IBMA Announces 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award Recipients

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has revealed the recipients of its 2024 Distinguished Achievement Awards. It recognizes significant contributions to the bluegrass music genre. This prestigious honor, awarded annually during the Industry Awards show, celebrates individuals and organizations that have made substantial impacts on bluegrass music, outside of induction into the Hall of Fame.

The awards acknowledge excellence in advancing bluegrass music’s image, expanding its reach, and enhancing its accessibility. Recipients are selected for their contributions within specific categories, with a focus on those who may not have been previously recognized by other IBMA awards.

2024 Recipients:

Cindy Baucom

Cindy Baucom, a well-known radio personality, has been a pivotal voice in bluegrass for over three decades. Her syndicated show, Knee Deep in Bluegrass, airs weekly on more than 60 radio stations and several online platforms, offering a mix of classic and contemporary bluegrass along with artist interviews. Baucom has also served as a master of ceremonies at MerleFest for over 30 years, and her contributions to the genre include past leadership roles on the IBMA board of directors and induction into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame.

Laurie Lewis

Laurie Lewis is celebrated for her multifaceted talent as a fiddler, vocalist, and songwriter. A leading figure in the California bluegrass scene, she has been a member of numerous bands, including the Grant Street String Band and Laurie Lewis and the Right Hands. Lewis’ solo work has earned her two IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards and a Song of the Year win for “Who Will Watch the Home Place.” She is also a Grammy-nominated artist and a dedicated music instructor.

Richard Hurst

Richard Hurst has been fundamental in promoting bluegrass in Ireland through the Appalachian and Bluegrass Music Festival in Omagh, County Tyrone, which he founded in 1992. Now known as Bluegrass Omagh, the festival has grown to attract 10,000 attendees and has become a major cultural event, featuring artists from the U.S., Europe, and Ireland. Hurst’s efforts have helped cultivate bluegrass appreciation across Ireland, making the genre more accessible to a wider audience.

ArtistWorks

ArtistWorks has revolutionized music education by offering online lessons from expert musicians since 2008. With a library of 50,000 instructional videos taught by 47 master musicians, the platform provides a unique, interactive experience where students can upload their performances for feedback. Bluegrass enthusiasts can access lessons from notable artists such as Alison Brown, Noam Pikelny, and Sierra Hull, making ArtistWorks a key resource for aspiring musicians.

Bloomin’ Bluegrass Festival

The Bloomin’ Bluegrass Festival, held annually in Farmers Branch, Texas, has become one of the premier bluegrass events in the U.S. Despite its location in a non-traditional bluegrass region, the festival has earned three IBMA nominations for Bluegrass Event of the Year. Co-sponsored by the city of Farmers Branch and the Bluegrass Heritage Foundation, the event features top-tier performances, festival food, and a well-organized staff, creating an inviting atmosphere for fans and musicians alike.