2023 FAI Program Book | 35th Annual Folk Alliance International Conference

re Facing the Futu

2

FAI 2023 OFFICIAL SHOWCASE SCHEDULE

Westin Crown Center Hotel

Drop by the Ambassador Suite Room#835 at 10:30PM for some of the finest music from Atlantic Canada.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 4

Century C 8:15PM

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 3 Liberty Room 6PM

GORDIE MACKEEMAN & HIS RHYTHM BOYS

LES HAY BABIES BRAD REID QUARTET FORTUNATE ONES

IAN SHERWOOD

KELLIE LODER ALICIA TONER

February22-24,2023 FOLK+

Folk+ is the virtual add-on to the 2023 Folk Alliance International Conference, featuring peer sessions, breakout groups, social events, premiering of exclusive content from the in-person conference, and more. Registration is pay-what-you-can! Learn more at folk.org/folkplus

sponsored by

G a br i e l S c hwa r t z

MUSIC STARTS WITH YOU. AS AMERICA’S ONLY NOT-FOR-PROFIT PRO, ASCAP PUTS SONGWRITERS FIRST.

OUR ASCAP ONSTAGE PROGRAM GETS YOU PAID WHEN YOU PLAY YOUR MUSIC LIVE.

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R.C. Kemper Charitable Trust, UMB Bank

FOLK AMERICANA ROOTS hall of fame

BOSTON’S NEWEST CULTURAL DESTINATION

Housed in the Boch Center Wang Theatre, FARHOF celebrates folk, Americana and roots music through displays, artifacts, events, exhibits, concerts and more.

Visit our current exhibits curated by the Museum Collective:

Boston: A Music Town, The Wang Theatre: A Century of Great Music, Life In Six Strings, Cultural Heroes and the David Bieber Archives.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT WWW.FARHOF.ORG

Mark your calendars for the 36th Annual Folk Alliance International Conference on February 21-25, 2024, in Kansas City, MO at the Westin Crown Center Hotel!

Stay tuned to folk.org/conference for registration and event details coming soon!

JOBI RICCIO

“Inspired by Buck Owens to Joni Mitchell, her roughly sweet voice commingles with her impressively swinging rhythm guitar.”

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 2ND

7:30PM - BROOKSIDE

KLATT

“Klatt’s best songs boast an almost visceral immediacy, as if created on the spot to capture memorable moments.”

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 2ND 8:15PM - BROOKSIDE

JACK

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Dear Folk Alliance International Community,

As a proud member of our music community and CEO of the Recording Academy, I congratulate FAI on the appointment of their new Executive Director, Neeta Ragoowansi, and on the success of their 35th annual conference. As we celebrate creative excellence at our 65th Annual GRAMMY Awards in Los Angeles this week, we will be with you all in spirit.

The Recording Academy continues the important work of growing and expanding its reach, representation, and recognition of a diverse cross section of the creative community. Like FAI, we exist to serve music creators, to cultivate community, recognize excellence, and to help foster professional growth.

Our organizations are aligned on the urgent need for advocacy that protects music creators, and the importance of members in our community using their voices to speak out, and collaborate, on issues that affect our industry. We provide educational opportunities to creators at all levels, and are supportive of the entrepreneurs who run small, independent businesses devoted to lifting up this art.

We invite you in the folk music community to join with us, take action with us, advocate with us, and bring to us the best of this essential genre. Our organization is at its most effective when we have a diverse, engaged membership from across the broad and amazing music community.

I’m excited to work with Neeta and her team. I’m thrilled that the Academy, through our Songwriter and Composers Wing, is participating in your annual conference. It is only one way our two organizations can help each other achieve our shared goal of serving music, and all the people who make it.

All the best,

Harvey Mason jr.

Dear Folk Alliance International Friends,

On behalf of the Board of the Directors, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 35th Annual Folk Alliance International Conference in Kansas City!

We are thrilled to be back in Kansas City with all of you to celebrate this year’s conference theme, Facing the Future: Sustainability in Folk Music. As we continue to navigate the impacts of the pandemic, we will be looking ahead towards the challenges and opportunities for our folk community. The awareness of sustainability in music runs throughout all genres and generations, and we hope that you will take part in these conversations throughout the week.

This has been a year of transition and growth for us. This past May, the board of directors gathered to develop a new strategic plan to continue to move FAI in a forward direction. I am proud of the work of this organization to be a leader in diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, and our new strategic plan helps to push us further in this direction. This past December, we officially welcomed Neeta Ragoowansi as FAI’s new Executive Director. Neeta is a true force in the music community, and we look forward to her shepherding a new chapter for FAI. We look forward to introducing you to Neeta more this week.

The incredible FAI staff has worked with the programming committee to bring an inclusive and diverse series of showcasing artists, industry mentors and panelists, speakers, and community leaders. There’s a lot to be excited for at this year’s conference, from the Black American Music Summit: What’s Next to the first City of Honor: Memphis. We hope that you will enjoy everything that this year’s conference has to offer.

Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to being in community with you this week!

All My Best,

Ashley Shabankareh Board President, Folk Alliance International

Dear Folks,

On behalf of the entire team, we welcome you to the 2023 Folk Alliance International Conference. We are pleased to present this dynamic program focused on the power of sustainability – in our homes, on our earth, in all we do as creators, business owners, and attendants of communities and networks – spotlighting inspiring voices who explore what it means to sustain a career while caring for self, community, and planet. We hope you take this time to enhance your analysis, dialogue, and problem-solving around sustainable processes and systems. For our present and future, I implore you to be curious, seek newer and better ways, and innovate for good wherever possible.

As the new Executive Director of FAI, I am extremely proud to take on the role of leading an organization I have loved since the 1990’s. I remember my first FAI conference: 1996 in Washington, DC, when as a musician in a local “folkadelic” band, I was plunged heart-first into the Folk Alliance experience for what I recall was an all-nighter jam (where fifty-plus of us propelled into glorious rhapsody with alarming abandon). In years to follow, I continued to tell the world about “Folk Alliance, my favorite!” And as I shifted from making music towards the business-side, helping creators & copyright owners get maximum value for their work, and leaned into creating stronger communities, networks, and plurality for our industry, my resolve and love of FAI and its engaged community deepened even further.

My hope now is that FAI helps you to find sustainability and better connection points to the meaning and purpose of your music and professional lives. It is imperative to progress as a community and industry—now more than ever. Because these are tumultuous and transformative times. In the years to come, we will be reconnecting you with missions, purpose, and the idea of paying more attention to our lyrics to drive change, curb violence, and inspire others to take action, while being at the forefront of technology, where meaningful innovation and distribution channels have the ability to drive those messages and make significant progress. I’m excited to pick up the hammer and nail in building an environment that helps you and the world to prosper – working together on cultural diversity, ensuring better access to economic opportunity, and finding ways to leverage the power that music has to do good and improve how the world works, lives, learns, creates, and dreams. Let’s strive for excellence but also strive for each other. I look forward to continuing FAI’s global expansion and connecting the cultural and professional fabric of our communities. Folk music is of and for the people of the world.

I want to thank all of you for the part that you play in this community – our sponsors, donors, members, the FAI team, and each of you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to revel in the conference offerings and dive into the immense positive impact we can make when we work together.

Neeta Ragoowansi Executive Director, Folk Alliance International

Folk Alliance International Board of Directors Current Members

President

Ashley Shabankareh

Artist Corps New Orleans

New Orleans, LA, USA

Ayappa Biddanda

Concord

Nashville, TN, USA

Iona Fyfe

Traditional Music and Song Association

Glasgow, Scotland

Gary Paczosa

Rounder Records

Nashville, TN, USA

Alka Sharma

Canadian Arts

Presentation Fund

Ottawa, ON, CAN **

Vice President Reid Wick Recording Academy

New Orleans, LA, USA

Beau Bledsoe Ensemble Iberica

Kansas City, MO, USA

Catalina Maria Johnson

Beat Latino

Chicago, IL, USA

Chris Porter Porter Productions LLC

Seattle, WA, USA **

Guillermo Subauste

Stream Tune-Up

Whitby, ON, CAN

Secretary Laura Thomas

ComboPlate Booking

Austin, TX, USA

Laia Canals Kverneland Tempi

Copenhagen, Denmark ^

Art Menius

Art Menius Radio

Rougemont, NC, USA ^

Ann Powers

NPR Music

Nashville, TN, USA

Gerald Torres

Yale University

Fairfield, CT, USA

Treasurer Kevin Dalton

Wiles+Taylor & Co.

Nashville, TN, USA

Lynn Cingari

Wasserman Music

Monterey, CA, USA

Michael Kornfeld

AcousticMusicScene.com

Huntington, NY, USA **

Caroline Randall Williams

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN, USA

Brandi Waller-Pace

Decolonizing the Music Room

Fort Worth, TX, USA

At Large

Rosalyn Dennett Folk Music Ontario Smiths Falls, ON, CAN

Mariah Czap

Yep Roc Records

Durham, NC, USA ^

Sara Leishman

Calgary Folk Festival

Calgary, AB, CAN

Amy Reitnouer Jacobs

The Bluegrass Situation

Glendale, CA, USA **

Tina Wroblewski

Small World Music

Toronto, ON, CA ^

Founders

Clark & Elaine Weissman*

1989 Steering Committee

Current Committee Members (Non-Board Members)

Past Presidents

2021 - 2022

Amy Reitnouer Jacobs

2019 - 2021

Lisa Schwartz

2017 - 2019

Matt Smith

2015 - 2017

Michelle Conceison

2013 - 2015

David Hirshland

2011 - 2013

Renee Bodie

2007 - 2011

Dan Navarro

2007 - 2007

Val Denn

Past Board Members

Kwasi Aduonum

Derek Andrews

George Balderose*

Sarah Bates

Erin Benjamin

Becky Blackley

Anne Blaine*

Margo Blevin Denton*

Ray Bloom

Allison Brock

Camilla Bryce-Laport

Peggy Bulger

Enrique Chi

Mary Cliff

Eileen Cline

Rose Cousins

Doug Cox

Dan Crary

John D’Agostino

Donald Davidoff

Hardin Davis

lou DeMarco

Juan Dies

Phil Doolittle

Wyatt Easterling

Mike Elcessor

Linda Fahey

Joan Fenton

Jenni Finlay

Dom Flemons

Mike Flynn

Ann Forbes

Randi Fratkin

Chris Frayer

Herschel Freeman

Bill Garrett

Gilbert Gastelum

Don Gest

Susie Giang

Chloe Goodyear

Mike Gormley

Mike Green

Karen Haggman

Scott Hargadon

Sara Hickman

Kira Hilley

Ken Irwin

Ralph Jaccodine

Greg Johnson

Barbara Karol

* denotes being part of the original Steering Committee

2006 - 2007

Leslie Berman

2005 - 2006

Tom Neff

2004 - 2005

Meredith Carson

2003 - 2004

Rick Simon

2001 - 2003

Dave Humphreys

1998 - 2000

Pierre Guérin

1997 - 1998

Angelo Joaquin, Jr.

1996 - 1997

Carolyn Bigley

1995 - 1996

Jeri Goldstein

1993 - 1995

Phyllis Barney

1991 - 1993

Michael Miles

1990 - 1991

Art Menius

James Keelaghan

William Kennedy

Joan Kornblith

Alan Korolenko

Cheptoo Kositany-

Buckner

Sam Lee

Jo Long

Chris Lunn

Dave Marsh

Bill Marshall

Susan Martinez

Tom May

Deana McCloud

Cheryl McEnaney

Tim McFadden

Andres Mendoza

Doug Miller

Ed Miller

Mark Moss

Joann Murdock

Bruce Newman

Sandy Paton*

Tom Paxton

Judy Peiser

Eric Peltoniemi

Dan Perrin

Charlie Pilzer

Randy Pitts

Joel Rafael

Millie Rahn

Bob Riesman

Warren Robinson

Carolina Rojas Posada

Shelly Romalis*

Jim Rooney

Garth Ross

Gloria Rosson

Bruce Rouse

Tamara Saviano

Jack Schuller

Carla Sciaky

Anthony Seeger

Mike Seeger

Matt Sever

Jordy Sharp

Gene Shay

Anya Siglin

Dugg Simpson

Ann Smiley

^ New board members who will be seated on February 22, 2023, at the Annual General Meeting

** Retiring at the 2023 Annual General Meeting

Matthew Smith

Mark Smith

Jean Spivey

Ellen Stanley

James Lee Stanley

John Stiernberg

Denise Stiff

Ralph Sutton

Dianne Tankle*

Meg Tarquinio

Greg Torrington

MarySue Twohy

Bil VornDick

Wendy Waldman

Jeff Warner

David Warren

Rich Warren

Clark Weissman

Keli Wenzel

Janie Wilson

Erika Wollam Nichols

Randy Wynne

Carol Young

COVID-19 Protocols

Mask Policy

Masks are required at all times in conference areas (meeting and showcase rooms, Private Showcase rooms and hallways, registration, etc.). The only exception is for artists while they are onstage performing. Conference registrants may briefly pull down their mask to take a drink or a bite of food, but should immediately pull up their mask. FAI encourages attendees to wear masks in other areas of the hotel, but this is not a hotel requirement, and other hotel guests

Vaccination Policy

and visitors may or may not wear masks or be vaccinated.

In order to create a safe and comfortable environment for all, we have taken into consideration our many international attendees who have testing requirements for crossing borders, and those who are at high risk for complications from COVID-19. This is why we have chosen to continue to require masks during our event, despite the host city not having a mask mandate in place.

Vaccines and boosters are strongly encouraged for all conference attendees, but are not required.

FAI reserves the right to add or modify the precautions in place for your safety as we continue to monitor the situation.

If you show any symptoms at the conference (fever, chill, cough, etc.), please continue wearing a mask and isolate until you are able to take a COVID test. We will have some tests available at the info booth, or there are multiple pharmacies in the area.

OFFICIAL SHOWCASE QUÉBEC SPOTLIGHT

THURSDAY FEBRUARY

2nd |

C

6:00 - 6:30 PM BON DÉBARRAS 6:45 - 7:15 PM LÉA JARRY 7:30 - 8:00 PM JASON LANG 8:15

- 8:45 PM

© VITOR MUNHOZ

- 9:30 PM

© LEPETITRUSSE

CONGRESSIONAL ROOM 534

Things

Instrument Check

Located in Penn Valley daily and rooms 704/705 during the evening Private Showcases, Instrument Check is available for anyone to keep their instruments in a secure place while they’re not using them. Band sound systems, tote bags, and other equipment will not be accepted. Instrument Check is not available on Sunday.

Penn Valley (Ballroom Level)

Wednesday: 11 am - 10:00 pm

Thursday - Saturday: 9:30 am - 10:45 pm

Rooms 704/705 (Private Showcase Floor)

Wednesday-Saturday: 10:00 pm - 3 am

FAI Mobile App

Download our mobile app for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store! Search for “Folk Alliance”.

to Know

Always Wear Your Badge And Wristband

It is required for access to all conference events. The replacement cost is $575 for FAI members and $675 for nonmembers.

Please be courteous!

Do not block high traffic areas or leave instrument cases in walkways or common areas. This is a safety hazard especially in the Private Showcase halls. Keep instrument cases within ten feet, and do not leave them unattended.

Jamming

During Official Showcases and daytime events, jamming is restricted to the hotel lobby. Remember to invite others to play! Do not attempt to turn jams into personal showcases. Have fun, enjoy the community, camaraderie, and a chance to make music offstage and from the heart.

There are also three programmed jam sessions this year:

Sonidos Latinos

Friday, February 3 at 11:30 am

Lost and Found

Store passports and valuables in your hotel room’s safe. If you see any suspicious behavior, report it immediately to hotel and conference staff. All lost and found items are handed over to the hotel. Please go to the hotel front desk if you have lost an item.

FAI Merch Store

Snag some fun FAI merch like bandanas, ringer tees, conference artwork tees, and more at the merch table on the Garden Terrace level!

Sounds from Many Mountains

Friday, February 3 at 4 pm

Sounds of the Shore and the Sea

Saturday, February 4 at 4 pm

Learn more about these special jam sessions in the daytime schedule section of this program book.

First-Timers Events

First-Timer’s Orientation

Wednesday, February 1

3 pm - 4 pm

Pershing

Are you overwhelmed by the dozens of meetings and panels, not to mention the hundreds of performances on the schedule? Are you unsure how to make the most of your time at the conference? 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.

First-Timer’s Coffee and Conversation

Friday, February 3 9 am - 10 am Room 1843

Start your day out right by joining other first timers for a casual coffee and continental breakfast. This is a chance to reconvene with fellow first-timers to share stories and deepen connections.

QUESTIONS?

Throughout the week, look for conference veterans with “ASK ME” buttons. They’re available to answer your questions!

Events Sponsored by

First-Timers

Does The MLC Have Royalties for You?

To date, The MLC has distributed nearly $800 million in streaming mechanical royalties to our Members. If you are a self-published songwriter, we may be collecting streaming royalties for you right now. But if you’re not a Member, we can’t pay you. Don’t wait. Become a Member of The MLC today and turn your music streams into a revenue stream!

SUMMIT

Black American Music Summit:

What’s Next 2023 GLOBAL

February 1 - 4

See full schedule below Washington Park 1

FAI is honored to hold space for the Black American Music Summit: What’s Next, a multi-day gathering for Black delegates at FAI. Attendees will learn from key speakers about navigating the folk music world, and all of its potential offshoots, from both creative and business perspectives.

The goal of the summit is to foster a sense of

Setting the Tone

Wednesday, February 1 4 - 5 pm

community and belonging amongst Black artists to broaden their presence in the folk music ecology. Representation matters, as does a safe space for folks to gather and collectively identify pathways to success.

This convening will make space for Black artists and industry alike to offer each other guidance, tools, and empowerment, where the guiding question will be “how do we lift our gaze, make our presence stronger in the folk music industry,

Day 1: It Takes a Village

Thursday, February 2 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

and empower our careers and our community?”

This summit is intended specifically and exclusively for folks who identify as Black, African American, or a member of the African Diaspora. Advanced registration is required. Delegates wishing to register onsite will have to complete an intake form prior to participation, which may lead to delayed attendance.

Summit Leadership: Paula Boggs, Lilli Lewis, Caroline Randall Williams, Brandi

Day 2: Money Matters

Friday, February 3 12 - 2 pm

Waller-Pace

About Global Summits

FAI’s Global Summits are extended sessions at the annual conference designed to convene peers to discuss in-depth the evolving processes, practices, and policies related to the rich ecology of folk music.

Past summits have been held for funders, archivists, ethnomusicologists, cultural equity advocates, disability culture advocates, Indigenous community members, and more.

Day 3: Lifting the Gaze

Saturday, February 4 12 - 2 pm

Theme + Artwork

The theme of the 2023 Folk Alliance International Conference is Facing the Future: Sustainability in Folk Music.

As we emerge from the survival mindset of the early 2020s, our attention turns to the horizon and the challenges — and opportunities — that lie ahead for our industry and community. Together we’ll explore the intersections of individual excellence and collective strength and work to

understand what must be dismantled and what must be built.

In this context, we’ll address sustainability of the folk genre, careers and businesses in the music industry, and the environment that supports us.

This year’s artwork and program book were designed and illustrated by FAI staff members Fawn Lies and Lily Joiner.

Join us for these conference programs exploring topics related to this year’s theme:

Wednesday, Feb 1

Compose Your Career x FAI

10 am - 2:30 pm

Union Hill East

Thursday, Feb 2

Rooted Reckoning and Radical Reimagination: Confronting the Climate Emergency

10:30 - 11:30 am

Century C

The Art of Mass Gatherings: Navigating Complex Intersections of Safety, Sustainability, Accessibility and Community Engagement (Presented by Majestic Collaborations) 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Brookside

Strategies in Succession Planning

11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Roanoke

Affinity Group: Climate Activists

11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Liberty

Artist in Residence

1:30-1:45 pm

Century C

Keynote Address: Valerie June

1:45-2:30 pm

Century C

Friday, Feb 3

The Queer Pulse of Society: A Conversation about Community and Social Sustainability (Presented by Bluegrass Pride)

10-11 am

Brookside

Documentary Film with Q&A: Desde Nuestro Muxu'x

11 am - 12 pm

Roanoke

Practical Solutions for Lowering the Carbon Impact of Live Touring

11:30 am - 1 pm

Liberty US Touring for International Artists: Pro Tips on Paperwork

12 - 1 pm

Brookside

Friday, Feb 3 con’t

Beautiful Protest: Activism Through Art

2 - 3 pm

Washington 3

Peer Session: Young Music Industry Leaders (under 35)

2:30 - 3:30 pm

Benton’s 20th Floor

Music, Movies & Money: How To Make The Film/TV Business Work For Your Music

2:30 - 3:30 pm

Pershing

In It For the Long Run: Staying the Course in the Pursuit of Social Justice

3 - 4 pm

Brookside

Saturday, Feb 4

Weaving Musical Spaces of Indigenous Resistance

10:30 am - 12 pm

Shawnee Mission

Discover: Julie's Bicycle and the Creative Climate Leadership Program

11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Roanoke

Collaborative Problem Solving: Innovative Models for Cultivating Vibrant Community Engagement

11:30 am - 1 pm

Liberty

Selling Tickets: Whose Job is it Anyway

12 - 1 pm

Brookside

The Heart of Project Management

12 - 1 pm

Pershing

Sustaining Culture in the Era of Globalization co-presented with Global Toronto

2:30 - 3:30 pm

Roanoke

Redefining Success: Creatives at the Crossroads of Community, Commerce, and Cultural Change (sponsored by Ear Trumpet Labs)

2:30 - 4 pm

Liberty

Sunday, Feb 5

Songs of Hope, Songs of Change

10 am - 12 pm

Garden Terrace

Health+Wellness

Talk for FREE with licensed local family doctors about any of your health concerns or ways to maximize your health and quality of life in COVID times and beyond!

