IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass facilitates the growth and development of the bluegrass music community, from professional to fan. This goal is accomplished through four main components: business conference, showcases, awards show, and music festival.
This is the only place in the world where you can interact one-on-one with industry leaders, discover the hottest new music, jam with your heroes, and be a part of bluegrass history!
Connect, discover, and grow with bluegrass music industry leaders!
IBMA Business Conference Registration + Music Pass
Free Music Pass
Q: Are there any in-person events in Raleigh, NC?
A: Due to health & safety logistics, IBMA is unable to provide any official in-person events in Raleigh this year. We have worked tirelessly with our Raleigh partners and bluegrass music’s best artists to create a completely virtual experience. We hope you’ll enjoy this one-of-a-kind event and join us in the future as we bring the most important week in bluegrass back to Raleigh! Until then, you’ll be able to experience our events from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Q: How can I watch IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass content?
A: We’ve partnered with Swapcard, an online conference platform, to provide access to all World of Bluegrass content. By registering for the IBMA Business Conference or our free Music Pass, you’ll gain access to the Swapcard platform (website & mobile app). Inside Swapcard you’ll find a customizable schedule of events, live and pre-recorded content, a virtual exhibit hall, and so much more. While very limited content will be shared on IBMA’s social media and through our media partners, Swapcard is the one-stop-shop for the IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass experience.
Q: Will content be archived? How can I watch events that have already taken place?
A: For the first time ever, we are able to archive hours of WOB sessions, special events, and once-in-a-lifetime performances! Once you are registered for Swapcard, you will have the ability to watch WOB content any time during the week after its initial airing. To watch archived content, simply search for the event in the Swapcard schedule.
Q: Will content be available on Facebook or YouTube?
A: Yes. However, due to music licensing laws and broadband limitations, only a very limited amount of content will be available across IBMA and media partners’ social media channels. The best way to see any and all content will be through Swapcard.
Q: Is there IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass merchandise?
A: Yes! We have a number of exclusive WOB products available through our store on Swapcard. Check out our water bottles, t-shirts, hats, and – you guessed it – masks!
Q: How does a virtual exhibit hall work?
A: Exhibitors are able to fully customize their virtual exhibit booth with personal branding, product demo videos, downloadable handouts, team members, and more. Attendees can exchange information and speak one-on-one with exhibitors via video chat and private messaging. Additionally, exhibitors have the ability to sell products and offer exclusive discounts! While there are official exhibit hall hours, attendees can access the virtual exhibit hall at any time, day or night. Our 2020 exhibitors list includes top brands AND artists in bluegrass music. If you are interested in exhibiting, click here for more information.
Q: Are you accepting volunteers this year?
A: As much as we would love to have our wonderful team of volunteers on deck for the event, we simply do not have the capacity to train and organize the large number of annual volunteers. We hope you will participate online this year by sharing the word about IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass to your friends!
Q: What if my question hasn’t been answered?
A: Great question! We are all learning this new event structure together. If you still have questions, please email [email protected].
Swapcard functions best on newer web browsers such as Google Chrome (recommended), Firefox, and Safari. Click the links below to learn more about our official conference platform.
Quick Overview of the Swapcard Platform
In-depth Overview of the Swapcard Platform
How to access IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass
The International Bluegrass Music Association is dedicated to providing a harassment-free event experience for everyone at all IBMA-produced events.
The IBMA is the non-profit music association that connects, educates, and empowers bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community worldwide.
Your support drives our mission and helps us achieve new goals. When you support IBMA, you support the bluegrass community worldwide.
Bluegrass values of authenticity, family, and community reflect well on your brand when you partner with the IBMA.
IBMA World of Bluegrass has grown to over 223,000 attendees and over $12 million in annual economic impact over six years in Raleigh, NC.
We offer a diverse range of advertising & sponsorship opportunities. Activate your brand on the largest platform for bluegrass music in the world!
