The International Bluegrass Music Association in Nashville has introduced the newly-elected members of its Board of Directors, chosen by the professional membership of the organization.
Each will begin their term of service beginning in June 2026, for a period of three years. Each Director is allowed to serve two consecutive terms.
The IBMA has provided these brief biographies of each, along with their constituency.
Amanda Cook – Artists, Composers, and Music Publishers
Amanda Cook is a respected artist, producer, and music executive whose career bridges both stage and studio. She founded The Amanda Cook Band in 2014, earning recognition as a powerful live performer and authentic voice in bluegrass and roots music. The band continues to tour full time, connecting with audiences nationwide through heartfelt songs and seasoned musicianship.
In 2019, Cook joined Mountain Fever Records as a sound engineer and producer, quickly distinguishing herself through her technical expertise and artist-first approach. She was named Chief Operating Officer in 2022, helping shape the label’s creative direction, expand its roster, and strengthen its release strategy. In August 2025, she became the label’s owner.
While leading the company, Cook remains an active touring artist, bringing a unique perspective that blends artistry, production expertise, and executive leadership within today’s bluegrass and Americana landscape.
Austin Scelzo – Associations
Austin Scelzo is a performer, educator, and advocate dedicated to advancing bluegrass music and community engagement. He founded the Connecticut Bluegrass Association and performs with the Rock Hearts Band and On the Trail. He is also a certified Wernick Method jam instructor.
Scelzo serves as Program Director of Bluegrass and Old-Time Music at The Granite, a community arts venue in Connecticut. A graduate of the 2023 Leadership Bluegrass program, he was named a “Connecticut Arts Hero” for his contributions to music and community advocacy. He was also nominated for the IBMA Mentor of the Year award and received the 2025 IBMA Momentum Industry Involvement award.
A former public school orchestra teacher, Scelzo continues to teach at camps and youth programs including The Ashokan Center, Grey Fox, and IBMA’s Kids on Bluegrass. He also works with the IBMA Foundation as a clinician and shares educational resources on his website, blog, YouTube Channel, and singbluegrassharmony.com.
Kristy Cox – At Large
Kristy Cox has emerged as a leading voice in both the Australian and American bluegrass scenes, earning acclaim for her graceful, authentic approach to the genre. Known as the “Australian Queen of Bluegrass,” she began her career in Australia before rising to prominence in the US with multiple Billboard-topping releases. Her latest album, Let It Burn, showcases her bold artistic growth, blending traditional bluegrass with gospel influences and earning another #1 spot on the Billboard Bluegrass chart.
A longtime collaborator with acclaimed songwriter and producer Jerry Salley, Cox continues to honor bluegrass traditions while pushing the genre forward. She has received six CMAA Golden Guitar Awards for Bluegrass Recording of the Year, including a 2023 win for Good Morning Moon. With multiple IBMA and SPBGMA nominations, Cox remains a respected and influential figure, celebrated for her heartfelt performances and innovative spirit.
Gary Upton – Merchandisers & Luthiers
Gary Upton is the founder of the Upton Bass String Instrument Company, a leading American maker of double basses played by Grammy Award–winning artists, symphony musicians, and top-tier bluegrass and jazz performers worldwide. Upton Bass instruments, developed in collaboration with elite players, are known for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern performance needs.
An active New England bluegrass bassist, Gary performs with Beyond Dixon and throughout the regional acoustic music scene, bringing a working musician’s perspective to instrument design, tone development, and artist support. His experience as both a builder and performer inform his approach to serving artists at all levels.
Gary has also contributed to the arts through leadership and advisory roles in nonprofit and educational settings, including the International Society of Bassists and regional symphony boards. His background includes education, team leadership, and program development.
More information about the IBMA Board can be found online.
