International Bluegrass September 2015

IB bluegrass international

Vol. 30 No. 9 September 2015

WOB Preview issue Keynote speaker Nick Forster

Business Conference Panels Award Nominees and MORE!

International Bluegrass Vol. 30 | No. 9 | September 2015

Editor: Taylor Coughlin taylor@ibma.org

Designer: Erin Faith Erdos erinfaitherdos@gmail.com

STAFF

Paul Schiminger Executive Director

board

Taylor Coughlin Communications and Professional Development Director

Joe Spann Bookkeeping and Member Services Manager

Eddie Huffman Convention Services and IT Systems Director

Jon Weisberger/Board Chairperson

Alan Bartram/Director, Artists/Composers/Publishers John Goad /Director, Print Media/Education Becky Buller/Director, At Large William Lewis/Director, At Large D.A. Callaway/Director, At Large Steve Martin / Director, At Large Danny Clark/Director, At Large Stephen Mougin/Director, At Large Jamie Deering/Director, Merchandisers/Luthiers Joe Mullins / Treasurer Regina Derzon/Director, Associations, Secretary Joe Mullins, Director, Artists/Composers/Publishers Mike Drudge / Director, Agents, Managers & Publicists Leah Ross/Director, Event Producers

Ben Surratt/Director, Recording/Dist./Marketing Tim Surrett / Vice Chair Angelika Torrie/Director, International Bob Webster / Director, Broadcasters Junior Williams / Director, Artists & Composers

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International Bluegrass

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that connects and educates bluegrass professionals, empowers the bluegrass community, and encourages worldwide appreciation of bluegrass music of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

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International Bluegrass | September 2015

Tab l e o f C O NT E NT s International bluegrass

6 Artistworks academy of bluegrass ArtistWorks Academy of Bluegrass bridges the traditions of the past with today’s high-tech ability to reach bluegrass enthusiasts and players worldwide.

8 Nick Forster to give keynote @ IBMA 2015 Nick Forster will deliver the keynote address during International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass 2015 event.

10 Momentum award nominees announced The Momentum Awards were instituted in 2012 to recognize both musicians and bluegrass industry professionals who, while in the early stages of their careers, have contributed to, or had an influence on, bluegrass music.

12 Nominees for 2015 International Bluegrass Awards Balsam Range, Hot Rize, The Del McCoury Band, The Earls of Leicester, and The Gibson Brothers Vie for Entertainer of the Year at the 2015 IBMA Awards in Raleigh, North Carolina on October 1

16 IBMA Announces the 2015 Distinguished Achievement Award Recipients Each year, the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) recognizes up to five individuals for their significant contributions to bluegrass music with its highest honor outside of induction into the Hall of Fame--the Distinguished Achievement Award.

18 2015 Inductees to International Bluegras Music Hall of Fame: Bill Keith & Larry Sparks ArtistWorks Academy of Bluegrass bridges the traditions of the past with today’s high-tech ability to reach bluegrass enthusiasts and players worldwide.

20 Business conference Panel Descriptions Detailed Panel descriptions for IBMA’s 2015 Business Conference at the Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh NC.

26 Industry News International Buegrass

| September 2015

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Some of the Biggest Names in Bluegrass Stand on the Shoulders of Pioneers / Sponsored Content

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Click Here to enter for the chance to win one free year of lessons from two different artists of your choice in the Academy of Bluegrass.

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International Bluegrass | September 2015

Tony Trischka – Banjo / Carrying on the tradition of Earl Scruggs, Tony has taught everyone from Steve Martin to Béla Fleck and continues to explore the roots of bluegrass.

Bryan Sutton – Guitar / In the tradition of Doc Watson, Bryan has mastered the art of flatpicking. He’s also the guitarist for Hot Rize, replacing original guitarist Charles Sawtelle.

Mike Marshall – Mandolin / After David Grisman took Mike under his wing in 1978, things haven’t been the same for mandolin. Mike helps carry the torch that Bill Monroe first sparked.

Darol Anger – Fiddle / Darol grew up studying Vassar Clements, played with the David Grisman band, and pioneered “the infamous chop,” which is now a widely used technique.

Missy Raines – Bass / Missy has more IBMA awards than any other bass player and celebrates her deep bluegrass roots in her band the “New Hip.” Andy Hall – Dobro & Lap Steel / Principle Dobro-ist with the Infamous Stringdusters, Andy brings a unique modern approach while maintaining an authentic bluegrass attitude.

Mike Block – Multi- Style Cello (unofficial faculty) / Mike has broken new musical barriers standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow Silk Road Ensemble alum Yo-Yo Ma to expand the versatility of cello.

Each musician has chosen to pass on the legacy of bluegrass music by teaching their musical art online at the ArtistWorks Academy of Bluegrass.

Online players get personalized video feedback from these masters through Video Exchange® Learning at http:// artistworks.com/bluegrass.

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NICK FORSTER to deliver Keynote Address at IBMA’s World of Bluegrass Conference 2015 Nick Forster, best known for his work with influential bluegrass band Hot Rize and as host and founder of the musical and environmental radio program, eTown, will deliver the keynote address during International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass 2015 event, brought to you by Chiesi USA, which takes place September 29 – October 3 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

“I was honored to be asked to deliver the keynote address this year for IBMA,” said Forster. “I’ve been really fortunate to have been in the bluegrass world for so long, starting out as a scrappy kid who was ready to learn anything and do anything (including driving the bus and showing up on time) to keep things moving forward. I’ve had great partners and mentors along the way, but I assume that one of the reasons that I’ve been asked to speak this year is that now, even more than ever, we all have to be scrappy, creative and nimble to make it all work out. I look forward to sharing my perspective at IBMA this year.”

IBMA’s World of Bluegrass event consists of four parts: the IBMA Business Conference, September 29 – October 1; the 26th Annual International Bluegrass Music Awards, scheduled for Thursday evening, October 1; Wide Open Bluegrass, presented by PNC, October 2-3 (which includes both free stages and ticketed festival performances) and the Bluegrass Ramble, an innovative series of showcases, taking place September 29 – October 1.

Forster’s address is scheduled to take place Tuesday, Sept. 29, acting as the official kick-off for the IBMA Business Conference portion of World of Bluegrass 2015. Located in the Raleigh Convention Center, the Keynote Reception will take place 4-5:30 p.m.

The IBMA Business Conference features the best in bluegrass networking, showcasing and professional development.