Eye clinic: Sight & Sound

Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Signboard II

They will offer screenings, readers, sunglasses and prescription glasses. This is a FREE resource to all in the community.

The HART Fund Clinic

The HART Fund is offering many health services FREE of charge to all conference attendees! Stop by to get comprehensive blood testing for anemia, cholesterol, diabetes, thyroid/kidney/liver function, anvd prostate cancer screening.

Results will be available in a few days. They’ll also have an onsite physician for consultation if needed!

RockDoc/Heartland Song Network + Midwest Music Foundation Clinic

Thursday, February 2: 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Room 542

vStop by the Heartland Song Network + Midwest Music Foundation Clinic Private Showcase room for a one-on-one chat with a doctor who’s volunteering their time this week. Blood pressure + blood sugar checks and COVID tests for symptomatic folks will be available!

Sign up for an appointment at folk.org/health. Walk-ups available, too!

Have an urgent (but non-emergent) health need while onsite? You can call 913-735-5880 from 10 am to 10 pm during the conference!

OFFICIAL SHOWCASE

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4

LIBERTY

6PM - 10:45PM

6:00 PM The McDades

6:45 PM Ben Sures

7:30 PM Suzie Ungerleider

8:15 PM Raine Hamilton String Trio

9:00 PM Harry Manx

9:45 PM Berk Jodoin

FEBRUARY 1 — 3

Room # 641

Featuring: Berk Jodoin, Celeigh Cardinal, Ellen Froese, Magnolia, Raine Hamilton, Suzie Ungerleider, The McDades, The Small Glories, and more!

project is funded in part by FACTOR, Musicaction and the Governent of Canada and Canada’s private radio broadcasters. Ce projet est financé en partie par FACTOR, Musicaction et le gouvernement du Canada et les radiodiffuseurs privés du Canada.

FAI is determined to address the environmental impact of the annual conference as well as year-round events and programs.

SCAN

GREENER CONFERENCE for a ←

1. Download our mobile app!

The entire event schedule and delegate list is available in our new conference mobile app powered by Aloompa. There is a limited number of pocket guides and program books for those who opted in during the registration process.

2. Remember the four R’s Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle! Be mindful of trash and recycle whenever

3. BYOB: Bring your own water bottle!

To cut down on waste at

4. Posters and flyers are not allowed on the lobby and conference levels. Postering is allowed at a designated area in the Roanoke Foyer for artists, and by Private Showcase hosts on the Private Showcase floors. We provide digital ad space on the TVs located outside of each showcase/panel room in place of printed posters.

Green Folk

ADSPACE L

APAP|NYC 2024 is January 12-16

YEAR-ROUND CONNECTION FOR PERFORMING ARTS PROFESSIONALS

EXPLORE APAPHERE

12-1 pm

Century C

With so many new voices on the scene, countless changes in technology and communication, and the passing of friends and folk legends each year, it’s worth pausing every now and then to celebrate our elders. Many of these community leaders and folk music pioneers have been interviewed individually over the years, but in 2010 Sonny Ochs entertained the idea of presenting legends and luminaries of the folk community in small group settings where they could interact and share stories and perspectives about their experiences over a lifetime in folk music. This year, the elders being honored are The Reverend Robert B. Jones Sr., Deidre McCalla, and Ken Whiteley, interviewed by Mary Sue Twohy.

Deidre McCalla

Ken Whiteley

Reverend Robert Jones, Sr. is a singer, storyteller, and self taught multi-instrumentalist.

Deidre McCalla doesn’t merely take the stage — she owns it. Celebrating the release of her 2022 album “Endless Grace”, Deidre McCalla — Black woman, mother, lesbian, feminist — has touched audiences from college coffeehouses to Carnegie Hall. Deidre’s music affirms the power and diversity of the human spirit and celebrates our capacity to persevere.

Ken Whiteley is one of Canada’s most respected “roots” musicians. Drawing on his incredibly rich background in blues, gospel, and folk styles, this 7-time Juno award nominee has played at virtually every major folk festival in Canada, performing and recording with such legends as Pete Seeger, John Hammond Jr., Tom Paxton, Blind John Davis, Stan Rogers, and countless others. A prolific songwriter and a powerful singer, Whiteley’s music communicates themes of freedom, love, spiritual aspiration, and social comment.

Reverend Robert B. Jones Sr.

Wisdom of the Elders

Updates from Our Regions

Many of our regional affiliate organizations have returned to hosting in-person events in the last year, in addition to producing more year-round virtual content! Enjoy these

updates from each region on what they’ve been up to and how you can join them at their next conferences. Don’t forget to also stop by their booths in the Exhibit Hall!

FARM (Folk Alliance Region Midwest)

In 2022, FARM returned to an in-person conference in Lisle, Illinois. Our gathering featured a theme of “Tell the Whole Story”, highlighted by our keynote speaker, Dom Flemons, who told us the story of American folk music like only he is able. Our lantern bearer award was presented to Josh White, Jr,, and Nancy Clark.

We welcomed three new members to our board: Elexa Dawson, Sandra Wong Ronkoski, and Craig

Siemsen. Outgoing board members included Cindy Morgan, Brianna Lane, and Nicholas James Thomasma. We are grateful for all they have given. Our Conference Director, Annie Capps, developed an amazing conference in her final year, navigating us into a new world with new concerns and opportunities. In 2023, we welcome our incoming director, Ellen Stanley, with great enthusiasm for the future.

Most importantly, our community came together, producing an incredible weekend of music, educational opportunities, and a safe gathering where masks were the norm. As we move forward from the pandemic, FARM is continuing our Virtual Connections as a regular part of our programming.

Learn more at farmfolk.org

Next conference: October 19-22, 2023, in Lisle/ Naperville, Illinois

NERFA (Northeast Regional Folk Alliance)

The Northeast Regional Folk Alliance was elated to welcome over 400 members of our community back in-person and over 200 members virtually to watch and participate in this year's conference in Asbury Park, New Jersey. A record number of showcasing opportunities were presented. In addition to our traditional Folk DJ Showcase, private showcases curated by over 20 hosts, and a specialty showcase

Nordic Folk Alliance

Nordic Folk Alliance is the largest annual meeting place for the Nordic folk community and the industry surrounding it. The event focuses on music from the Nordic countries and welcomes delegates from across the globe. During our event you can hear music at showcase concerts, expand your network and knowledge at seminars and talks, and take time to connect with

new and old friends.

One hundred and fortythree artists applied for the opportunity to perform at the previous edition of Nordic Folk Alliance in 2022, for a delegation of festival and venue bookers, agents, managers, labels, media, and other music industry representatives.

The curated showcases feature touring and exportready artists, representing a

presented by Folk Music Ontario, this event also included a curated streaming space, formal open mics out of the Johnny & June venue, and a "Bar Style" open mic. In one of the most impressive stage productions possible, the Stone Pony hosted our formal showcase featuring 20 of the finest artists performing in the Northeast.

As we prepare to return to Asbury for the 2023 conference, we are delighted

to announce Crys Matthews as our first keynote speaker. Our commitment to providing music industry professionals with the opportunities, education, and access they need to grow, scale, and build their careers continues!

Learn more at nerfaconference.org

Next conference: November 9-12, 2023, in Asbury Park, New Jersey

diverse array of folk genres including Nordic Folk, Global Roots, Americana, Indie-Folk, Indigenous Music, Traditional, Singersongwriter, Spoken Word, and every imaginable fusion. Learn more at nordicfolkalliance.com

Next conference: April 20-22, 2023, in Roskilde, Denmark

FAR-West (Folk Alliance Region West)

In 2021, FAR-West’s inaugural virtual conference took place October 14-16, gathering 300 lovers of folk music and storytelling. This body of work continued through 2022 via our yearround virtual programming. FAR-West will be producing our first showcase room at FAI since 2020.

Our popular virtual Campfires gathering has continued on its twicemonthly schedule, providing a performing and gathering opportunity to folks from all over the country, within our region and outside of it. Our

monthly blog “Lockdown Lemonade,” featuring writings from our members about how they were coping during the pandemic lockdown, has now become “The Lemonade Stand,” offering member updates on their activities in getting back out to performing and touring. Though a staff shortage necessitated the cancellation of our 2022 conference, planning for our in-person conference for 2023 is ramping up. We are planning to produce many of our former programs such as

SERFA (Southeast Regional Folk Alliance)

SERFA is excited to return to the Blue Ridge Assembly in gorgeous Black Mountain, North Carolin, a for our annual conference May 4-7, 2023. Last year was a real challenge, as I am sure it was for all the regions. Our board, volunteers, and community rose to that challenge. Those efforts placed us in a better financial position to move forward. Many new relationships were forged within our southeast community that assure our conference will be

interesting and valuable.

Our expanded board of directors has brought a wealth of energy and new ideas. We look forward to growing our conference and offering quality programming that reflects the changes in our music business landscape while holding the ties to those traditions which provide us a solid foundation on which to build.

We are thrilled to announce our keynote presenter for

2023, Jeff Place, GRAMMY award-winning archivist and curator at the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Visit our website to learn more about our conference and check back often as we announce our showcase artists, award winners, Wisdom of the Elders, and more.

Learn more at serfa.org

Next conference: May 4-7, 2023, in Black Mountain, North Carolina

the Venues’ Choice concert, juried Official Showcases, Private Guerilla Showcases, panels and workshops, and Best of the West and Humanitarian Awards. Highlighting our diverse geography and genres, FAR-West will continue to expand our music and educational programs through 2023 through virtual programming and initiatives.

Learn more at far-west.org

Next conference: October 12-15, 2023, in Woodland Hills, California

SWRFA (Southwest Regional Folk Alliance)

We had our first in-person conference since 2019 in Austin, Texas, from September 21-25, 2022. It was a great joy to be back together and share live music.

We have open mics, Official Showcases and In Room showcases; seminars and panels during the day addressing booking and tour planning, agents and managers, the internet, getting airplay, studio know-how, song sharing and discussion, wellness while

on the road and looking for alternate ways to get our music to the world. We eat meals together, form wonderful new relationships and renew old ones, and we are certain to have FUN! Artists, managers, agents, venue operators, and folks who come to just listen enthusiastically are all encouraged to attend. Please join us this year!

Also please be sure to join us in-person this week at our regional gathering on Thursday! It’s a chance

to introduce ourselves, talk about our regional programming, and sign up to win a registration to the 2023 conference. Check out the SWRFA Private Showcase room and our shared Regions Booth in the Exhibit Hall.

Learn more at swfolkalliance.org

Next conference: September 27 - October 1, 2023, in Austin, Texas

To Celebrate, Support, Preserve, and Promote Irish Heritage and Culture

UPCOMING EVENTS

February 5

February 25

March 17

May 16

St. Brigid's Day Celebration

Irish Winterfest

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

ADSPACE L

Humours of Bandon performance

CLASSES

Dance

Genealogy

Handcrafts

Language

Literature

Music

EVENTS

Concerts

Lectures

Luncheons

Parties

Receptions

Weddings

Keynote Presenter

Thursday, February 2 1:30 - 2:30 pm

Century C

I'm hoping to inspire joy and an appreciation of nature through my message. Music is everywhere whether we are listening to music created for speakers and headphones or just observing nature's endless songs. What could be more folky and down to earth than taking time to breathe and observe the ultimate musician — Mother Nature.

Valerie June is a GRAMMY-nominated artist from Tennessee who has been hailed by the New York Times as one of America’s “most intriguing, fully formed new talents.” Her 2021 release, The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers, included two songs featuring legendary Stax singer and “Queen of Memphis Soul” Carla Thomas, one of which went on to be nominated for Best American Roots Song at the 2022 GRAMMY Awards, along with her 2014 Emerging Act of the Year nomination.

A musician, singer, songwriter, poet, illustrator, actor, certified yoga and mindfulness meditation instructor, and author, she honorably served as a Turnaround artist working with students for the President’s Committee for the Arts and Humanities and continues serving through The Kennedy Center. Her first book, ”Maps for the Modern World,” was an Amazon #1 Best Seller in poetry and is a collection of lyrical poems and original illustrations about cultivating community, awareness, and harmony with our surroundings as we move fearlessly toward our dreams.

June also has an upcoming children’s book, “SOMEBODY TO LOVE: The Story of Valerie June’s Sweet Little Baby Banjolele”, out on November 1. The story is inspired by how June wrote the song “Somebody to Love” from her album Pushin’ Against a Stone.

Keynote: Valerie June

Artist in Residence 2023 Project

This year's project is an exciting partnership between Coloradobased musician Cary Morin and Friends of the Kaw, the only grassroots conservation group dedicated to protecting the Kaw River (aka the Kansas River).

Cary spent time in Kansas City kayaking down the Kaw this summer, which is a vital water source for the region and the largest prairie-based river system in the world. Inspired by his time on the river, and conversations had with local elders via Haskell University and the Kansas City Indian Center, the final product of this project is a song he wrote that will be presented alongside a music video during the conference.

This project also ties in well with our conference theme this year, Facing the Future: Sustainability in Folk Music, where conference programming will address the sustainability of the folk genre, careers and businesses in the music industry, and the environment that supports us.

Thursday, February 2

1:30 - 2:30 pm

Century C

About Artist in Residence

Created to foster cultural cross-pollination, diversify audiences, and nurture artistic growth, FAI’s Artist in Residence (AIR) program pairs folk musicians with institutions and community organizations through innovative partnerships. Past partnerships have included UNESCO, the International Rescue Committee, Kansas City Ballet, WWI Museum, The Mixed Museum, and more.

The Partner: Friends of the Kaw

Friends of the Kaw (FOK) serves the Kansas River, known locally as the Kaw. The Kansas River is the largest prairie-based river system in the world. The river originates at the junction of the Smoky Hill and Republican Rivers and runs 173 miles to meet the Missouri River at Kaw Point in Kansas City, Kansas. The Kansas River is also a drinking water source for over 800,000 Kansans. It is often referred to as a working river, with such uses as agricultural, irrigation, industrial water supply, municipal water supply, electricity generation, sand mining, and many more public and private uses. FOK is dedicated to protecting the river from pollution sources including municipal and industrial wastewater discharges, new pollution sources, and in-river commercial sand and gravel mining.

The Artist: Cary Morin

Cary Morin was born in Billings, Montana. A Crow tribal member with Assiniboine Sioux and Black heritage, and son of an Air Force officer, he spent the bulk of his youth in Great Falls, where he cut his teeth picking guitar standards at neighborhood get-togethers. Morin has performed for audiences at the Kennedy Center, The Olympics, Telluride Blues & Brews Festival, and Lincoln Center. NPR Music called him “one of Colorado’s great treasures”. He has shared the stage with Los Lobos, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, and Arlo Guthrie. When not touring the US and Europe, he calls Northern Colorado home.

Artist in Residence

Premiere Presentations

Rooted Reckoning and Radical Reimagination: Confronting the Climate Emergency

A collaborative conversation with Mali Obomsawin, Jake Blount, Sam Lee

Thursday, 10:30-11:30 am Century C

Rebecca Solnit wrote that while scientists "transform the unknown into the known... artists get you out into that dark sea".

The stark climate reports being presented about the accelerated warming of our planet and the cultural and biological extinctions brought about by extractive practices and ongoing colonization are causing widespread ecological anxiety and

climate grief. This conversation between three artists actively and creatively contending with the climate emergency will envision what a just climate movement embodies, explore ideas of civil resistance and collective leadership, and discuss how Indigenous ways of knowing might be respectfully centered as mapways towards climate recovery.

In this interview conducted by NPR’s Ann Powers, Mary Gauthier pulls the curtain back on the artistry of songwriting and shares the journey she took in writing Saved by a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting. Part memoir, part philosophy of art, part nuts and bolts of songwriting, the book celebrates the redemptive power of song to inspire and bring seemingly different kinds of people together. Copies of Mary’s book will be available to purchase onsite for $30 with cash or credit/ debit card. Mary will be personally signing books and meeting folks at a table in the room after the interview.

Mary Gauthier: Saved by a Song

Friday, 2 - 3 pm Century C

Janis Ian: In Her Own Words Talk and Extended Q&A

Saturday, 10:45 - 11:45 am Century A

In this informal, intimate talk, singersongwriter, and ten-time GRAMMY nominee Janis Ian will share what being an artist and a part of the folk community has meant to her, and the lessons learned over her six decades as a working singer/songwriter. To get a foretaste of her thoughts on being an artist, you can watch her acceptance of Berklee College of Music’s first Liberal Arts Award at janisian.com/videos.

Ian’s master classes and Q&A sessions are known for their honesty, and the wealth of experience she brings to bear on all aspects of “this business of being an artist”. Because of vocal scarring, Ian was forced to end her performing career abruptly just a few months ago canceling all remaining dates of a year-long final worldwide tour. She can no longer sing, but she’s still as charming and knowledgeable as ever.

This talk will be followed by a Q&A session.

Interview by Ann Powers

Clearwater Award

sponsored by

The Clearwater Award is presented to a festival that prioritizes environmental stewardship and demonstrates public leadership in sustainable event production.

Shambala Festival

Shambala Festival is a four-day contemporary performing arts festival in Northamptonshire, England. The festival is completely and utterly committed to being sustainable, circular, regenerative, net positive, earth and life respecting, and future thinking. They have reduced the festival’s carbon footprint by over 90%; achieved 100% renewable electricity; became meat, fish, and dairy-milk free; and eradicated single-use plastics.

They’ve received many awards for their sustainability work, including the Innovation Award at the 2018 UK

Festival Awards, the International A Greener Festival Award, the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Creative Green Awards in 2017, and more.

The festival is Creative Green Certified and has committed to measuring and transparently reporting all of their impacts to provide an honest evaluation of their efforts. They work with independent third parties like Julie’s Bicycle to assess their performance and carbon footprint. Learn more about the festival and their work at shambalafestival.org.

Photo Credit: Ania Shrimpton

People’s Voice Award

The People’s Voice Award is presented to an individual who unabashedly embraces social and political commentary in their creative work and public careers. Past recipients include Jason Mraz (2022), Jackson Browne (2021), Ani DiFranco (2020), and more.

Leyla McCalla

As an artist, Leyla McCalla has always traveled through time and space, opening the channels between lost or hidden touchstones of roots music and the present day. As a member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops and Our Native Daughters and in her solo work, the multi-instrumentalist and composer bring immediacy to long lost stories and shows how they survive and adapt through the flexible agents of rhythm, language, and intimate human connection. Her work is political and warmly welcoming, cerebral, and highly danceable. Based in New Orleans after

growing up in a Haitian family in New York, McCalla makes music that adds detail to music's maps and gives voice to people whose struggles and triumphs define its diasporic evolution. In 2022 she released the album “Breaking the Thermometer”, the culmination of her most complex project yet — a multimedia performance telling the story of the first independent radio station in Haiti. “Breaking the Thermometer” made Best of 2022 lists at NPR Music, Popmatters, and Mojo, in addition to former President Barack Obama's list of favorite music for 2022.

Spirit of Folk Awards

The Spirit of Folk Awards are presented to honor and celebrate people and organizations actively involved in the promotion and preservation of folk music through their creative work, their community building, and their demonstrated leadership.

Steve Edge

Steve Edge has been presenting folk music in Vancouver as a DJ on CITR since 1985, and concerts and festivals throughout the city since 1986, initially independently, and then as a co-founder of The Rogue Folk Club in 1987 where he continues to present Celtic, folk, and roots music as its artistic director. Steve was an inaugural member of FAI in 1989, is an inductee into the British Columbia Entertainment Hall of Fame, and a recipient of the Unsung Hero award from the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Amy Reitnouer Jacobs

Amy Reitnouer Jacobs is a founder and the executive director of L.A.-based the Bluegrass Situation, an online music magazine and promoter of roots, folk, and Americana music and culture. She joined the board of FAI in 2015 and was instrumental in refining and codifying the recruitment process for board elections as chair of the Nominations Committee. Amy served as board president through the pandemic, and supported FAI’s recent strategic plan and executive director transition.

Marcy Marxer

Marcy Marxer is the creator of All Wigged Out, a poignant and witty musical theatre production (and now film) recounting her harrowing triumph over breast cancer. Painfully funny, it is an example of the power of music and humor to inform and heal.

Marxer, along with her partner Cathy Fink, is a multi-GRAMMY Award nominee and recipient, and together they have been recognized with over 60 Washington Area Music Association Awards for their folk, bluegrass, and children’s music recordings.

Pat Mitchell Worley

Pat Mitchell Worley is the President and CEO of the Memphis-based Soulsville Foundation, which oversees the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Stax Music Academy, and The Soulsville Charter School, all with a mission to perpetuate the soul of Stax Records. She is the long-time cohost of Beale Street Caravan, a syndicated roots radio show broadcast, and she regularly hosts artist Q&As for the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and Oxford American. She is a former development director for the Memphis Music Foundation, and a past employee of the Blues Foundation.

Adrian Sabogal

Adrian Sabogal is an acclaimed musician, producer, and researcher who founded Marimbea, an organization dedicated to the well-being of the Afro-Colombian communities from the country’s South Pacific coast. By arranging music-centered cultural tourism excursions, Marimbea strives to generate alternative sources of income, knowledge exchanges, and support networks for artists in marginalized and remote communities. Adrian’s work has had an impact on the economic development in the region, and the preservation of a vibrant and unique musical tradition.

