FAI 2024 Essential Guide - Quick Overview of Conference Programming

ESSENTIAL GUIDE sponsored by

ALCHEMY

A TRANSFORMATIVE FORCE

36th Annual Conference February 21 - 25, 2024 Kansas City, Missouri

®

FAI acknowledges that all of its activities and that of its North American member organizations take place on Indigenous lands. FAI’s office is located on the land of the Kansa/Kaw, Osage, Kickapoo, and Očhéthi Šakówin nations.

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

This is a compact guide for all daytime events and programming (panels, workshops, etc.). For performances like Official Showcases and Private Showcases, see the Pocket Guide. Help us save paper and the planet by using the app if you can!

1

2

Things to Know 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.

Jamming

Penn Valley (Ballroom Level) Wednesday: 11 am - 10:00 pm Thursday - Saturday: 9:30 am - 10:30 pm Rooms 704/705 (Private Showcase Floor) Wednesday-Saturday: 10:00 pm - 3 am

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.

FAI Mobile App

Lost and Found

Download our mobile app for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store!

Search for “Folk Alliance”.

ALWAYS WEAR YOUR BADGE AND WRISTBAND It is required for access to all conference events. The replacement cost is $595 for FAI members and $695 for non-members.

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.

Please be courteous!

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.

No Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in the hotel.

First-Timers Events! sponsored by First-Timer’s Orientation Wednesday, February 21 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.

3

First-Timer’s Coffee and Conversation Friday, February 23 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.

Health, Wellness and Safety The Wellness Summit Five Wellness events from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm on Thursday only Washington Park Place 3

Nurturing the Nurturers: Wellness Strategies for Artist Managers 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Holistic Mental Health for the Music Industry 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Workshop: Stress Management for Creatives 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM The Road Less Traveled: Building a Healthier Touring Landscape 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Optimizing Your Health for Maximum Creativity 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Sensory Safe Space Available 9:00 am - 10:00 pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday Signboard 1 Sight & Sound Eye Care Clinic Offering screenings, readers, sunglasses, & prescriptions. FREE resource to all in the community.

10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Friday and Saturday Signboard 2 Morning Yoga and Meditation every morning 8:00 Thursday, 9:00 Friday, Saturday Union Hill One-on-One Coaching Sessions with Marni Wandner, Wellness + Executive Coach for Creatives 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Union Hill East To book a session on-site, please go to https://bit.ly/faicoaching2024

Need Hotel Security? Or Lost and Found? +1 816-474-4400 then press 6

REGISTRATION 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Washington Park Place 2 INSTRUMENT CHECK 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley + 10:00 PM - 3 AM Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Black American Music Summit: Beyond the Construct: Belonging While Black Sponsored by BlaqOut

WEDNESDAY

WEDNESDAY FEB 21

Washington Park Place 1 As musicians of African heritage navigating the landscape of folk, we’ll explore the significance of belonging, the complexities of identity, and the challenges and opportunities that come with interpreting folk music through a distinctly Black lens.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Private Showcase Host Training Crossroads

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM First Timers’ Orientation Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment Pershing Come to this gathering to hear advice from conference veterans on how to navigate the next several days and make connections with folks from around the world who are joining our community for the first time.

Merch Training Garden Terrace

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Opening Reception Sponsored by TRO Essex Music and Smithsonian Folkways Sponsored by TRO Essex Music and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Century Foyer Join TRO Essex Music and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings in celebrating 75 years of releasing and promoting incredible folk music with a special performance by David Amram and friends.

7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Volunteer Orientation #1 Pershing

International Folk Music Awards Century C

4

THURSDAY FEB 22 REGISTRATION 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM Washington Park Place 2 INSTRUMENT CHECK 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley + 10:00 PM - 3 AM Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM Morning Yoga & Meditation Union Hill East Kick off the day with a 15-minute morning meditation led by Emily Kessler, immediately followed by a 30-minute yoga session led by Melissa Garcia.

