Health, Wellness and Safety
The Wellness Summit
Five Wellness events from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm on Thursday only Washington Park Place 3
Nurturing the Nurturers: Wellness Strategies for Artist Managers
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Holistic Mental Health for the Music Industry
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Workshop: Stress Management for Creatives
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
The Road Less Traveled: Building a Healthier Touring Landscape
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Optimizing Your Health for Maximum Creativity
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Sensory Safe Space
Available 9:00 am - 10:00 pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday Signboard 1
Sight & Sound Eye Care Clinic
Offering screenings, readers, sunglasses, & prescriptions. FREE resource to all in the community.
10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Friday and Saturday Signboard 2 Morning Yoga and Meditation every morning
8:00 Thursday, 9:00 Friday, Saturday Union Hill
One-on-One Coaching Sessions with Marni Wandner, Wellness + Executive Coach for Creatives
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Union Hill East
To book a session on-site, please go to https://bit.ly/faicoaching2024
Need Hotel Security? Or Lost and Found?
+1 816-474-4400 then press 6
WEDNESDAY FEB 21
REGISTRATION
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Washington Park Place 2
INSTRUMENT CHECK
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sponsored by Elderly Instruments
Penn Valley +
10:00 PM - 3 AM
Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Private Showcase Host Training
Crossroads
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
First Timers’ Orientation
Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment
Pershing
Come to this gathering to hear advice from conference veterans on how to navigate the next several days and make connections with folks from around the world who are joining our community for the first time.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Volunteer Orientation #1
Pershing
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Black American Music Summit: Beyond the Construct: Belonging While Black Sponsored by BlaqOut
Washington Park Place 1
As musicians of African heritage navigating the landscape of folk, we’ll explore the significance of belonging, the complexities of identity, and the challenges and opportunities that come with interpreting folk music through a distinctly Black lens.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Merch Training
Garden Terrace
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Opening Reception Sponsored by TRO Essex Music and Smithsonian Folkways
Sponsored by TRO Essex Music and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
Century Foyer
Join TRO Essex Music and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings in celebrating 75 years of releasing and promoting incredible folk music with a special performance by David Amram and friends.
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
International Folk Music Awards
Century C
4 WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
REGISTRATION
THURSDAY FEB 22
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Washington Park Place 2
INSTRUMENT CHECK
9:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley + 10:00 PM - 3 AM
Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
Morning Yoga & Meditation
Union Hill East
Kick off the day with a 15-minute morning meditation led by Emily Kessler, immediately followed by a 30-minute yoga session led by Melissa Garcia.
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
All Region Coffee and Gathering
Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment
Century C
Folk Alliance International has five regional affiliates in North America and one global affiliate, Nordic Folk Alliance. This gathering is a chance to hear from the leadership of the regions. After the opening remarks breakout sessions are hosted by each indvidual region. See signage for locations.
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Financial Planning Consulting with Hammer Forte
Union Hill East
Join CFP Jeff Hammer to go over your financial plan or cover questions that you have about your current plans or liabilities. Sign up through our advanced emails or on-site at the room.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Regional Gathering: NERFA
Century A
The Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA to our friends) stretches from the DC metro area up to the tip of Newfoundland and Labrador. Meet the NERFA board and other members from our region, learn about our in-person conference, and find out about how you can take advantage of NERFA365 to be a part of our community all year long!
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Volunteer Orientation #2 Crossroads
Regional Gathering: SERFA
Garden Terrace
SERFA serves Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Meet the leaders of the SERFA region and folks who are attending from that area.
Regional Gathering: FAR-West
Liberty
FAR-West serves Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Northwest Territory, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and Yukon Territory. Please gather with the FAR-West leadership team to learn about their online hub of creativity, education, inspiration, and community.
Regional Gathering: FARM
Pershing
FARM serves Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Manitoba, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Nunavut, Ohio, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. This is an opportunity to meet with FARM leadership to learn about year-round Virtual Connections opportunities and FARM’s in-person conference.
Regional Gathering: SWRFA
Shawnee Mission
SWRFA serves Arizona, Colorado, Mexico, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Join SWRFA leadership to hear about our upcoming conference to be held in Austin, Texas, on September 25-29, 2024. This is a great opportunity to share your ideas for our future and ways to create more community involvement. You could win a free registration for the SWRFA 2024 Conference!
