The International Bluegrass Music Association has named Chattanooga event producer Maggie Carruth O’Connor as its new Events Director.
O’Connor, founder of Third Place Productions, has helped shape Chattanooga’s arts and music community through projects including TEDxChattanooga, the Sessions concert series, Side B, and multiple neighborhood Porchfest events.
In her new role, O’Connor will oversee planning and production for IBMA’s major events, including IBMA World of Bluegrass, which takes place in Chattanooga.
“I moved to Chattanooga from Atlanta in 2019 with my husband and dog and immediately felt at home,” said O’Connor.
“The sense of community here, especially in the music world, is undeniable. My work over the past five years has focused on building more equitable, sustainable opportunities for local artists, including founding Highland Park Porchfest, a free festival now in its fifth year that features local bands performing on neighborhood porches. Joining IBMA as Events Director feels like a natural extension of that work. I am excited to support the IBMA team and help bring people together around bluegrass music.”
According to IBMA, O’Connor will oversee planning and execution of IBMA'S World of Bluegrass, while supporting the organization's broader mission to advance bluegrass music and strengthen its global community.
IBMA World of Bluegrass returns to Chattanooga this October, with WUTC continuing its role as a media partner supporting coverage of the the weeklong celebration of bluegrass music, artists, and community.
More information is available through IBMA at ibma.org.
