IBMA

A priority access period to reserve hotel rooms and accommodations for the 2009 World of Bluegrass in Nashville, Tenn., opens next week for exhibitors and business conference attendees at the 2008 event.

The International Bluegrass Music Association, which sponsors the week-long event, has negotiated discounts at nine different downtown Nashville hotels for the event, set for Sept. 28 through Oct. 4.

“More than 2,000 hotel rooms at nine different downtown properties are available at discounted rates for the 2009 World of Bluegrass events,” the association said in a news release. “IBMA has strived to negotiate the best rates, at properties that offer the service and amenities our attendees expect, some discounted more than $100 per night.”

IBMA has arranged the priority access period to accommodations for prior-year business conference attendees and exhibitors from March 2 to March 31.

Beginning April 1, reservations will be open to anyone planning to attend any part of the World of Bluegrass week.

Reservations must be made through the Nashville Central Reservations Department. IBMA cautions: “Please DO NOT call hotels directly or the IBMA for room reservations.”

The special negotiated rates can only be accessed by calling 1-877-259-4716 or 615-259-4700. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. central time Monday through Friday.

Those calling need to inform the center that they need reservations for the “World of Bluegrass.”

During the priority access period, those making reservations will need to provide their name, which will be on a list of last year’s attendees and exhibitors. After March 31, available rooms will open to anyone calling to make a reservation.

Ticket sales to events will begin June 1 with complete pricing info and informational brochures available in late May.

“Don’t wait to secure your accommodations however,” IBMA stated. “Some properties and room types are in high demand so we encourage you to make your plans to attend at your earliest convenience.

Attendees are urged to bookmark http://www.ibma.org/ to keep up with the most up-to-date information throughout the summer.