The 2024 IBMA Bluegrass Live Festival features a contest stage to honor the 100th Anniversary of the Union Grove Old Time Fiddlers Convention started in 1924 by H.P. Van Hoy, and the contributions of H.P. Van Hoy, Pierce Van Hoy, Harper Van Hoy and their families to traditional music in North Carolina. On Friday and Saturday afternoons during the festival there will be contests that are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all. The event will be a chance for everyday people to showcase their love for playing bluegrass and old time music.
The festival is Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, 2024. The contest will be on the Union Grove Stage. You can see a festival map more about the event HERE.
Rules, Judging Criteria and Prizes Information
WEATHER ALERT: Our contest will no longer be happening on Friday. It will run from 3-7 pm on Saturday. Walk-ups always welcome!
RULES & JUDGING CRITERIA
All are encouraged to compete. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional you will be welcomed. Contestants will have five (5) minutes to play two (2) instrumental tunes, one fast, one slow. Contestants may be accompanied by one additional instrument and are encouraged to pick tunes from the standard bluegrass and old time repertoire.
Judges will award points according to the following:
- Quality of Music Played (20)
- Presentation (20)
- Timing (20)
- Representation of the tradition (20)
- Judge’s Preference (20)
PRIZES
Ribbons will be awarded to all contestants.
All contestants who play will get their entry fee back!
The top three (3) finishers in each category will get a place ribbon and a chance to be named Festival Grand Champion!
One Grand Champion will be awarded! Place winners and Grand Champion will be announced at 7:30 during the Square Dance!
CONTEST LOCATION
The Union Grove Stage is located on West Hargett Street, just around the corner from the PineCone Stage. Walk up registrations are welcome as space allows.
This project is supported by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