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Nurturing the Nurturers: Wellness Strategies for Artist Managers
Washington Park Place 3
This conversation will provide practical tools and strategies for artist managers to prioritize their own mental, emotional, and physical health while excelling in their demanding roles.
5
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Beyond Land Acknowledgement: Fostering Authentic Relationships with Indigenous Communities
Benton’s 20th Floor
Hear from venue presenters on how they are approaching conversations, developing relationships, and planning impactful programming in partnership with Native artists and Indigenous nations in their regions, as well as the perspectives of a Native artist who has performed at these venues and a Native festival curator on insights on ensuring authentic collaborations.
Featured Interview: Ann Powers interviews Alynda Segarra
Century C
Born in the Bronx and of Puerto Rican heritage, Alynda Segarra eventually found home in New Orleans, forming a hobo band and realizing that music was not only a way to share what they had learned and seen but to learn and see more. Hurray for the Riff Raff steadily rose from house shows to major stages, where Segarra became a pan-everything fixture of the modern folk movement. Alynda will be in conversation with NPR Music’s critic and correspondent Ann Powers.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Agent and Presenter Speed Meetings Day 1
Sheraton - Terrace
This session brings agents and venue, festival, and concert series presenters together for prescheduled one-on-one meetings and informal networking. Pre-registration is required, and participation is by invitation only.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Holistic Mental Health for the Music Industry
Washington Park Place 3
Whether you’re an artist, or you work on the business side of music, this discussion will provide invaluable insights to help you thrive in your career while minimizing the negative impact of stress.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sustainable Festivals & Live Events Brookside
Learn about the sustainable and innovative initiatives currently underway in the festival and live event sectors and how the music industry can actively contribute to fostering a better live music experience for all.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Peer Session: Managers
Empire B/C
All managers are welcome to attend this session, whether they represent a single artist or a large roster. This is an opportunity to share information, converse with colleagues, and make new connections. This session is not for artists looking for representation.
Peer Session House Concerts
Liberty Calling all house concert hosts! Join this session to meet fellow house concert presenters, explore potential collaborations, trade artist recommendations, and build community. This is not intended as a session for artists to solicit house concerts, as artists will have an opportunity to do so at House Concerts Unlocked.
Leveraging your Intellectual Property Assets
Pershing
From beginners to superstars, discover how artists can not only maximize income from their intellectual property but also leverage these assets to generate funds for future creations and properties.
Grantwriting 101
Shawnee Mission
In this workshop, we take time to really flush out mission statements, program descriptions, budget clarity and more, securing a more apt narrative for grant winning applications.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Black American Music Summit: Empowering Independent Artists in the Creative Economy
Sponsored by BlaqOut
Washington Park Place 1
Join us for a panel discussion and community dialogue on ways we can, as empowered, independent artists, maximize earnings and navigate the dynamic landscape of the creative economy.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Workshop: Stress Management for Creatives
Washington Park Place 3
In this workshop with wellness and executive coach (and 20-year music industry veteran) Marni Wandner, you’ll learn: how to deal with the unique stressors of the music business, tangible ways to manage stress on a daily basis, and how to build your personalized stress management toolkit.
6 THURSDAY
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
The Alchemy of Songwriting Liberty
Grammy-nominated, Songwriting Hall of Famer Beth Nielsen Chapman and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Tom Paxton honor us with a songwriting and creativity master class to truly be remembered! Veteran songwriters and those who haven’t yet written their first song are all encouraged to attend.
Peer Session: Artists Coping with Precarity/Mutual Aid
Empire B/C
Every career path presents its own unique set of financial circumstances. Some more than others ebb and flow based on the consumer’s financial wins. This session is designed for artists to share their best practicies, questions, and resources when assistance may be most needed.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Peer Session: Agents
Pershing
This convening brings together agents to network, share resources, discuss common obstacles and strategies, and talk shop. This is not a pitch session, and is not intended for artists to solicit representation.
The Road Less Traveled: Building a Healthier Touring Landscape
Washington Park Place 3
Whether you’re an artist, manager, promoter, venue owner or booking agent, this panel will offer an inspiring exploration of forging a new path in the touring experience.