Rising Tide Award

The Rising Tide Award was launched in 2021 to celebrate a new generation (under 30) artist who inspires others by embodying the values and ideals of the folk community through their creative work, community role, and public voice.

Alisa Amador

Alisa Amador points folk music toward its future — a future that's cosmopolitan, multifaceted, and multilingual; qualities that have in fact been at the community's heart all along. Amador, who comes from a folk music family, grew up in Boston, Maine, Puerto Rico, and Argentina, and her songs show the influence of all of those places. A native Spanish speaker who's spent most of her life in the States,

Amador moves easefully between the two languages in her songwriting. As a high schooler, she studied jazz, and is known for sometimes scatting during performances. Amador's ability to blend all of these influences within sharply rendered yet gently flowing songs helped her win NPR Music's prestigious Tiny Desk Contest and Folk Artist of the Year at the Boston Music Awards.

International Folk Music Awards

2023 Lifetime Achievement Awards

The Elaine Weissman Lifetime Achievement Awards are presented each year to honor the cultural impact of legendary folk music gures: one Living, one Legacy, and one Business/Academic.

Janis Ian LIVING

Janis Ian is a music icon whose songs and performances have resonated with the public for over five decades. Much of her music has poignantly focused on social issues, as Ian is a pioneer of both confessional singer-songwriters' music and social protest. Her first hit, "Society's Child" — written when she was just fourteen — spoke empathetically about

interracial romance, and her indelible song "At Seventeen" remains the anthem for "ugly duckling girls" maligned by false beauty standards. Her music defies easy categorization, with albums like “Stars” and “Between the Lines” becoming classics in both the adult contemporary and folk rock idioms. Ian was also a pioneer of artist-run

Josh White

Josh White was an immensely talented guitarist and singer who had a prolific and greatly influential output of Piedmont and country blues music over a 40-year span. He was the most popular and influential Black folk singer of the 1930s and 1940s and one of the most prominent Black celebrities in any field. Originally a blues artist slotted into the "race records" category, he became a major star through his appearances at New York's Café Society, on Broadway, and in films. He was the first

Black singer to give a White House command performance (1941), to perform in previously segregated hotels (1942), to get a million-selling record ("One Meatball", 1944), and the first to make a solo concert tour of America (1945). White had a profound influence musically on hundreds of artists of different genres. In particular, his songs of social protest, which were grounded in personal experience growing up in Jim Crow South Carolina, had a huge impact not only on performers like Harry

Oh Boy Records

Oh Boy Records was founded by the late John Prine, Al Bunetta, and Dan Einstein in 1980 when, after moving to Nashville, Prine decided he wanted to be a genuinely independent artist. It’s rare that an artist-founded record label becomes iconic, but Oh Boy arguably did as it not only was a main marketing vehicle for most of John Prine’s recordings (he being one of the founders), it has also

Belafonte and Odetta, but on politicians like Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who was inspired by White to begin exploring how to desegregate the U.S. armed forces. Often overlooked in histories of folk music due both to his cabaret-singer style and his decision to appear before the House Un-American Activities Committee in the 1950s — though he did not name anyone as a Communist — White nonetheless remains a titan of not only folk music but American culture in general.

labels with her Rude Girl Records and, after coming out with her groundbreaking 1993 album “Breaking Silence”, she's been a beacon for LGBTQIA+ awareness in the folk community. Ian has just retired from performing, making this the perfect time to honor this living legend.

1914-1969 LEGACY

BUSINESS/ACADEMIC

promoted and nurtured the careers of other very notable singer-songwriters such as Kris Kristofferson, Todd Snider, and Janis Ian. From the beginning, Oh Boy has evolved to be not only a powerful example of one artist taking charge of his career, but a hub for creative and independent-minded musicians in Nashville and beyond. In the 2010s the label experienced a renaissance largely through the efforts of

Prine's wife, Fiona, and son Jody Whelan, signing some of the most exciting new voices in folk and Americana music: Tré Burt, Kelsey Waldon, Arlo McKinley, and Emily Scott Robinson. Oh Boy is a strong presence in the Nashville music scene, a home for those who cannot or don't want to play the bigger label game, and a model for anyone doing the music business thing in the 21st century.

Photo Credit: Jim McGuire

Folk DJ Hall of Fame

The Folk DJ Hall of Fame was established to recognize radio DJs who have made an outstanding contribution to the preservation, promotion, and presentation of folk music, and who have demonstrated and inspired leadership in the broadcast eld.

Marilyn Rea Beyer

Marilyn Rea Beyer hosted her first concert in junior high as the school band emcee. She got on board The Midnight Special listening to WFMT as a Chicago teenager. She has had careers in education, PR, and high tech. In 1995, Marilyn became on-air host and music director at Boston’s premiere folk station, WUMB-FM, and served on the board of the legendary Club Passim. Returning to Chicago, Marilyn joined WFMT in 2020, hosting The Midnight Special and now Folkstage. The Midnight Special launched in 1953 and maintained legendary status under Rich Warren's stewardship. She says that judicious risk-taking, nurturing artists, and falling in love with new music make the job fun.

John Platt

John Platt has hosted the Sunday Supper (formerly Sunday Breakfast) for 25 years at WFUV New York, and has curated On Your Radar, a monthly showcase for emerging artists at Rockwood Music Hall in NYC for 17 years. He has founded the not-forprofit New Folk Initiative, which has extensive resources for the folk community at newfolk.org. He began his career at WMMR Philadelphia in 1969, programmed WXRT Chicago and WRVR New York, worked at WNEW-FM and WNYC, and produced national radio programs.

Robert Resnik

Robert Resnik has been the host of All the Traditions, Vermont Public Radio's folk and world music program, since 1996. Hooked on music since the 1960s, Robert previously spent many years on-air at WRUV at the University of Vermont. All the Traditions is as eclectic as Robert's musical taste, but is dedicated to promoting music created by people living in the VPR broadcast area, which includes all of Vermont and parts of New Hampshire, New York, and Quebec. Robert also plays more than 25 instruments, and has performed and recorded CDs with a variety of musical combos for kids and adults.

Harry B. Soria Jr.

Harry B. Soria Jr. was known as a radio personality and walking encyclopedia of Hawaiian music history. The musicologist, award-winning liner notes writer, and record producer was the son of prominent local broadcaster and songwriter Harry B. Soria Sr. Ironically, Harry B.'s interest in Hawaiian music was sparked by hearing "cool" old records far from Hawaiian shores while at college in San Francisco. Upon returning to Hawai'i, he bonded with his dad over his vintage Hawaiian records. Harry B.'s passion for music from this period led to guest spots on KCCN in 1976 and his weekly "Territorial Airwaves" radio show of recordings from his personal collection. In 2019, Territorial Airwaves became the longest running Hawaiian music show in radio history. Soria's record collection and archives are being donated to the Hawaii State Archives.

Best of the Year

All FAI members in good standing were invited to cast their ballot for the 2022 Song, Album, and Artist of the Year. The winners will be revealed during the show.

Song of the Year

sponsored by

Album of the Year

sponsored by

Artist of the Year

“Udhero Na” written by Arooj Aftab, performed by Arooj Aftab featuring Anoushka Shankar

“Marchita” by Silvana Estrada

Jake Blount

“Vini Wè” written and performed by Leyla McCalla

“Queen Of Sheba” by Angélique Kidjo and Ibrahim Maalouf

Janis Ian

“Bright Star” written and performed by Anais Mitchell

“Get on Board: The Songs of Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee” by Taj Mahal and Ry Cooder

Prateek Kuhad

“How” written by Marcus Mumford and Brandi Carlile, performed by Marcus Mumford featuring Brandi Carlile

“Anaïs Mitchell” by Anaïs Mitchell

Leyla McCalla

“B61” written and performed by Aoife O'Donovan

“Crooked Tree” by Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway

Aoife O'Donovan

CommUNITY Gathering: Meet the Team

Saturday, 9:30 - 10:30 am Century C

2022 was a big year of change at Folk Alliance International, with a transition to new leadership and the creation of a new strategic plan setting an exciting course for the coming years. We invite all delegates to come and hear from our new Executive Director, Neeta Ragoowansi, and our new Board President, Ashley Shabankareh, about the vision they have for the future of our organization. This short presentation will be followed by an informal meet and greet with the staff and board of FAI, who look forward to connecting with you directly.

HANNE KAH

FOLK FROM GERMANY OFFICIAL SHOWCASE BENTON‘S 20TH FLOOR

ALSO FIND US HERE: EXHIBIT BOOTH, LOBBY 1 KARI ESTRIN, MGMT/CONSULTING

AEA Ribbon Mics and Preamps

Julie Tan

julie@ribbonmics.com www.ribbonmics.com

L06

Aloompa

Drew Burchfield drew@aloompa.com

https://aloompa.com/ L10

Baker Booking - Louise Baker and Bruce Swan

Louise Baker louise@bakerbooking.com

https://www.bakerbooking.com/

305

BOSE Corporation

Jed Rothenberg

jed_rothenberg@bose.com bose.com

201

Canis Major Music LLC

Danielle Devlin danielle@canismusic.com

https://canismusic.com/

304

Dolmen Entertainment Group

Michael Patrick Farrell mpf@dolmenentertainment.com dolmenentertainment.com

407

AER Amplification

Doug Nestler doug@musicship.com

http://www.musicship.com

203

American Folklife Center Library of Congress

Jennifer Cutting jcut@loc.gov

www.loc.gov/folklife

L14

Beehive Productions / Peluso Microphone Lab

Jeff Oehler jeff@beehivepro.com

beehivepro.com

105

Breezy Ridge Insts., Ltd. / John Pearse(R) Strings

Mary Faith Rhoads-Lewis merryfaith@aol.com

https://www.jpstrings.com

209

CD Baby

Chris Robley cdbaby@cdbaby.com

https://www.cdbaby.com

203

Ernie Williamson Music

Mitch Brashers mitch@erniewilliamson.com www.erniewilliamson.com

104

Alexei Mejouev Films

Alexei Mejouev alexeimejouev@gmail.com

https://www.alexeimejouev.com/ G04

American Songwriter

Shane Whalen swhalen@americansongwriter.com Americansongwriter.com

G02

Bill Wence Promotions

Bill Wence billwencepro@earthlink.net

https://billwencepromos.com/ 302

Brek Brekvirki ehf. brekband@gmail.com

http://brek.is/en

A02

Culture Ireland

Ciaran Walsh

Ciaran.Walsh@cultureireland. gov.ie

http://www.cultureireland.ie/

303

Ethno USA

Suchet Malhotra & Ashley Virginia usa@ethno.world

www.ethno.world

505

FAI Regions

fai@folk.org

far-west.org

farmfolk.org

nerfa.org

serfa.org

swfolkalliance.org

206

FLi Artists

Matt Greenhill

info@fliartists.com

http://www.FliArtists.com

305

folkfestfolk

John Palisay folkfestfolk@gmail.com

http://johnpalisay.com

L15

Gangar

Mattias Thedens

booking@gangar.no

https://www.gangar.no/en/

A01

International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA)

Anna Kline

anna@ibma.org

https://ibma.org/

507

Favorite Son

David Priebe david@faveson.com

www.faveson.com

406

Fleming Artists

Karla Rice

karla@flemingartists.com

www.flemingartists.com

403

Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame

Anne Taylor ataylor@bochcenter.org https://www. folkamericanarootshalloffame.org

L04

Folquébec

Gilles Garand musique@folquebec.org

https://folquebec.org/ L02

Groover

William Ospina william@groover.co Groover.co

L08

International Indigenous Music Summit / Advancing Indigenous Performance

Nicole Auger / Ed Bourgeois

info@indigenousmusicsummit. com / ebourgeois@westarts.org

indigenousmusicsummit.com / https://www.westarts.org/aip

207

Folk Music Ontario

Rosalyn Dennett

director@folkmusicontario.ca folkmusicontario.ca

504

Franzke String Instruments

Mark Franzke

mfranzke4448@gmail.com

www.mfstrings.com

205

Heartland Song Network

Danny Powell heartlandsongnetwork@gmail. com

https://www. heartlandsongnetwork.org

204

Janet's Planet: Music Lessons for Humanoids, Inc. TM

Janet Feld

janet@janetsplanetmusic.com

www.janetsplanetmusic.com

502

Jeff Cannon

Jeff Cannon

cannonfolk@gmail.com

http://www.jeffcannonmusic.com

108

Latitude 45

Iván Escobar

ivan@latitude45arts.com www.latitude45arts.com

410

Midwood Entertainment

Micah Davidson

micah@midwoodentertainment. com

https://www. midwoodentertainment.com/

402

Myriad Artists

Trish Galfano trish@myriadartists.com

http://www.myriadartists.com

404

Nefesh Mountain

Steven Johnson

sj21music@gmail.com

https://www.nefeshmountain.com/

A04

Performing Arts Readiness / Art of Mass Gatherings

Tom Clareson, Matthew Kowal tom.clareson@lyrasis.org www.performingartsreadiness.org

401

Kari Estrin Mgmt/Consulting & Radio Promotion

Kari Estrin

kari@kariestrin.com

www.kariestrin.com

L03

LEWITT

Brian Fisher

brian.fisher@lewitt-audio.com lewitt-audio.com

202

Music Declares Emergency Canada

Kim Fry musicdeclaresca@gmail.com

https://www.musicdeclares.net/ca/ en/

L09

MySeat MEDIA

Normand Pigeon / Jheanelle Henry info@myseat.com myseat.com

G01

Nordic Folk Alliance

Åke Lundström

ake@liveatheart.se

https://www.nordicfolkalliance.com/ 501

Kerrville Folk Festival

Mary Muse

mary@kerrvillefolkfestival.org

kerrvillefolkfestival.org

L05

Local 1000

Aaron Fowler

aaron@aaronfowler.org local1000.org

503

Music Export Memphis

Elizabeth Cawein

elizabeth@musicexportmemphis. org

http://www.musicexportmemphis. org

L01

Myxt

Chris Wetherell intro@myxt.com myxt.com

G03

Ortega Guitars

John Kelley

jkelley@ortegaguitars.com

https://ortegaguitars.com/ 102

Phil Jones Bass

Mike Albronda

mike@philjonespuresound.com

https://www.pjbworld.com/cms/ 101

Productions CRÉTAC

Brandon Girouard

brandon@cretac.ca

https://www.cretac.ca

309

Résonances

Noémie Azoulay

info@agenceresonances.com

https://www.agenceresonances. com

405

Solid Merch

Joe Vent

joe@atozmedia.com www.atozmedia.com

107

The Americana Music Association

Danna Strong

danna@americanamusic.org

http://americanamusic.org/

506

The Mechanical Licensing Collective

Kayla Ott

kayla.ott@themlc.com

https://www.themlc.com/

L12

Tro Essex Music Group

Courtney Cloud / Nora Sheridan

courtneyc@troessexmusic.com / noras@troessexmusic.com troessexmusic.com

L16

Well Made Music

Clint Holley

clint@wellmademusic.net

wellmademusic.net

106

Sawyer Fredericks

Sawyer Fredericks

info@sawyerfrdrx.com

sawyerfredericks.com

409

SRO Artists, Inc.

Bill Marquardt bill@sroartists.com

https://sroartists.com/

307

The Bluegrass Standard Magazine

Keith Barnacastle turnberryrecords@gmail.com

https://www.turnberryrecords. com/

208

The Scooches

Nick Russo

Nick@TheScooches.com

TheScooches.com

A04

U.S. Copyright Office

Holland Gormley kigo@copyright.gov

https://www.copyright.gov

L13

Wooden Ship Productions

Sean Boyd

sean@woodenshipproductions.com

woodenshipproductions.com

308

Side Door

Gianna Lalonde

gianna@sidedooraccess.com sidedooraccess.com

L11

Talk Abouts

508

The Hart Fund

https://blues.org/hart-fund/ G06

TreeHouse Custom Drums

Derek Sharp (D#)

derek@treehousedrums.com

https://www.treehousedrums. com/

109

Uptown Artist Group

David Shaughnessy

info@uptownartistgroup.com

www.uptownartistgroup.com

408

ADSPACE L

10:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Compose Your Career x FAI

LEARN

Union Hill East

Compose Your Career

co-founder Jayme Stone will share everything you need to know about successfully booking your own shows and tours.

This four-hour in-person workshop will be divided into two parts: “Branding & Story” and “How to Book Yourself Without an Agent.” You’ll learn how to:

• Frame your music in a compelling story

• Write catchy copy

• Position your project for success

• Craft a pitch

• Create conversation

• Follow up

• Understand booking seasons

• Negotiate fees (the math and the attitude)

• and more

Learn about Compose Your Career at https:// composeyourcareer.org

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Instrument Check

Penn Valley Registration

Washington Park Place 2

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Private Showcase Presenter Training Crossroads

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Exhibit Hall Setup (Exhibitors Only)

Century B

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

First-Timers Orientation

Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment CONNECT Pershing

Are you overwhelmed by the dozens of meetings and panels, not to mention the hundreds of performances on the schedule? Are you

unsure how to make the most of your time at the conference? 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

Black American Music Summit: Setting the Tone CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

This session will be an opportunity for participants to meet and greet each other to encourage a welcoming sense of safety and community among Black artists and industry alike. With full spectrum empowerment serving as the central focus for this inaugural summit, this session acknowledges that the spectrum of Black folk traditions carries its own history, defined and

THURSDAY’S SCHEDULE

expanded upon by its creators. No matter where a participant currently lies on the spectrum of experience, practice, goals, or point of view, the intention of this gathering is to embrace every lens for the sake of collective strength and wisdom.

Volunteer

Orientation

Pershing

7:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Merch Garden Terrace

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

International Folk Music Awards

Century C

10:00 PM - 3:00 AM

Instrument Check

704/705

10:30 PM - 3:00 AM

Private Showcases

5th - 8th Floors

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Registration

Washington Park Place 2

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Regional Coffee Break

Roanoke Foyer

Come down early and grab coffee prior to attending the Regional Meetings!

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Exhibit Hall Setup (Exhibitors Only)

Century B

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

International Gathering

CONNECT

Garden Terrace

There are many delegates in attendance at this year's conference from outside of North America/Turtle Island. Come and connect

face to face with folks from around the globe in this informal meet and greet.

Regional Gathering: FAR-West

CONNECT

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. FAR-West always welcomes questions and ideas on how to better serve their music community. Attendees will have an opportunity to win a free FAR-West Registration or various FAR-West swag!

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Regional Gathering: FARM CONNECT

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, as well as to share ideas for FARM's future and the ways that FARM may better serve the community. Join this session for an opportunity to win a free registration for the FARM 2023 Conference and other cool FARM gear!

Regional Gathering: NERFA CONNECT

Century A

Stretching from the DC metro area up to the tip of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA to our friends) will be holding its annual conference November 9-12, 2023 in Asbury Park, New Jersey! Come learn about the 2023 conference and ask us ANYTHING, meet the NERFA board and other members from our region, and find out all about how you can take advantage of NERFA365 to be a part of our community all year long!

Regional Gathering: SERFA CONNECT

Roanoke

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. Learn about our in-person conference and let us know how our future conferences can best serve you. A great way to make new friends in your own backyard, learn how we've been supporting each other, and see how you can contribute to the growth of your FAI region.

Regional Gathering: SWRFA CONNECT

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 27-October 1, 2023. 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 2023 Conference!

Volunteer

Orientation

Crossroads

9:30 AM - 10:45 PM

Instrument Check

Penn Valley

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Rooted Reckoning and Radical

Reimagination: Confronting the Climate Emergency REFLECT

Century C

Rebecca Solnit wrote that while scientists transform the unknown into the known... artists get you

out into that dark sea. The stark climate reports being presented about the accelerated warming of our planet and the cultural and biological extinctions brought about by extractive practices and ongoing colonization are causing widespread ecological anxiety and climate grief. This conversation between three artists actively and creatively contending with the climate emergency will envision what a just climate movement embodies, explore ideas of civil resistance and collective leadership, and discuss how Indigenous ways of knowing might be respectfully centered as mapways towards climate recovery.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Affinity Group: Climate Activists CONNECT Liberty

This session invites participants to connect directly with each other and share their hopes and visions for, as well as their fears and anxieties about, the future of the planet we call home. Beyond facts and figures, facilitators will invite attendees to radically reimagine pathways of recovery, share resources and new approaches, and harness the strength of connection and community in collective action for climate justice.

How to Make More Money as a Musician LEARN Pershing

Although live shows may still account for 80 to 90% of a musicians' income, there are other revenue streams that feed into the pie. What are these income streams and are you tapping into all of them?

And even with live shows, are you maximizing the monetization opportunities? We’ll review and discuss the income streams and some innovative (tech) tools and services developed to help us market and connect to the money. You won't want to miss this one!

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Strategies in Succession Planning REFLECT Roanoke

For those who've carved a path of leadership in their field, it can sometimes be difficult to assess when it's time to pass the torch, as it can be a challenge for emerging professionals to know when it's time to step into leadership, and how to navigate transitions by learning from folks who have been exploring new pathways and engaging collectively. This conversation will explore the topics of transition, timing, approaches to restructuring, and organizational continuity.

The Art of Mass Gatherings: Navigating Complex Intersections of Safety, Sustainability, Accessibility and Community Engagement

Presented by Majestic Collaborations

LEARN

Brookside

What happens when you build a community engagement program, but without a proper event safety plan? What happens when your environmental sustainability initiatives increase inaccessibility for your community Integrating the Art of Mass Gathering's Four Pillars — Safety, Accessibility, Sustainability, and Community Engagement — adds a level of challenge to any scenario, but ultimately can result in events that are inclusive and approaches that are applicable in a multiplicity of unpredictable situations, and a community more prepared for climate emergencies! Join this panel of experts as they use case studies to explore pain points and use them to shape innovative solutions.