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“We are thrilled to have Nick as our Keynote Speaker at this year’s World of Bluegrass,” said IBMA Executive Director Paul Schiminger. “One of our big priorities for the Business Conference is to elevate the learning and sharing experience. Nick’s extensive background and broad perspectives as a successful artist, radio show host, and businessperson make him the ideal person to kickoff the conference. We look forward to his insights to set the tone for a great conference!”

news release

Nick Forster is a professional musician, record producer, radio host and Executive Director of a nonprofit organization based in Boulder, Colorado. He is most widely known as a long-standing member of the award winning bluegrass band Hot Rize, and as the host and founder of the musical and environmental radio program, eTown.

Raised in upstate New York, Forster’s desire to pursue music as a career led him to Colorado; it was there that he met the three young men with whom he would form the contemporary bluegrass band Hot Rize in 1978. For the band, Forster supplied bass, vocals and guitar and was also well known as the M.C. and host.

Hot Rize established an acclaimed international reputation, releasing ten albums and touring worldwide fulltime for over 12 years. Hot Rize earned both a Grammy nomination and the International Bluegrass Music

Association’s Entertainer of the Year Award in 1991. Despite this success, the band members collectively decided to pursue individual projects later that year and went into semiretirement. In September of 2014, Hot Rize released When I’m Free, their first new studio record in 25 years.

The bluegrass world has welcomed them back with open arms, as Hot Rize has been nominated for several IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards this year, including – once again – Entertainer of the Year.

Based on his varied experiences, Forster conceived the idea of a new concept in radio - eTown, the popular weekly radio variety show now heard worldwide. As eTown’s host, Forster leads a radio program that entices the audience with live performances from today’s top musicians, then engages listeners with conversation and information about our communities and our environment. His warm on-air wit, insightful interviewing skills and

stellar guitar playing are hallmarks of the show. eTown shows are recorded live at the brand new solar-powered eTown Hall in downtown Boulder, adding eco-friendly and innovative high-end music venue building skills to Forster’s resume.

In addition to eTown and Hot Rize, Forster remains an active player in the music world, performing at major festivals around the globe and playing recording sessions for various artists across all genres. He also is an accomplished record producer with a Grammy nomination and other prestigious awards to his credit.

Those wishing to obtain tickets for the ticketed portion Wide Open Bluegrass (which takes place at Red Hat Amphitheater), Bluegrass Ramble Showcase passes, IBMA Business Conference registration, IBMA Award Show tickets and hotel reservations should go to IBMA’s website, www. ibma.org.

IBMA – the International Bluegrass Music Association – is the professional trade organization for the global bluegrass music community. The organization’s six-year stay in Raleigh is the result of a partnership with The Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau, The Raleigh Convention Center, PineCone – The Piedmont Council of Traditional Music, the City of Raleigh and a local organizing committee.

Official hashtags #WOB, #IBMA, #Raleigh

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Nominees for IBMA’s Momentum Awards Announced The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) announced the nominees for this year’s Momentum Awards. The winners of the 2015 Momentum Awards will be presented with their awards at a luncheon on Wednesday, September 30 in Raleigh, North Carolina, as part of IBMA’s World of Bluegrass event, presented by Chiesi USA, September 29 -October 3.

The Momentum Awards were instituted in 2012 to recognize both musicians and bluegrass industry professionals who, while in the early stages of their careers, have contributed to, or had an influence on, bluegrass music. These contributions can be to bluegrass music in general, or done in a specific part of the industry.

Starting with recommendations from the IBMA membership, nominees are chosen by committees through a multi-stage process involving respected musicians and industry leaders in the bluegrass world.

The 2015 Momentum Awards are sponsored by The Crooked Road – Virginia Tourism, The Boston Bluegrass Union, and AirPlay Direct.

This year’s Momentum Award nominees are: Performance Award nominees, Vocalist

Nominees for Festival/Event/Venue

(final committee to select 1)

HoustonFest – Galax, VA Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival – Manteo, NC ISIS Restaurant and Music Hall – Asheville, NC PineCone Youth Camp – Cary, NC Christmas in the Smokies - Pidgeon Forge, TN

Savannah Church (The Church Sisters) Alysha Bankester (The Bankesters) Kim Robins (Kim Robins and 40 Years Late) Louise Holden (I Draw Slow) Summer McMahan (Mountain Faith)

Performance Award nominees, Instrumentalists

Mentor Award

(final committee will select 3)

(given to a bluegrass professional who has made a significant impact on the lives and careers of newcomers to the bluegrass industry)

Annie Staninec (fiddle) Casey Campbell (mandolin, fiddle) Molly Tuttle (guitar, banjo) Nate Lee (fiddle, mandolin) Paul Kowert (bass) Patrick McAvinue (fiddle) John Mailander (fiddle, mandolin) Bryan McDowell (fiddle, guitar)

Alan Tompkins (promoter, radio broadcaster, association leader) Andrea Roberts (Andrea Roberts Agency) Daniel Boner (director, Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music Studies at ETSU)

Industry Involvement Award nominees Media/Artisan/Business/General

Ken Irwin (Rounder Records) Woody Platt (Steep Canyon Rangers) IBMA – the International Bluegrass Music Association – is the professional trade organization for the global bluegrass music community.

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Alan Tompkins (promoter, radio broadcaster, association leader) Casey Freeland (association executive director) Daniel Mullins (journalist, radio broadcaster) Erin Scholze (publicist)

International Bluegrass | September 2015

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International Buegrass

| September 2015

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Nominees for 2015 International Bluegrass Awards Balsam Range, Hot Rize, The Del McCoury Band The Earls of Leicester, and The Gibson Brothers

Nominees for the 2015 International Bluegrass Music Awards were announced today at a press conference in Nashville, Tennessee, with Balsam Range, Hot Rize, The Del McCoury Band, The Earls of Leicester, and The Gibson Brothers nominated for the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award (A full list of nominations appears at the end of this press release.)

Awards are voted on by the professional membership of the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), the trade association for the bluegrass music industry.

Results of the balloting will be revealed at the International Bluegrass Music Awards on Thursday, October 1, hosted by The Gibson Brothers.

Vie for Entertainer of the Year at the 2015 IBMA Awards in Raleigh, North Carolina on October 1

The Awards Show is the centerpiece of the World of Bluegrass event, presented by Chiesi USA, to be held September 29-October 3 in Raleigh, NC. The IBMA Awards Show will be broadcast live on SiriusXM Satellite Radio (Bluegrass Junction) and syndicated to more than 300 U.S. markets and 14 foreign networks, thanks to the sponsorship of BMI, Deering Banjos, the International Bluegrass Music Museum and Mountain Home Music Company.

of Traditional Music, the City of Raleigh and a local organizing committee.

