The Folk Alliance International Conference in Montréal is an annual event that serves as a pivotal gathering for folk musicians and industry professionals from all over the world. Founded in 1989, the nonprofit organization aims to present, preserve, and promote the diverse genre of folk music. Each year, the conference is held in a different North American city, attracting thousands of artists for five days of panels, performances, and collaborations.
This year, the conference, with the theme “Illuminate,” will take place at Le Centre Sheraton Montréal from February 19 to 23. More than 175 artists, ranging from emerging talents to established musicians, will grace the stage, including notable acts such as Basia Bulat, Lady A, Mimi O’Bonsawin, Alex Wong, and headliners Bella’s Bartok. The event offers a unique platform for musicians to showcase their talents to booking agents, venue owners, and labels, emphasizing artist-to-artist networking as a crucial aspect of the conference.
Among the attendees is the Vermont-based roots trio, the Faux Paws, who have traveled to multiple conferences with their band over the years. Vocalist and guitarist Andrew VanNorstrand shared his excitement about the showcase performances at the conference, which take place in suites throughout the hotel, creating an intimate and immersive experience for both performers and audiences.
VanNorstrand expressed the challenge of defining their band’s sound within the vast landscape of folk music, highlighting the eclectic nature of their music that defies simple categorization. The Faux Paws bring a unique blend of fiddle tunes and fiery jams to the conference, reflecting the diversity of styles and genres present at the event, from Appalachian to Zydeco, and even fusion and hip-hop.
The conference not only serves as a platform for artists to showcase their music but also as a forum to discuss the future of folk music and the challenges facing the industry. Sessions on rights, royalties, and resilience, as well as keynote conversations with industry experts, provide valuable insights and opportunities for artists to learn from one another.
The 2025 International Folk Music Awards will kick off the conference, honoring notable figures in the folk music community, including the Indigo Girls, who will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. With over 2,000 showcase performances scheduled throughout the event, the conference promises to be a vibrant and enriching experience for artists and attendees alike.
Folk Alliance Executive Director Jennifer Roe emphasized the importance of bringing together artists of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate the rich traditions and cultures represented in folk music. The conference serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of folk music as a means of storytelling and connecting people across generations and continents.
As the conference approaches, artists and attendees eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share their music, stories, and experiences with a global audience, reaffirming the power of folk music to unite and inspire communities around the world. The Folk Alliance International Conference in Montréal is not just a gathering of musicians but a celebration of the rich tapestry of sounds, voices, and stories that define the genre of folk music.
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This article was crafted by Chris Farnsworth, a seasoned music editor with a passion for Vermont’s vibrant music scene. With a wealth of experience in reviewing albums and covering local musicians, Farnsworth brings a unique perspective to the world of folk music. When he’s not immersed in the music world, you can find him on the hunt for the perfect soft pretzel or delving into the world of X-Men podcasts.
