Kids on Bluegrass
October 21-24, 2026
IBMA Kids on Bluegrass showcases talented young musicians and singers ages 4–17 at IBMA World of Bluegrass®. Participants are grouped by ability to create, arrange, and perform music together, gaining real-world experience on stage with their peers.
More than a workshop, the program offers hands-on insight into producing, performing, promoting, and even emceeing a professional bluegrass show, all while fostering confidence, teamwork, and professionalism.
Applications for the 2026 program opening soon!
About the Program
This year features two tracks, Honors and Camp, with one application for consideration. Programming takes place at the Chattanooga Convention Center, with performances throughout the IBMA World of Bluegrass® footprint.
Honors Track
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 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards Pre-Awards Reception on Thursday night, and “tweeners” on the festival stages between festival acts.
Camp Track
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!
2026 IBMA Kids on Bluegrass will take place Wednesday, October 21 through Saturday, October 24.
Attendees must be available for all rehearsals and performances in order to participate.
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 Please do not submit old YouTube or Google Drive links, as they will not be reviewed the application will be withdrawn.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, October 21 through the early evening of Saturday, October 24. 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, IBMA Kids on Bluegrass Program Director, at kimberludiker@gmail.com.