We have learned that prominent festival promoter John Hutchinson passed away earlier this afternoon. Along with his wife Fern, John ran the Central Virginia Bluegrass Festival in Amelia, VA since 1979. He was 83 years old.
John had suffered a stroke in January of this year, but recovered sufficiently to be on site when their 35th annual Spring festival took place in May. He had contracted pneumonia, experienced some heart and lung issues, and was admitted to a hospice facility just two days ago.
He and Fern were twice chosen as Promoter of the Year by the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA), in 2006 and 2008.
In addition to family and friends, John was beloved by the artists who performed for him at Amelia, and the many festival attendees who came back year after year. The festival consistently maintained a clean family atmosphere, with a focus on traditional bluegrass music.
Rest in Peace, John Hutchinson.