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Keynote: Noel Paul StookeyAlchemy Through The Years
Century C
Noel Paul Stookey has been altering both the musical and ethical landscape of this country and the world for decades—both as the “Paul” of the legendary Peter, Paul and Mary and as an independent musician who passionately believes in bringing the spiritual into the practice of daily life.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Affinity Group: Activists
Washington Park Place 1
Revolutionizing the Landscape for Songwriters: An Exploration of The MLC and What This Means for You and the Dollars in Your Pocket Sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective Brookside
Join The MLC as they demystify the blanket mechanical license and how this has transformed the industry. In this panel, you will discover the roadmap to accessing the rightful compensation that belongs to you. Attendees will gain insights into The MLC’s processes and membership.
Peer Session: Festivals
Sponsored by Aloompa Empire B/C
This session is specifically intended for folks working in the production and presentation of festivals to talk amongst peers, and as such, is not a forum for soliciting gigs or pitching artists.
Peer Session: Folk Radio DJs and Programmers
Shawnee Mission
This is a space for folks working as folk radio DJs and programmers to meet colleagues, share discoveries, and build community. This is for programmers and DJs only — artists are invited to attend Meet the Folk DJs on Friday morning to share their music directly with DJs.
Peer Session: Media and Publicity
Union Hill East
The media landscape is the noisiest it’s ever been — how do we, as media and publicity professionals, make sure our messages are heard clearly? This session is a discussion amongst peers working professionally in the media and publicity fields, including writers, podcasters, publicists, and others.
Optimizing Your Health for Maximum Creativity
Washington Park Place 3
Panelists will share how to harness the power of practices like mindfulness, physical activity and nutrition can help to break through creative barriers.
7
THURSDAY
2:30 - 2:45 PM
TRO Essex and Smithsonian Folkways Celebrate 75 Years
Century C
This mini-documentary tells the story of the origins of two iconic companies in folk music. Since 1949, TRO Essex Music and Folkways Records were trailblazers establishing the first recordings and protected publishing for artists including Lead Belly, Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and now thousands of other artists.
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
House Concerts Unlocked Day 1
Sponsored by Side Door
Benton’s 20th Floor
Participants are given two minutes each to get up on stage and pitch as to why they are either the perfect artist for house concert audiences, or the perfect house concert for artists to play! Pitches can be a short speech and/or a brief performance. Come prepared to share your name, describe your music/show/venue in a few words, and give folks something to remember you by! Priority will be given to hosts and artists who are signed up with Side Door and have active Show Calls. Please note: there will be no line checks or tech support at this event. Register here: folk.org/houseconcertsunlocked
Authentic StageCraft: Workshop with Shakura S’Aida Liberty
In the session we will focus on: lyric interpretation, connecting with audience, stage presence and vocal strength.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Disability Culture, Inclusion, and Accessibility In The Music Industry
Century C
A conversation with members of Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities (RAMPD), moderated by RAMPD President Precious Perez. ASL translation will be provided.
Maximizing your Revenue Pershing
Our panel of experts will take through the many revenue streams and share insights (and maybe tricks of the trade) to maximize those checks!
3:30 PM - 5:45 PM
Film Screening with Q&A: Burst The Silence Roanoke
Come to the BOSE Listening Lounge for a screening of the Film adaptation of the Tony Awardwinning Signature Theatre stage production followed by a writer’s Q+A that will cover the film and the creative process. Burst The Silence is a musical fable about a father and son and a gift that gives voice to a haunted past.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Peer Session: Large Venues, PACs and Theatres Empire B/C
This gathering is open to folks who program/ present at large venues, PACs and theaters. This will be an open discussion with participants encouraged to share topics of interest. This session is not intended as a pitch session, but rather as a discussion amongst peers working professionally in this specific part of the presenting field.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Private Showcase Host Training Crossroads
Affinity Group: Folks with Disabilities or Chronic Illness Union Hill East
This session is a safe and supportive space for delegates who identify as having disabilities or chronic illnesses to gather together and discuss concerns and issues they are being facing, as well as to celebrate successes and build community.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Friends of Bill W Signboard 1
8 THURSDAY
REGISTRATION
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Washington Park Place 2
FRIDAY FEB 23
INSTRUMENT CHECK
9:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley +
10:00 PM - 3 AM
Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Morning Yoga & Meditation
Union Hill East
Join us for 15 minutes of breathwork, immediately followed by a 30-minute yoga session, both led by Jessica Harris.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
First-Timers Coffee and Conversation
Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment
18th Floor Suite (1843)
A chance to reconvene with fellow first-timers to share stories and deepen connections.
