IBMA

They are the folks who seldom grace the stage or perform in the recording studio. Nonetheless, these people are an essential part of the bluegrass genre.

And the International Bluegrass Music Association honors them every year in special category awards. IBMA is currently taking nominations from its members for the following awards, which will be presented during World of Bluegrass Week, Sept. 28 – Oct. 4, in Nashville, Tenn.:

• Bluegrass Broadcaster of the Year
• Print Media Person of the Year
• Best Graphic Design
• Best Liner Notes
• Bluegrass Event of the Year.

Letters of nomination are requested, which outline why nominators think the bluegrass event or nominee should be considered.

For liner notes and graphic design, six each of the CD released during the eligibility period are requested in order to forward them to the appropriate special award committee members.

Nominees for the Bluegrass Broadcaster award are asked to submit a one-sheet info page listing accomplishments in the field during the eligibility period (including community involvement). Please also send a 10-minute sample of the broadcaster’s work on CD (DVD for television), with music edited out for radio submissions.

The eligibility period for special awards is April 1, 2008 – March 31, 2009. Broadcasting and print media accomplishments during this time frame should be considered, to be nominated for these awards.

Bluegrass events nominated need to have taken place during this time frame, and writers/designers nominated for the Liner Notes and Graphic Design awards should have their work included on CDs released during the eligibility period.

Nominations for the five awards will be evaluated by special awards committees appointed by the IBMA board chairman.

Nominating letters, packets and sample recorded radio shows must be received no later than June 30. Mail to:

Special Awards,
c/o IBMA
2 Music Circle South, Ste. 100
Nashville, TN 37203.

Letters of nomination may also be emailed to nancyc@ibma.org.