A complete list of nominees, this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, and the recipients of the Distinguished Achievement Award are listed below.

2015 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES Bill Keith Larry Sparks

IBMA – the International Bluegrass Music Association – is the 2015 DISTINGUISHED professional trade organization for the ACHIEVEMENT AWARD global bluegrass music community.

The organization’s six-year stay in RECIPIENTS Raleigh is the result of a partnership Alison Brown with The Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau, Murphy Henry The Raleigh Convention Center, PineCone – The Piedmont Council International Bluegrass Music Museum “Bashful Brother” Oswald Kirby Steve Martin

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International Bluegrass | September 2015

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2015 International Bluegrass Music Award Nominations Announced August 12, 2015 ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR

INSTRUMENTAL GROUP OF THE YEAR

Balsam Range

Balsam Range

Blue Highway

Hot Rize

Blue Highway

Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper

The Earls of Leicester

Flatt Lonesome

Punch Brothers

The Gibson Brothers

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen

The Del McCoury Band

The Gibson Brothers

The Earls of Leicester

SONG OF THE YEAR “Big Black Train” – Earls of Leicester (artist) Stanley Johnson, George Sherry (writers) “Fiddlin’ Joe” – Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (artist), Mark Brinkman (writer) “Her Love Won’t Turn On A Dime” – Lonesome River Band (artist), Bart Butler, Timothy Johnson, Shane Minor (writers) “Moon Over Memphis” – Balsam Range (artist), Mark W. Winchester (writer) “Southern Flavor” – Becky Buller (artist), Bill Monroe, Guy Stevenson, DeWayne Mize (writers) ALBUM

OF THE YEAR

Brotherhood – The Gibson Brothers (artist), Eric Gibson, Leigh Gibson, Mike Barber (producers), Rounder Five – Balsam Range (artist), Balsam Range (producer), Mountain Home Music Company The Earls of Leicester – The Earls of Leicester (artist) Jerry Douglas (producer), Rounder Too – Flatt Lonesome (artist), Andrea Roberts, Tim Surrett (producers), Mountain Home Music Company

GOSPEL RECORDED PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR “Holding To The Right Hand” – Lonesome River Band (artist), Turn On A Dime (album), Marvin Clark (writer), Sammy Shelor (producer), Mountain Home Music Company “Insured Beyond The Grave” - J.D. Crowe, Doyle Lawson & Paul Williams (artist), Standing Tall and Tough (album), Ira Louvin, Charlie Louvin (writers), Doyle Lawson (producer), Mountain Home Music Company “Stacking Up the Rocks” – Balsam Range (artist), Five (album), Buddy Melton (writer), Balsam Range (producers), Mountain Home Music Company “What a Wonderful Savior Is He” - The Gibson Brothers (artist), Brotherhood (album), William G. Brewster (writer), Eric Gibson, Leigh Gibson, Mike Barber (producer), Rounder Records “Who Will Sing for Me” – The Earls of Leicester (artist), The Earls of Leicester (album), Carter Stanley, Ralph Stanley (writer), Jerry Douglas (producers), Rounder Records

When I’m Free – Hot Rize (artist), Hot Rize (producer), Ten In Hand Records

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Awards nominees

INSTRUMENTAL RECORDED PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR “Backdraft (You Light It, You Fight It” – Balsam Range (artist), Five (album), Buddy Metlon, Marc Pruett, Tim Surrett, Darren Nicholson, Caleb B. Smith (writer), Balsam Range (producer), Mountain Home Music Company “Come Along Jody” – Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper (artist), On Down the Line (album), Benjamin F.”Tex” Logan (writer), Jeff White, Michael Cleveland (producers), Compass Records “Cumberland Gap” – Lonesome River Band (artist), Turn On A Dime (album), Sammy Shelor (arrangement), Sammy Shelor (producer), Mountain Home Music Company “The Three Bells” - Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (artists), The Three Bells (album), Jean Villard, Bert Reisfeld (writers), Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (producer), Rounder Records “Yeah Man” – Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (artist), Cold Spell (album), Mike Munford (writer), Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (producer), Compass Records

RECORDED EVENT OF THE YEAR “Against The Grain”- Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, featuring Garth Brooks (artists), Larry Cordle (producer), MightyCord Records “Blue Memories” – J.D. Crowe, Doyle Lawson & Paul Williams (artists), Doyle Lawson (producer), Mountain Home Music Company “For Buddy” - Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (artists), Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (producers), Rounder Records “Test of Time” – Steep Canyon Rangers & Edie Brickell (artists), Carl Jackson (producer) “The Three Bells” – Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (artists), Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (producers) Rounder Records “Southern Flavor” – Becky Buller, with Peter Rowan, Michael Feagan, Buddy Spicher, Ernie Sykes, Roland White and Blake Williams (artists), Stephen Mougin (producer) Dark Shadow Recording

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EMERGING ARTIST OF

THE YEAR

Adkins & Loudermilk Band of Ruhks Becky Buller Mountain Faith Snyder Family Band The Earls of Leicester Volume Five

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Shawn Camp Del McCoury Buddy Melton Russell Moore Tim O’Brien

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Dale Ann Bradley Becky Buller Claire Lynch Amanda Smith Rhonda Vincent Special Awards, including the Distinguished Achievement Awards, will be presented at a luncheon on Thursday, October 1 at the World of Bluegrass Business Conference in Raleigh, NC. The Momentum Awards – as detailed in a separate press release – will be presented at a luncheon on Wednesday, September 30 in Raleigh, NC as well.

IBMA’s World of Bluegrass event consists of four parts: the IBMA Business Conference, September 29 – October 1; the 26th Annual International Bluegrass Music Awards, scheduled for Thursday evening, October 1; Wide Open Bluegrass, presented by PNC, October 2-3 (which includes both free stages and ticketed festival performances) and the Bluegrass Ramble, an innovative series of showcases, taking place September 29 – October 1.

