(Courtesy: HOBA)

HOBA: Commitment to Preserving Southern Missouri's Bluegrass Sound.

Bluegrass music, with its roots deep in the Appalachian foothills, has long been a cherished genre in the heart of the United States. In Southern Missouri, it holds a special place in the hearts of the people, carrying the rich sounds of banjos, fiddles, and mandolins through the hills and valleys. Known for its fast-paced picking and harmonizing vocals, bluegrass brings a sense of tradition, nostalgia, and community. The hills of Southern Missouri resonate with its sounds, and at the center of this vibrant music scene is the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association (HOBA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving bluegrass music for over four decades.

A Deep-Rooted Tradition Paying Ommage To The Legends.

The Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association was founded in 1980 by a group of passionate bluegrass enthusiasts, including Ethel and Jim Willard, who wanted to share their love for the genre with their community. For them, bluegrass was more than just music—it was a way of life, a tradition that connected generations, bringing people together through the power of song and storytelling. With their vision, they established HOBA to serve as a hub for local musicians, fans, and performers alike.

Since its inception, HOBA has grown into a cherished institution, attracting bluegrass lovers from across the Ozarks and beyond. The organization’s mission is clear: to promote the enjoyment and education of bluegrass music while preserving its unique legacy for future generations. The association does this through hosting regular events, workshops, and festivals, all of which serve to educate, inspire, and entertain.

(Courtesy: HOBA)

The purpose of the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association, Inc. (HOBA) is to further the education and enjoyment of bluegrass music, to bring together bluegrass musicians, to conduct bluegrass shows open to the public, and to inform the members via a newsletter.

The Bluegrass Festivals: Where Music and Community Converge.

HOBA’s most significant contribution to the cultural fabric of Southern Missouri are its annual bluegrass festivals. Held twice a year, in June and September, these festivals are a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors. The festivals are hosted at HOBA Park, located just outside of West Plains, which has become a go-to destination for bluegrass enthusiasts. This dedicated venue is a gathering place for music lovers of all ages, who camp out, enjoy great food, and experience performances by some of the best bluegrass talent in the country.

The Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Festival in June is a highlight of the summer, and the upcoming event in 2025 promises to be no exception. From June 5–7, HOBA Park will come alive with the sweet sounds of banjos, fiddles, and mandolins, as bluegrass bands from near and far take the stage. The festival includes not only performances by top-tier bluegrass bands but also a range of workshops where both seasoned musicians and newcomers can learn about the finer points of bluegrass music—from picking techniques to harmonizing vocals.

Stringed Union: A Heartfelt Blend of Bluegrass and Gospel.

(Courtesy: Stringed Union)

Southern Missouri's finest, Stringed Union, originates from Willow Springs Mo. Stringed Union performs bluegrass and bluegrass gospel music. The band was formed in 2011 and has been performing ever since. Stringed Union is scheduled to perform at the HOBA Spring Festival, which happens June 5th through 7th, 2025!

Showcasing Talented Performers.

The Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Festival in June will feature performances from a variety of talented bluegrass musicians and bands. Some of the most well-known names in bluegrass regularly grace the stage at HOBA events, offering a unique opportunity for local fans to hear big-name artists up close. In addition to well-established performers, the festival also provides a platform for emerging artists who are making their mark in the bluegrass community.

The festival’s variety of performers provides attendees with the chance to hear the full spectrum of bluegrass music—from fast-paced, foot-tapping tunes to soulful ballads. Whether it’s the virtuosic picking of a banjo player or the harmonizing voices of a vocal trio, the performances at HOBA events are always memorable.

The Impact of HOBA on Southern Missouri.

HOBA’s influence extends far beyond the festivals themselves. As an organization, HOBA has a deep commitment to educational outreach and community engagement. One of its key programs, Bluegrass In The Schools, introduces young people to bluegrass music, ensuring that the next generation of musicians and fans will carry the torch. This program brings musicians into local schools to teach students about the instruments and history of bluegrass, sparking interest in the genre at an early age.

In a world where traditional music can often feel overshadowed by modern trends, HOBA’s efforts ensure that bluegrass—a genre rooted in the Appalachian Mountains and carried westward through to Southern Missouri—remains alive and thriving. The festivals not only celebrate the music but the community spirit, the shared history, and the pride of Southern Missouri!

(Courtesy: HOBA)

Looking toward a future filled with music and inspiration, a young listener is captivated by the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association Festival.