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Black American Music Summit Day 1: It Takes A Village CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

No person is an island. Depending on where you are on your journey, you're going to need folks around you to support and uplift you as you pursue what matters to you. This day's discussions will center on the recognition that even IF people can do it all themselves, that may

not be the best use of time, inspiration, or creative energy. Learn how leaning on others can help grow your business, be that as an artist, a community leader, or a creative entrepreneur.

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Exhibit Hall

Century B

Drop by the exhibit hall to visit over 50 trade show booths at the B2B hub for the conference. Presenters, come talk to the agents, managers, and labels representing showcasing artists. Artists, come learn about the gear and services, organizations and opportunities that benefit you.

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Merch

Garden Terrace

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

Valerie June Keynote Address and Artist In Residence REFLECT

Century C

GRAMMY-nominated Tennessee artist Valerie June will be giving a live, in-person keynote presentation. She has been hailed by the New York Times as one of America's most intriguing, fully formed new talents. A musician, singer, songwriter, poet, illustrator, actor, certified yoga and mindfulness meditation instructor, and author, she honorably served as a Turnaround artist working with students for the President's Committee for the Arts and Humanities and continues serving through The Kennedy Center. June recently released a children's book, SOMEBODY TO LOVE: The Story of Valerie June's Sweet Little

Baby Banjolele. The story is inspired by how June wrote the song Somebody to Love from her album Pushin' Against a Stone. I'm hoping to inspire joy and an appreciation of nature through my message. Music is everywhere whether we are listening to music created for speakers and headphones or just observing nature's endless songs. What could be more folky and down to earth than taking time to breathe and observe the ultimate musician — Mother Nature. Prior to the keynote, there will be a presentation of the Artist in Residence (AIR). The AIR program partners a folk artist with an institution to foster cultural exchange, cross-pollinate audiences, and nurture artistic growth. This year's project is an exciting partnership between Colorado-based musician Cary Morin and Friends of the Kaw, the only grassroots conservation group dedicated to protecting the Kaw River (aka the Kansas River). Cary spent time in Kansas City kayaking down the Kaw this summer, which is a vital water source for the region and the largest prairie-based river system in the world. Inspired by his time on the river, and conversations had with local elders via Haskell University and the Kansas City Indian Center, the final product of this project is a song he wrote that will be presented alongside a music video during the conference.

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

For Good Measure: Using Data Collection to Shift the Balance of Power REFLECT Brookside

In order to shift the balance of power in any system, it is necessary to

understand where the gaps in equity lie, and to lay that information out in a way that unquestionably clarifies the need for action. In this presentation, folks who have conducted recent studies of racial barriers in the music industry describe the processes they undertook, obstacles they faced, and lessons they learned on the road to releasing their findings, and how those reports and studies are leading to actionable, measurable solutions addressing inequity within the music industry.

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Peer Session: Agents CONNECT

Washington Park Place 3

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.

Peer Session: Festivals

Sponsored by Aloompa CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

All festival programmers, directors, and leaders are invited to join this convening, where participants will connect and participate in a loosely facilitated discussion about contemporary trends in curation and postpandemic recovery for the sector, among other topics of interest. 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

CONNECT

Liberty

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

CONNECT

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.

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Peer Session: Managers

Sponsored by MMF Canada and MMF-US CONNECT

Shawnee Mission

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.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Musicians Guide to TikTok

Sponsored by CD Baby

LEARN Pershing

TikTok is driving massive

music success. And not just for major labels, for whom TikTok metrics now gauge the potential of a new artist or upcoming release. Thanks to TikTok's powerful algorithm, it's a platform where niche content can find loyal audiences, too. It's a great place for independent musicians to put in effort, build community, and share new songs. In this session, CD Baby's Chris Robley will lead you through a foundational strategy for promoting music on TikTok.

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Ancestral Communal Listening REFLECT

Signboard 1

Michael Mwenso will lead attendees through a series of listening experiences of Gospel, Blues, Jazz, and other Black roots music forms, guiding the audience through thematic explorations and codiscovering the nutrients that can continuously feed the soul hidden in the music.

Spotlight on Songcraft

Sponsored by the Songwriters & Composers wing of The Recording Academy

LEARN

Benton's 20th Floor

Is songwriting an art, a craft, or both? How does an artist take a burst of creative impulse and hone it into a finely tuned, perfectly worded piece of universal truth? What does it take for a song to connect with a listener's body, mind, and spirit all at once? In this creative conversation, three songwriters who approach songwriting from distinct vantage points candidly explore their inspiration sources, share discoveries, and offer

insights into the craft and art that connect us all.

3:30 PM - 5:45 PM

Documentary Film with Q&A: Take Me To the River: New Orleans DISCOVER

Roanoke

Take Me to the River: New Orleans celebrates the rich musical history, heritage, legacy, culture, and influence of New Orleans and Louisiana. A true collaboration and melting pot of influences from around the world. The airing of this film will be followed by a live Q&A with the filmmaker, Martin Shore.

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Country Connections and Global Music Match

Garden Terrace

Country Connections with Global Music Match present a networking event to reconnect the global communities at FAI. As an annual invite-only event designed to foster global connections and networks, priority will be given to Canadian and Australian delegates, as well as Global Music Match participants.

Private Showcase Presenter Training

Crossroads

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Reception

Sponsored by Délégation du Québec à Chicago, Mundial Montréal, and Folquébec

CONNECT

Century Foyer

Meet and greet the companies and artists from Québec at a reception

sponsored by the Délégation du Québec à Chicago and Mundial Montréal. With twelve official showcase acts and over twenty companies that are based in the province or represent Québec talent this year, the province is truly one of the world’s hotspots of folk activity. The reception will include hors d’œuvre and will be immediately followed by the amazing Official Showcases by two of the province’s premiere presenting organizations: Folquebéc (Century C) and Mundial Montréal (Century A).

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Friends of Bill W

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

6:00 PM - 10:30 PM

10:00 PM - 3:00 AM

Instrument Check

704/705

10:30 PM - 3:00 AM

Private Showcases

5th - 8th Floors

NETWORKING

SHOWCASE CONCERTS TRADE FAIR CONFERENCE FILMS AWARDS

VIRTUAL WOMEX

9AM-10:30AM Conference of Conferences

10AM-11AM The Queer Pulse of Society Presented by Bluegrass Pride

11AM-12PM Affinity Group: Folks Coping with Loss

10AM-4PM Sight & Sound Eye Clinic

10AM-11AM Affinity Group: Caregivers and Parents

10:30AM11:30AM

Peer Session: Academics

11AM-12PM I'll Take You There: Music Making in Memphis Now Sponsored by Music Export Memphis

11AM-12PM Peer Session: House Concert Presenters 11:30AM-1PM Sonidos Latinos

12PM-1PM US Touring for International Artists: Pro Tips on Paperwork

Yoga 3PM-4PM In It For the Long Run: Staying the Course in the Pursuit of Social Justice

3PM-4PM Cultivating Care Circle

12PM-1PM Peer Session: Small Venues, Clubs and Concert Series

12PM-2PM Black American Music Summit Day 2: Money Matters

Peer Session: Record Labels

1PM-4PM Health Screenings by the HART Fund

1PM-4PM Merch

2PM-3PM Affinity Group: Pan-Asian Folks

2PM-3PM Beautiful Protest: Activism Through Art

3PM-4PM Peer Session: Large Venues, PACs and Theatres

4PM-5PM Affinity Group: Indigenous Folks

5PM-6PM Friends of Bill W

4PM-5:30PM Sounds from Many Mountains

LATER EVENTS

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

First-Timers Coffee and Conversation

Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment

CONNECT

Room 1843

A chance to reconvene with fellow first-timers to share stories and deepen connections.

Yoga

LEARN

Signboard 1

Wake up your body, spirit, and mind with this early morning yoga session led by a trained yoga teacher.

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Conference of Conferences

CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

This gathering is open to all conference and event planners whether or not you attended the inaugural event which took place at Global Toronto in June 2022. Topics of discussion will be twofold: how do we foster a knowledge-sharing economy amongst event producers that results in deepened and ongoing conversations, rather than reiterative models? How can we reorient our sector towards more ecologically responsible and environmentally conscious practices?

Featured discussion leaders include Darryl Hurs of Indie Week, Candice Tulsieram of Sustainable Events Alliance and leaders from Global Toronto.

9:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Registration

Washington Park Place 2

9:30 AM - 10:45 PM

Instrument Check

Penn Valley

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Affinity Group: Caregivers and Parents

CONNECT

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.

Get your Copyright Royalties!

Performance, Mechanical, Sync, and Digital Performance Royalties

Sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC)

LEARN

Shawnee Mission

Join the Mechanical Licensing Collective(The MLC), the US Copyright Office and other experts to hear about their work to get you money for your creative work. This session will briefly explain what each organization does and how you get paid. Following explanations, there will be breakouts with the presenters to ask more detailed questions.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

The Queer Pulse of Society: A Conversation About Community and Social Sustainability

Presented by Bluegrass Pride REFLECT

Brookside

Bluegrass Pride presents this discussion where panelists share personal and professional experiences to examine, on a systemic level, how the music industry can adopt more socially sustainable models of business, especially for folks who have been historically marginalized. From intersectionality to identity politics, inclusion to innovation, this conversation will inspire all who attend to reimagine new ways of being in the music community.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Meet the Folk DJs

Sponsored by Bill Wence Promotions

DISCOVER

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. The format of this session is designed to make it easier to connect. 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!

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sight & Sound Eye Clinic

Signboard 2

Sight & Sound offers free screenings, readers, sunglasses, and prescription glasses.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Peer Session: Academics CONNECT

Crossroads

Members of the Teaching Woody Guthrie Faculty Collective will lead a discussion on using folk music in secondary and higher education classrooms to teach contemporary social problems and their sustainable solutions in a precarious sociopolitical environment.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Affinity Group: Folks Coping with

Loss

CONNECT

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.

Documentary Film with Q&A: Desde

Nuestro Muxu’x DISCOVER

Roanoke

On highways, lakes, and volcanoes, Mayan singersongwriter Sara Curruchich’s Raíz tour crosses Guatemala to bring her music to remote communities. The meeting represents an opportunity for dialogue, resilience,

and empowerment for Guatemalan youth and women. An intimate portrait of a great singer committed to the peoples of her country and their Mayan culture, followed by a live Q&A with the artist.

A través de carreteras, lagos y volcanes, la gira Raíz de la cantautora maya Sara Curruchich cruza Guatemala para llevar su música a comunidades remotas. El encuentro representa una oportunidad de diálogo, resiliencia y empoderamiento para la juventud y las mujeres guatemaltecas. La música de Sara regresa a su origen, a la inspiración de sus canciones, a los rostros y a los colores. Un retrato íntimo de una gran cantante comprometida con los pueblos de su país y su cultura maya.

I'll Take You There: Music Making in Memphis Now

Sponsored by Music

Export Memphis

DISCOVER

Washington Park Place 3

Memphis is a city with a rich and well-known musical history, but this panel will shine a spotlight on the unique music ecosystem and cultural innovation at the forefront of a vibrant — and current — music scene. Discover why Memphis is an unparalleled place for music makers to live and work — from the Crosstown Sync licensing initiative to music export grants and other creative placemaking projects — and come away from this conversation understanding exactly why Memphis is FAI’s 2023 City of Honor.

Peer Session: House Concert Presenters

CONNECT

Century A

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 happening Saturday at 11 am (please check the program for details).

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Practical Solutions for Lowering the Carbon Impact of Live Touring

LEARN Liberty

Did you know that fan travel has a far greater carbon footprint than musician travel? Did you know that there are resource guides and grants available to help your organization become more environmentally responsible? This prompt and breakout session will feature a handful of experts explaining how their work is helping in the quest to lower the carbon footprint of the live music sector — be that new approaches to merch, net-zero facilities, transportation and event solutions, resource sharing — the list goes on. Each panelist will then lead a small group interactive rapid-fire solution-storming round table discussion. You'll come away with solid strategies you can implement and the collaborative encouragement you need to make change happen.

Sonidos Latinos

CONNECT

Garden Terrace

This jam session invites all those whose musical practice falls under the umbrella of sonidos latinos to gather and share tunes,

rhythms, and songs. Esta sesión invita a todos aquellos cuya práctica musical se enmarca dentro de los sonidos latinos a reunirse y compartir melodías, ritmos y canciones.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Affinity Group: Folkies 55+

CONNECT

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.

Conquering Playlists and Getting Your Music Heard

Sponsored by Groover

LEARN

Pershing

With 80,000 new songs being released on Spotify each day, it has become nearly impossible for independent artists to stand out from the crowd and reach virality. Although getting your music heard through playlisting is not a new topic, the methods that help artists to reach playlists are often gatekept. Groover will help share their knowledge on playlists that can be transferred to upcoming projects during this workshop.

Peer Session: Record Labels

CONNECT

Crossroads

This session is a discussion amongst folks who own, run, or work directly with record labels to network with peers.

Peer Session: Small

Venues, Clubs and Concert Series

CONNECT

Union Hill East

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.

US Touring for International Artists: Pro Tips on Paperwork

LEARN

Brookside

As international touring ramps back up again, artists and their teams are finding that the procedures and paperwork protocols for touring in the United States have shifted. This gathering of professionals with experience and expertise facilitating U.S.touring for artists from abroad will do a deep dive into visas, taxes, and paperwork to clearly outline what international artists need to do as they prepare to tour the U.S.

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Black American Music Summit Day 2: Money Matters

CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

This is a show me the money session — where is the revenue, and where is the money missing? If

touring basically covers the cost of touring, it may not have the impact on your financial security that you imagine. There are many sources of revenue that an artist should be not only aware of, but actively planning for. This session will share resource lists, best practices, and identify strategies and approaches that will be useful to artists and industry alike.

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Exhibit Hall

Century B

Drop by the exhibit hall to visit over 50 trade show booths at the B2B hub for the conference. Presenters, come talk to the agents, managers, and labels representing showcasing artists. Artists, come learn about the gear and services, organizations and opportunities that benefit you.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

TalkAbout: The People's Music Network DISCOVER

Century B

The People's Music Network for Songs of Freedom and Struggle sustains and grows a diverse community of performing artists, activists, and allies who use music, poetry, and other art forms as catalysts for a just and peaceful world. Join this session to learn about PMN's work and membership.

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Health Screenings by the HART Fund

Garden Terrace Merch

Garden Terrace

TalkAbout: Music To Life DISCOVER

Century B

Music to Life (MTL) connects socially conscious musicians with the mentors, resources and training needed to realize their bold visions for community change. Come chat with MTL artists and leadership to learn about their approach to dovetailing sustainable career building with meaningful social impact.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Affinity Group: Pan-Asian Folks

CONNECT

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.

Beautiful Protest: Activism Through Art REFLECT

Washington Park Place 3

As the world continues to shift in new directions, this discussion will uncover different ways in which artists and industry engage — through personal, collaborative, or commissioned projects — with the pressing issues of our time, from the climate emergency to racial injustice to social inequity. From the tar sands of Alberta to the Amazon rainforest, addressing topics such as pandemic isolation, shifting language, and women's liberation, the artists on this panel will share their perspectives and practices for contending with the changes facing us all.

Mary Gauthier: Saved by a Song

REFLECT

Century C

In this interview conducted by Ann Powers, Mary Gauthier pulls the curtain back on the artistry of songwriting and shares the journey she took in writing Saved by a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting. Part memoir, part philosophy of art, part nuts and bolts of songwriting, the book celebrates the redemptive power of song to inspire and bring seemingly different kinds of people together.

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

On the Mic, Off the Cuff: A Banter and Hosting Workshop

LEARN

Liberty

Back by popular demand! Every moment on stage is a comedy opportunity. Learn how to glue the show together, be more relaxed, and facilitate a great show for your audience! We'll go over tips like how to put the fun in thanking the funders, how to fill time without being awkward, audience interaction, smooth transitions, and how to improvise banter in your own style. We will play simple games and learn some theater and clowning techniques, so dress comfortably! People of all physical abilities are welcome and will be accommodated.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Mentor Café

Presented by Mundial

Montréal

CONNECT

Shawnee Mission

All are invited to attend,

discuss, and connect with experienced industry peers at the Mentor Café Session, presented by Mundial Montréal. This is a great opportunity to learn directly from music business leaders about specific industry topics, and to connect with fellow mentees in a convivial setting.

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Music, Movies & Money: How To Make The Film/ TV Business Work For Your Music

LEARN

Pershing

Most independent recording artists are seeking earning opportunities by having their music included in a film, television series, video game, or other media outlet, and it's not as far out of reach as one might expect. This workshop will unveil the process behind the scenes, and show you several paths to making the movie, television, advertising, and video game industries work for you and your music. Benefits can include increased revenue, new promotion and exposure opportunities, connections with new audiences, prestige, and more.

Peer Session: Young Music Industry Leaders (under 35) CONNECT

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. Previously these discussions have included conversations around impostor syndrome, establishing yourself as a young professional, and exploring different avenues of career opportunities. You will have the opportunity to

share struggles and insights on how you are navigating the industry while also discussing how we can work together to support each other in developing ourselves as leading music industry professionals. This session is for anyone between 18-35 working in the field, from industry to artist to presenter.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Cultivating Care Circle CONNECT Signboard 1

Conferences are amazing, but can also be exhausting and even at times leave us feeling disconnected. We all need support and connection, especially as musicians and artists. Given that, we have created a time for gathering to listen and connect to each other. No judgment. No agenda. All are welcomed. This will be facilitated by Aaron Mitchum (he/him) and Elise Sanders (she/her), two artists local to Kansas City who are also licensed counselors. This won't be therapy, though; instead, it will be a chance to be heard and to hear others in a cultivated and emotionally safe space for restoring and rejuvenating.

In It For the Long Run: Staying the Course in the Pursuit of Social Justice REFLECT

Brookside

Utah Phillips once said the long memory is the most radical idea in this country. It is the loss of that long memory which deprives our people of that connective flow of thoughts and events that clarifies our vision, not of where we're going, but where we want to go. This will be a conversation between folks with deep

roots in our folk community who have long worked in the pursuit of social justice. They'll explore the roles of stamina, solidarity, song, and sustained momentum; share lessons learned; and reflect on the roads already traveled and the work yet to be done.

Peer Session: Large Venues, PACs and Theaters CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

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.

TalkAbout: Designing in Harmony, Distributing Power

DISCOVER

Century B

Connect with the founder of LivZero - a placed-based, participatory research firm - and learn about her environmental philosophy and approach from both nonprofit and for-profit perspectives. Together, we will discuss: How do we build climate solutions from the ground up? How do we ensure policy is developed WITH communities most negatively impacted by climate change? And how can we be more intentional about how data is collected and used to inform sustainable solutions?

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Documentary Film: The Broadside Hack with Q&A

DISCOVER

Roanoke

The Broadside Hack is a short documentary film from British Underground exploring the influence of traditional folk songs on a new generation of musicians. The documentary was made in collaboration with Broadside Hacks and features Shovel Dance Collective, Thyrsis, caroline, Broadside Hacks, and Boss Morris. It was filmed at Real World Studios in Box, Wiltshire in August 2021 and is part of British Underground's Looking for a New England series of showcases.

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Affinity Group: Indigenous Folks

CONNECT

Union Hill East

This session is a safe and supportive space for Indigenous identified artists and community members to gather together and discuss concerns and issues they are being presented with.

4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Sounds from Many Mountains

CONNECT

Garden Terrace

This jam session invites all those who make music in or about the mountain ranges and deep valleys of our planet to connect and share the melodies, songs, and rhythms that these majestic landscapes have inspired.

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Reception

Sponsored by Canadian Independent Music Association CONNECT

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.

Networking Mixer

Sponsored by Music Export Memphis and the Recording Academy - Memphis Chapter

CONNECT

Pershing

Want to book Memphis artists or connect with the Memphis music industry? This is your chance to meet Memphis musicians and professionals and Memphis Chapter Recording Academy members - must RSVP at MusicExportMemphis. org/folk2023 to attend.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Friends of Bill W CONNECT Crossroads

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Merch Garden Terrace

6:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Official Showcases

10:00 PM - 3:00 AM

Instrument Check

704/705

10:30 PM - 3:00 AM

Private Showcases

5th - 8th Floors

Schedule: Friday

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

Yoga LEARN

Signboard 1

Wake up your body, spirit, and mind with this early morning yoga session led by a trained yoga teacher.

9:00 AM - 6:30 PM

Registration

Washington Park Place 2

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

CommUNITY

Gathering: Meet the Team

CONNECT

Century C

2022 was a big year of change at Folk Alliance International, with a transition to new leadership and the creation of a new strategic plan setting an exciting course for the coming years. We invite all delegates to come and hear from our new Executive Director, Neeta Ragoowansi, and our new Board President, Ashley Shabankareh, about the vision they have for the future of our organization. This short presentation will be followed by an informal meet and greet with the staff and board of FAI, who look forward to connecting with you directly. Coffee is available for attendees.