Awards nominees

INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMERS OF THE YEAR BANJO Kristin Scott Benson Rob McCoury Noam Pikelny Sammy Shelor Ron Stewart BASS Barry Bales Mike Bub Missy Raines Mark Schatz Tim Surrett FIDDLE Becky Buller Jason Carter Michael Cleveland Stuart Duncan Ron Stewart

DOBRO

Mike Auldridge Jerry Douglas Andy Hall Rob Ickes Phil Leadbetter

GUITAR

Jim Hurst Kenny Smith Tim Stafford Bryan Sutton Josh Williams

MANDOLIN Jesse Brock Sam Bush Sierra Hull Ronnie McCoury Adam Steffey

BLUEGRASS BROADCASTER OF THE YEAR Cindy Baucom, Knee-Deep In Bluegrass (syndicated) Becky Buller, Bluegrass Crossroads, WMSR Kyle Cantrell, Bluegrass Junction, Sirius XM Chris Jones, Bluegrass Junction, Sirius XM Ronnie Reno, Reno’s Old Time Music, RFD-TV

BLUEGRASS EVENT OF THE YEAR La Roche Bluegrass Festival 2014, La Roche sur Foron, France A Lester Flatt Celebration 2014, Sparta, Tennessee Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival 2014, Richmond, Minnesota Park Slope Bluegrass & Old-Time Jamboree 2014, Brooklyn, New York 42nd RockyGrass Festival, Lyons, Colorado

BEST GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR A RECORDED PROJECT Evan Gaffney (designer), The Phosphorescent Blues, Punch Brothers, Nonesuch Mychael Gerstenberger (designer), Complete Recordings 1936-55, Chuck Wagon Gang, Bear Family Productions Jimmy Hole (designer), Della Mae, Della Mae, Rounder Deano Martin (designer), Trouble Follows Me, Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice, Rebel Records Carrie Smith (designer), The Lonesome Trio, The Lonesome Trio, Sugar Hill

BEST LINER NOTES FOR A RECORDED PROJECT Frank Godby, If Only You Knew: The Best of Larry Rice, Larry Rice, Rebel Records Phil Leadbetter, Next Move, Phil Leadbetter, Pinecastle Records Randy Pitts, Laurie & Kathy Sing Songs of Vern & Ray, Laurie Lewis and Kathy Kallick, Spruce and Maple Music Ted Olson, Old Time Bluegrass from the Great Smoky Mountains (1956 & 1959), Carroll Best & the White Oak String Band, Great Smokey Mountains Association Eddie Stubbs Marty Stuart, Jeremy Stephens, Shaye Smith, Harold Timmons and Bill Malone, Complete Recordings 1936-55, Chuck Wagon Gang, Bear Family Records.

BLUEGRASS

PRINT/MEDIA PERSON OF THE YEAR

Fred Bartenstein, The Bluegrass Hall of Fame Inductee Biographies 1991-2014 Derek Halsey, writer for the Herald Dispatch in Huntington, West Virginia, Bluegrass Unlimited magazine, and The Bluegrass Situation.

John Lawless, editor for Bluegrass Today Ted Lehmann, blogger for Ted Lehmann’s Bluegrass, Books & Brainstorms Gary Reid, author, The Music of the Stanley Brothers and The Bluegrass Hall of Fame Inductee Biographies 1991-2014

BLUEGRASS SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Mark ‘Brink’ Brinkman Becky Buller Bill Castle Shawn Lane Donna Ulisse

International Buegrass

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News releases

IBMA Announces the 2015 Distinguished Achievement Award Recipients Each year, the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) recognizes up to five individuals for their significant contributions to bluegrass music with its highest honor outside of induction into the Hall of Fame-the Distinguished Achievement Award. This year’s recipients of IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Awards include: The award-winning musician Alison Brown first rose to prominence on the merits of her extraordinary skills on the banjo.

Then, in 1994, Brown founded a record label; today, the Nashvillebased Compass Records Group is an internationally recognized label group with a catalog of over 700 roots music releases across its many labels. The label group’s driving purpose remains the same as it was at its’ start: to provide a thriving haven of creativity for artists and a reliable beacon of quality for music fans. In addition to her work at her groundbreaking record label, this Grammy-and IBMA Award winner continues to compose, record and tour internationally.

Thousands of beginning bluegrass performers have benefited from the “Murphy Method” style of teaching that Murphy Henry, herself a banjo player, has developed and marketed (along with her husband Red) since 16

1982. Her work as a writer for various bluegrass publications – as well as being the founder of the Women in Bluegrass newsletter – led to her 2013 book Pretty Good For a Girl: Women in Bluegrass, considered a landmark tome on the contributions of women to the development and fostering of bluegrass music.

The International Bluegrass Music Museum, located in Owensboro, Kentucky, is the only museum in the world devoted to preserving the international history of bluegrass music. Their stated mission is “To develop and maintain an environment in which people of all ages can discover the richness of bluegrass music through an exciting and educational experience;” the museum accomplishes this through their expansive archives and exhibits, outreach programs and projects, and concert series and festivals.

In the late 1930’s “Bashful Brother” Oswald Kirby introduced many music fans to the sound of the resonator guitar when he performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage as part of Roy Acuff’s Smoky Mountain Boys.

The renowned Dobro player performed on the Opry with Acuff for more than 50 years, where he also played guitar, banjo, and jug, sang tenor, and

International Bluegrass | September 2015

performed comedy. Besides his own solo projects, Oswald also performed on the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s landmark 1972 album Will the Circle Be Unbroken, and participated in 1994’s The Great Dobro Sessions album, featured alongside such other resonator guitarists as Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas, Josh Graves, Rob Ickes, Tut Taylor and Gene Wooten.

Throughout his career as an actor and comedian, musician Steve Martin has also touted his love of bluegrass and the banjo, introducing fans of his movies and comedy to a genre of music they might not have experienced otherwise. In addition to his music tours and Grammy and IBMA-winning bluegrass projects, Martin has also established the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, highlighting the best banjo performers in contemporary bluegrass.

The IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Awards will be presented at a Special Awards Luncheon on Thursday, October 1 during IBMA’s World of Bluegrass event. Those who would like to attend must purchase a business conference pass for Thursday.

News releases

“AirPlay Direct is an incredibly valuable tool for artists and their teams to utilize in efforts to promote their music to radio,” said IBMA Consultant Nancy Cardwell. “And for broadcasters, it’s a convenient, free, online service where they can download new music for their terrestrial, satellite and internet-based radio programs.

If you’re not already taking advantage of this service, I urge you to check it out at ”

news release

IBMA Announces 2015 Inductees to International Bluegras Music Hall of Fame Bill Keith & Larry Sparks The International Bluegrass Music Association announced that revered musicians BILL KEITH and LARRY SPARKS will be inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame at its Awards Show in Raleigh, North Carolina on Thursday, October 1, 2015.

