The International Bluegrass Music Association is seeking youth bands to perform during their 2026 IBMA Bluegrass Live festival, which occurs following their big World of Bluegrass Conference and awards show in Chattanooga, October 20-24.
Though parents can be included with young children, they are primarily looking for bands made up of people up through college age. A Next Generation stage is dedicated each year at the festival to youth bands, and it is always a highlight wherever the convention is held.
Submissions to appear this year are being accepted through May 22, and can be completed online.
Materials that must be provided include:
- Performance examples (at least one audio recording and one video recording)
- A band or artist photo
- A brief band or artist bio
- Your website URL
- Optional: links to social media and streaming platforms
This is a great professional learning opportunity for young artists, and a mighty big stage to play on.
IBMA encourages all youth bands to apply, and notes that even those already chosen for the Kids on Bluegrass program during World of Bluegrass are eligible to submit. Bands need not be IBMA members to be considered.
Full details can be found online.
