The International Bluegrass Music Association has announced some changes for the 2014 World of Bluegrass events. This will be second year in their new location of Raleigh, NC, running from September 30 through October 4.
Over those five days, IBMA will host their three-day business conference, the 25th annual International Bluegrass Music Awards, a two day music festival over the weekend, and an expansion of the artist showcases taking place around the downtown area.
The IBMA Board has spent a good bit of time over the winter discussing last years events, listening to what attendees liked and disliked, and has made a number of changes for 2014. For example, they have added an additional day to the exhibit hall during the business conference, and created a new business expo event during the week.
Also new this year…
A dedicated transportation system, with extended hours, to ferry attendees to and fro during the evening Bluegrass Ramble performances will be added. There will also be a new showcase stage inside the Convention Center for attendees who prefer not to “ramble” through Raleigh after hours.
The DJ Taping Session will return this year, allowing bluegrass programmers a place and time to do interviews in a controlled environment. Event producers and artists will appreciate the expanded Gig Fair, with a reception scheduled for artists and buyers, and a new pitching session. First-time talent buyers will also be offered a discounted registration fee.
More announcements about plans for 2014 are expected soon, from both the IBMA and the city of Raleigh, who will once again host a free street festival for local residents in the area adjacent to the convention center over that weekend.
Registration and hotel reservation opens on March 31 for IBMA members, and to the general public on April 14. Full details can be found online.
