The 2025 application period has closed. Applications will reopen in spring 2026.
IBMA Kids on Bluegrass spotlights the talents of young bluegrass musicians and singers (4-17 years old) at IBMA World of Bluegrass®. The program matches kids of similar abilities, offering them the opportunity to create and arrange music both instrumentally and vocally, and to perform in a band with their peers. Many IBMA Kids on Bluegrass alumni have gone on to become professional musicians, including Sierra Hull, Sarah Jarosz, Casey Campbell, Cory Walker, Nick Keen, Alex Hargreaves, Seth Taylor, Molly Tuttle, Austin Ward, Christian Ward, Gaven Largent, Ivy Phillips, Cory Piatt, and Wyatt Ellis.
IBMA Kids on Bluegrass is more than a workshop or “academy” experience. Our goal is to provide guidance and foster a fun atmosphere for young musicians to learn about producing, performing, promoting, and even emceeing a professional bluegrass music show. This program expects courtesy toward others and professionalism on stage. Every year since 2003, the IBMA Kids on Bluegrass musicians have exceeded all expectations with their talent, professionalism, and enthusiasm.
This year, we are presenting TWO tracks under IBMA Kids on Bluegrass: Camp Track and Honors Track. There is only one application, and students will receive an invitation for up to one of the tracks. Programming will take place in the Chattanooga Convention Center, and performances will take place throughout the IBMA World of Bluegrass® footprint.
IBMA Kids on Bluegrass Honors Track participants will perform two separate sets at IBMA Bluegrass Live!® on Friday and Saturday. Each band will play 5 songs, and each participant will have a feature. Additionally, a select group of participants will be invited to perform during the Pre-Awards Reception prior to the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards on Thursday night, and “tweeners” on the festival stages between festival acts.
IBMA Kids on Bluegrass Camp Track participants will have a culminating concert on the Youth Stage which is open to the general public. These students will also be eligible for other stage performances, visits by top bluegrass artists, and several other industry and networking opportunities. We’re very excited to team up with JAM (Junior Appalachian Musicians) to carry out the camp track!
Application Guidelines
- Please submit a YouTube link of a recently recorded video. Videos may be uploaded as “Unlisted” if the applicant does not want the performance to be public on YouTube. Videos must be recorded specifically for this application. Note: We will not accept videos of the applicant performing on stage. Please do not submit old YouTube or Google Drive links, as they will not be reviewed and the child’s application will be withdrawn.
- Applicants may apply on several instruments. List all instruments and vocal parts in which the applicant is well-versed (lead, harmony). If the applicant plays more than one instrument, make sure each instrument is performed in one video. Clips may be filmed separately and edited into one video if needed.
- If the applicant chooses to apply on several instruments, there is a chance they’ll receive an invitation for a slot that isn’t their primary or preferred instrument. In this case, they may perform their featured song on the instrument they feel most comfortable with and perform on the instrument they were selected to play for the rest of the set.
- IBMA Kids on Bluegrass takes place from Wednesday, September 17 through the early evening of Saturday, September 20. Please ensure the student can commit to these dates and times before applying. Participants MUST be present at all rehearsals and performances.
- If participants plan on applying for a Youth Stage set with a band or have any other performance opportunities during IBMA World of Bluegrass®, they must let us know so we can make sure there are no scheduling conflicts.
Contact
For questions, please email Kimber Ludiker at [email protected].
