Franklin, KY — Major changes are in store in 2009 for the Franklin (Ky.) Bluegrass Festival.

Williams & Clark Expedition, which has been the festival’s host band and co-producer since the event’s debut event in 2004, is now the sole producer of the festival.

And the festival is headed to a new, permanent home — the Bluegrass Music RV Park, just off Interstate 55 in Franklin.

Memphis, Tenn. — A Time for All – the International Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis, Tenn. is developing into to a powerhouse of information through music. From films and words to songs and stories, special events and guests will fill the days and nights February 18 – 22, 2009 at the Downtown Memphis Marriott. The deadline is November 18 for early registration and showcase entry. Go online to the Folk Alliance web site for information on attending.

Special guests, events, and film screenings during the conference include the legendary Roger McGuinn as our Keynote Speaker, an interview with music legend Charlie Louvin

The IBMA has issued a reminder of the Nov. 30 deadline to receive entries in its annual contest to select an educational lesson plan that utilizes bluegrass music.

The plan can be incorporated into any subject and for any grade from kindergarten through grade 12. The contest is aimed at school teachers, home-school parents and college students majoring in education.

It’s called Byron Goes Bluegrass.

Byron refers to the town of Byron Center, Mich., and the rest of the title is all about a musical showcase that happens from time to time in the town’s VanSingel Fine Arts Center.

The next showcase occurs at 7 p.m. Nov. 22 when Cadillac Sky is the featured band. Lare Williams & New Direction will also perform.