Ethics Lessons from HBO’s Succession
Empire A
HBO’s hit series “Succession” follows a fictional media company led by a legendary patriarch. Through the lens of this captivating series, Turman and Pollard provide an entertaining way for attorneys to obtain ethics credit. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Meaningful Sync Licensing
Liberty
Securing sync opportunities can be challenging and yet we often hear folk music used on film and TV. Hear our panel of experts as they walk you through the process, the challenges, and the pay-offs!
How to Approach and Talk to a Record Label
Pershing
As an artist, approaching a record label can be intimidating. Learn about what you need to bring to the table when you’re shopping for a label, examples of deals, what labels expect out of an artist, and more.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Exploring the Secrets of the Woody Guthrie Archive Shawnee Mission
Delve into the Woody & Marjorie Guthrie family archive with their granddaughter Anna Canoni as your tour guide. Special guest, Joel Rafael will bring to life Woody’s songs as the program ebbs and flows through Woody’s creative story.
Affinity Group: Caregivers and Parents
Union Hill East
Being a musician or music industry professional poses unique challenges to those who are actively parenting or caring for others. Join this affinity session to connect with others seeking to find balance as they juggle busy home and work lives simultaneously.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Authentic StageCraft: Workshop with Livingston Taylor
Century A
On stage 53+ years with 5000+ shows, Liv Taylor knows a thing or two about being in front of a crowd. Joyous and deliciously relaxed, Livingston is widely regarded as one of the best performers out there.
Agent and Presenter Speed Meeting Day 2 Sheraton - Terrace
This session brings agents and venue, festival, and concert series presenters together for prescheduled one-on-one meetings and informal networking. Pre-registration is required, and participation is by invitation only.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Meet the Folk DJs
Sponsored By Bill Wence Promotions
Century C
Artists, take advantage of the opportunity to sit down for a few minutes with your favorite DJs! They are the voices of folk music on the radio and the internet. Bring plenty of CDs and download cards. Grab the list of Folk DJs before you enter the room to map out your route. Be sure to tell the DJs when you will be performing in their area when you talk to them!
9
FRIDAY
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sight & Sound Eye Care Clinic
Signboard 2
Offering screenings, readers, sunglasses, & prescriptions. FREE resource to all in the community.
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
AI and the Law
Empire A
Join us for this timely conversation so you are in a better position to help your clients take advantage of AI before AI takes advantage of them. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Affinity Group: Folks Coping with Loss
Signboard 1
This session is for anyone coping with loss who would like to connect with others who share similar experiences. This is a respectful space where all contributions will be welcome.
Peer Session: Export Offices
Empire B/C
Calling all Export professionals: if your work focuses on creating, finding or subsidizing opportunities for artists across territory lines, this session is for you. Meet fellow Export pros from around the world, expand your network and learn what others are working on and thinking about in the cultural export space.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Artists & Visas: Updates, Strategies, and Advocacy
Empire A
This panel brings together professionals with expertise and lived experience, to discuss strategies for facing the challenges of keeping the U.S. open to international culture.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
One-on-One Coaching Sessions with Marni Wandner, Wellness + Executive Coach for Creatives Union Hill East
Wellness and executive coach (and 20-year music industry veteran) Marni Wandner will be offering free 20-minute mini wellness coaching sessions to conference attendees who would like help with stress management, burnout prevention, energy levels or breaking through a particular behavioral pattern. For more info on Marni’s work, please visit www.marniwandner.com and to book a session onsite, please go to https://bit.ly/faicoaching2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Management: Listening, Leading, Learning Brookside
This session will offer practical perspectives on effective team management and cohesive strategy formation within the landscape of artist representation.
Standing on Their Shoulders: The Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame Inaugural Class Pershing
The inaugural class of inductees to the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame includes 28 iconic songwriters, performers, and industry representatives. The discussion will include artists who will speak from a personal perspective in order to share the lessons they have learned from the icons included in the inaugural class.
Strengthening Our Stages: How to Survive and Improve the New Economics of Live Liberty
Join this crucial panel that identifies the pain points and explores solutions that may help preserve and even save your stages!