B

ill Keith, who was a Distinguished Achievement Award recipient in 2014, has had a great impact on modern banjo playing, particularly in what is often termed “newgrass.” Last month at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, as part of a tribute to Keith that included such distinguished banjo performers as Bela Fleck, Noam Pikelny and Tony Trischka, Trischka said simply, “Most of us wouldn’t be here today without Bill.”

Keith began taking banjo lessons at a young age, and by the late ‘50s became interested in folk music after listening to such inspirational artists as Pete Seeger and Earl Scruggs.

Influenced by both, Keith developed his own unique style - born of his desire to play fiddle melodies on his instruments - became known as the melodic, chromatic or “Keith”- picking style.

His proficiency on that instrument was so strong

18 International Bluegrass | September 2015

that in 1963, Earl Scruggs contacted Keith to lay out the tablature for the instructional book Earl Scruggs and the 5-String Banjo. Later that year, Keith helped develop a new tuning peg (which now bears his name) that allows banjo players to quickly change from one open tuning to another while playing.

Besides being one of the original members of the Kentuckians, Keith has toured and performed with top bluegrass bands – including a brief stint with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys in the early 1960s – and with artists like Jonathan Edwards, Ian & Sylvia, Judy Collins, The Jim Kweskin Jug Band, and Muleskinner.

Hall of Fame

L

arry Sparks grew up in a musical family of nine children; he taught himself to play guitar, mandolin and banjo, developing the eclectic, bluesy style of lead guitar that has long been part of his sound. He began his career in the 1960s as guitarist with the Stanley Brothers, and later became lead vocalist for Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. Sparks formed his own band, The Lonesome Ramblers, in 1969; he has recorded and toured with his band for more than four decades, releasing over 60 albums and earning his reputation – with his soulful vocals and unparalleled musicianship – as one of the most respected musicians in bluegrass and gospel music today.

Sparks’ distinctive country/ bluegrass voice and song stylings, as well as his lead and rhythm guitar embellishments, made classics of his hit recordings that include “John Deere Tractor,” “Natural Thing To Do,” “A Face In the Crowd,” “Tennessee 1949,” “Smoky Mountain Memories” and “Blue Virginia Blue.” His signature vocals, engaging stage presence and unique guitar style helped Sparks earn much critical acclaim, including IBMA Awards for Male Vocalist of the Year, Recorded Event of the Year and Album of the Year.

In addition to his induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, Sparks has previously been inducted into the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Hall of Fame and The George D. Hays Hall of Fame.

About The International Bluegrass Hall of Fame & IBMA Founded in 1991, the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, housed in the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, KY, is an institution devoted to the recognition of noteworthy individuals for outstanding contributions to bluegrass music. Each year a nominating committee, consisting of music industry leaders, creates a slate of 10-15 candidates. From these names, a panel of more than 200 electors in the music industry cast ballots to narrow the nominees to five finalists.

The panel votes a final time to select the inductee(s) for that year. Inductees for 2015 are in the “Open” and “Earlier Contributions” categories.

The IBMA Awards Show will be broadcast live on SiriusXM Satellite Radio (Bluegrass Junction) and syndicated to more than 300 U.S. markets and 14 foreign networks, thanks to the sponsorship of BMI, Deering Banjos, the International Bluegrass Music Museum and Mountain Home Music Company. For information visit www.ibma.org.

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TUESDAY, september 29 Day 1 Panel

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Band 101: Legal Issues of 307 the Music Business

Bluegrass is a business that performs music. To be successful in business, a band needs to navigate a sea of music law issues. This session discusses the key legal topics relevant to a band, including the legal agreement between the band members, the band structure, the band’s name (including ownership and trademark questions), contracts with promoters, managers, booking agents, recording labels and music publishers, and licensing and intellectual property issues.

306A

Presenter: Sarah Corrin, Arts Grant Coordinator, City of Raleigh’s Office of Raleigh Arts.

Grant funding is a critical component of any nonprofit organization’s fundraising plan. This session is designed for the novice grant writer and those who have not been entirely successful with grant proposals in the past. This session will cover ways to search for potential funders; how determine whether or not a funding program is a good match for your organization; an overview of typical grant programs, their requirements and application components; and strategies for writing successful grant applications.

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Moderator: Jean Spivey, Old Settlers’ Music Festival Panelists: Bree Tucker-Myers, DVT Marketing Enterprises/ Cattail Booking Group; Jenni Lyn Gardner, Della Mae; Steve Johnson, MerleFest

As a talent buyer, how can you change things your line-up without losing your audience? How can you reach for the ‘stars’ when it may be out of your price range? Learn how festivals, PACs, and clubs keep a fresh perspective on their bookings while keeping it in line with their budget.

306B

Moderator: Kimber Ludiker Panelists: Penny McDaniel; Jim Roe, Jim Roe Entertainment

Artists often ask: when is the right time to start putting together a team and how does that even work? How does each person’s role work within the team’s goals? When your band is just starting out, how do you DIY and who are the most critical people to get on your team? All of these answers and more in this panel.

306C

Panelists: Jeremy Garrett, The In- There’s so much more to good co-writing than getting famous Stringdusters; Donna Ulisse, together with coffee, paper, and pen. Get useful tips Donna Ulisse and The Poor Moun- from some of the best! tain Boys; Lisa Aschmann, Nashville Geographic, ASCAP; Tony Rackley, Big Cedar Music, SESAC

Associations

Keeping It Fresh Event Producers Talent Buyers

Building a Dream Team Artists

Co-Writing: Creating Well With Others Songwriters, artists

Be Your Own Publicist Artists, songwriters, producers

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Presenter: Coe Ramsey, Mark Thomas.

CLE Track –Legal professionals, Artists, Managers, Agents, Record Labels, Publishers

Grant Writing 101

10:00AM-11:00AM

305A/B Moderator: TBA Panelists: David Menconi, Raleigh News and Observer

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No matter where you are in your career as a performer, you need publicity – to drive awareness of your gigs, announce a new release, to increase your fanbase. Can’t afford a publicist?

This session will give you tips, tools and practical advice on how to do that for yourself! The panel will contain both established members of the media – who will tell you what they look for when deciding to cover/write about an artist, the best way to deliver information to them, etc. – and artists who are already successfully promoting themselves: what works for them?

