Kids on Bluegrass

The California Bluegrass Association is well known and acknowledged for our Kids on Bluegrass (KOB) program. KOB has been emulated by festivals around the world including the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) annual event, the World of Bluegrass.

CBA member Frank Solivan, Sr. put together a group of young pickers at a festival a quarter century ago because his young musician son, Frank Solivan II, wanted to play on the main stage. Play they did, and the Kids on Bluegrass (KOB) program began. Today KOB is directed by Frank’s successor, Helen Foley, who herself has risen through the CBA’s youth programs.

Running for almost four decades, KOB is a program where kids come together and practice for multiple days in preparation for shows on the Main Stage at the festival. This is the perfect place for talented youth looking to develop a strong stage presence, work together with members of a band, practice putting on a real show, and make life-long friends and memories!

All new kids interested in KOB will be asked to audition on Thursday morning of the festival between 9am and 10am before rehearsals start.

In order for participants to be able to take full advantage of what the program has to offer, they will be expected to know how to play backup rhythm in time with others, know multiple tunes by heart, and have a tune or song in mind that they might be interested in leading. Singers are encouraged to participate! Auditions are open to any “kid” under the age of 18. Since KOB is not centered around teaching kids how to play their instruments, beginner level performers are encouraged to explore opportunities provided by the other CBA programs such as KidFest or the Youth Academy.

KOB Schedule:

• Thursday: 9am-10am auditions, 10am-12pm practice, 12-1pm lunch, 1pm-3pm practice
• Friday: 10am-12pm practice, 12-1pm lunch, 1pm-3pm, Main Stage Show
• Saturday: 10am-12pm practice, 12-1pm lunch, 1pm-4pm, Main Stage Show

Questions? Contact Helen Foley, Program Director