Affinity Group: Folkies 55+ Shawnee Mission
Join this popular session to reconnect with peers, meet new-to-you attendees, discuss the unique perspective that is gleaned from time spent in the music business, and explore the wide open landscape of reinvention and renewal of one’s sense of place within the community.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
House Concerts Unlocked Day 2 Sponsored by Side Door
Benton’s 20th Floor
Participants are given two minutes each to get up on stage and pitch as to why they are either the perfect artist for house concert audiences, or the perfect house concert for artists to play! Pitches can be a short speech and/or a brief performance. Come prepared to share your name, describe your music/show/venue in a few words, and give folks something to remember you by! Priority will be given to hosts and artists who are signed up with Side Door and have active Show Calls. Please note: there will be no line checks or tech support at this event. Register here: folk.org/houseconcertsunlocked
10 FRIDAY
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Black American Music Summit: Black Songwriters Workshop
Sponsored by BlaqOut
Washington Park Place 1
Bring your in-progress ideas, lyrics, and/or music and join us in a workshop led by veteran songwriters to support the development of your next piece. All participants will have the opportunity to perform their song at the FAI virtual conference and additional opportunities for ongoing support and engagement with the Black American Music Summit.
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Country Connections
Sheraton - Terrace
Country Connections presents a networking event to connect the global communities at FAI with US-based industry delegates. As an annual inviteonly event designed to foster global connections and networks, priority will be given to artists and their teams from outside North America. Though the event is at capacity, interested parties may add themselves to the waitlist here: https://forms.gle/biJSfpCdC3JMJbt66
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Bimiwizh - Indigenous Community Gathering presented by the International Indigenous Music Summit Washington Park Place 3
The International Indigenous Music Summit (IIMS) is thrilled to invite all Indigenous friends and relatives to a special IIMS event within FAI 2024, where all will gather to feast, connect, and discuss the things that are most important the Indigenous music community, where all are now, and a vision for where all want to go together in the future. *Indigenous delegates only.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Peer Session: Small Venues and Concert Series Benton’s 20th Floor
This gathering is open to folks who program/present at small venues and clubs, and non-house concert music series. This will be an open discussion with participants encouraged to share topics of interest. House concert hosts have a separate convening, as this is a chance for folks operating in venues to dive into the specifics of this type of presenting. This session is not intended as a pitch session, but rather as a discussion amongst peers working professionally in this specific part of the presenting field.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Theatrical Alchemy: From Page to
Stage Century C
A look into the alchemical process of creating music for the stage. Join this panel of folks who explored, developed and produced bringing music from page to stage and perhaps will inspire you to do the same.
Connecting the Dots
Shawnee Mission
By understanding the interconnections between storytelling, profile-building and how they fit together, artists can gain new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the value of what they have to offer.
Brother Can You Spare a Dime?
Empire A
This panel of music industry attorneys will explore the various income streams and necessary licenses available to today’s creators, the opportunities and pitfalls in today’s ever-changing industry landscape, and legal guidelines to help navigate the maze. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.
Affinity Group: Pan-Asian Folks
Union Hill East
This session is for conference delegates who identify as being a part of the Pan-Asian diaspora to gather and build community, discuss common experiences, and connect with each other.
Accessing the Creative Economy: Opportunities for Musicians to Make Change while Making a Living Liberty
Join a panel of seasoned experts for a lively discussion and insights into financial channels that support socially conscious artists including: brandbuilding business partnerships that don’t cost your soul, lucrative collaborations with nonprofit organizations, fiscal sponsorship & grant writing, and residencies and trainings that build your network and skills as a community change entrepreneur.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
From Pen to Production: Unleashing the Power of Music Production for Songwriters
Sponsored by The Recording Academy Pershing
Our panelists will discuss how to bridge the gap between songwriting and production tools, highlighting technical resources and delving into how implementing those can propel your career forward.
11
FRIDAY
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Harmonizing Change: LGBTQ+ Songwriters and the Resonance of Resistance
Sponsored by Ear Trumpet Labs
Washington Park Place 1
Through candid conversations, personal stories, and live performances, we will uncover the power of music as a tool for activism and healing, shedding light on the intersection of identity, artistry, and social progress. Together, we will harmonize change and amplify the voices that challenge discrimination and prejudice in all its forms.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Topic Tables
Empire B/C
Join experts from the folk community to discuss and explore questions and expand your knowledge. Twelve topic tables with one expert at each. Attendees will have an opportunity to spend fifteen minutes at six of their chosen topics.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Exploring Fan Engagement Apps
Brookside
Join us for an exploration of cutting-edge applications that redefine the artist-fan relationship, providing new avenues for creative expression and meaningful connections in the digital age.
