IBMA Selects Ken White As New Executive Director

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Ken White

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Board of Directors has named Ken White as the association’s new Executive Director, effective Oct. 2, following the completion of IBMA World of Bluegrass in Raleigh, North Carolina.

White joins the IBMA with a wealth of experience in bluegrass music and business leadership. Raised on the music of Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley and Tony Rice, the Kentucky native fell asleep many nights with an ear next to the family hi-fi. As a result, he cinched the Kentucky State Banjo Championship at age 14.

He studied guitar with the late, great jazz icon Jimmy Raney at the University of Louisville Music School, while continuing to record, perform and tour with bluegrass and Americana luminaries in acclaimed venues such as the Grand Ole Opry, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, RockyGrass, Walnut Valley Festival, IBMA World of Bluegrass and The Station Inn, where he spent many nights listening, playing or helping restock the bar.

White has written for and performed with the Louisville Mandolin Orchestra, the Nashville Mandolin Ensemble and the Wichita Symphony Orchestra. His multi-instrumental prowess can be heard on many recordings, most recently, a catalog of music he has co-written with his wife, Robin Macy, inspired by Bartlett Arboretum, in Belle Plaine, Kansas, the place they’ve called home for over two decades.

In 2002, he and award-winning designer Nicole Howerton formed Howerton+White, an integrated marketing agency. For over 20 years, White has led the company’s expansion and ongoing integration of marketing and media platforms. Under his leadership, Howerton+White has become a multimillion-dollar business with more than 40 active clients on the roster.

White has also been actively involved in several community organizations. He has served as President of the Wichita Jazz Festival, and has co-produced a popular seasonal concert series at Bartlett Arboretum for 17 years. White currently serves on the Wichita Symphony Orchestra Board as well.

“IBMA is an enthusiastic international organization with a diverse and welcoming membership,” says Dan Boner, IBMA Board Chair. “That was on our minds throughout the interview and selection processes, and Ken demonstrated, very naturally, that he understands the needs and interests of all people who love bluegrass music and work to make it their livelihood.”

White will assume the position currently held by Paul Schiminger, the Interim Executive Director. Schiminger, an IBMA board member, was asked in March to temporarily step back into the role he held for six years before retiring in 2021.

“There were a handful of excellent candidates for the role, but Ken’s knowledge of our music and its community, along with his demonstrated business skills, made him stand out. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Ken through the process, and I’m excited to know the IBMA will be in excellent hands going forward,” says Schiminger.

“A vocation that tethers both heart and mind becomes purposeful work. I have loved bluegrass music since I was a small child. My 22-year career as a business owner has defined both technology and marketing strategies. I feel fortunate to have this opportunity to lead IBMA forward, fueled by these two life-long passions,” shares White.

Liza Anderson
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