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

THURSDAY

All Region Coffee and Gathering Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment Century C Folk Alliance International has five regional affiliates in North America and one global affiliate, Nordic Folk Alliance. This gathering is a chance to hear from the leadership of the regions. After the opening remarks breakout sessions are hosted by each indvidual region. See signage for locations.

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Financial Planning Consulting with Hammer Forte Union Hill East Join CFP Jeff Hammer to go over your financial plan or cover questions that you have about your current plans or liabilities. Sign up through our advanced emails or on-site at the room.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Regional Gathering: NERFA Century A The Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA to our friends) stretches from the DC metro area up to the tip of Newfoundland and Labrador. Meet the NERFA board and other members from our region, learn about our in-person conference, and find out about how you can take advantage of NERFA365 to be a part of our community all year long!

5

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Volunteer Orientation #2 Crossroads Regional Gathering: SERFA Garden Terrace SERFA serves Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Meet the leaders of the SERFA region and folks who are attending from that area.

Regional Gathering: FAR-West Liberty FAR-West serves Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Northwest Territory, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and Yukon Territory.

Please gather with the FAR-West leadership team to learn about their online hub of creativity, education, inspiration, and community.

Regional Gathering: FARM Pershing FARM serves Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Manitoba, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Nunavut, Ohio, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. This is an opportunity to meet with FARM leadership to learn about year-round Virtual Connections opportunities and FARM’s in-person conference.

Regional Gathering: SWRFA Shawnee Mission SWRFA serves Arizona, Colorado, Mexico, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Join SWRFA leadership to hear about our upcoming conference to be held in Austin, Texas, on September 25-29, 2024. This is a great opportunity to share your ideas for our future and ways to create more community involvement. You could win a free registration for the SWRFA 2024 Conference!

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Nurturing the Nurturers: Wellness Strategies for Artist Managers Washington Park Place 3 This conversation will provide practical tools and strategies for artist managers to prioritize their own mental, emotional, and physical health while excelling in their demanding roles.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Beyond Land Acknowledgement: Fostering Authentic Relationships with Indigenous Communities Benton’s 20th Floor Hear from venue presenters on how they are approaching conversations, developing relationships, and planning impactful programming in partnership with Native artists and Indigenous nations in their regions, as well as the perspectives of a Native artist who has performed at these venues and a Native festival curator on insights on ensuring authentic collaborations.

Peer Session: Managers Empire B/C All managers are welcome to attend this session, whether they represent a single artist or a large roster.

This is an opportunity to share information, converse with colleagues, and make new connections. This session is not for artists looking for representation.

Featured Interview: Ann Powers interviews Alynda Segarra Century C Born in the Bronx and of Puerto Rican heritage, Alynda Segarra eventually found home in New Orleans, forming a hobo band and realizing that music was not only a way to share what they had learned and seen but to learn and see more.

Hurray for the Riff Raff steadily rose from house shows to major stages, where Segarra became a pan-everything fixture of the modern folk movement. Alynda will be in conversation with NPR Music’s critic and correspondent Ann Powers.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Holistic Mental Health for the Music Industry Washington Park Place 3 Whether you’re an artist, or you work on the business side of music, this discussion will provide invaluable insights to help you thrive in your career while minimizing the negative impact of stress.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Sustainable Festivals & Live Events Brookside Learn about the sustainable and innovative initiatives currently underway in the festival and live event sectors and how the music industry can actively contribute to fostering a better live music experience for all.

Leveraging your Intellectual Property Assets Pershing From beginners to superstars, discover how artists can not only maximize income from their intellectual property but also leverage these assets to generate funds for future creations and properties.

Grantwriting 101 Shawnee Mission In this workshop, we take time to really flush out mission statements, program descriptions, budget clarity and more, securing a more apt narrative for grant winning applications.

THURSDAY

Agent and Presenter Speed Meetings Day 1 Sheraton - Terrace This session brings agents and venue, festival, and concert series presenters together for prescheduled one-on-one meetings and informal networking. Pre-registration is required, and participation is by invitation only.