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Music Festivals and Live Events in 2024: What You Need to Know
Empire A
Our expert panelists will discuss contracting issues, including negotiated terms such force majeure, cancellation, deposit and payment terms, intellectual property and publicity matters, safety and risk mitigation, and recent events that affect the live performance and event market. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Keynote: David Israelite - The Value of Creativity and Creators
Century C
David Israelite speaks on the value to society of creativity and creators, addressing the needs of those benefiting from the use of music to support and respect the contributions of the folks making music.
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Financial Planning Consulting with Hammer Forte
Union Hill East
Join CFP Jeff Hammer to go over your financial plan or cover questions that you have about your current plans or liabilities. Sign up through our advanced emails or on-site at the room.
3:30 PM - 5:15 PM
Film Screening with Q&A: Finding Lucinda Roanoke
Come to the BOSE Listening Lounge for a screening and conversation with the film maker. “Finding Lucinda” unveils untold stories and poetic influences that shaped the remarkable path of legendary artist, Lucinda Williams. Following singer/songwriter Avery Hellman (ISMAY), an aspiring artist in search of inspiration for their own artistic journey, the film embarks on a road trip across the southern United States, delving into the people and places that shaped Lucinda Williams’ early career.
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
A More Equitable Contract: New Paradigms and Resources for the Performing Arts
Empire A
Relationships drive the folk music sector, but contracts frequently define those relationships. In this session, two seasoned attorneys talk about common problems artists and venues face when they try to “come to terms,” and strategies for using contracts to create a fairer, more equitable, and more transparent sector.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Meet the Canadians Reception
Sponsored by Canadian Independent Music Association
Benton’s 20th Floor
The Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) invites you to snacks and drinks before their official showcase. In this informal event, you will connect with artists and industry professionals from Canada while getting a great view of Kansas City. Stay after the reception to hear an incredible showcase of Canadian talent.
Friends
of Bill W Crossroads
12 FRIDAY
REGISTRATION
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
SATURDAY FEB 24
Washington Park Place 2
INSTRUMENT CHECK
9:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley +
10:00 PM - 3 AM
Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Morning Meditation & Yoga Union Hill East
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Peer Session: Record Labels
Liberty
This session is a discussion amongst folks who own, run, or work directly with record labels to network with peers. This is not a session for artists to pitch their music.
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Keynote: Lucy Kalantari
- Producing Alchemy
Century C
SaulPaul interviews artist and producer, Lucy Kalintari on transforming creativity while helping artists transform stories and sounds. She will discussing the alchemy of collaboration, when artists work within a genre to push its conventions, and when artists cross “genres” to collaborate.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
The Art of the (Live) Deal
Pershing
We are bringing a self-booked artist, artist manager, festival promoter, agent, and a soft/hard ticket promoter together on stage to discuss best practices about remaining effective while being respectful and candid during live show negotiations. They will discuss how to successfully work together in a fragile and recovering live touring ecosystem.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sight & Sound Eye Care Clinic
Signboard 2
Offering screenings, readers, sunglasses, & prescriptions. FREE resource to all in the community.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Your Musical Legacy: What You Leave Behind Sponsored by Northwestern Mutual Brookside
Learn more about “the final career phase”, what revenue streams continue to flow, and how they can flourish. Learn the direction you can legally establish to appoint someone who cares and avenues to posthumous growth.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Affinity Group: Young Music Industry Leaders (under 35)
Benton’s 20th Floor
This session is designed to connect young music industry professionals in a peer-based environment to share ideas, insights, and tools. This session is for anyone between 18-35 working in the field, from industry to artist to presenter.
Wisdom of the Elders Century C
The Wisdom of the Elders panel’s intent is to share and celebrate the stories of the community figures who blazed trails for all of us. This year, the the elders being honored are Dan Navarro, Tret Fure, and Connie Kaldor, interviewed by Art Menius.
