Celebrating Over 40 Years of Bluegrass Music in the Southwest
The Southwest Bluegrass Association (SWBA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing bluegrass music throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, and beyond.
For more than four decades, SWBA has brought together a vibrant community of musicians, fans, families, and volunteers — the pickers and grinners — who share a love for the traditions and joy of bluegrass music.
Our Mission
SWBA exists to foster a deep public appreciation for bluegrass, folk, gospel, and other roots-based American music. We do this by:
- Promoting and sponsoring bluegrass concerts, jams, festivals, and family-friendly events
- Supporting other organizations and event promoters who share our passion for the music
- Encouraging local participation and attendance at live music events
- Creating school and community-based programs that introduce young people to music
- Preserving the cultural heritage of bluegrass for future generations
What We Offer
Through our website and network of members, SWBA provides up-to-date information and resources for:
- Campouts, concerts, jams, workshops, and festivals
- Educational events and music-in-schools initiatives
- News, newsletters, and promotional support for bluegrass organizations and venues
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a newcomer eager to learn, there’s a place for you in the SWBA family.
A Volunteer-Driven Effort
SWBA is powered entirely by volunteers who work diligently to keep our website accurate and our events thriving. If you’re submitting an event or updating information, we encourage you to keep your listings current. You can send updates through our website, and we’ll do our best to reflect changes promptly.
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, we recommend confirming event details with venues before traveling long distances.
How We’re Funded
SWBA is wholly supported by membership fees, donations, and fundraising activities. These funds help support:
- Our concert and event sponsorships
- The SWBA website and bi-monthly newsletter
- Music education programs and bluegrass-in-schools initiatives
As a nonprofit organized under the California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation Law, we operate exclusively for charitable, educational, and historical purposes — not for private gain.
All donations may be tax-deductible under current IRS rules.
Join the SWBA Community
We invite you to become a member of the Southwest Bluegrass Association. Whether you’re here to listen, play, learn, or support the music, there’s a place for you with us.
Together, we’re keeping bluegrass alive — one note at a time.
SWBA members support and promote bluegrass music and those involved in it.
Thank you for visiting our website!
We hope you’ll come back often!
SWBA is organized under the California Non-Profit Public Benefit Corporation Law. As a charitable, educational, historical and tax-exempt public corporation. The Southwest Bluegrass Association is not organized for the private gain of any person or persons.
