IBMA Announces 2026 Leadership Bluegrass Class

25 industry professionals selected for annual training program in Nashville

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has announced the participants selected for the 2026 edition of its Leadership Bluegrass program. The annual event brings together 25 professionals from across the bluegrass industry for panels, seminars, and discussions aimed at developing future leaders in the genre.

Why it matters

The Leadership Bluegrass program is an important initiative for cultivating the next generation of bluegrass music industry leaders. By bringing together a diverse group of participants from around the world, the program helps ensure the continued growth and evolution of bluegrass music globally.

The details

This year's Leadership Bluegrass class includes professionals from every aspect of the bluegrass business, including artists, recording, education, associations, dance, event production, artist representation, talent buying, radio, and social media. The 3-day event will take place March 2-4 in Nashville, facilitated by Jeff Westerinen with assistance from Nancy Posey.

  • The 2026 Leadership Bluegrass program will run from March 2-4 in Nashville.
  • IBMA announces the Leadership Bluegrass class each year.

The players

Ken White

IBMA Executive Director, who expressed optimism about the diverse perspectives the 2026 class will bring to the future of bluegrass music.

Jeff Westerinen

The facilitator for the 2026 Leadership Bluegrass program.

Nancy Posey

The assistant facilitator for the 2026 Leadership Bluegrass program.

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What they’re saying

“Seeing the Leadership Bluegrass participant list each year gives me real hope for the future of our industry. This year's class highlights the growing global reach of bluegrass, bringing together industry professionals from Québec, British Columbia, Switzerland, Australia, and the United States. Their diverse experiences and perspectives will help guide the future of bluegrass music.”

— Ken White, IBMA Executive Director (bluegrasstoday.com)

What’s next

More information about the 2026 Leadership Bluegrass program can be found on the IBMA website.

The takeaway

The diverse group of 25 industry professionals selected for the 2026 Leadership Bluegrass program demonstrates the growing global reach of bluegrass music and the IBMA's commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders who will guide the genre's future.