TUESDAY, september 29 Day 1

11:10AM-12:10PM

Panel

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Current Music Licensing Issues

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Presenter: Amy G. Marino, Williams Mullen

This session is an overview of key current issues relating to music licensing issues, using the 2015 Copyright Office report as the primary resource. Issues to be discussed include: extending the public performance right in sound recordings to terrestrial radio broadcasts; federal protection for pre-1972 sound recordings; potential changes to the ASCAP and BMI consent decrees; greater consistency in rate-setting standards for all government rates; and proposals for greater licensing efficiencies and transparency, including “MROs” for licensing both mechanical and public performance rights.

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Moderator: Stephen Ruffo Panelists: Claire Armbruster, Planning Stages/Buyer, Grey Fox; Chris Malarky, Buyer, Lincoln Theater; Christina Strittmater, Agent, Crossover Touring; Ashlee-Jean Trott, Buyer Music City Roots/Bluegrass Underground

Regardless of the venue--festival, club or performing arts center--learn the skills for successful negotiation from the pros. Find the proper way to communicate your needs; when to hold, when to fold and how to meet halfway.

Panel moderator Stephen Ruffo has had over 20 years of negotiating experience and will talk to a panel of experts regarding their methods for working the deal.

306B

Panelists: Shelby Kennedy, Tunecore; Jarrod Cooper, ONErpm; Zach Bevill, Thirty Tigers

As the music business has changed during the past few years, so has the ability to expose music via various platforms on a worldwide basis. Artists no longer need to rely on a mainstream record company to market and promote their creative output. This panel offers advice and options available to any music creator, so that an informed decision can be made regarding digital distribution.

306A

Moderator: Sherrill Blackman, SBD Music Group Panelists: Mark ‘Brink’ Brinkman, songwriter; Mark Freeman, Rebel Records; Carolyn Routh, Nu-Blu

Songwriters and publishers always wonder about how to properly exploit a song they love. This panel will explore the various methods and protocols that work best from the perspective of a record company, an artist, and a publisher. Basic publishing fundamentals will be discussed as well.

CLE Track –Legal professionals, Artists, Managers, Agents, Record Labels, Publishers

Cinching the Deal: The Art of Negotiation Talent buyers, agents, festival producers, associations, managers

Distribution Solutions Artists, managers

Publishing 101: I Have A Song, Now What?

Artists, songwriters, publishers

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Wednesday, september 30 Day 2

8:30AM-9:30AM

Panel

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Recapturing Rights to Your Music: Exercising Statutory Termination Rights

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Presenter: Robert A. Monath

The Copyright Act of 1976 provides a mechanism for songwriters and other creators to recapture the rights to their creative works that had been previously transferred to record copies, managers, or others. This “second chance” begins 35 years after the original transfer and allows creators to recapture economic, creative and administrative control of their works. The process requires technical notice and the exercise of rights within a defined window of time. This session explains these rights and procedures and presents key issues to consider if an artist elects to exercise such termination rights.

Presenters: Mary Burdette, Regina Derzon, Christopher HowardWilliams, Danny Clark, Leah Ross, Carly Smith, Chris Keenan, Wendy Tyner, Janet Brightly, Stephen Ruffo, Stan Zdonik

In this hands-on workshop, event producers from around the globe will tackle event production challenges in small group settings. Recognized industry leaders will guide separate group discussions on challenges facing event producers and will report findings from their group to all session attendees. This participatory format invites event producers to identify specific challenges, brainstorm possible solutions, and summarize those focus group insights for all participants at the end of the session. Group topic tables will cover the following topics: Growing the Event/Reaching New Audiences, Marketing and Public Relations, Programming, Sponsorship, and Talent Buying, and Volunteers.

CLE Track –Legal professionals, Artists, Managers, Agents, Record Labels, Publishers

Event Producers Round Table Discussions Associations, talent buyers, agents, artists, publicists/print-media

306B

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Wednesday, september 30 Day 2

8:30AM-9:30AM

Panel

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Event Producers Round Table Discussions

306A

Presenters: Mary Burdette, Regina Derzon, Christopher HowardWilliams, Danny Clark, Leah Ross, Carly Smith, Chris Keenan, Wendy Tyner, Janet Brightly, Stephen Ruffo, Stan Zdonik

In this hands-on workshop, event producers from around the globe will tackle event production challenges in small group settings. Recognized industry leaders will guide separate group discussions on challenges facing event producers and will report findings from their group to all session attendees. This participatory format invites event producers to identify specific challenges, brainstorm possible solutions, and summarize those focus group insights for all participants at the end of the session. Group topic tables will cover the following topics: Growing the Event/Reaching New Audiences, Marketing and Public Relations, Programming, Sponsorship, and Talent Buying, and Volunteers.

Crowdsource Funding: 306B A Resource for Funding your Project or your Career

Moderator: Jeremy Darrow, Front Country Panelists: Missy Raines, Helen Highwater; Melody Walker, Front Country; Jon Stickley, Jon Stickley Trio

In recent years, websites like Kickstarter, Pledge Music and Patreon have offered artists and fans of all kinds new tools to connect with each other. Artists can ask fans for financial assistance with new projects, giving those fans the chance to help bring new music to market while gaining access to the creative process. This panel features artists who have run a variety of successful fundraising campaigns. They’ll discuss some of the services available, along with the considerations of launching a crowd-funding campaign from planning to delivering your promised incentives.

306C

Presenters: Robert and Lynda Weingartz of AirPlay Direct, plus special guests

AirPlay Direct is a digital delivery system developed for artists, radio programmers & music industry professionals.

Learn all the ways it can help you! There are ways for AirPlay Direct to serve the entire professional, global bluegrass community at large, no matter what your role in the industry is! As a special bonus, AirPlay Direct will randomly draw two winners in a raffle for attendees at the end of the presentation. AirPlay Direct will draw a winning ticket in each of the 2 following categories: 1st Winner – Recording Artist or Songwriter & 2nd Winner – Music Industry Professional (record label, radio station, radio promoter, PR firm, artist manager, publishing company, booking agent, etc.) valued at $2,500 each. You must be present to win!

305 A/B

Moderator: Claire Lynch Panelists: Mark Schatz, Ron Block, Stephen Mougin

Living the dream takes a lot of work when you’re traveling most of the year with several other people in a van or a bus. Learn how the pros handle life on the road and some of its challenges.

