IBMA Foundation Announces The Planning Stages Scholarship For Live Music Production

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The IBMA Foundation has announced a new college scholarship dedicated to live music production established by Claire Armbruster and Jeff Koontz, co-owners of Planning Stages, Inc. in Brevard, North Carolina.

The Planning Stages Scholarship for Live Music Production will recognize creative professionals whose dedication and expertise make live performances possible. It supports students pursuing college, community college or vocational training in live music event production, talent buying and related fields.

“This scholarship was created because my own career has been shaped by working behind the scenes, making live music happen,” says Armbruster. “I’ve always found the greatest satisfaction in the planning, talent buying, coordination, and problem solving that allows artists and audiences to share a meaningful experience, without needing recognition for who made it happen. Over time, I’ve seen how essential these roles are and how limited the pathways can be for people who want to learn them.

“Partnering with the IBMA Foundation felt like a natural choice because they understand that live music is built by many hands, both on stage and off. The Foundation’s commitment to education and mentorship aligns deeply with my desire to give back by supporting practical learning and sustainable careers for those who help music shine from behind the curtain.”

The Planning Stages scholarships may be applied toward tuition, internships, and educational expenses, and the first scholarship of $2,000 will be awarded in August for the fall semester of the 2026-27 school year. The deadline to apply for all IBMA Foundation-hosted college and technical training scholarships is June 1.

Armbruster and Koontz plan to make a donation in 2027 to create an endowment at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to support the new scholarship for generations to come. They welcome donations to the new scholarship from anyone who works in live music production, or who have enjoyed being in the audience at a festival or concert spotlighting bluegrass music. To make a donation, contact the Foundation at info@bluegrassfoundation.org, call 615-260-4807, or donate here.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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