9:30 AM - 10:45 PM

Instrument Check

Penn Valley

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sight & Sound Eye Clinic

Signboard 2

Sight & Sound offers free screenings, readers, sunglasses and prescription glasses.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

The Black Banjo Revival Movement

DISCOVER

Washington Park Place 3

Tony Thomas is one of the leading historians of banjo origins and the history of African American banjo playing who, along with others, organized the 2005 Black Banjo Gathering at Appalachian State University that launched the contemporary Black Banjo revival. Join this intergenerational discussion spanning the origins, reclamation, and importance of the banjo in folk music past, present, and future.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Weaving Musical Spaces of Indigenous Resistance REFLECT

Shawnee Mission

Indigenous artists, activists, and land defenders around the world continue to be on the front lines of environmental issues, raising awareness of the devastating impacts and rising threats of climate change. As we fully light up spaces again, how do we put our sector back together and reimagine our best selves in the work moving forward? In this postpandemic reality, let's look to Indigenous leadership to

chart a path forward towards a more sustainable future.

10:45 AM - 11:45 AM

Janis Ian: In Her Own Words

DISCOVER

Century A

In this informal, intimate talk, singer-songwriter, and ten-time GRAMMY nominee Janis Ian will share what being an artist and a part of the folk community has meant to her, and the lessons learned over her six decades as a working singer/songwriter.

Ian’s master classes and Q&A sessions are known for their honesty, and the wealth of experience she brings to bear on all aspects of “this business of being an artist”. Because of vocal scarring, Ian was forced to end her performing career abruptly just a few months ago canceling all remaining dates of a yearlong final worldwide tour. She can no longer sing, but she’s still as charming and knowledgeable as ever. This talk will be followed by a Q&A session.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Affinity Group: Latiné and Hispanic Folks CONNECT

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.

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

House Concerts Unlocked

Sponsored by Side Door

DISCOVER

Benton's 20th Floor

House Concerts Unlocked sponsored by Side Door is a live, fast-paced, emceed event that is sure to provide laughs, inspiration, and an unforgettable chance for artists and house concert presenters to make connections. Those wishing to participate will fill out a brief form and drop it in the hat — then wait to see who will be randomly selected and invited up to give a one to two minute LIVE pitch as to why they are either the perfect artist for house concert audiences or the perfect house concert for artists to play! All are encouraged to come prepared and be ready to share your name, describe your music/show/venue in a few words, and give folks something to remember you by! Please note: there will be no line checks or tech support at this event.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Discover: Julie's Bicycle and the Creative Climate Leadership Program

DISCOVER

Roanoke

Artists and the wider cultural community have a unique and critical role: they deal with the art of the possible and influence new ways of being, doing, and thinking. Creative Climate Leadership (CCL), a Julie's Bicycle initiative, supports cultural professionals to apply these qualities to the climate challenge. The program is

tailored for participants to reach their full potential and maximize action on climate change within and beyond the creative and cultural sector, with help and support to test and scale ideas through sharing best practice and discussion across countries and cultures. Join CCL leadership and alumni to learn about this program.

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Collaborative Problem Solving: Innovative Models for Cultivating Vibrant Community Engagement

LEARN

Liberty

Community building, when it is meaningful, involves a shared commitment to a cause outside of ourselves. This is applicable in many realms, from audience cultivation and workforce development, to membership engagement and volunteer recruitment. In this prompt and breakout session, panelists will share a brief glimpse into the work they are doing to innovate in their field of work, and invite interactive discussion with interested attendees wishing to dive deeper and learn how to apply those skills in their own spheres of influence.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Selling Tickets: Whose Job is it Anyway REFLECT

Brookside

Join a group of industry folks representing diverse perspectives — agent, venue, manager, publicity, artist — for a candid look at the evershifting landscape of ticket sales in a time of uncertainty, with a goal of discovering new ways of communicating

and collaborative approaches to what can often feel like an adversarial process.

The Heart of Project Management

LEARN Pershing

Project management methods can often be perceived by creative minds as too clinical, and the real gems and magic of these processes feel remote and inaccessible. What if we artists instead approached it from a heart-centered perspective? This panel will offer the tools, perspectives, and inspiration that artists need to accomplish their goals in alignment with their dreams, in a way that expands their selfknowledge and acceptance along the way. In addition to the basics of organizing time, resources, and logistics, panelists will explore how to right-size goals for an artist's real life, expanding awareness around obstacles and internal patterns that could be holding them back, and how to re-align their vision to move forward confidently.

Wisdom of the Elders REFLECT

Century C

Originally conceived and programmed by long-time FAI attendee Sonny Ochs, 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. Past participants have included Tom Rush, Holly Near, Si Kahn, Josh White Jr, and Peggy Seeger. This year, the the elders being honored are The Reverend Robert B. Jones Sr., Deidre McCalla, and Ken Whiteley, interviewed by Mary Sue Twohy.

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Black American Music Summit Day 3: Lifting the Gaze CONNECT

Washington Park Place 1

In this two-hour culminating African Diaspora Affinity Group session, participants will be invited to explore what we have gained and what we can harness from the newly evolving landscape for Black artists and industry in folk-adjacent genres. Topics may include visions of safety under the white gaze and amongst ourselves; broadening the scope of our audiences; bringing folk music by Black musicians back to the Black community; building bridges between myriad demographics; creating and protecting spaces where Black art is centered; and potential aspirations for the next step towards equity and visibility in the folk music ecosystem.

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Exhibit

Hall

Century B

Drop by the exhibit hall to visit over 50 trade show booths at the B2B hub for the conference. Presenters, come talk to the agents, managers, and labels representing showcasing artists. Artists, come learn about the gear and services, organizations and opportunities that benefit you.

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Health Screenings by the HART Fund

Garden Terrace

Merch

Garden Terrace

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

Peer Session: Folk Radio Promoters CONNECT

Benton's 20th Floor

This session will convene radio promoters to discuss trends in the field and strengthen collaborative networks amongst peers.

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM

TalkAbout: Grantwriting 101

LEARN

Century B

Come and learn a simplified approach to writing grants that are perfect for your organization and mission.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Affinity Group: Women CONNECT Union Hill East

How are women and gender expansive artists and professionals thriving in the folk scene since the pandemic? FAI and Keychange U.S. welcome all women and people marginalized by gender, including transwomen, gender fluid, and gender queer people to join this affinity 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.

The Healing Power of Sound DISCOVER

Washington Park Place 3

Join this panel of artists who pull from different global music traditions as they explore the depth of music's therapeutic power to heal music makers, listeners, and community alike.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Archive Challenge

Presented by American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress

DISCOVER

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. The archive contains a vast variety of field recordings, ranging from cylinder recordings of Indigenous American songs to the Lomaxes' pioneering discs, to recent born-digital recordings. Artists in this showcase have registered in advance. This showcase is a joint presentation of Folk Alliance International and the American Folklife Center.

Growing Presenters Networks

Sponsored by Trade Routes

CONNECT

Shawnee Mission

Trade Routes is proud to host this networking session with a goal of strengthening collaborative music presenting and cooperation among music presenters. This session aims to build stronger touring routes through network building, sharing market information and best practices, reducing risk for presenters and, fostering sustainable touring careers for artists.

All presenter delegates are encouraged to attend this networking session.

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Sustaining Culture in the Era of Globalization

Co-presented with Global Toronto REFLECT Roanoke

The diversity of our cultural ecosystems — artistic, linguistic, and traditionrooted — is increasingly endangered by the dominance of Western styles of music and the economic pressure of commodification on creative practice. How can organizations and event organizers in the music sector mobilize to defend folk traditions against cultural erasure? How can we not only support but actively promote important artists who are unrecognized by and/or uninterested in participating in the industrial production of music? Join an international group of presenters and event producers who are passionately fighting to preserve regional cultures and local traditions as they grapple with these questions and share their approaches.

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Peer Session: Pathways to Universal Inclusion in Folk Radio

CONNECT

Benton's 20th Floor

This gathering of radio hosts and media professionals is a facilitated round table forum for the exchange of ideas about building inclusive programming representing the full breadth of folk music, in all its forms, iterations, cultures, and geographies. Non-

radio folks are welcome to attend and listen.

Redefining Success: Creatives at the Crossroads of Community, Commerce, and Cultural Change

Sponsored by Ear Trumpet Labs

LEARN

Liberty

Modern measurements of worth often equate bigger with better, yet we are increasingly made aware of the dangers of extractive attitudes towards people and the planet. Many creative minds are reimagining how we might dovetail the ethical and social values we hold with the economic worth of our pursuits. This interactive panel and breakout session is for all who are passionate about and curious to explore these intersections.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Affinity Group: LGBTQ2IA+

CONNECT

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.

How to Release Your Music in 2023 - DIY Musician Podcast LIVE

Sponsored by CD Baby

LEARN

Pershing

Music trends are constantly changing, and the same strategy you used a year or two ago to grow your audience may now deliver diminishing returns. In this live taping of the DIY Musician Podcast, we'll

discuss what a successful music release looks like in 2023, walk you through the most important promotion and monetization steps, and help you prepare your next single or album so it can reach the most listeners and capture attention when it matters most.

TalkAbout: 'Lean' Fundraising LEARN

Century B

Let's discuss how music nonprofits can leverage fundraising best-practices within the reality of limited staff time and finite resources. This session is most relevant to folks working in legally registered charities (US 501c3, Canadian T3010, etc), but will also discuss grassroots approaches. To

the Front, To the Side: Lessons From the Stage

LEARN

Brookside

Want to gain tips and tricks for being an excellent bandleader and an excellent side musician? Both roles come with unique sets of challenges and opportunities and it's important for everyone to understand the responsibilities of both important jobs. This panel is cheaper than band therapy and will explore best practices for communication, etiquette, and harmony on and off stage.

Affinity Group: Folks with Disabilities or Chronic Illness

CONNECT

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.

Cultivating Care Circle

CONNECT

Signboard 1

Conferences are amazing,

but can also be exhausting and even at times leave us feeling disconnected. We all need support and connection, especially as musicians and artists. Given that, we have created a time for gathering to listen and connect to each other. No judgment. No agenda. All are welcomed. This will be facilitated by Aaron Mitchum (he/him) and Elise Sanders (she/her), two artists local to Kansas City who are also licensed counselors. This won't be therapy, though; instead, it will be a chance to be heard and to hear others in a cultivated and emotionally safe space for restoring and rejuvenating.

4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Sounds of the Shore and the Sea

CONNECT

Garden Terrace

This jam session invites all those who make music about or by the shorelines and the seas of our planet to connect and share the melodies, songs, and rhythms that the great waters of Earth inspire.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Friends of Bill W

Crossroads

6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Merch

Garden Terrace

SUNDAY’S SCHEDULE

6:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Official Showcases

10:00 PM - 3:00 AM

Instrument Check

704/705

10:30 PM - 3:00 AM

Private Showcases

5th - 8th Floors

Schedule: Sat/Sun

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Songs of Hope, Songs of Change

DISCOVER

Garden Terrace

Songs of Hope, Songs of Change, is a grassroots multi-artist concert featuring contemporary inspirational songs about climate and social justice written by FAI artists. This event, hosted by The People's Music Network, was inspired by our 2022 panel Climate Emergency: Real Calls to Action for the Music Industry, in which a panelist offered a call to action for artists in the FAI community to create a soundtrack that rallies us... that talks to our hearts as well as our heads. Come lend your ear and lift your voice at this Sunday morning event, as our community collectively and creatively engages with messaging and meaning that will inspire us all.

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Closing Party

Sponsored by Tom’s Town

The Ship

The closing party takes place at The Ship (1221 Union Ave, Kansas City, MO 64101) located in the historic West Bottoms district of Kansas City. Bus transportation is provided by Visit KC in the front of the Westin hotel. A shuttle will be running throughout the evening.

CommUNITY Gathering: Meet the Team

Saturday, 9:30 - 10:30 am Century C

February22-24,2023

2022 was a big year of change at Folk Alliance International, with a transition to new leadership and the creation of a new strategic plan setting an exciting course for the coming years. We invite all delegates to come and hear from our new Executive Director, Neeta Ragoowansi, and our new Board President, Ashley Shabankareh, about the vision they have for the future of our organization. This short presentation will be followed by an informal meet and greet with the staff and board of FAI, who look forward to connecting with you directly.

Folk+ is the virtual add-on to the 2023 Folk Alliance International Conference, featuring peer sessions, breakout groups, social events, premiering of exclusive content from the in-person conference, and more. Registration is pay-what-you-can!

Learn more at folk.org/folkplus

Official Showcase Artists

Official Showcase Schedule

Adrian + Meredith

Nashville, TN, USA

Thursday 8:30 PM Shawnee Mission

Adrian + Meredith spend over 100 days a year touring the USA and Europe. Their music embodies the spirit of the human story with a nod to punk, the heart of folk, the flavor of Polka, and the bounce of swing. Their live show will have you on your feet dancing, clapping, and stomping along. Michael Kelley 818-617-2228 Ext. 808 michaelmk@atomicmusicgroup.com

Artists

Afrikana Soul Sister

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 6:15 PM Century A

The power of music is strong when honesty merges with the desire to bring people together. For Afrikana Soul Sister, the statement acts as a motto and conveys a unifying message, that of universal humanity and openness, supported by profound and similar values. Patrick Nadon 514-563-1492 booking@ coopfauxmonnayeurs.com

Aleksi Campagne

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 9:00 PM Century C

Aleksi Campagne is a bilingual, indie-folk fiddle singer from Montreal. As the son of Canadian folk icon Connie Kaldor and a student of jazz violin legend Didier Lockwood, Aleksi combines his powerful voice with rich songwriting while accompanying himself on the violin and seamlessly switching between English and French. Aleksi Campagne 514-431-4183 aleksicampagne@gmail.com

Alice Hasen & the Blaze

Memphis, TN, USA

Friday 10:00 PM Pershing

Alice Hasen is a violinist, recording artist, and songwriter. Combining classical precision and soaring improvisation, she has been called “one in a million” by Alan Rowoth, founder of folkmusic.org. In 2019, Alice released her debut album, Violintro. Alice serves on the Board of Directors of Southeast Regional Folk Alliance. Alice Hasen 802-355-4163 alice.hasen@gmail.com

Alicia Toner

Charlottetown, PE, CAN

Thursday 9:45 PM Liberty

2022 Canadian Folk Music award winner for Solo Artist of the Year, Alicia Toner creates a sound that blends her folk music upbringing on the East Coast of Canada with guitar-driven melodies and powerful vocals. Her latest release, “Joan,” is deeply personal, vocally stunning, and beautifully produced by Stuart Cameron and Peter Fusco. Genny DeMerchant 416-801-6771 genny@ youwillloveitlive.com

Amy LaVere

Memphis, TN, USA

Friday 9:15 PM Pershing

Memphis-based performer Amy LaVere is well-known among songwriters and critics alike. NPR’s Robert Siegel says she “specializes in lyrics that are more barbed than her sweet soprano prepares you for.” Her growing catalog of material and steady critical acclaim suggests a first-tier presence on the Americana circuits. Amy LaVere 901-335-7599 lavereamy@gmail.com

Amy Speace

Nashville, TN, USA

Friday 6:15 PM Washington Park Place 1

Heralded by Rolling Stone and Billboard Magazine, Amy Speace is one of contemporary folk’s leading voices. Her songs have been recorded by Judy Collins, and others. In 2020, her song “Me and the Ghost of Charlemagne” was named International Song of the Year by the Americana Music Association UK. Jim Fleming 734-995-9066 jim@flemingartists. com

Andrea von Kampen

Lincoln, NE, USA

Saturday 7:00 PM Shawnee Mission

Andrea von Kampen is a folk singer-songwriter based in Lincoln, Nebraska, whose effortless vocal delivery has been praised by Hear Nebraska as soulful and worn-in. Inspiration for Andrea's songs often come from literature, art, and nature; in particular the literature and nature of Nebraska and the Midwest. Josh Brinkman 404-793-7023 josh@crossovertouring.com

Angelique Francis

Ottawa, ON, CAN

Friday 8:15 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Angelique Francis is a versatile and exceptionally gifted multi-instrumentalist and multi-genre singer-songwriter who has wowed audiences across the globe with her electrifying performances, instrumental abilities, and powerful, textured vocals. Angelique has shared the stage and opened for well-known musicians such as Burton Cummings, Gordon Lightfoot, Allison Russell, and Alan Doyle. Angelique Francis 613-599-6801 kfrancis9106@rogers.com

Official Showcase Artists A-B

Anna Ekborg

Järvsö, SWE

Friday 7:45 PM Washington Park Place 1

Award-winning fiddle player Anna Ekborg is one of the most prominent artists on the Swedish folk music scene. Inspired by generations, she explores traditional music with great integrity and curiosity. With complete respect for the heritage, she breathes new life into the music and stretches musical borders to allow new influences. Anna Ekborg 46702347975 info@ annaekborg.com

Anya Hinkle feat. Billy Cardine

Asheville, NC, USA

Saturday 7:00 PM Washington Park Place 1

2019 Merlefest Chris Austin songwriting winner, “a burgeoning force behind the Appalachian roots revival…” (PopMatters). No Depression calls her 2021 release Eden and Her Borderlands “...one of roots music’s gems so far this year.” She tours extensively across the US, Japan & Europe, featuring slide guitar pioneer/composer Billy Cardine. Doug Gertner 303-886-4114 doug@ blackoakartists.com

Bailey Bigger

Memphis, TN, USA

Friday 7:45 PM Pershing

Growing up in the small town of Marion, Arkansas, just outside of Memphis, Bailey began writing and performing at the age of 14. Since then, she's gone on to share stages and festival lineups with acts like The Avett Brothers, Sierra Ferrell, Sturgill Simpson, and more. Bailey's debut full-length album, Coyote Red, was released with Madjack Records in March and is available on all streaming platforms. Bailey Bigger 870-514-1176 bailey.bigger@gmail.com

Barnaby Bright

Overland Park, KS, USA

Saturday 7:45 PM Shawnee Mission

Nathan & Becky Bliss's folk/pop songwriting & authentic Americana storytelling won them the grand prize at NYC's SongCircle Competition, as well as a spot in the NY Times' top 20 Christmas albums of 2020. Nathan's virtuosic guitar/banjo skills & Becky's transcendent voice leave audiences feeling uplifted and transformed. Patryk Larney 973-800-2851 patryk@ hopetreeentertainment.com

Aysanabee

Toronto, ON, CAN

Saturday 7:45 PM Pershing

Aysanabee is an Oji-Cree singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist and was the first artist to be signed to Ishkode Records, one of the first Indigenous-owned and operated labels on Turtle Island. Evan Pang 416-706-3993 aysanabeemusic@gmail. com

Barnes Brothers

MEMPHIS, TN, USA

Friday 6:15 PM Pershing

The Sensational Barnes Brothers are a melting pot of the old and the new. As Pop Matters states, “The brothers run through a spectrum of moods and modes in their gospel soul, often bridging the gap between, say, the Soul Stirrers and Stax, all the while keeping a local flavor.” The brothers dive deep into their roots, creating a sound that reflects the music of their history while drawing in a modern-day audience. Ben Yonas 510-715-4002 ben@yonasmedia.com

Ben Sures

Edmonton, AB, CAN

Saturday 6:45 PM Liberty

Ben Sures is a storytelling songwriter and guitar player. His 10th album showcases his gift of perspective and ability to climb inside a story. Ben has toured as a guitar player with Angie Nussey, Rita Chiarelli, Paul Reddick, and many other musicians. He is a winner of The John Lennon and International Songwriting Competition and is the author of 'The Boy Who Walked Backwards' published by Manitoba First Nations Education Resource. Kerri Stephens 204-296-6608 lostcatartists@gmail.com

Berk Jodoin

Leader, SK, CAN

Saturday 9:45 PM Liberty

Indigenous singer-songwriter Berk Jodoin’s carefully crafted songs cover difficult topics that are often ignored. Berk hopes that sharing these stories through song will bring awareness and understanding to these issues.Fusing his influences like Steve Earle and Waylon Jennings creates soulful storytelling with just the right amount of gravel. Laura Merilainen 647-606-4307 laura@merilainenmusic.com

Blair Dunlop

Bristol, England, GBR

Saturday 7:30 PM Washington Park Place 3 Blair Dunlop, an award-winning British singer-songwriter and guitarist, has now released four albums, two EPs, and toured around the globe. His third album ‘Gilded’ was released in 2016 on his label, Gilded Wings, and was widely acclaimed, gaining BBC Radio 2 Playlist status. Blair has now cemented his place as one of Britain’s most exciting talents. 2018 Blair saw the release of his 4th album ‘Notes From An Island’ on his label to rave reviews. Phil Simpson 0044 7708923540 Ps@nearfieldartists.com

B-D Official Showcase Artists

Bobby Alu

Byron Bay, NSW, AUS

Thursday 10:00 PM Pershing

Byron Bay singer, ukulele-strummer, and drummer Bobby Alu delivers smooth harmonies, Pacific rhythms, and island grooves. Though it’s not all palm trees and daydreams, there’s a robust energy in Alu’s mastery of Samoan log drums and songwriting that nods to roots, soul, and pop. Tyler McLoughlan 61458293167 management@bobbyalu.com

Bon Débarras

Montréal, QC, CAN

Thursday 6:00 PM Century C

Quebec’s trio Bon Débarras unites the worlds of music, dance, and poetry. Collectively playing guitar, banjo, violin, and harmonica, the group carries an identity, a style, and an energy-filled zest for life beautifully served by the versatility of the musicians as well as their daring jigging and vivid body percussion. Sean Boyd 845-626-7467 sean@ woodenshipproductions.com

Brad Reid Quartet

Dartmouth, NS, CAN

Thursday 6:45 PM Liberty

Brad Reid Quartet is “Traditional yet innovative,” says Irish Music Magazine. The 2022 East Coast Music Award nominee draws on his Cape Breton fiddle roots and features sounds from across genres and lands. Latin influences with congas, classical and jazz elements, and urban hip-hop groove marry original music with old country tradition. Zach Smith 902-334-7370 zsmith@ dolmenentertainment.com

Brek

Reykjavik, ISL

Saturday 8:15 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

The Icelandic band, Brek, was awarded album of the year at the Icelandic Music Awards 2022. The band plays original folky music with influences from various sources and creates a cozy atmosphere in their music. They focus on the multifaceted use of the Icelandic language in their lyrics. Holmfridur Birna Gudmundsdottir 3548471200 brekbooking@gmail.com

Bruce Molsky

Beacon, NY, USA

Friday 7:00 PM Washington Park Place 1 Grammy nominee and Visiting Scholar at Berklee College of Music, Bruce Molsky is respected internationally as a master fiddler, preserver of music traditions, and multi-style collaborator. In Bruce’s solo shows, audiences are drawn into his deeply engaging and visual journey through musical space and time on fiddle, banjo, and guitar. Bruce Molsky 845-797-1540 brucemolsky@gmail.com

Bruno Capinan

Toronto, ON, CAN

Saturday 7:00 PM Century A

Bruno Capinan is a Canadian-Brazilian singer and songwriter who fuses bossa-nova rhythms with an extravagant performance as an act of queer resistance. They have performed to audiences globally, gaining international recognition in 2016, with reviews in the British newspaper The Guardian and France’s Libération, and two nominations for the prestigious APCA.