Associations, Talent Buyers, Agents, Artists, Publicists/Print-Media

For ALL

AirPlay Direct: A Complete "How-To" ALL

Playing Well Together: Techniques for Surviving on the Road Artists, Managers

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Headline Here

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Wednesday, september 30 Day 2

9:40AM-10:40AM

Panel

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Entertainment Law Litigation Update

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Presenter: Jennifer Jenkins

This session will review recent litigation in the area of entertainment law, with a focus on music industry decisions, including the appeal of the verdict in the “Blurred Lines” case, intriguing trademark applications by Taylor Swift and Katy Perry, whether publicity rights extend to a computergenerated Marilyn Monroe, and state of performance rights for pre-72 sound recordings.

306 A

Moderator : William Lewis, Director, PineCone Panelists: Sarah Corrin, Arts Grant Coordinator, City of Raleigh’s Office of Raleigh Arts; Eleanor Oakley, President/CEO of the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County; David Potorti, Literature & Theater Director, North Carolina Arts Council

You don’t have to have attended Grant Writing 101 to hear these experts share their methods for improving the chances of getting the grants for their projects. Take advantage of this exceptional team of panelists and learn the nuances of grant writing.

Moderator: Sherry Boyd Presenters: Katy Daley, WAMU; Joe Mullins, Classic Country Radio

With today’s technology, it seems as if it is easier than ever for anyone to become a disc jockey; however, the gap between amateur and professional disc jockeys has never been wider. This panel discussion will focus on better broadcasting techniques and practices, in an attempt to raise the level and quality and professionalism in bluegrass broadcasting.

Whether you have a new bluegrass podcast or have been a full time bluegrass disc jockey for decades, all broadcasters are welcome to attend this insightful session.

306B

Moderator: Kimber Ludiker Panelists: Eric & Leigh Gibson, Jacob Groopman, Vickie Vaughn

Becoming a full-time band can be both risky and rewarding, and involve a whole lot of logistics. What time is the right time? What do you need to have in place? Hear from a panel of musicians in every level of this transition.

304

Presenters: Bil VornDick, Randy LeRoy

What level? How many bits? Tape or audio file? These are just some questions an engineer wrestles with when it’s time for mix down. This seminar will answer your questions and guide you towards properly formatted mixes that give your mastering engineer the sound and headroom necessary to bring your recordings to life.

Moderator: Phil Bankester, The Bankesters Panelists: Patrick Shanahan, filmmaker; Daniel Schram, videographer/producer; Corey Smith, musician.

Most artists understand the importance of video these days, but many don’t know how to have really good video. Phil Bankester (musician and free lance video producer) will lead a panel including three other producers and directors including Patrick Shanahan (film maker and photographer from Raleigh, NC) Daniel Schram (videographer and producer from Raleigh, NC) and Corey Smith (musician, video producer from Fayetteville, NC). They will discuss what it takes to have great EPKs, live concert video, and music videos.

CLE Track –Legal professionals, Artists, Managers, Agents, Record Labels, Publishers Grant Writing 201 Associations

DJ Boot Camp: Better 306 C Broadcasting Techniques,

Broadcasters

Making the Leap: Becoming a Full Time Band Artists Mixing for Mastering Artists, producers, aspiring and experienced sound engineers (Bil is the best in the biz!)

Video Production: Putting Your Best Stuff Out There Artists

305A/B

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Thursday, september 31 Day 3

9:30AM-10:30AM

Panel

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Become Your Own Talent Buyer: Presenting Great House Concerts

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Moderator: Jeremy Darrow Panelists: Kevin Murdock, Joe Newberry, John Cloyd Miller, Bett Padgett

There is no better place to see your favorite band than in your own home, and there are few concerts more satisfying for artists than those hosted by fans. House concerts can be great routing opportunities (with good merch sales) for bands on the road. For hosts, they present a chance to get to know favorite performers, introduce friends to new music and bring bands to markets the might not otherwise visit. A common practice in the Folk Music world, house concerts are perhaps an underutilized tool for Bluegrass bands and fans alike. Veteran house concert performers and organizers will discuss the ins and outs of getting started and developing house concerts, as well as what goes it to making a great house concert series.

306A

Moderator: Blake Williams Panelists: Cindy Baucom, Knee Deep in Bluegrass; Kyle Cantrell, SiriusXM; Joe Mullins, Classic Country Radio, Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers

Unfortunately, it’s a situation we have all seen: the energy and excitement of an event being squashed by an unprepared and unqualified emcee. An emcee can help make or break a performance. They can accentuate an already great event, or can ruin an otherwise successful one. This panel is open to anyone who would like to learn more about how to better practice the “art of emceeing.”

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Moderator: Angelika Torrie, International Board Rep., Switzerland Panelists: April Verch, Canada; George Jackson, NZ/AUS; Greg Cahill, Special Consensus, U.S.; Ben Wright, Henhouse Prowlers, U.S.; Chris Keenan, Ireland.

Touring and gigging internationally: Join our conversation with seasoned touring bands and reps from different continents, with lots of room for YOUR questions. Your first step towards touring Canada, Australia, Europe and more.

Angelika Torrie (Switzerland/Europe) with April Verch (CAN), George Jackson (NZ/AUS), Greg Cahill (SpecialC, US), Ben Wright (The Henhouse Prawlers, US), Chris Keenan (US/IRL).

Talent buyers, agents, artists, fans

The Art of Emceeing: Being the Voice of the Festival Broadcasters, fans, associations, festival producers

International Gigging Artists, talent buyers, agents, managers

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Thursday, september 31 Day 3 Panel

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Publishing 201: They 307 used my song and I didn’t get paid!

Moderator: Sherrill Blackman Panelists: Louisa Branscomb, Kathy Anderson, Jill Napier

Artists, managers, songwriters, publishers How Our Team Works: Balsam Range

description Too many times a song gets recorded or used without any kind of licensing or royalty distribution. Trying to stay on top of this situation can be time consuming and a headache if you don’t know what you are doing. Three experts will discuss song licensing, royalty collection, and other money issues as they pertain to songwriters and publishers.

305A/B Panelists: Balsam Range

Multi award winners, Balsam Range, will talk about the importance of a smooth running team and how their team – everyone from their publicist to their agent, record label and sound guy – has worked together to everyone’s mutual benefit.

306 B

A career in music presents many challenges – not the least of which is managing your finances. These professionals will talk about different approaches to managing your finances.

