In a luncheon presentation today at the World of Bluegrass convention, the IBMA announced the winners of their 2016 Momentum Awards.
These are a special set of honors, designed to recognize industry professionals in the early stages of their careers, including vocalists, instrumentalists, and events, plus specific awards for mentors who share their time with young artists, and for younger people who are making a mark in the business side of the industry.
The 11:00 a.m. event also featured performances from Loose Strings and Dori Freeman, and remarks from IBMA Executive Director Paul Schiminger, outgoing IBMA Board Chair Ben Surratt, Chris Canfield with Virginia Tourism, and Denise Jarvinen from Boston Bluegrass Union. A closing set highlighted 11 year old flatpicker Presley Barker with legendary guitarist Wayne Henderson, and banjo master Sammy Shelor and others.
And the 2016 Momentum Award winners are:
Industry Involvement and Achievement
- Brad Kolodner
Festival/Event/Venue
- Charm City Folk & Bluegrass Festival, Baltimore, MD
Mentor
- Stephen Mougin
Instrumentalist (3 winners)
- Billy Strings (William Apostol)
- Molly Tuttle
- Jake Workman
Vocalist
- Melody Walker
Band
- The Lil’ Smokies
We’ll have some photos from the awards ceremony up shortly.
