IBMA Announces Staff Changes
NASHVILLE, TENN. (February 7, 2025) – The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) is excited to announce the addition of two new staff members and a promotion within the team, as the organization continues to grow and expand its impact on the bluegrass community.
Rebecca Bauer has joined the IBMA as Marketing Director. A Maryland native who has lived in Nashville and Franklin, TN for over twenty years, Rebecca holds a master’s degree in marketing from Johns Hopkins University. She brings a wealth of experience in leadership and strategic marketing across the arts, entertainment, and non-profit sectors, having worked with organizations such as the Franklin Theatre, Nashville Symphony, City Winery, and Pepsi Bottling Group. As Marketing Director, Rebecca oversees strategic planning, partnerships, and digital marketing efforts to enhance the visibility of the IBMA and IBMA World of Bluegrass®.
Elizabeth Dewey has been elevated to the role of Communications Director. She originally joined the IBMA in April 2024 as Administrative Manager. Now as Communications Director, Elizabeth oversees brand management, content creation, email communications, and media relations. Elizabeth is a Belmont University graduate (Class of 2023), holding a Bachelor of Music in Commercial Music. She has been involved with the IBMA since 2021, when she first interned for the organization and discovered her passion for the bluegrass music industry.
In addition, Haley Grimm has joined the IBMA as Administrative Manager. She is a student in her final semester at Belmont University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Commercial Music, set to graduate in May 2025. A native of Westmont, Illinois, Haley previously interned at the IBMA from May to October 2024, gaining valuable insight into the inner workings of the organization. As Administrative Manager, Haley provides administrative support for the IBMA staff as well as IBMA’s various programs, including IBMA Leadership Bluegrass and the IBMA International Band Performance Grant.
“These staff changes mark an exciting new chapter for the IBMA as we strengthen our team to support the global bluegrass music community and prepare for the monumental year ahead,” said IBMA Executive Director Ken White. “With relocating IBMA World of Bluegrass® to Chattanooga, Tennessee and the celebration of our 40th anniversary, I’m confident that welcoming fresh perspectives will help drive our mission forward while fostering growth and visibility for bluegrass music worldwide.”
Learn more about the International Bluegrass Music Association at ibma.org and worldofbluegrass.org.
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About the IBMA:
The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) is the non-profit music association that connects, educates, and empowers bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community worldwide. The organization hosts IBMA World of Bluegrass®, an annual event featuring a business conference, showcases, awards show, and street festival highlighting the best in bluegrass talent. The event supports the IBMA and the IBMA Trust Fund. Other special IBMA initiatives include the IBMA International Band Performance Grant, Leadership Bluegrass, and Kids on Bluegrass. Learn more at ibma.org and worldofbluegrass.org.
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Press/General Info: Elizabeth Dewey, IBMA
[email protected], 615-673-4811