Kristyn Gelfand 416-509-8230 kristyn@ umanota.ca

Buffalo Rose

Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Saturday 6:00 PM Century C

Buffalo Rose is a wildly charismatic modern folk/Americana band that will change your perspective on acoustic music. Taking the singer-songwriter tradition to a new level by crafting emotive, meticulously arranged original songs inspired by a world of idiosyncratic influences that never let a dull or predictable moment creep in.

Stephanie Coronado 320-333-9935 ginger@ gingerrootsagency.com

Canyon City

Fort Collins, CO, USA

Thursday 6:45 PM Brookside

Canyon City is the moniker of modern folk artist and producer Paul Johnson. Since its inception in 2015, the project has amassed over 300 million streams and become known for its distinctive whispery vocals layered over intimate acoustics orbiting candidly emotional storytelling. Paul Johnson 612-991-5892 paul@canyoncitymusic.com

Cary Morin Duo

Fort Collins, CO, USA

Thursday 7:45 PM Shawnee Mission

Cary Morin was born in Billings, Montana. A Crow tribal member with Assiniboine Sioux and Black heritage, and son of an Air Force officer, he spent the bulk of his youth in Great Falls, where he cut his teeth picking guitar standards at neighborhood get-togethers. NPR Music called him “one of Colorado’s great treasures,” continuing that he is “one of the best pickers on the scene today.” Sara Vale 916-955-0121 sara@ flemingartists.com

Official Showcase Artists

Official Showcase Artists B-D

Casii Stephan

Tulsa, OK, USA

Thursday 7:30 PM Washington Park Place 3

One of NPR music's artists to watch in 2022, Casii Stephan is a Tulsa-based soul-influenced singer-songwriter who combines her love of storytelling with her voice that evokes subtle vibrato tones and roller-coaster melodies. Stephan’s voice has been compared to Florence Welch, Fiona Apple, and Carole King. Her songwriting has an underlying theme of hope and raw emotion. Amira Al-Jiboori 918-906-9684 amira@casiistephan.com

Celeigh Cardinal

Edmonton, AL, CAN

Thursday 8:30 PM Century A

With a confident voice and boundless energy, 2020 Juno Award recipient Celeigh Cardinal owns a stage connecting deeply with her audience. Her voice is rich and deep, with a burnished maturity and technical virtuosity that wraps itself around notes. Her songs are authentic and heartfelt and connect us to the healing power of music. Celeigh Cardinal 780-819-0659 celeighcardinal@gmail.com

Certainly So

Nashville, TN, USA

Saturday 7:30 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Certainly So melds classic influences and unique tastes to make music that feels reminiscent while staying new and relevant. Under The Radar Magazine says, “The band’s sun-lit acoustic tones, winsome harmonies, and bright pop melodies combine for a welcome burst of indie folk charm. Paige Maloney 615-251-4400 pmaloney@ teamwass.com

Charm of Finches

Melbourne, Vic, AUS

Friday 10:00 PM Washington Park Place 1

Award winning sister duo Charm of Finches from Melbourne, Australia, make haunted tunes about love, grief and whispering trees; indie folk with many stringed things, awash with seamless blood harmonies traversing melancholy and wonder in equal measure.

“Australia’s premier exponents of baroque folk-noir. ” - PBS RADIO Mark Anstey (44) 01246 567712 mark@uniquegravity.co.uk

Chatham Rabbits

Pleasant Garden, NC, USA

Thursday 7:00 PM Shawnee Mission

As one of North Carolina’s most beloved roots music outfits, Chatham Rabbits has swiftly emerged from the fertile Americana scene in the Triangle. Sarah and Austin McCombie are now attracting national acclaim on the heels of a PBS TV series and a growing fan base. Chandler Holt 919-539-1143 chandler@ thunderingherdartists.com

Damn Tall Buildings

Brooklyn, NY, USA

Saturday 6:15 PM Shawnee Mission

In their early days, Damn Tall Buildings didn’t rehearse – they busked. Now, whether live or on record, the band still radiates the energy of a ragtag crew of music students playing bluegrass on the street. Whether sharing lead vocals and instrumental solos or blending their voices into high-spirited harmony, Damn Tall Buildings are a tight unit that contains more than the sum of its parts. Trish Galfano 919-621-1919 trish@ myriadartists.com

Dan Navarro

Rancho Mirage, CA, CA, USA

Thursday 9:45 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

A multi-faceted Renaissance artist, Dan Navarro charts a unique course as a hit songwriter, recording artist, concert performer, and singer-voice actor in major films. His stories, steeped in richness, heart, and insight, are delivered everywhere via his ongoing NomadDan van tour. He released his newest album, Horizon Line, in August 2022. Laurel Falkenstein 717-249-6812 laurel@silverleafbooking.com

Delbert Anderson Trio

Farmington, NM, USA

Thursday 9:00 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

The Delbert Anderson Trio is inspired by authentic Diné Folk melodies. The band composes music through the trio's interest in improvisation, jam, and groove. Andre Bouchard 503-847-1866 andre@ indigenousperformance.org

Dendê & Band

Philadelphia, PA, USA

Thursday 6:15 PM Shawnee Mission

Dendê is a percussionist, singer, composer, bandleader, teacher, and multiinstrumentalist. Since 2001, he’s been splitting his time between the US and Bahia, working with his own ensembles. His flagship group, Dendê & Band, reflects the cross-section of his deep roots in traditions like samba de roda and Candomblé and his eclectic musical appetite for other global rhythms like rumba, afrobeat and mbalax.Leslie Macedo +16463616918 mamadele@mamadele.org

Official Showcase Artists

D-H Official Showcase Artists

Digawolf

Yellowknife, NT, CAN

Saturday 7:00 PM Pershing

Two-time Juno nominee Digawolf’s music bridges the gap between modernity and tradition. Inspired by his Tlicho culture, Diga’s work is fused with the land and people of Canada’s North. He's like Nick Cave or Leonard Cohen of the North! - Grant Lawrence, CBC (May 2022). Jesse Reid 867-445-3559 jesse@talkingraven.ca

Dom Flemons

Chicago, IL, USA

Friday 8:15 PM Century C

GRAMMY Award winner and two-time Emmy nominee Dom Flemons is a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, actor, slam poet, music scholar, and historian. He is an expert player on the banjo, guitar, harmonica, jug, percussion, quills, fife, and rhythm bones. Dom is a regular on Nashville's iconic Grand Ole Opry and recently played jug alongside Branford Marsalis on the soundtrack to Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom on Netflix. Jon Bell 615-967-8685 jon@madison-house.com

Eljuri

New York City, NY, USA

Saturday 9:15 PM Shawnee Mission

Eljuri is a revered storyteller, genre fuser, and artivist touring internationally and sharing her music and message of empowerment. Touted as a top Latinx guitar player in the world and a rockstar humanitarian, she navigates through musical landscapes of her heritage and the most timely issues echoing in our communities. Alexandra Gatje 917-744-9464 alex@eljurimusic.com

Emily Nenni

Nashville, TN, USA

Saturday 8:30 PM Shawnee Mission

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Emily Nenni sang her first songs on stage at legendary Robert's Western World by bribing the band and doorman with cookies. She has since honed her Honky-Tonk skills in double-wide trailers on Sunday nights, in clubs across the south, and playing for ranchers and wranglers in Wyoming, Montana, and Colorado. Tommy Alexander 503-781-9812 talexander@teamwass.com

Elexa Dawson

Emporia, KS, USA

Saturday 8:30 PM Pershing

Elexa Dawson (from the Oklahoma Potawatomi Nation) creates community-focused Americana music where sultry soul meets rural roots. Her debut album “Music is Medicine” brings her storytelling to life through transcendent melodies connecting land-based musical programming to folk stages. Elexa Dawson 620-366-2583 elexadawson@gmail.com

Emma Langford

Limerick, LK, IRL

Friday 7:00 PM Century A

Award-winning songwriter and performer, Emma Langford’s work pivots on an axis of myth, history, identity, and femininity. Her music is inspired by her upbringing in a country where storytelling is kingimbued with humor, vibrant imagery, and all the drama of the rugged West coast of Ireland. Emma Langford 353857165719 emmalangfordbookings@gmail.com

Ernest Aines

Melbourne, Vic, AUS

Thursday 7:00 PM Pershing

Ernest Aines is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter from Melbourne, Australia. An artist of “soul and depth” with a “meltingly beautiful voice” and a much-admired finger-plucking guitar style, his songs encompass lore-type storytelling and personal discovery to wistful ramblings. His debut album Spiral Bound is coming up for release. Marion Lynch +61 425 877 805 ernestaines@gmail.com

Falls

Sydney, NSW, AUS

Thursday 6:15 PM Pershing

This Australian duo, Falls, creating intimate yet catchy indie-folk songs and sweet vocal harmonies, is not to be missed. The connection between these two is palpable, with the Sydney Morning Herald noting their voices sit next to each other like they've been pouring from the same pot of tea for years. Jason Croke 3233482297 jason@ silverdoormgmt.com

Flagship Romance

Truth or Consequences, NM, USA

Friday 6:45 PM Washington Park Place 3 2022 Kerrville New Folk Finalists, road warriors, and genre-fluid music duo Flagship Romance consists of married singers-songwriters Shawn Fisher and Jordyn Jackson. With a core sound that centers around their impeccable blend of incendiary vocals, their songs are filled with sticky melodies and lyrics that perfectly balance raw honesty and universal accessibility. Shawn Fisher 904-874-4843 FlagshipRomance@gmail.com

Official Showcase Artists D-H

Fortunate Ones

St. John's, NL, CAN

Thursday 7:30 PM Liberty

Fortunate Ones is a contemporary folk duo from Newfoundland, Canada. Celebrated for their harmony-entwined songs of hope, resilience, and the human condition and their joyfully disarming live shows, they have toured relentlessly, bringing their open-hearted performances to thousands of people across North America and beyond. Steve Butler 416-962-8885 steve@ paquinartistsagency.com

From China to Appalachia: Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer

with Chao Tian

Silver Spring, MD, MD, USA

Saturday 7:30 PM Century C

GRAMMY Award-winning artists Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer join with Chinese hammered dulcimer player Chao Tian in a show that combines music from China to Appalachia and beyond. Instrumentation includes yangqin, gourd banjo, dumbek, and more. Cathy Fink 240-401-0324 cfink@ mindspring.com

Gangar

Oslo, NOR

Saturday 9:45 PM Benton 's 20th Floor Gangar plays traditional music combined with heavy metal, rock, and jazz. The band has spent countless hours digging into folk music archives for folk melodies, arranging, composing riffs, and developing their sound. Combined with an electrifying stage show, Gangar delivers a musical package that will get you on your feet! Mattias Thedens +47 40031970 ikt.mattiasthedens@gmail.com

Geneviève Racette

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 8:15 PM Century C

Nationally renowned, Québécois folk-pop musician, Geneviève Racette, has captivated listeners with her gentle, yet compelling, emotional resonance, and garnered impressive industry support for her folk-pop tracks. Through her vulnerable lyricism and ethereal vocals, Geneviève has emerged as a rising star in both French and English-speaking Canadian music scenes. Marianne Mercier-Lacombe 514-726-8246 marianne@intempomusique.com

Gabriel Schwartz

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 7:00 PM Century A

The mult-instrumentalist Gabriel Schwartz presents his one man show. The repertoire is based on Brazilian folk music, with standards and originals. Gabriel conducts his performance constructing arrangements in real time with the aid of his loop station or also making solos of flute, saxophone, voice, and 8-string guitar. Gabriel Schwartz 14383507030 gabriel_ze@hotmail.com

Gordie MacKeeman and his Rhythm Boys

Charlottetown, PE, CAN

Saturday 8:15 PM Century C

Crowds love Gordie MacKeeman and his Rhythm Boys everywhere they go, thanks to Gordie’s charm, his flying fiddle and feet, and the band’s unique blend of just about every roots genre. They love it all, old and new, and their shows have audiences dancing, laughing, and singing along. Ryan Heerschap 866-966-9040 / 416-788-1475 ryan@ibookshows.com

Handmade Moments

New Orleans, LA, USA

Friday 9:45 PM Century C

Experiencing a Handmade Moments show is kind of like enjoying a spoonful of political discourse wrapped in local organic bacon and deep fried in hemp oil — and it’s all silky.

- Nick Brothers, Free Weekly Brad Raffenaud

616-322-3836 brad@madison-house.com

Hanne Kah

Mainz, RP, DEU

Saturday 9:00 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Hanne Kah is a folk-pop sensation from the heart of Germany. Inspired by legendary Singer-Songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Fleetwood Mac, and Bob Dylan, these four musicians create the magic of original music and bring it to the ears of a new generation of listeners. Terry Irons 410-497-2290 Tdi17@aol.com

Harry Manx

Vancouver, BC, CAN

Saturday 9:00 PM Liberty

Harry Manx plays a unique style of music which is sometimes called “Mysticssippi” Blues. The creator of the Mohan Veena (Indian slide guitar) took Harry in as a student in Rajasthan during the 80s. Harry remained in India for 12 years. He has won multiple Maple Blues awards, Folk Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and six Juno nominations. Todd Jordan 204-988-1133 Todd@paquinartistsagency.com

Official Showcase Artists

H-J Official Showcase Artists

Heather Pierson Duo

Conway, NH, USA

Thursday 8:15 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Heather Pierson brings multi-genre musical skills, original songs, and covers of the sounds of New Orleans, the valleys of Appalachia, and everywhere in between. Heather performs on piano, acoustic guitar, and lead vocals with partner Shawn Nadeau on bass and vocals. Heather's 12th CD, Lines and Spaces, was released in 2019. Louise Baker 828-450-5385 louise@bakerbooking. com

Humbird

Minneapolis, MN, USA

Saturday 7:30 PM Brookside

Combining a wintry longing with the warmth of a familiar folktale, Humbird stretches between experimental folk and environmental Americana to embrace the unexpected. Elyse Aubert 541-727-8334 elyse@rowboatmusic.com

Ian Sherwood

Halifax, NS, CAN

Thursday 9:00 PM Liberty

With Guitar, saxophone, impressive songwriting, and a voice that won him a Canadian Folk Music Award for Contemporary Singer, Ian Sherwood is a born storyteller and a constant creator. Dancing the line between folk and pop, his music and live performances thrive on intimacy and destroy fourth walls.

Genny DeMerchant 416-801-6771 Genny@ youwillloveitlive.com

Iona Fyfe

Aberdeenshire, Scotland, GBR

Thursday 9:15 PM Washington Park Place 1

As the first singer to win the coveted title, Musician of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, Iona Fyfe is one of Scotland’s most sought-after folksingers. Singing in the Scots language, her repertoire spans ancient ballads to self-penned songs of protest. Iona Fyfe 7923942510 booking@ ionafyfe.com

Jack Klatt

Minneapolis, MN, USA

Thursday 8:15 PM Brookside

Tireless troubadour Jack Klatt isn’t one to be relegated to a narrow niche. He comes across as an artist with a sensibility of place and purpose. He’s mastered his finger-picking technique and used that approach to bring his material an authenticity reminiscent of the most revered storytellers. Al Marano 612-270-9079 al@highroadtouring.com

Jaimee Harris

Nashville, TN, USA

Friday 9:15 PM Shawnee Mission

“She’s quick to pay homage to her musical heroes but Jaimee Harris is her own person, with her own voice. She’s got a natural songwriter’s instinct for the hard truths, and a voice that brings them home with a visceral punch. Pay attention.” - Gretchen Peters Craig Grossman 612-703-0151 craig@ flemingartists.com

Jake Blount

Providence, RI, USA

Friday 9:00 PM Washington Park Place 3

Jake Blount (pronounced: blunt) is an award-winning musician and scholar based in Providence, RI. He is a 2020 recipient of the Steve Martin Banjo Prize and a two-time winner of Clifftop. A specialist in the early folk music of Black Americans, Blount is a skilled performer of spirituals, blues, and string band repertoire. Mollie Farr 941-356-3118 molliefarr@lostbuffaloartists. com

Jamie-Lee Dimes

Brisbane, Qld, AUS

Thursday 9:15 PM Pershing

Jamie-Lee Dimes is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and artist with a global perspective — one that comes from her spending time living in Australia, New Zealand, New York City, California, and Mexico. She earned a coveted slot as an official artist for SXSW and Canadian Music Week, and is an ambassador for Australian music at the World Expo, Expo 2020 Dubai, and most recently, highly commended at the Queensland music awards. Jamie-Lee Dimes 323-304.6485 jldimes@gmail.com

Janice Jo Lee

Toronto, ON, CAN

Saturday 8:30 PM Century A

Janice Jo Lee (she/her) aka Sing Hey, is a contemporary folk artist of Korean ancestry. She is a folk-soul singer-songwriter, spoken word poet, actor, and playwright. On stage, she creates looping landscapes with her voice, guitar, trumpet, and Korean jangu drum. Lee is a hard femme, queer, radical, comedian, truth-teller, and satirist. She is interested in using art to build flourishing communities based on justice and joy. Janice Jo Lee 514-717-9166 janjolee@gmail.com

Official Showcase Artists

Official Showcase Artists H-J

Jason Lang: Handled With Care: Homage to Penny Lang

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 7:30 PM Century C

Jason Lang is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist, recording/mix engineer, and producer. A performer on Diamond, Platinum, and Gold albums, he’s toured over twenty countries with iconic Canadian artists. Heidi Fleming 514-844-7393 heidi@famgroup.ca

JigJam

Tullamore, OY, IRL

Saturday 9:00 PM Century C

JigJam is what happens when virtuoso Irish playing jumps the pond running naked through the wide-open fields of Bluegrass and Americana. They were named Best Americana Album 2020 by The Independent Music Awards. Sidd Kalstrom 916.628.3166 sidd@bluesunentertainment.com

Jennifer Knapp

Nashville, TN, USA

Thursday 9:00 PM Washington Park Place 3

Folk-rocker Jennifer Knapp is a singer-songwriter, author, speaker & advocate. Winner of 4 Dove Awards and 2 Grammy nominations, she tours extensively and has released ten albums with over 1 million sales. Jennifer receives critical acclaim for her music and is in demand as an advocate for the LGBTQ community. David Priebe 651-233-6794 david@faveson.com

Jenny Mitchell

Wellington, NZL

Friday 9:00 PM Brookside

Multi-award-winning Aotearoa artist Jenny Mitchell is a storyteller with songs wrapped in wisdom and wit. Influenced by Gillian Welch and Allison Krauss, Jenny's love for storytelling is at the core of her craft. Jenny Mitchell 278684811 hello@jennymitchell. co.nz

Jim and Sam

Santa Monica, CA, USA

Thursday 9:00 PM Brookside

Jim and Sam are a husband-and-wife duo who congregate around wistful harmonies, intimate lyrics, and unshakable melodies. After creating the award-winning 365-day tour documentary, After So Many Days, they share their life-altering journey of becoming parents on their 2022 EP, Space For The Stranger. Dan Boyle 310-228-5411 dboyle@ apa-agency.com

JM Stevens

Austin, TX, USA

Friday 6:15 PM Shawnee Mission

JM Stevens is a singer-songwriter based in Austin, Texas by way of West Point, Mississippi, known for deep hooks, memorable melodies, and tasteful arrangements. A SXSW 2022 and FAI 2022 Official Showcasing Artist, Stevens looks to follow up his critically acclaimed debut album Invisible Lines with a brand new album release in early 2023. Laura Thomas 512-440-7218 laura@comboplatebooking. com

Jobi Riccio

Nashville, TN, USA

Thursday 7:30 PM Brookside

Jobi Riccio is a Nashville- based songwriter and performer originally hailing from the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Inspired by artists ranging from George Jones to Joni Mitchell and the bluegrass community she came of age in, she writes songs that meld classic country sounds with modern sensibilities. Jobi Riccio 303-551-3973 jobirmusic@gmail.com

Joe Jencks

Chicago, IL, USA

Thursday 6:00 PM Brookside

Joe Jencks sings with a lyric baritone voice that has the edgy richness of good sea-salt caramel. A dual US/Irish Citizen with 25 years on the international Folk circuit, Jencks has penned several #1 Folksongs. From Carnegie Hall to Coffeehouses, Joe delivers engaged musical narratives filled with heart, soul, groove, and grit. Joe Jencks 206-619-4104 joe@joejencks.com

