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IBMA World of Bluegrass raised $136,000 for artists, 2021 date announced

The IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass event, which took place earlier this month, raised more than $136,000 for local artists struggling during the pandemic.

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RALEIGH, N.C.The IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass event, which took place earlier this month, raised more than $136,000 for artists struggling during the pandemic.

Donations totaled $86,100, and PNC matched the first $50,000, bringing the final number to $136,000.

The event, held Sept. 28-Oct. 3, featured 124 events and 80 hours of virtual performances and entertainment to protect fans and artists during the coronavirus pandemic. The event garnered a total of 189,325 views across multiple channels, including the IBMA’s official event platform, Facebook, YouTube and other outlets.

The next IBMA World of Bluegrass event will be Sept. 28-Oct. 2, 2021.

“It was exciting to see the incredible engagement of participants from all over the world,” said Jim Hansen, PNC regional president for Eastern Carolinas. “The virtual format allowed us to reach both the dedicated bluegrass community members and those experiencing it for the first time. It’s our sincere hope that this extended visibility will result in increased attendance in Raleigh in future years.”

"I look forward to the day when we can all gather again in Raleigh, hug it out and play some music again with each other in person," said IBMA performer and Raleigh-based banjoist Hank Smith. "Until then, we know that the team can pull it together for an unforgettable experience regardless!"

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