Secretary Kluttz welcomes IBMA attendees to Raleigh
Did you know that Japan has more than 35 bluegrass music festivals each year? Cultural Resources Sec. Susan Kluttz didn’t, but found out when she welcomed the crowd to the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Special Awards Luncheon. This luncheon recognized those professionals and organizations that work “behind-the-scenes” in the bluegrass industry, and is IBMA’s opportunity to give out awards for distinguished achievement - Best Bluegrass Broadcaster of the Year, Bluegrass Event of the Year, Best Songwriter of the Year, Distinguished Achievement Awards and more.
The Secretary especially enjoyed learning about the Ozaki brothers who are known as ‘the fathers of bluegrass music’ in Japan. They were one of five recipients of the prestigious 2013 IBMA Distinguished Achievement Awards. The East Mountain Boys, as their group is called, started in 1958 and they learned to love and play bluegrass by listening to the Armed Services radio network during WWII.
Throughout the luncheon, it was overheard many times how the guests from around the world were enjoying Raleigh and our southern hospitality. We’re happy to welcome them back for another two years!
Check out more photos from the event here.