The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) revealed the recipients of the 2024 Momentum Awards. The awards were announced as part of this week’s IBMA World of Bluegrass., taking place in Raleigh, North Carolina.
The IBMA Momentum Awards, presented by Campbell University School of Law, spotlight artists and industry professionals who are in the early stages of their bluegrass music careers. There are four performance awards: one each for Band and Vocalist, and two for Instrumentalist. Two more awards recognize industry achievement: Industry Involvement, and Mentor.
The Mentor Award is the one Momentum Award that recognizes veteran bluegrass professionals, where they have made significant contributions fostering excellence in young bluegrass performers and members of the industry.
Nominees and recipients are selected by a multiple, committee-driven process. Regional and local associations, as well as all IBMA members, are encouraged to identify serious emerging artists and leaders for consideration. Apart from the Mentor category, anyone previously nominated for an IBMA Music or Industry Award may not be considered for a Momentum Award.
The 2024 Momentum Awards recipients:
Band of the Year
Industry Involvement
Katie Kirchner
Instrumentalist of the Year
Instrumentalist of the Year, sponsored by Pre-War Guitars Co.
Gibson Davis
Mentor of the Year sponsored by Rounder Records
Tony Watt
Vocalist of the Year sponsored by Bluegrass Country Radio
Heather Berry Mabe
IBMA – the International Bluegrass Music Association – is the non-profit music association that connects, educates, and empowers bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community worldwide.
Author: World Music Central News Room
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