Peer Session House Concerts Liberty Calling all house concert hosts! Join this session to meet fellow house concert presenters, explore potential collaborations, trade artist recommendations, and build community. This is not intended as a session for artists to solicit house concerts, as artists will have an opportunity to do so at House Concerts Unlocked.

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Black American Music Summit: Empowering Independent Artists in the Creative Economy Sponsored by BlaqOut Washington Park Place 1 Join us for a panel discussion and community dialogue on ways we can, as empowered, independent artists, maximize earnings and navigate the dynamic landscape of the creative economy.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Workshop: Stress Management for Creatives Washington Park Place 3 In this workshop with wellness and executive coach (and 20-year music industry veteran) Marni Wandner, you’ll learn: how to deal with the unique stressors of the music business, tangible ways to manage stress on a daily basis, and how to build your personalized stress management toolkit.

6

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM The Alchemy of Songwriting Liberty Grammy-nominated, Songwriting Hall of Famer Beth Nielsen Chapman and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Tom Paxton honor us with a songwriting and creativity master class to truly be remembered! Veteran songwriters and those who haven’t yet written their first song are all encouraged to attend.

Peer Session: Artists Coping with Precarity/Mutual Aid Empire B/C Every career path presents its own unique set of financial circumstances. Some more than others ebb and flow based on the consumer’s financial wins. This session is designed for artists to share their best practicies, questions, and resources when assistance may be most needed.

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

THURSDAY

Peer Session: Agents Pershing This convening brings together agents to network, share resources, discuss common obstacles and strategies, and talk shop. This is not a pitch session, and is not intended for artists to solicit representation.

The Road Less Traveled: Building a Healthier Touring Landscape Washington Park Place 3 Whether you’re an artist, manager, promoter, venue owner or booking agent, this panel will offer an inspiring exploration of forging a new path in the touring experience.

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Keynote: Noel Paul Stookey Alchemy Through The Years

Century C Noel Paul Stookey has been altering both the musical and ethical landscape of this country and the world for decades—both as the “Paul” of the legendary Peter, Paul and Mary and as an independent musician who passionately believes in bringing the spiritual into the practice of daily life.

7

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Affinity Group: Activists Washington Park Place 1 Revolutionizing the Landscape for Songwriters: An Exploration of The MLC and What This Means for You and the Dollars in Your Pocket Sponsored by The Mechanical Licensing Collective Brookside Join The MLC as they demystify the blanket mechanical license and how this has transformed the industry. In this panel, you will discover the roadmap to accessing the rightful compensation that belongs to you. Attendees will gain insights into The MLC’s processes and membership.

Peer Session: Festivals Sponsored by Aloompa Empire B/C This session is specifically intended for folks working in the production and presentation of festivals to talk amongst peers, and as such, is not a forum for soliciting gigs or pitching artists.

Peer Session: Folk Radio DJs and Programmers Shawnee Mission This is a space for folks working as folk radio DJs and programmers to meet colleagues, share discoveries, and build community. This is for programmers and DJs only — artists are invited to attend Meet the Folk DJs on Friday morning to share their music directly with DJs. Peer Session: Media and Publicity Union Hill East The media landscape is the noisiest it’s ever been — how do we, as media and publicity professionals, make sure our messages are heard clearly? This session is a discussion amongst peers working professionally in the media and publicity fields, including writers, podcasters, publicists, and others.

Optimizing Your Health for Maximum Creativity Washington Park Place 3 Panelists will share how to harness the power of practices like mindfulness, physical activity and nutrition can help to break through creative barriers.

2:30 - 2:45 PM TRO Essex and Smithsonian Folkways Celebrate 75 Years Century C This mini-documentary tells the story of the origins of two iconic companies in folk music.

Since 1949, TRO Essex Music and Folkways Records were trailblazers establishing the first recordings and protected publishing for artists including Lead Belly, Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and now thousands of other artists.

