We’re thrilled to announce that The Acoustic Shoppe will be returning to the IBMA World of Bluegrass in Raleigh, NC, from September 25-28, 2024! As one of the most highly anticipated events in the bluegrass music world, this year’s gathering is set to be bigger and better than ever, and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a hobbyist, or simply a bluegrass fan, this is the event that brings together everyone who shares a passion for acoustic music and its rich traditions.
A Booth Unlike Any Other: 1,400+ Square Feet of Acoustic Bliss
At this year’s IBMA World of Bluegrass, The Acoustic Shoppe is going all out with a massive trade show booth that spans over 1,400 square feet! That’s a huge space dedicated solely to showcasing the best in acoustic instruments, gear, and accessories. If you’ve visited us before, you know we love putting on a great show—but this year, we’re taking things to the next level. Our goal is to create an immersive experience that allows attendees to explore, discover, and engage with acoustic instruments like never before.
What can you expect at our booth?
We’re bringing along a carefully curated selection of world-class acoustic brands. Some of the top names you’ll find in our booth include:
- D'Addario: Known for their exceptional strings and accessories, D'Addario continues to set the standard for acoustic musicians.
- Bedell Guitars: Handmade in Oregon, Bedell is celebrated for their commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship in creating high-quality, eco-friendly guitars.
- Martin Guitars: A legend in the world of acoustic instruments, Martin has shaped the sound of bluegrass for generations, and we’ll have some of their finest guitars on display.
- Bourgeois Guitars: With a deep-rooted tradition in lutherie, Bourgeois builds some of the most exquisite, boutique acoustic guitars you’ll ever lay your hands on.
- Gallagher Guitars: Handcrafted with precision in Tennessee, Gallagher guitars offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, perfect for both stage and studio.
- Thompson Guitars: Crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, Thompson guitars have gained a reputation for their incredible tone and playability.
- Fishman: Renowned for their cutting-edge pickups and amplification systems, Fishman will help you bring your acoustic sound to life in any performance setting.
- Alvarez Guitars: A staple in the acoustic world, Alvarez offers guitars that deliver a powerful sound with beautiful craftsmanship.
- Yamaha Guitars: Combining affordability with exceptional quality, Yamaha is a trusted name among musicians at all levels. The newly released F9 series is turning the heads of fans of some of the finest boutique brands known.
- Boucher Guitars: Known for their attention to detail and tonal superiority, Boucher offers some of the finest acoustic guitars available today.
- Eastman Guitars: Delivering professional-grade instruments at an approachable price point, Eastman guitars are becoming a favorite among bluegrass musicians.
- Atkin Guitars: Handcrafted in the UK, Atkin guitars have gained recognition for their vintage-inspired builds that rival some of the best instruments ever made.
These brands represent the heart and soul of what we do at The Acoustic Shoppe. We’re passionate about acoustic instruments and the magic they create in the hands of musicians. When you visit our booth, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with instruments from each of these brands—whether it’s testing out the warm tones of a Boucher or feeling the precise craftsmanship of a Bourgeois in your hands. Our staff will be on-site to offer guidance, answer your questions, and help you find the instrument that’s perfect for you.
Live Performances All Day, Every Day
What’s a bluegrass festival without live music? In true Acoustic Shoppe fashion, we’ll be bringing the sounds of acoustic music to life throughout the trade show floor with live performances all day, every day. We’ve curated a fantastic lineup of musicians—both established and emerging artists—who will take the stage at The Acoustic Shoppe booth to perform throughout the event.
Whether you’re interested in catching a few songs during your trade show visit or tuning in from the comfort of your home, we’ve got you covered. Each performance will be live-streamed, allowing bluegrass fans around the world to experience the magic of these shows in real time. From traditional bluegrass standards to innovative acoustic compositions, our performances will showcase the diverse sounds of the acoustic music world.
In addition to the live-streamed performances, there will be plenty of opportunities to meet the artists up close and personal. Whether they’re demoing instruments, answering questions, or sharing their experiences as musicians, you’ll have a chance to learn from some of the best in the business.
Stay tuned for updates on the performance schedule—we’ll be releasing the lineup soon, and you won’t want to miss a single moment!
A Dedicated Room for Podcasts, Demos, and Instructional Content
We’re not just stopping at live music. For those who want to dive even deeper into the world of acoustic music, The Acoustic Shoppe will have a separate, dedicated room for filming and producing a variety of content during IBMA World of Bluegrass. This is where we’ll be recording episodes of our popular podcast, “The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People,” which gives you a front-row seat to conversations with legends of the industry.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most influential names in bluegrass and acoustic music. This year will be no different. We’ll be talking to luthiers, musicians, and industry experts, digging deep into their experiences, insights, and stories that shaped the acoustic music world. These aren’t just casual conversations—these are rich, insightful discussions that offer a unique window into the lives and work of those who have made significant contributions to the music we love.
In addition to podcast episodes, we’ll also be filming demos of some of the amazing instruments we’re showcasing at our booth. Ever wonder how a Bourgeois sounds next to a Martin? Want to hear the tonal differences between an Eastman and an Atkin? We’ll be offering in-depth demos and comparisons, all of which will be available for viewing on our YouTube channel after the event.
And for those looking to sharpen their skills, we’ll also be producing instructional content that covers everything from basic techniques to advanced playing tips. Whether you’re a beginner looking for guidance or a seasoned player wanting to refine your craft, our instructional videos will offer valuable insights to help you on your musical journey.
Why Attend IBMA World of Bluegrass?
If you’ve never attended IBMA World of Bluegrass, this is the year to experience it. As the largest and most important event in the bluegrass world, IBMA brings together musicians, fans, and industry professionals from across the globe. It’s a celebration of everything we love about bluegrass—from the music itself to the instruments, the traditions, and the community that keeps it alive.
For musicians, it’s a chance to network with others in the industry, discover new instruments, and learn from workshops and masterclasses. For fans, it’s an opportunity to enjoy some of the best bluegrass music on the planet, meet your favorite artists, and immerse yourself in the culture of acoustic music.
Whether you’re attending in person or tuning in online, IBMA World of Bluegrass is an event that every bluegrass lover should experience at least once.
Join Us at IBMA World of Bluegrass 2024!
We’re counting down the days until we return to Raleigh, NC for IBMA World of Bluegrass 2024, and we can’t wait to see you there. Be sure to stop by The Acoustic Shoppe’s booth to say hello, check out our incredible lineup of instruments, enjoy some live performances, and maybe even find your next guitar, mandolin, or accessory.
For those who can’t attend in person, make sure to follow us on social media and tune in to our live-streamed performances and content throughout the event. You won’t want to miss a single moment!
For more information on IBMA World of Bluegrass, including tickets, schedules, and event details, visit their official website at IBMA World of Bluegrass.
We look forward to seeing you in Raleigh for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of acoustic music!
