With over 1500 members, and growing, SWBA has been serving the bluegrass community in the Southwest since 1988... 

...and starting 10 years before that in 1978, as 

the Southern California Inland Empire Bluegrass Association.

If you're not already a member, we'd love to have you join us!

To find our how

Page updated: 05/30/2008

The Southwest Bluegrass Association (SWBA) is a large organization of bluegrass pickers and grinners in the southwestern United States that camp together at festivals and jam all day and into the night.  

SWBA is organized under the California Non-Profit Public Benefit Corporation Law as a charitable, educational, historical and tax exempt public corporation.  It is not   organized for the private gain of any person, or persons. 

SWBA is wholly supported by membership fees and fund raising projects, all of which pay for the events, activities, and  programs we offer, which includes this free website for the general public.

The Southwest Bluegrass Association was formed for the purpose of promoting and encouraging the uniquely American musical form known as "Bluegrass," as well as other closely related musical forms. In addition to promoting bluegrass in general, SWBA's objectives include:

• Cultivating and improving public appreciation of bluegrass, including the music's artistic value and its contribution to American heritage.

• Assisting other organizations, event promoters and any others involved with bluegrass to increase the public's awareness and appreciation of this music , through concerts, house jams, campouts, festivals, or other projects and events.

• Fostering unity among fans, performers and any other organizations, or individuals involved in bluegrass.

• Instituting and conducting educational and promotional activities which will advance the appreciation of our American musical heritage and culture, including the development of school-based activities and events that will introduce young people to the satisfaction of participating in and listening to the music .

SWBA brings people together for the preservation, enjoyment and advancement of bluegrass and related musical forms.  This is done through house jams, instructional workshops, concerts, organizing festivals and our bi-monthly newsletter.