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM House Concerts Unlocked Day 1 Sponsored by Side Door Benton’s 20th Floor Participants are given two minutes each to get up on stage and pitch as to why they are either the perfect artist for house concert audiences, or the perfect house concert for artists to play! Pitches can be a short speech and/or a brief performance.

Come prepared to share your name, describe your music/show/venue in a few words, and give folks something to remember you by! Priority will be given to hosts and artists who are signed up with Side Door and have active Show Calls. Please note: there will be no line checks or tech support at this event.

Register here: folk.org/houseconcertsunlocked

Film Screening with Q&A: Burst The Silence Roanoke Come to the BOSE Listening Lounge for a screening of the Film adaptation of the Tony Awardwinning Signature Theatre stage production followed by a writer’s Q+A that will cover the film and the creative process. Burst The Silence is a musical fable about a father and son and a gift that gives voice to a haunted past.

3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Peer Session: Large Venues, PACs and Theatres Empire B/C This gathering is open to folks who program/ present at large venues, PACs and theaters.

This will be an open discussion with participants encouraged to share topics of interest. This session is not intended as a pitch session, but rather as a discussion amongst peers working professionally in this specific part of the presenting field.

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Private Showcase Host Training Crossroads Affinity Group: Folks with Disabilities or Chronic Illness Union Hill East This session is a safe and supportive space for delegates who identify as having disabilities or chronic illnesses to gather together and discuss concerns and issues they are being facing, as well as to celebrate successes and build community.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Disability Culture, Inclusion, and Accessibility In The Music Industry Century C A conversation with members of Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities (RAMPD), moderated by RAMPD President Precious Perez. ASL translation will be provided.

THURSDAY

Authentic StageCraft: Workshop with Shakura S’Aida Liberty In the session we will focus on: lyric interpretation, connecting with audience, stage presence and vocal strength.

3:30 PM - 5:45 PM

Friends of Bill W Signboard 1

Maximizing your Revenue Pershing Our panel of experts will take through the many revenue streams and share insights (and maybe tricks of the trade) to maximize those checks!

8

FRIDAY FEB 23 REGISTRATION 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Washington Park Place 2 INSTRUMENT CHECK 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley + 10:00 PM - 3 AM Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM Morning Yoga & Meditation Union Hill East Join us for 15 minutes of breathwork, immediately followed by a 30-minute yoga session, both led by Jessica Harris.

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM First-Timers Coffee and Conversation Sponsored by Grassy Hill Entertainment

FRIDAY

18th Floor Suite (1843) A chance to reconvene with fellow first-timers to share stories and deepen connections.

Ethics Lessons from HBO’s Succession Empire A HBO’s hit series “Succession” follows a fictional media company led by a legendary patriarch.

Through the lens of this captivating series, Turman and Pollard provide an entertaining way for attorneys to obtain ethics credit. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Meaningful Sync Licensing Liberty Securing sync opportunities can be challenging and yet we often hear folk music used on film and TV. Hear our panel of experts as they walk you through the process, the challenges, and the pay-offs!

How to Approach and Talk to a Record Label Pershing As an artist, approaching a record label can be intimidating. Learn about what you need to bring to the table when you’re shopping for a label, examples of deals, what labels expect out of an artist, and more.

9

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Exploring the Secrets of the Woody Guthrie Archive Shawnee Mission Delve into the Woody & Marjorie Guthrie family archive with their granddaughter Anna Canoni as your tour guide. Special guest, Joel Rafael will bring to life Woody’s songs as the program ebbs and flows through Woody’s creative story.

Affinity Group: Caregivers and Parents Union Hill East Being a musician or music industry professional poses unique challenges to those who are actively parenting or caring for others. Join this affinity session to connect with others seeking to find balance as they juggle busy home and work lives simultaneously.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Authentic StageCraft: Workshop with Livingston Taylor Century A On stage 53+ years with 5000+ shows, Liv Taylor knows a thing or two about being in front of a crowd.

Joyous and deliciously relaxed, Livingston is widely regarded as one of the best performers out there.

