The International Bluegrass Music Association has just announced the resignation of their Executive Director, Ken White, effective immediately. Previous Director Paul Schiminger will step in to ensure a smooth running of the organization until a successor is chosen.
Chair of the IBMA Board of Directors, Anna Frick, says that White will be missed.
“Ken is beloved within our family, and we appreciate his dedication to the IBMA. We wish him the very best.
We are grateful that Paul Schiminger has graciously agreed to serve as Interim Executive Director to ensure a successful World of Bluegrass in Chattanooga and transition to new leadership. With six and a half years of experience as a former IBMA Executive Director, Paul brings valuable knowledge, familiarity, and a deep commitment to our community.”
White explains that he has been honored to hold the position this past three years.
“It has been a dream of a lifetime and a privilege beyond measure serving as the Executive Director of this organization. I gave my whole heart to this music that stole it sixty years ago in my home state of Kentucky. Perhaps I’m most proud of the formidable team I was fortunate to assemble – Elizabeth Dewey, Amy Combs, Maggie O’Connor, Haley Grimm, and Amy Beth Hale. You are in good hands with these extraordinary folks.
I was preaching the gospel of bluegrass music long before I came to Nashville, and I’ll be singing the tenor part and picking an old Martin forevermore. I continue to be a proud lifetime member of IBMA.”
A search committee is being formed, and the IBMA expects to share further information about the process in the coming weeks.