Joy Clark

New Orleans, LA, USA

Thursday 10:00 PM Shawnee Mission

Joy Clark is a New Orleans singer-songwriter, musician, and guitarist whose music has a deep focus on self-exploration, and self-love. Her music is often described as the essence of ease, soulful, and a healing balm to the weary heart. Michael Paz 504-382-0343 Michael@thepazgroup.com

Official Showcase Artists

Showcase Artists

Kamica King

Dallas, TX, USA

Friday 7:45 PM Shawnee Mission

Soul singer-songwriter Kamica King connects to the listener’s heart, weaving story and song to inspire and uplift. A classically trained vocalist, Kamica is a Texas Touring Roster artist, U.S. Dept. Cultural Ambassador, and alum of Music to Life’s Activist Musician Accelerator (co-founded by Peter, Paul & Mary’s Noel Paul Stookey). King Creative Arts Expression 214-310-7506 booking@kamicaking,com

Karan Casey

Cork, CK, IRL

Friday 7:45 PM Century A

Karan Casey has long been recognized as one of the most innovative, provocative, and imitated voices in Irish traditional and folk music, singing songs charged with a sense of social responsibility for over 25 years. In 2018, Karan helped found FairPlé, an organization aimed at achieving gender parity in Irish traditional and folk music. Danielle Devlin 1-802-393-7120 danielle@ canismusic.com

Kelley Hunt

Lawrence, KS, USA

Saturday 10:00 PM Shawnee Mission

Roots/Blues/Americana singer-songwriter keyboardist guitarist Kelley Hunt's celebrated career comprises over 2000 live performances, seven acclaimed studio releases and two singles, over 150K indie units sold and downloaded, and a rich international tour history. Her music crosses boundaries, takes on social and political issues, and delivers messages of uplift and hope. Al Berman 785-841-6000 al@ bluekeyartists.com

Kellie Loder

St. John's, NL, CAN

Thursday 8:15 PM Liberty

Newfoundland’s Juno nominated Kellie Loder is a towering talent about to explode on the world stage. Loder is the first place runner-up of Canada’s Got Talent, where they wowed audiences with their mesmerizing performance. Included in their long list of accolades are two ECMA nominations for Songwriter of the Year and Fan’s Choice Entertainer of the Year. Loder is set to release their forth studio recording in the spring of 2023. Steve Butler 416-845-0904 steve@ paquinartistsagency.com

Lady Nade

Bristol, England, GBR

Thursday 7:00 PM Washington Park Place 1

Lady Nade is continuing her rise as a multi-award-winning eclectic folk and Americana singer-songwriter. Her third album ‘Willing’ entered both the official Folk and Americana charts on its release. Her songs carry messages of love, loss, hope, relationships, friendships, and the positive connection between music and well-being. John Blakeley 7840935110 john@ eartrumpetmusic.co.uk

Kitty Macfarlane

Bristol, England, GBR

Thursday 8:30 PM Washington Park Place 1

Kitty Macfarlane’s 2018 took the UK folk scene by tour. After numerous successful UK tours, including a sold-out support tour with the legend Sea Sick Steve (who saw Kitty at a festival and booked her immediately), Kitty is now ready to spread her wings and look internationally with the forthcoming release of her eagerly awaited follow up album to be released in Nov 2023 John Hart 0044 7973861378 Johnhartmusic@mac.com

Larry & Joe

Durham, NC, USA

Saturday 7:45 PM Washington Park Place 1

Larry & Joe, the duo of legendary Venezuelan Llanera musician and asylum-seeking migrant Larry Bellorín & GRAMMY-nominated Latingrass musician and activist Joe Troop (Che Apalache), proves that music has no borders. They perform a fusion of Venezuelan and Appalachian folk music on harp, banjo, cuatro, fiddle, guitar, maracas, and upright bass. Kayla Oelhafen 919-606-4277 kayla.oelhafen@gmail.com

Kris Drever

Glasgow, Scotland, GBR

Thursday 7:45 PM Washington Park Place 1

Kris Drever is a songwriter from Orkney. A gifted guitarist/singer whose voice is uniquely recognizable. His folk trio Lau is famed for blurring the edges of genres through their trad/improv compositions. Kris has won 7 BBCR2 Folk Awards, and two shortlist nominations for Scottish Album of The Year (with Lau). Tom Rose 447779017236 tom@revealrecords.co.uk

Le Diable à Cinq

Ripon, QC, CAN

Thursday 7:45 PM Century A

Le Diable à Cinq is a promising traditional music band from the Outaouais region (Quebec). The band offers lively and entertaining pieces that set fire to the stage. With a very dynamic stage presence, the five musicians radiate with an energetic and unifying sound that captivates all spectators. Brandon Girouard 873-353-0242 brandon@ cretac.ca

Official Showcase Artists

Official Showcase Artists

Le Winston Band

Montréal, QC, CAN

Thursday 9:15 PM Century A

Le Winston Band is a unique Montreal band that combines rock with Zydeco, Cajun, and French-Canadian influences. The powerful sound of the diatonic accordion, supported by a typical “new zydeco” formation, electrifies the public and assures a dancing, warm and festive atmosphere. Guillaume Ruel 514-887-7835 ruelgui@gmail.com

Léa Jarry

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 6:45 PM Century C

Country Album of the Year winner at the GAMIQ Awards and double nominee at the Gala de l'ADISQ in 2021 (Breakthrough Artist and Country Album of the year), Léa Jarry has a journey that never ceases to impress. She released her first full-length album named L'heure d'été in October 2020. Vincent Quirion 514-652-2144 vincent@ rosemarierecords.com

Les Hay Babies

Moncton, NB, CAN

Thursday 6:00 PM Liberty

Les Hay Babies are going back to simplicity with their third record, Boîte aux lettres. Thanks to years of touring, they’ve mastered their instruments and have grown into established musicians. Vivianne, Julie, and Katrine still fiddle their trusty guitars, but also actively flirt with a bass guitar and drums. On stage, the trio is surrounded by talented musicians, as they present a fully realized concept show with their trademark sincerity and meticulousness. Patrick Naud 514-522-5672 bonsound@booking.com

Les Rats d'Swompe

Ottawa, ON, CAN

Friday 9:45 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Originally from Northern and Eastern Ontario, Les Rats d'Swompe are proud French Canadians, brought together to introduce people to the sound of the traditional violin, the call and response songs, and the musicality of yesteryear. Les Rats d'Swompe are five plaid lumberjacks who take the stage to fuse elements of traditional, pop, rock, and punk. Patrick Bourbonais 343-999-9939 patrick@ productionspb5.com

Little Misty

Montreal, QC, CAN

Friday 9:00 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Little Misty is a progressive folk band formed by singer Kathryn Samman and guitarist François Jalbert. Known for their projects in the Montreal jazz scene and their work with bands like Bellflower and Tunnel, the young duo, accompanied by some of the finest musicians of the Montreal scene, stepped out of the box into a more folk/bluegrass sound, mixing it with elements of progressive rock. Noemie Azoulay 514-521-4445 info@ agenceresonances.com

Les Tireux d'Roches

Montreal, QC, CAN

Thursday 9:45 PM Century C

Canada’s TDR (Les Tireux d’Roches) has been electrifying crowds with their unique sound and stage performances. They have toured extensively in Canada, the U.S.A, Europe, and China winning over the hearts of audiences wherever they go. It’s an explosive folk/trad party that’ll make you dance and knock your socks off ! Patrick Nadon 514-563-1492 booking@ coopfauxmonnayeurs.com

LÓN

Reykjavík, ISL

Saturday 6:45 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

During the 2020 lockdown, three long-time friends and collaborators got together to make music. There was no plan or agenda, just the idea of having a safe space to create. Something clicked in a cabin by Iceland´s biggest lake. One of Iceland’s most beloved artists, Valdimar Guðmundsson, explores his folk roots along with powerhouse performers Ásgeir Aðalsteinsson and Ómar Guðjónsson in new Americana project LÓN. Ásgeir A∂alsteinsson 3548471787 management@lon.band

Leyla McCalla

New Orleans, LA, USA

Thursday 9:15 PM Shawnee Mission

Combining original compositions and traditional Haitian tunes with historical broadcasts and contemporary interviews, Leyla McCalla’s album, Breaking The Thermometer, offers a journey through 50 years of racial, social, and political unrest, exploring Radio Haiti and the journalists who risked their lives to broadcast it. Her performances are fueled by rich, sophisticated melodic work, and intoxicating Afro-Caribbean rhythms. Virginia Prater 865-300-2107 virginia@praterday.com

Lynne Hanson

Ottawa, ON, CAN

Friday 6:00 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Two-time Canadian Folk Music Award Winner. Known for her high-energy, roots guitar-driven live performances, Lynne’s brand of porch music with a little red dirt can turn on a dime, from a sunshine, blue sky ballad to a full-on thunderstorm of gritty Americana swamp from one song to the next. Denis Grabill 937-216-4397 denis@ blackoakartists.com

Official Showcase Artists

M-P Official Showcase Artists

Matthew Fowler

Denver, CO, USA

Friday 6:00 PM Brookside

Born and raised in Florida, Fowler fell in love with music at an early age, and by 19, he’d already self-released his debut and begun booking his own cross-country tours. Critics were quick to take notice, with American Songwriter praising Fowler’s “earnest, strummy songcraft.” Adam Zanoff 661-889-5913 adam@pilotlightbooking.com

Mike Biggar

Quispamsis, NB, CAN

Friday 9:00 PM Liberty

Mike Biggar is an award-winning contemporary roots/blues artist. Biggar’s roiling performance and soulful vocals reflect the imprint of his gospel music childhood. Rollicking vocals steam down the line like a roots-music freight train mingling gutsy and joyful in equal measure, paired with infectious melodies of his acclaimed songwriting, leaving hearts warmed, broken, or both. Jeff Andrusyk 647–847–4177 jeff@ jmatalent.com

Nadia Larcher w/ Ensemble Iberica

Buenos Aires, AR-B, ARG

Saturday 9:00 PM Washington Park Place 3

One of the most captivating folkloric artists of our time, Argentine vocalist and composer Nadia Larcher is at the forefront of the new folk music scene in Buenos Aires. Nadia has performed numerous concerts throughout South America as a soloist and with her ensembles Proyecto Pato and Don Olimpio. Beau Bledsoe 816-304-7067 info@ ensembleiberica.org

Mélisande [électrotrad]

Beloeil, QC, CAN

Thursday 10:00 PM Century A Mélisande [électrotrad] offers an energetic blend of traditional music, pop, and electro with acoustic and electric instruments, vocal harmonies, and programming. Mélisande and Alexandre ‘Moulin’ de Grosbois-Garand offer a fresh artistic proposal to folk-world-trad music. Its fourth album Flash de Mémoire presents a mix of traditional classics and covers from famous Québecois artists. Danielle Devlin 802-393-7120 danielle@canismusic.com

Missy Raines & Allegheny

Nashville, TN, USA

Saturday 9:45 PM Century C

Grammy-nominated Missy Raines brings her passion for bluegrass to the forefront with Missy Raines & Allegheny. With more than a nod to her deep roots, Allegheny offers Missy fertile ground to bring together a lifetime of traditional inspiration along with her unique approach to string band music. Mollie Farr 941-356-3118 molliefarr@lostbuffaloartists. com

Memphis’ Own Legendary Yella P of Memphissippi Sounds

Memphis, TN, USA

Friday 8:30 PM Pershing

Memphissippi Sounds is an eclectic blues duo consisting of Cameron Kimbrough, grandson of hill country blues legend Junior Kimbrough, and Damion Yella P Pearson, a blues and hip-hop artist who got his start playing in clubs on the world-renowned Beale Street. Damion Pearson 901-335-2202 memphissippisounds@gmail.com

My Son the Hurricane

Niagara/Toronto, ON, CAN

Saturday 6:45 PM Century C

My Son the Hurricane is a multi-horn, multi-drummer, multi-singer brass-funk beast. The 12-piece brass dance crew has toured multiple countries as well as some of the largest festivals in Canada, USA, and Europe. 40 sold-out shows in 2019 and 2020 just proves that there is no live show comparable to My Son the Hurricane. Featuring trumpets, saxophones, trombones, drums, guitar, and percussion, we dare you not to dance! Danno O’Shea 905-359-5697 booking@vegasfuneralrecords.com

Nani (Noam Vazana)

Amsterdam, NH, NLD

Saturday 9:45 PM Washington Park Place 3

Nani is one of the few Ladino singer-songwriters worldwide. Nani’s parents escaped Morocco in the 1950’s and found refuge in Israel. But she rediscovered her heritage on a destined moment in Fez's medina — hearing people singing on the street a song her grandmother sang to her when she was a child. A phenomenal powerhouse performer delivering socially pertinent millennial songs in a dying language. Sarah Huisson 31626926197 booking@nanimusic.com

Nefesh Mountain

New York, NY, USA

Saturday 9:45 PM Brookside

Progressive bluegrass band Nefesh Mountain has been hailed as one of today’s formative boundary-pushing groups in American roots music. Their sound, called “A master class in string music” by Rolling Stone, embodies their wild nature and unbridled free spirits, melding everything from Appalachian Bluegrass to Celtic and Eastern European folk melodies. James Leslie 847-400-6581

james@skylineonline.com

Official Showcase Artists M-P

Niamh Regan

Galway, GY, IRL

Friday 8:30 PM Century A

Niamh Regan is a critically acclaimed songwriter who launched in 2020 with a debut album earning nominations for RTÉ Folk Awards and a Choice Music Prize Award for Album of the Year. A natural storyteller, her songs are windows into her world and snapshots of the intimacy of everyday life. hello@niamhregan.com In Bloom Agency 877734241 info@inbloomagency.com

Nick Shoulders

Fayetteville, AR, USA

Saturday 9:00 PM Brookside

Wielding an ethereal croon and masterful whistle crafted from a lifetime chasing lizards through the Ozark hills, Nick Shoulders is a living link to roots of country music with a penchant for the absurd. Combining his family's deep ties to regional traditional singing with his years of playing to crowded street corners, Nick has sought to forge a hybridized form of raucously clever country music. Yitzi Peetluk 205-427-1223 ypeetluk@teamwass.com

Nigel Wearne

Woodford, Vic, AUS

Thursday 8:30 PM Pershing

Nigel Wearne saunters after dark in the music of the night, blending blues, folk, and Americana-noir. Hailing from Gunditjmara country in the deep south of Australia, he's a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist with diverse influences from Nick Cave, Tom Waits, and Gillian Welch. A deep thinker and truth speaker, his songwriting cuts to the bone. “Warmth flecked with grit…beauty awaits” 4 Stars – Rolling Stone. Amy Laidlaw 61412463873 amy@iheardjango.com

Northern Resonance

Järvsö, SWE

Saturday 8:15 PM Washington Park Place 3

Northern Resonance is the Scandinavian string trio that takes newly composed folk music into enormous soundscapes. With their previously untested combination of instruments; viola d’amore, hardanger fiddle, and nyckelharpa they let Scandinavian music meet explosive rhythms and grand chamber-like arrangements that take folk music in a new direction. Eric E. van Monckhoven +39 331 206 89 69 music4you. net@gmail.com

OkCello

Atlanta, GA, USA

Saturday 6:45 PM Washington Park Place 3

Okorie “OkCello” Johnson through his playing, looping, improvising, songwriting, storytelling, and audience interaction is redefining what is possible for the integration of art and technology, for the experience of the concertgoer, and for what can be expected of a cello and its cellist. He is quickly emerging as the country’s most imaginative, creative, engaging, and important cello performer and composer. Okorie Andwele Johnson 919-621-1919 trish@myriadartists.com

Ordinary Elephant

Lafayette, LA, USA

Thursday 9:45 PM Brookside

Ordinary Elephant captivates audiences with their emotionally powerful and vulnerable songs, letting the listener know that they are not alone in this world. “Two become one, in song...hand-in-glove harmonies surprise the listener with focused intensity and musical mastery,” says Mary Gauthier. Lara Supan 734-995-9066 x23 lara@flemingartists.com

Oshima Brothers

Portland, ME, USA

Friday 7:30 PM Century C

Oshima Brothers pleasantly resist the rock cliché of brothers who feud and fight. While the two admit they don’t always see eye-to-eye, their creative partnership and DIY approach are rooted in making music together in Maine. They have crafted a richly layered, genre-splicing sound that is at once retro and metro, spacious and intimate, lush and loud. Mark Lourie 207-409-3861 mark@ madison-house.com

Phoebe Hunt

Nashville, TN, USA

Friday 7:00 PM Shawnee Mission

”Hunt certainly doesn’t neglect her roots, but she doesn’t wallow in the dirt of her influences, either.” - Rolling Stone. Drawing from 30 years spent studying the violin/ fiddle, Hunt amalgamates her classical upbringing with Appalachian Old Time, Texas Swing, and a maturity of songwriting that creates an unfiltered, raw expression dripping with palatable vulnerability. Lori Peters 413-268-3398 Lori@concertedefforts. com

Pipo Romero

Madrid, ESP

Friday 8:30 PM Washington Park Place 1

Pipo Romero is a virtuoso acoustic guitarist and composer from Cádiz. He performed in international forums (Spain, Canada, USA, Italy, and Portugal) with his first two albums. Ikigai, his third album, is an ode to Spanish folklore and its crossover with Atlantic folks but composed and performed on a steel-string guitar instead of the traditional Spanish guitar. Marina Roveta 34670556141 marina.roveta@gmail.com

Q-S Official Showcase Artists

Queen Esther

New York City, NY, USA

Thursday 6:45 PM Washington Park Place 3

Queen Esther is a vocalist, music producer, songwriter, and performance artist. Inspired by Black feminism, holy blues, and storytelling, Queen Esther uses the Black folkways and African traditions of her Lowcountry roots as a touchstone to explore cultural mores in America, deconstructing well-worn historical narratives while creating a reclamation-driven soundscape. Eva Mikusch +43 699 195 40 684 em@ kunstplus.com

Quote The Raven

St. John's, NL, CAN

Friday 8:15 PM Liberty

Three-time Music Newfoundland & Labrador award winners (including 2019 and 2021 Group of the Year). Quote the Raven marries smooth vocal harmonies with a haunting aesthetic that both bewitches and allures the listener. I Book Shows (Ryan Heerschap) 416-788-1475 ryan@ibookshows. com

Raine Hamilton String Trio

Winnipeg, MB, CAN

Saturday 8:15 PM Liberty

The Raine Hamilton String Trio creates resonant acoustic chamber folk with an otherworldly edge. Raine’s music is a hybrid of the classical tradition of string quartet chamber music with the singer-songwriter folk that comes so naturally to Raine. Joined by cello and upright bass, expect string arrangements that push, pull, and move as they console. Teresa Nelson 204-979-3456 teresa@traversemusic.ca

Rakish

Medford, MA, USA

Friday 9:15 PM Washington Park Place 1

Rakish is an acoustic Celtic duo that performs traditional Irish, Scottish, and original folk music on the fiddle and guitar in a way that reflects their shared interest in and love for chamber music and improvisation. Trish Galfano 919-967-8655 trish@myriadartists.com

Rainbow Girls

Bodega, CA, USA

Friday 6:45 PM Century C

“A gang of sweet angels punching you in the heart”. Just a couple’a heads on bodies doing our best over here. We highly recommend us for you. Hannah Spero 202-330-8410 rbg. hannah@gmail.com

Ray Bonneville

Austin, TX, USA

Friday 9:45 PM Washington Park Place 3 Ray is from Quebec and moved to Boston at age twelve where he learned English and picked up piano and guitar. Later, he served in Vietnam, then earned a commercial pilots license in Colorado before living in Alaska, Seattle, and Paris. Six years in New Orleans infused his musical sensibilities with the region's culture and rhythms, teaching him to let the music breathe and take its time. Mary Granata 973-964-3775 mary@ granataagency.com

Rebecca Loebe

Austin, TX, USA

Friday 10:00 PM

Shawnee Mission

Rebecca's music is equally influenced by classic folk, poetry, and modern pop melodies. Over the past 15 years, she has built a grass-roots following across the US, Canada, Europe, and The UK with live shows that make audiences laugh, cry, and sing along. Mary Granata 973-208-7291 mary@ granataagency.com

Rev. Robert B. Jones

Detroit, MI, USA

Saturday 6:00 PM Washington Park Place 3

Reverend Robert Jones, Sr. is a singer, storyteller, and self-taught multi-instrumentalist. He uses folk, blues, spirituals, and other American roots music to champion the beauty and power of our shared culture. His deep love for traditional African American and American traditional music is shared in live performances that interweave timeless stories with original and traditional songs. Tamulevich Artist 734-622-8337 david@sbcglobal.net

Ron Artis II

Portland, OR, USA

Thursday 7:30 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Consider a tropical blend of Jimi Hendrix, Sam Cooke and Raul Midon and you get Ron Artis II & The Truth - Tim Parsons, Tahoe Onstage Ron Artis II 808-284-7511 Managing@ronartisii.com

Official Showcase Artists Q-S

Royal Wood

Toronto, ON, CAN

Friday 6:45 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Royal Wood has established himself as a true musical talent. Since being proclaimed “Songwriter of the Year” by iTunes (2010), Wood has continued to evolve and hone his musical craft – maintaining an unmistakable identity while uncovering and reinventing his sound.