ALL Managing Your Finances

9:30AM-10:30AM

ALL

Kristen Scott Benson, The Grascals; Ned Luberecki, SiriusXM; Chris Jones & the Night Drivers; Stephen Mougin, Sam Bush Band, Dark Shadow Recording; Regina Derzon, Accounting Instructor

Thursday, september 31 Day 3

2:00PM-3:00PM

Panel

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Meet-up: Fiddle Groups at the University Level

306A

Are you interested in having a fiddle ensemble at your University to hone your skills and broaden your musical horizons? In this informative session active members of the International Bluegrass Music Association will discuss how to create a successful college alternative styles ensemble.

Topics covered range from the successful creation of a fiddle group, to a demonstration of fiddle arranging at the college level. Bring your instrument and play along!

Room Moderator: Mark Dillon, UNC Greensboro Panelists: Holly Riley, Danny Bermel,

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Industry news

On the charts - as reflected at press time Billboard: Dailey and Vincent, Alive!

In Concert at number one; The SteelDrivers, The Muscle Shoals Recordings at number two; Punch Brothers, The Phosphorescent Blues at number three.

Bluegrass Today Monthly Airplay: Big Country Bluegrass, “The Bluefield West Virginia Blues” (written by Dixie Hall, Tom T. Hall, Troy Engle) at number one; Dale Ann Bradley, “Till I Hear From You” (written by Robin Wilson, Jesse Valenzuela, Marshall Crenshaw) at number two; Chris Jones and the Night Drivers, “Laurie,” (Written by Chris Jones, Jon Weisberger) at number three.

Bluegrass Unlimited songs: The Earls of Leicester, “Big Black Train” (written

by Stanley Johnson, George Sherry) at number one; Spinney Brothers, “My Music Comes From Bill,” (written by Steve Watts, Bill Castle) at number two; Becky Buller, “Southern Flavor,” (written by B. Monroe, G. Stevenson, D. Mize) at number three.

Bluegrass Unlimited albums: The Gibson Brothers, Brotherhood at number one; Darin and Brooke Aldridge, Snapshots at number two; The Grass Cats, The Old School Road at number three.

Singing News songs: Primitive Quartet, “Just Three Little Words,” at number one; Heaven’s Mountain Band, “Somebody Prayed,” at number two; Balsam Range, “Stacking Up the Rocks,” at number three.

Roots Music Report: Dale Ann Bradley, Pocket Full of Keys at number one; Hot Rize, When I’m Free at number two; Robert Earl Keen, Happy Prisoner: the Bluegrass Sessions at number three.

Associations Assertions The Arizona Bluegrass Music Association has announced information about this year’s Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass & Acoustic Music Festival. The event will be held on September 18-20 in Flagstaff, AZ. For more information, go to http://pickininthepines.org/.

The Southwest Traditional and Bluegrass Music Association will be hosting the 2015 Santa Fe Bluegrass and Old Time Music Festival in New Mexico. Headlining the bluegrass portion of the festival will be Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen. For more information about this event, visit southwestpickers.org.

In Remembrance Respected bluegrass musician Billy Constable passed away late last month after a long battle with brain cancer. The North Carolina native had experience touring with numerous bluegrass musicians as well as jam-

grass bands, including String Cheese Incidence and Leftover Salmon. Billy was a talented string musician, and he could jam along with just about any instrument. A concert in Billy’s honor will be held on October 8 in

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Asheville, NC, and funds will be raised to help Billy’s family cover medical costs. Billy will be remembered fondly.

industry news

For the record - need to know Sierra Hull is scheduled to headline The Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival, the country’s only bluegrass festival that promotes Bible study and bluegrass music. The event will be on September 12 in Mocksville, NC. The lineup also includes Wayne Henderson, Tim White and Troublesome Hollow, and the Snyder Family Band, among many others.

Hot Rize has just released a new video for “Your Light Leads Me On”. The video, produced by Mason Jar Music, was filmed in New York City in the heart of Times Square. To view this new video, and for more information about the band’s nationwide tour this year, visit www.hotrize.com.

The Americana Music Association has announced more than 30 additional artists that have been added to the 16th annual AmericanaFest lineup. This year’s festivities will

begin on Tuesday, September 15. For more information about registration and ticket prices, visit americanamusic.org.

East Tennessee State University has just hired two new lecturers to the Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music Studies program. Adam Steffey and Will MacMorran, two ETSU grads themselves, will be contributing their extensive musical knowledge and expertise to the program.

Rounder Records has announced the October release of a brand new album from Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. The duo released their first album, Love Has Come For You, in 2013, which combined Martin’s five-string banjo work with Brickell’s distinguished vocals. The new album, So Familiar, is available for preorder at www. kingsroadmerch.com/steveand-edie.

Dale Ann Bradley has released a new music video with Pinecastle Records for her new album, Pocket Full of Keys. This album marks a milestone in Bradley’s career, as it is her first selfproduced project. Bradley has also been nominated for the 1025 Female Vocalist of the Year, making this year a big one in her career. Pocket Full of Keys is available anywhere bluegrass music is sold.

North Carolina bluegrass and old-time band Mipso was recently featured on The Bluegrass Situation, where the audio for their song “Bad Penny” was showcased. The band will perform at the 2015 World of Bluegrass Ramble Showcase in Raleigh and are releasing a new album in September. To listen to this audio clip & to find out more about Mipso’s tour, Click HERE.

Standing o!

The International Bluegrass Music Museum announced a new Executive Director: Chris Joslin. Joslin is a graduate of Belmont, holding a MBA. His most recent position had him as an Executive Recruiter for Nashville firm Sanford Group. Joslin brings with him not only a keen business sense, but a knowledge of and passion for the music. Joslin is a musician and has toured nationally, until he became more intent on spending time with his family – a wife, and two girls both heading to college this fall. “As the museum prepares to break ground

on a new facility in downtown Owensboro, it is poised to play an even greater role in preserving, highlighting and celebrating Kentucky’s gift to the world – Bluegrass music. I am honored to be a part of seeing the hard work of so many become a reality,” Joslin said in a statement.

There has been a bluegrass marriage in Alaska, y’all! Dan Booth, bass player with Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen, has just said ‘I do” to Amanda Kerr, a fiddle teacher from northern Virginia.

The couple returned to their home-

town of Anchorage, Alaska for the wedding ceremony. Best wishes to Dan and Amanda!

The Long Island Music Hall of Fame has selected bluegrass musician Buddy Merriam as a recipient of the Long Island Sound Award. This honor is awarded to musicians who have contributed to the musical heritage of the Long Island area. Buddy will accept this award later this month. Congratulations on your achievement, Buddy!

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IB