Agent and Presenter Speed Meeting Day 2 Sheraton - Terrace This session brings agents and venue, festival, and concert series presenters together for prescheduled one-on-one meetings and informal networking. Pre-registration is required, and participation is by invitation only.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Meet the Folk DJs Sponsored By Bill Wence Promotions Century C Artists, take advantage of the opportunity to sit down for a few minutes with your favorite DJs! They are the voices of folk music on the radio and the internet.

Bring plenty of CDs and download cards. Grab the list of Folk DJs before you enter the room to map out your route. Be sure to tell the DJs when you will be performing in their area when you talk to them!

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sight & Sound Eye Care Clinic Signboard 2 Offering screenings, readers, sunglasses, & prescriptions. FREE resource to all in the community.

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM AI and the Law Empire A Join us for this timely conversation so you are in a better position to help your clients take advantage of AI before AI takes advantage of them. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Affinity Group: Folks Coping with Loss Signboard 1 This session is for anyone coping with loss who would like to connect with others who share similar experiences. This is a respectful space where all contributions will be welcome.

Peer Session: Export Offices Empire B/C Calling all Export professionals: if your work focuses on creating, finding or subsidizing opportunities for artists across territory lines, this session is for you. Meet fellow Export pros from around the world, expand your network and learn what others are working on and thinking about in the cultural export space.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM One-on-One Coaching Sessions with Marni Wandner, Wellness + Executive Coach for Creatives Union Hill East Wellness and executive coach (and 20-year music industry veteran) Marni Wandner will be offering free 20-minute mini wellness coaching sessions to conference attendees who would like help with stress management, burnout prevention, energy levels or breaking through a particular behavioral pattern. For more info on Marni’s work, please visit www.marniwandner.com and to book a session onsite, please go to https://bit.ly/faicoaching2024

Management: Listening, Leading, Learning Brookside This session will offer practical perspectives on effective team management and cohesive strategy formation within the landscape of artist representation.

Standing on Their Shoulders: The Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame Inaugural Class Pershing The inaugural class of inductees to the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame includes 28 iconic songwriters, performers, and industry representatives. The discussion will include artists who will speak from a personal perspective in order to share the lessons they have learned from the icons included in the inaugural class.

Strengthening Our Stages: How to Survive and Improve the New Economics of Live Liberty Join this crucial panel that identifies the pain points and explores solutions that may help preserve and even save your stages!

Affinity Group: Folkies 55+ Shawnee Mission Join this popular session to reconnect with peers, meet new-to-you attendees, discuss the unique perspective that is gleaned from time spent in the music business, and explore the wide open landscape of reinvention and renewal of one’s sense of place within the community.

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM House Concerts Unlocked Day 2 Sponsored by Side Door Benton’s 20th Floor Participants are given two minutes each to get up on stage and pitch as to why they are either the perfect artist for house concert audiences, or the perfect house concert for artists to play! Pitches can be a short speech and/or a brief performance.

Come prepared to share your name, describe your music/show/venue in a few words, and give folks something to remember you by! Priority will be given to hosts and artists who are signed up with Side Door and have active Show Calls. Please note: there will be no line checks or tech support at this event.

Register here: folk.org/houseconcertsunlocked

FRIDAY

Artists & Visas: Updates, Strategies, and Advocacy Empire A This panel brings together professionals with expertise and lived experience, to discuss strategies for facing the challenges of keeping the U.S. open to international culture.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

10

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Black American Music Summit: Black Songwriters Workshop Sponsored by BlaqOut Washington Park Place 1 Bring your in-progress ideas, lyrics, and/or music and join us in a workshop led by veteran songwriters to support the development of your next piece. All participants will have the opportunity to perform their song at the FAI virtual conference and additional opportunities for ongoing support and engagement with the Black American Music Summit.

12:30 PM - 2:30 PM Country Connections Sheraton - Terrace Country Connections presents a networking event to connect the global communities at FAI with US-based industry delegates. As an annual inviteonly event designed to foster global connections and networks, priority will be given to artists and their teams from outside North America.