Rum Ragged

St. John's, NL, CAN

Friday 6:00 PM Liberty

Sara Curruchich

Guatemala City, GU, GTM

Thursday 10:00 PM Washington Park Place 1

Steve

Zsirai 416-828-8744 steve@zedmusicinc.com

Sawyer Fredericks

Fultonville, NY, USA

Thursday 6:00 PM Washington Park Place 3

Sawyer Fredericks, hailing from a farm in central New York, began playing at local farmer's markets, open mics, and iconic New York venues at thirteen. With his deep, beyond-his-years original lyrics and melodies, soulful vocals, and powerful live performances, he stays true to his roots with his “free-range-folk.' David Priebe 651-233-6794 david@faveson.com

Shane Hennessy

Carlow, CW, IRL

Saturday 8:30 PM Washington Park Place 1

If you were to take the guitar styles of Chet Atkins and Tommy Emmanuel, the songwriting approach of Donald Fagen (Steely Dan), and the virtuosity of the likes of Chris Thile or Béla Fleck, you would have a good idea of what to expect from Irish guitarist and singer, Shane Hennessy! David Shaughnessy 816-456-6251 david@ uptownartistgroup.com

2021 JUNO Award Nominees, Rum Ragged, take a bold approach to the distinct folk music of their home, the island of Newfoundland. With a reverence for their roots and a creative, contemporary edge, this young band has quickly become known as the finest performers of their great, living, musical tradition. Nigel Jenkins 902-266-8048 nigel@laughingheartmusic. com

Sara Curruchich derives her inspiration from her Mayan culture and composes in her native language, and in Spanish, performing a subtle mix of folk, rock, and Mayan sounds. She has enchanted her country and Latin America and has become the symbol of a generation of young indigenous artists fighting against racism. Alex Lennon + 1 915 781-5467 alex@lennonmx.com

Sechile Sedare

Yellowknife, NT, CAN

Saturday 6:15 PM Pershing

Sechile Sedare is a contemporary roots duo featuring sibling songwriters Leela Gilday and Jay Gilday. Sechile Sedare (pronounced ‘seh-chee-leh’ 'seh-dahr-eh') means 'my younger brother, my older sister' in the Dene language. This musical collaboration sees Jay and Leela co-write and co-create new repertoire together, harnessing their talents as insightful and genuine storytellers. Leela Gilday 867-444-8431 denegirl@gmail.com

Shane Pendergast

Corran Ban, PE, CAN

Friday 6:45 PM Liberty

Shane Pendergast is a folksinger from Tracadie Cross, Prince Edward Island. His connection to Maritime folk music dates back to the efforts of his great-grandparents, preservers of folklore in P.E.I. His most recent album, “Second Wind,” won Contemporary Roots Album of the Year at the Music PEI Awards. Shane Pendergast 902-388-1222 srmpendergast@gmail.com

Seth Walker

Asheville, NC, USA

Saturday 6:15 PM Washington Park Place 1

Seth Walker is a revered modern roots music artist, a three-dimensional talent combining a gift for melody and lyric alongside a rich, Gospel-drenched, Southern-inflected voice with a true blue knack for getting around on the guitar. His latest album, I Hope I Know, is out now. Lara Supan 607-375-7821 lara@ flemingartists.com

Shawn Mullins

Atlanta, GA, USA

Friday 9:45 PM Brookside

Shawn Mullins’ critical and commercial breakthrough came when 1998 Soul’s Core shot him to fame on the strength of Grammy-nominated No. 1 hit, “Lullaby”, followed by No. 1 hit “Beautiful Wreck.” Mullins also co-wrote the Zac Brown Band’s No. 1 country tune “Toes.” Dina Dusko 415-332-9292 dina@highroadtouring.com

Official Showcase Artists

S-T Official Showcase Artists

Sihasin

Flagstaff, AZ, USA

Saturday 9:15 PM Pershing

Born on the Navajo nation in the heart of a political land dispute of forced relocation and cultural genocide, brother and sister Jeneda and Clayson Benally’s duo Sihasin have been performing their high-energy, socially conscious music for over 30 years. Their two Sihasin albums, “Never Surrender”

Silver Wolf Band

Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL, CAN

Friday 9:45 PM Liberty

Silver Wolf Band is a four-piece Indigenous folk-rock band from Labrador. Lively, engaging, and self-assured performances of honest and sincere lyrical music make Silver Wolf Band one of the most in-demand music groups from Labrador. Their latest release, Storms & Prayers, won Music NL’s Indigenous Artist of the Year (2020) and East Coast Music Association’s Indigenous Artist of the Year (2021). Nicole Rochefort 416-953-5752 nicole@aimbookingagency.

So Long Seven

Toronto, ON, CAN

Saturday 9:15 PM Century A

So Long Seven was an Instrumental Group of the Year nominee for the 2019 Canadian Folk Music Awards. They are an audible garden you didn’t realize you needed until surrounded by the flora and fauna that is; violin, banjo, tabla, and guitar. They released their third CD, Only Elephants Know Her Name, on Oct 1, 2022. Tim Posgate 416-420-4029 tposgate13@gmail.com

Sophie Lukacs

Montreal, QC, CAN

Saturday 10:00 PM Century A

Hailing from Montreal, Canada, by way of Budapest, Hungary, Sophie Lukacs is a kora player, singer, and composer. Drawing inspiration from her training in classical violin and seven years of study in Mali with renowned kora virtuoso Toumani Diabaté, Lukacs has forged a unique, alluring style in the folk music tradition. Genny Demerchant 416-801-6771 genny@youwillloveitlive.com

Síomha

Ennis, CE, IRL

Friday 9:15 PM Century A

Síomha's songs in both English and Irish dance the line between folk, jazz, and neo-soul, with the rugged landscape of the west of Ireland as her muse. Her voice, full of heartfelt experience, soars over her gypsy jazz and Latin-influenced guitar playing, taking audiences on an unforgettable cosmic journey. Brian Hassey +353 85 748 6339 info@inbloomagency.com

Spencer LaJoye

Boston, MA, USA

Saturday 8:15 PM Brookside

2021 Kerrville New Folk Songwriting Competition winner, LaJoye makes music to tell the truth, and return to their body as a queer person in recovery from American Christian evangelicalism. Delivering Broadway-Esque melodies accompanied by a weathered dreadnought, their performances are equal parts confident quirk and elegant storytelling. Spencer LaJoye 269-719-6146 spencerlajoyemusic@gmail.com

Steve Poltz

Nashville, TN, USA

Friday 9:00 PM Century C

Some people start life with a plan. Not Steve Poltz. He opens himself up to the universe in a way most of us will never be loose enough to achieve, and the universe responds with a wink, a seemingly bottomless well of inspiration, and the talent to truly connect with an audience. Adam Bauer 303-544-9900 adam@madison-house.com

Sussex

Montreal, QC, CAN

Friday 6:45 PM Brookside

Internationally renowned musicians Rob Lutes and Michael Emenau offer a blend of blues, folk, ragtime, and jazz. The two childhood friends hail from New Brunswick, Canada. Before reuniting in 2012 to form Sussex, Michael has made a name for himself as a world-class jazz vibraphonist and composer while Rob has carved himself out as one of Canada's top roots music singer-songwriters. Noemie Azoulay 514-521-4445 info@agenceresonances.com

Suzie Ungerleider

Vancouver, BC, CAN

Saturday 7:30 PM Liberty

Suzie Ungerleider began performing as Oh Susanna in the mid-1990s. For over two decades, thousands of shows, and ten critically acclaimed albums, Suzie’s gloriously emotive voice and fierce songwriting have captivated audiences and the press. Suzie’s latest album, My Name is Suzie Ungerleider, is her first release under her given name. Nicole Rochefort 416-953-5752 nicole@aimbookingagency. com

Official Showcase Artists

Official Showcase Artists S-T

Talibah Safiya

Memphis, TN, USA

Friday 7:00 PM Pershing

Talibah Safiya is a vocalist and songwriter from Memphis, TN. Using impactful instrumentation and visually stimulating lyricism, Talibah has a way of luring you to her story. She has organically gained over 2 million listens across streaming platforms. This year she accepted her first residency with the University of Memphis’s High Water Records. Bertram Williams 901-208-5031 bertramwilliams@gmail.com

Taylor Rae

Austin, TX, USA

Friday 8:30 PM Shawnee Mission

Taylor Rae's Top 20 Americana Music Album Chart debut, MAD TWENTIES, is the culmination of a gently chaotic decade lived with fearless determination. Taylor shows sophistication and maturity beyond her 28 years with this collection of 12 originals. Produced by William Gawley, the project runs the gamut from gentle, acousticfFolk to Led Zeppelin-tinged rock and roadhouse blues while also incorporating jazz and psychedelic influences. The Kurland Agency 617-254-0007 jack@thekurlandagency.com

The Armagh Rhymers

Armagh, Northern Ireland, GBR

Friday 6:15 PM Century A

The Armagh Rhymers are one of the most celebrated traditional music and theatre ensembles in Ireland. Through music, storytelling, drama, and costume, they evoke a sense of tradition and history and encapsulate the spirit of the Wren boys and the ancient house-visiting traditions of Ireland, where the kitchen floor became the stage. Clare Jennings 447500960530 info@ armaghrhymers.com

Talisk

Glasgow, Scotland, GBR

Friday 6:00 PM Century C

Mohsen Amini, Graeme Armstrong, and Benedict Morris fuse concertina, guitar, and fiddle to produce an innovative, multi-layered signature that has captivated audiences around the globe. At its core, three seemingly acoustic instruments - but in the hands of three master craftsmen; Talisk’s unmistakable, bold sound and a captivating live show. Mark Lourie 303-544-9900 x1043 mark@madison-house. com

Tall Heights

Northampton, MA, USA

Thursday 6:45 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

Tall Heights followed up 2018's “Pretty Colors For Your Actions” with “Juniors”, which came to life at the Massachusetts home where Wright and Harrington lived together with their wives, pets, and Harrington's firstborn son. In a departure from the elaborate production process that yielded its predecessor, the two musicians wrote and recorded most of Juniors in isolation, holing up on the third floor of the household they liken to a joyfully anarchic artist commune. Lindsay 205-427-1223 McDowell

Terra Spencer

Windsor, NS, CAN

Friday 7:30 PM Liberty

Nova Scotian funeral director-turned-songwriter Terra Spencer marries intimate and sly stories with fingerstyle guitar, gospel piano, and a butterscotch voice with 70s wood-paneled warmth. The real deal. - Ron Sexsmith Ryan Heerschap 866-966-9040 ryan@ibookshows. com

The Arcadian Wild

Nashville, TN, USA

Friday 6:00 PM Washington Park Place 3

With its unique combination of formal vocal music roots and progressive bluegrass and folk influences, The Arcadian Wild confidently inhabits and explores an intersection of genres, blending the traditional with the contemporary to create a unique acoustic sound that is simultaneously unified and diverse. Ryan Slone 615-649-9500 ryan@ bonfiremusicgroup.com

The Barefoot Movement

Raleigh, NC, USA

Saturday 10:00 PM Washington Park Place 1

The Barefoot Movement creates gloriously addictive, instantly memorable tunes shored up by silky smooth bluegrass and Americana harmonies and laced with tantalizing flecks of bluesy grit. Trish Galfano 919-967-8655 trish@myriadartists.com

The Black Feathers

Cwmaman, Wales, GBR

Friday 7:30 PM Brookside

Writing songs that are both modern and ancient is a rare thing. Americana, Folk, and Acoustic Indie Rock sensibilities coexist comfortably for The Black Feathers (consisting of Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler). Their music quickly draws the interest of listeners while their stage chemistry keeps them riveted. Louise W Baker 8284505385 louise@bakerbooking. com

Official Showcase Artists

The Brother Brothers

Los Angeles/Miami, CA/FL, USA

Friday 7:30 PM Washington Park Place 3

Identical twins Adam and David Moss sing and play in a way that has been described as thicker than blood; that's how it's always been. With songs as a focus, the brothers have a history of playing many different genres and folk traditions and bring a perspective of people who have studied music to its depths. Chris Colbourn 617-969-0810 chris@concertedefforts.com

The Contenders

Nashville, TN, USA

Saturday 9:15 PM Washington Park Place 1

As Americana/Folk rock band The Contenders, Jay Nash and Josh Day make the sort of music found in the intricate and varied tapestry that is real Americana - a sound full of grit, with a steady heartbeat and just a hint of honky-tonk. Brian Swenk 828-260-2002 brian@rockwoodbooking.com

The Faux Paws

Brattleboro, VT, USA

Saturday 6:00 PM Brookside

The Faux Paws self-titled album was named Top 10 Trad Albums of 2021 by FolkAlley. com. Raging fiddle, saxophone, contagious groove, and feel-good folk that's been honed over a decade is the sound of close friends with a musical kinship that transcends stylistic limitations. The bi-coastal quartet has released their self-titled debut album to critical acclaim. Mollie Farr 941-356-3118 molliefarr@lostbuffaloartists.com

The Fretless

Toronto, ON, CAN

Friday 8:15 PM Brookside

Three-time Juno nominees The Fretless is a Canadian string quartet that has firmly taken its place on the map as a progressive form of Traditional music by transforming fiddle tunes and folk melodies into intricate, beautiful, high-energy arrangements. Adrian Gross 631-860-8858 adrian@adriangross.ca

The Heart Collectors

Tyalgum, NSW, AUS

Thursday 7:45 PM Pershing

With soaring cello, intricate guitar, sparkling mandolin, boot-banging banjo, passionate strikes of a tambourine, and the thundering of the bodhran, The Heart Collectors create musical synergy, marrying progressive folk/rock sensibilities and clean classical precision. Get ready to have your heart collected. Tristan Dafoe 61455685021 info@ theheartcollectors.com

The Henry Girls

Malin, DL, IRL

Friday 10:00 PM Century A

The Henry Girls' musical roots are Irish folk, but their influences are varied, resulting in an eclectic rootsy sound with a transatlantic flavor. Tight three-part harmonies accompanied by harp are the elements that give these sisters from Donegal their unique sound earning them critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. Karen McLaughlin 353872814877 thehenrygirls@gmail.com

The Magpies

York, England, GBR

Thursday 6:15 PM Washington Park Place 1

Three accomplished musicians in their own right (and with a successful annual festival to their name), The Magpies is a combination far greater than the sum of its parts. They draw on wide-ranging influences and have made a huge impact with their fresh brand of transatlantic neo-folk. Louise McGovern +44 7776 308791 themagpiesmusicinfo@ gmail.comlouise@midnightmango.co.uk

The McDades

Edmonton, AB, CAN

Saturday 6:00 PM Liberty

Punching through the walls of tradition, The McDades’ Celtic-rooted music fuses the spontaneity of jazz improvisation and infectious global rhythms. The Juno Award winners’ cutting-edge sound is the perfect complement to their fiery performances. Ryan Heershap 866-966-9040 ryan@ ibookshows.com

The Milk Carton Kids

Los Angeles, CA, USA

Thursday 6:00 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

The Milk Carton Kids are Kenneth Pattengale and Joey Ryan, a Grammy-nominated American folk duo. Founded in 2011, The Milk Carton Kids swiftly emerged as a major force in the American folk tradition, blending ethereal harmonies and intricate musicianship with a uniquely powerful brand of contemporary song craft. Keith Levy 615-251-4400 KLEVY@TEAMWASS.COM

Official Showcase Artists T-W

The Pairs

London, ON, CAN

Saturday 7:45 PM Century A

With soaring harmonies, The Pairs sing of life’s hope, hilarity, and hardship. Their honest, quirky stage presence quickly blurs the line between the stage and the crowd. Powered by classically trained vocalists and a former punk rock drummer, The Pairs’ genre-bending music will hug your eardrums and make you dance. Renée Coughlin 519-859-2005 info@thepairsmusic. com

The Rough & Tumble

Nashville, TN, USA

Thursday 8:15 PM Washington Park Place 3

The Rough & Tumble are a thrift-store folk/Americana duo consisting of Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler. They’ve spent the last eight years living on the road in a 16ft camper with two mastiffs and one hamster they found on a glue trap. Brad Raley 405-514-1768 brad@blackoakartists.com

The Small Glories

Winnipeg, MB, CAN

Friday 8:15 PM Washington Park Place 3

Roots duo The Small Glories are Cara Luft & JD Edwards, a musical tour-de-force partnership planted on the Canadian Prairies. With a stage banter striking a unique balance between slapstick and sermon, these veteran singer-songwriters have a way of making time disappear, rooms shrink, and audiences feel as though they are right there on the stage with the band. Jeff Laramie 608-664-8160 Ext: 302 jlaramie@sroartists.com

Tish Hinojosa

Austin, TX, USA

Saturday 6:45 PM Brookside

Tish Hinojosa is a singer-songwriter from Austin, Texas, blending folk, country, Latino, and pop. Her undeniable appeal has garnered her accolades, such as a White House concert at the invitation of President Clinton and performances with artists Joan Baez, Booker T. Jones, Flaco Jimenez, Pete Seeger, and Dwight Yoakam. Tish Hinojosa 512-415-3224 tishhinojosa@gmail.com

Twin Flames

Ottawa, ON, CAN

Friday 7:30 PM Benton 's 20th Floor

2022 CFMA Vocal Artists of the Year, Twin Flames (Jaaji - Mohawk/Inuk and Chelsey June - Metis), build bridges across cultures, continents, and styles. The pair bring together a richness of personal history and musical experience, blending traditional hand drums and spirit flutes with western instruments and performing in English, French, and Inuktitut. Genny DeMerchant 416-801-6771 genny@youwillloveitlive.com

Verónica Valerio

Mérida, Yuc, MEX

Saturday 6:00 PM Benton 's 20th Floor Verónica Valerio was born into a family of harp players in Veracruz, Mexico. Her professional music career began at the age of nineteen. Verónica Valerio’s original compositions and arrangements combine folklore tales and notions of the atemporal while integrating voice, harp, traditional Mexican poetry, and different styles of music, including son jarocho, jazz, gospel, and blues. Marshall Henry 212-725-0125 marshall@modiba.net

Waahli

Montreal, QC, CAN

Saturday 6:15 PM Century A

Waahli is an artist of Haitian descent based in Montreal. He is a founding member of the hip-hop group Nomadic Massive. Integrating elements of Afrofuturism in the aesthetic of his sounds, Waahli brings an authentic voice by bridging his ancestral past to the present and future. With a few releases under his belt, Waahli is completing his 2nd album set to be released in 2022. Barbara Vivet 438-765-3031 waahlimanagement1@gmail. com

Wallis Bird

Berlin, BE, DEU

Thursday 9:45 PM Washington Park Place 3

Wallis Bird has been enrapturing audiences for ten years. Having lost a finger as a child, Wallis developed a unique style resulting in multiple Irish and German national awards. Known for her incredible energy on stage, she’s performed at Europe’s biggest festivals and headlined worldwide. Rachel Doe 404-793-7023 x 104 rachel@ crossovertouring.com

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Notes

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COMMUNITY through MUSIC

The Levitt Foundation partners with communities coast to coast to activate underused public spaces, creating welcoming and inclusive destinations through the power of free, live music.

Levitt stages feature acclaimed, emerging talent to seasoned, award-winning artists

World Bluegrass Country Jazz Classical Rock Folk Hip-Hop Blues

Reggae Latin Big Band Funk Americana Zydeco R&B

COMPASS RECORDS GROUP

MULLIGAN RECORDS

COMPASS RECORDS RED HOUSE RECORDS GREEN LINNET

AT FOLK ALLIANCE

OFFICIAL SHOWCASES:

STEVE POLTZ

Stardust and Satellites

“Steve Poltz isalivingexample oftheAmericanmusictradition,a songwriterwhocanbendyourear withahookymelody,thenbreak yourheartwithawryobservation about the human condition.”

—Popmatters

OFFICIAL SHOWCASE:

CENTURY C BALLROOM

THE SMALL GLORIES

Assiniboine & The Red “[Luft and Edwards]maysoonjoinduos likeMandolinOrangeandShovels& RopeamongtheranksofAmericana prestige.” — PASTE Magazine

ROB ICKES & TREY HENSLEY

COMING SOON: Living In A Song

Available February 10, 2023.

“Twomusicalphenoms.” —NPR

Few duos leave audiences as amazed as Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley. On their newest, LIVING IN A SONG, they showcase their songwriting chops in a set of 12 songs, five of which they co-wrote with GRAMMY awardwinning producer Brent Maher.

MICHAEL CLEVELAND

COMING SOON: Lovin’ Of The Game

Available March 3, 2023.

“It’s obvious he was destined tobecomeoneofBluegrass’s contemporarystars.”

—Boston Globe

Featuring Special Guests: Béla Fleck, Billy Strings, Charlie Starr, Jeff White, The Travelin’ McCourys and Vince Gill.

DOOLIN’ COMING SOON: Circus Boy

Available March 3, 2023.

With Sarah Jarosz, Rachel Price and Michaela Anne.

“...Close harmonies that suggest Simon & Garfunkel over Willie Nelson...”

—Rolling Stone Country

MISSY RAINES & ALLEGHENY

Royal Traveller

“...brilliantly composed precision and equally brilliant spontaneity.”

—The Nashville Scene

OFFICIAL SHOWCASE:

PM - 10:15 PM

THE BROTHER BROTHERS

Cover to Cover “...Close harmonies that suggest Simon & Garfunkel over Willie Nelson...” —Rolling Stone

ALISON BROWN

COMING SOON: On Banjo

Available Spring 2023.

“LikeJamesTaylor’svoiceorB.B. King’sguitar,AlisonBrown’sbanjo isaninstrumentpossessedofa uniquesonicsignatureandan inescapablebeauty.”

—Billboard

KELLY HUNT

New album coming in 2023.

“KellyHuntsingswiththelilting cadenceofafolksingerborn somewherefaraway,sometime longago.” —Robert Crawford, Rolling Stone Country