETTA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
IBMA BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS RED CARPET AND RECEPTION presented by Yamaha

7:30PM – 10:30PM | MARTIN MARIETTA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
34TH ANNUAL IBMA BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS presented by YAMAHA
Hosted by Ketch Secor and Molly Tuttle
Don’t miss the biggest night in bluegrass! The awards recognize outstanding achievement and pioneering efforts across 17 categories and three Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame inductions. Featuring performances by Entertainer of the Year nominees and one very special guest!

7PM – 11PM | VARIOUS VENUES
BEER & BANJOS IBMA WORLD OF BLUEGRASS EDITION (Local Showcases)

10PM – 2AM | VARIOUS VENUES
LATE NIGHT SHOWCASES


FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

8AM – 2AM | RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER (RCC) 202
INSTRUMENT CHECK AND LOST & FOUND OPEN

10AM – 12PM | RCC MAIN LOBBY
BLUEGRASS JAM CLASS – BRING YOUR INSTRUMENTS WITH PETE WERNICK AND GILBERT NELSON
All bluegrass instruments welcome. No jamming experience necessary. You will be jamming right away! Friendly, encouraging, knowledgeable teaching. Mistakes allowed/expected. Singing not required but encouraged and taught. Easy 2- and 3-chord songs, slow speeds. Soloing not required! “Faking” solos taught. Do you qualify? It’s easier than you may think! Register now to get pre-class materials, or register onsite. Hosted by Pete Wernick and Gilbert Nelson!

10AM – 12PM | WORKSHOP STAGE
PICKING FOR THE PRIZE FLATPICKING GUITAR CONTEST FINALS sponsored by Martin Guitars

11AM – 6PM | RCC EXHIBIT HALL C presented by Martin Guitars
EXHIBIT HALL OPEN

11AM – 12:30PM | RCC 306
“SLIPPERS WITH WINGS” – CELEBRATION OF THE SONGS OF RANDALL HYLTON sponsored by Rick Lang and The Mechanical Licensing Collective
One of the most influential Bluegrass songwriters of his time, Randall Hylton’s songs have been covered by some of bluegrass music’s most revered artists including Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Bluegrass Cardinals, Lewis Family, Country Gentlemen, Ralph Stanley, Osborne Brothers, Mac Wiseman, Lester Flatt, and Larry Sparks, among many many others. To this day, Randall’s songs continue to be performed and recorded by new generations of Bluegrass Bands. Last year Randall was inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall Of Fame. We are excited to pay tribute to Randall and celebrate his amazing body of work as a songwriter. This event will feature heartwarming performances of some of Randall’s songs and personal stories told by some of Randall’s family and closest friends.

1PM – 5PM | WORKSHOP STAGE
INSTRUMENT WORKSHOPS

1PM – 3PM | RCC 306
THE MAKING OF “WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN” ALBUM AND ITS IMPACT ON THE WORLD

Host John McEuen, co-founding member of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and his brother (William McEuen) conceptualized and delivered an album that stirred music, influenced generations of musicians in multiple genres and has stood the test of time for more than 50 years. John has a film presentation he uses in his “Circle Band” shows and he and a hand picked few industry veterans would discuss the making of the album and how it influenced the world. Last August John released a coffee table book, “Will The Circle Be Unbroken: The Making of a Landmark Album” on its 50th Anniversary.

2PM – 3PM | RCC 203
YOUTH JAM WITH GREG BLAKE & FRIENDS presented by the California Bluegrass Association

10PM – 2AM | VARIOUS VENUES
LATE NIGHT SHOWCASES


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

8AM – 2AM | RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER (RCC) 202
INSTRUMENT CHECK AND LOST & FOUND OPEN

10AM – 12PM | RCC MAIN LOBBY
BLUEGRASS JAM CLASS – BRING YOUR INSTRUMENTS
All bluegrass instruments welcome. No jamming experience necessary. You will be jamming right away! Friendly, encouraging, knowledgeable teaching. Mistakes allowed/expected. Singing not required but encouraged and taught. Easy 2- and 3-chord songs, slow speeds. Soloing not required! “Faking” solos taught. Do you qualify? It’s easier than you may think! Register now to get pre-class materials, or register onsite. Hosted by Pete Wernick and Gilbert Nelson!

11AM – 6PM | RCC EXHIBIT HALL C presented by Martin Guitars
EXHIBIT HALL OPEN

11AM – 12:30PM | RCC 306
OLD FASHIONED GUITAR PULL sponsored by Martin Guitars and The Mechanical Licensing Collective
Several decades ago, there was a fraternity of songwriters in Nashville trying to catch lightning in a bottle with a song. Unknown at the time, songwriters like Roger Miller, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, and T Bone Burnett would often gather in someone’s living room, pass around a guitar, tell stories, and sing their newest songs. These impromptu events took on the name “guitar pull” because it was said you’d have to pull the guitar away from the person beside you to take your turn. Our first ever guitar pull will feature Daryl Mosley, Joe Newberry, Jim Lauderdale, Tim Stafford, Chris Jones, Irene Kelley, Jaelee Roberts, and Rick Faris.

12PM – 2PM | RCC MAIN LOBBY
BLUEGRASS IS FOR EVERYONE JAM sponsored by Bluegrass Pride
This jam is for bluegrassers of all levels! Our sponsor, Bluegrass Pride, wants the world to know that our bluegrass community is open to everyone regardless of age, race, gender orientation, nationality, upbringing, or politics. All are welcome! Bring your instrument and pick a tune without fear or exclusion. Join the jam and make lasting friendships!

11:30AM – 12:30PM | WORKSHOP STAGE
JAKE WORKMAN & FRIENDS presented by Collings Guitars

Collings Guitars presents Jake Workman & Friends, a high-level bluegrass showcase featuring Jake Workman (Kentucky Thunder), Bob Minner (Tim McGraw), Stephen Mougin (Sam Bush) Allen Shadd (three-time national flatpicking champion) and Josiah Nelson (Tray Wellington).

1PM – 5PM | WORKSHOP STAGE
INSTRUMENT WORKSHOPS

1PM – 2:30PM |  RCC 306
BLUEGRASS COLLEGE INFO SESSION Presented by the IBMA Foundation
High school students and their parents are invited to come and hear about bluegrass degree and ensemble programs from colleges, with a sample of music from each student band present.

2PM – 3PM | RCC 203
YOUTH MINI-CAMP WITH CHRIS LOUQUETTE, RICK FARIS, FRANK SOLIVAN & DIRTY KITCHEN ALUM presented by the California Bluegrass Association

10PM – 2AM | VARIOUS VENUES
LATE NIGHT SHOWCASES

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1

11AM – 6PM | TRANSFER CO. BALLROOM
IBMA World of Bluegrass Sunday Brunch Showcase Sponsored by Cooks Mill Whiskey

*Schedule Subject to change

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