Art as an Act of Survival Pershing
This panel discussion will explore some of the diverse, cutting edge art emerging from within the Indigenous music community, as well as shared experiences surrounding the heightened risk Indigenous artists face when taking the stage.
Hitting the Road: Canada and the United States Shawnee Mission
What should be taken into account when thinking of a routing? What do local promoters need to develop their audiences for an artist? How does the artist make their case to promoters especially if the artist is not based in Canada or North America?
13 SATURDAY
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Affinity Group: Latiné and Hispanic Folks
Union Hill East
This is an informal session for Latiné and Hispanic delegates to gather and chat, with a focus on sharing their stories and experiences about being Latiné and how this cultural identity translates into what they do.
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Black American Music Summit: Appropriation and Black Music Legacies
Sponsored by BlaqOut
Washington Park Place 1
We’ll explore the paradox of a genre that adores the artistry of Black musicians while often sidelining or overlooking their contributions.
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Financial Planning Consulting with Hammer Forte
Union Hill East
Join CFP Jeff Hammer to go over your financial plan or cover questions that you have about your current plans or liabilities. Sign up through our advanced emails or on-site at the room.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Voices of Resistance and Unity: The Power of Music to Transform Benton’s 20th Floor
Panel participants will offer an overview of inspiring stories and threads on how the musical voices of resistance and peace have worked to effect change and continue to do so to this day.
Streaming Discovery and Engagement
Pershing
Join us as we take a look at audience engagement and music discovery on streaming platforms. We’ll explore strategies for maximizing your presence, ensuring that your music not only captivates but also reaches wider audiences.
Peer Session: Folk Radio Promoters
Shawnee Mission
This session will convene radio promoters to discuss trends in the field and strengthen collaborative networks amongst peers.
session to connect, create community, listen, and share experiences. It is a safe space where knowledge networks and collective strengthening will be a key focus. Together with experienced facilitators we will conduct introductions, facilitate a group exchange around identifying common themes and sharing our wisdom, and use innovative and interactive tools to build a vision for women and gender equality in folk music.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Archive Challenge
Presented by The American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress
Century C
Come hear artists from diverse genres play their creative interpretations of songs from the American Folklife Center (AFC) archive at the Library of Congress.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Short Form Video: A Cheat Sheet for Folk Musicians
Sponsored by CD Baby
Liberty
Join Rachel Bearinger, Social Media Manager at CD Baby, as she delves into the world of short form video tailored exclusively for folk musicians. Rachel will give you a repeatable framework for creating compelling video content that stands out in today’s social media landscape.
Using Radio to Build Your Career Pershing
Hear from Crys Matthews and artist team members as they dive into case studies on how to engage with radio and use it to build community, business and career in today’s environment.
Affinity Group: LGBTQ2IA+
Washington Park Place 1
All delegates who identify as LGBTQ2IA+ are invited to join this gathering to share stories, make new connections, and find strength in community.
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Hitting the Road: Europe
Shawnee Mission
Affinity Group: Women
Washington Park Place 3
FAI welcomes all women and people marginalized by gender, including transwomen, gender fluid, and gender queer people to join this affinity
Europe represents a giant grid of club venues, university towns, theaters, and festivals. What should be taken into account when thinking of a routing? What do local promoters need to develop their audiences for an artist? How does the artist make their case to promoters especially if the artist is not based in Europe?
14 SATURDAY
SATURDAY
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Film Screening with Q&A: Lead Belly: The Man Who Invented Rock & Roll
BOSE Listening Lounge
Roanoke
Lead Belly: The Man Who Invented Rock & Roll offers a vibrant and uplifting journey through the life of a true musical pioneer. Directed by Curt Hahn, this compelling documentary celebrates Lead Belly’s achievements, sheds light on his significant contribution to music history, and emphasizes the importance of his story in today’s current affairs. After the film, join us for a Q+A with the producers.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Meet Memphis: Networking Happy Hour Sponsored by Music Export Memphis
Benton’s 20th Floor
Want to book Memphis artists or connect with Memphis music industry? This is your chance to meet Memphis musicians and professionals and Memphis Chapter Recording Academy members - must RSVP to attend.
Friends of Bill W Crossroads
SUNDAY
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Black American Music Summit Showcase sponsored by BlaqOut Garden Terrace
7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Closing Party
The Madrid Theater
Let’s celebrate another amazing year at FAI!