Though the event is at capacity, interested parties may add themselves to the waitlist here: https://forms.gle/biJSfpCdC3JMJbt66

FRIDAY

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM Bimiwizh - Indigenous Community Gathering presented by the International Indigenous Music Summit Washington Park Place 3 The International Indigenous Music Summit (IIMS) is thrilled to invite all Indigenous friends and relatives to a special IIMS event within FAI 2024, where all will gather to feast, connect, and discuss the things that are most important the Indigenous music community, where all are now, and a vision for where all want to go together in the future. *Indigenous delegates only.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Peer Session: Small Venues and Concert Series Benton’s 20th Floor This gathering is open to folks who program/present at small venues and clubs, and non-house concert music series. This will be an open discussion with participants encouraged to share topics of interest.

House concert hosts have a separate convening, as this is a chance for folks operating in venues to dive into the specifics of this type of presenting. This session is not intended as a pitch session, but rather as a discussion amongst peers working professionally in this specific part of the presenting field.

11

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Theatrical Alchemy: From Page to Stage Century C A look into the alchemical process of creating music for the stage. Join this panel of folks who explored, developed and produced bringing music from page to stage and perhaps will inspire you to do the same.

Connecting the Dots Shawnee Mission By understanding the interconnections between storytelling, profile-building and how they fit together, artists can gain new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the value of what they have to offer.

Brother Can You Spare a Dime?

Empire A This panel of music industry attorneys will explore the various income streams and necessary licenses available to today’s creators, the opportunities and pitfalls in today’s ever-changing industry landscape, and legal guidelines to help navigate the maze. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.

Affinity Group: Pan-Asian Folks Union Hill East This session is for conference delegates who identify as being a part of the Pan-Asian diaspora to gather and build community, discuss common experiences, and connect with each other.

Accessing the Creative Economy: Opportunities for Musicians to Make Change while Making a Living Liberty Join a panel of seasoned experts for a lively discussion and insights into financial channels that support socially conscious artists including: brandbuilding business partnerships that don’t cost your soul, lucrative collaborations with nonprofit organizations, fiscal sponsorship & grant writing, and residencies and trainings that build your network and skills as a community change entrepreneur.

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM From Pen to Production: Unleashing the Power of Music Production for Songwriters Sponsored by The Recording Academy Pershing Our panelists will discuss how to bridge the gap between songwriting and production tools, highlighting technical resources and delving into how implementing those can propel your career forward.

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Harmonizing Change: LGBTQ+ Songwriters and the Resonance of Resistance Sponsored by Ear Trumpet Labs Washington Park Place 1 Through candid conversations, personal stories, and live performances, we will uncover the power of music as a tool for activism and healing, shedding light on the intersection of identity, artistry, and social progress. Together, we will harmonize change and amplify the voices that challenge discrimination and prejudice in all its forms.

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM Financial Planning Consulting with Hammer Forte Union Hill East Join CFP Jeff Hammer to go over your financial plan or cover questions that you have about your current plans or liabilities. Sign up through our advanced emails or on-site at the room.

3:30 PM - 5:15 PM

Topic Tables Empire B/C Join experts from the folk community to discuss and explore questions and expand your knowledge.

Twelve topic tables with one expert at each.

Attendees will have an opportunity to spend fifteen minutes at six of their chosen topics.

Film Screening with Q&A: Finding Lucinda Roanoke Come to the BOSE Listening Lounge for a screening and conversation with the film maker. “Finding Lucinda” unveils untold stories and poetic influences that shaped the remarkable path of legendary artist, Lucinda Williams. Following singer/songwriter Avery Hellman (ISMAY), an aspiring artist in search of inspiration for their own artistic journey, the film embarks on a road trip across the southern United States, delving into the people and places that shaped Lucinda Williams’ early career.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Exploring Fan Engagement Apps Brookside Join us for an exploration of cutting-edge applications that redefine the artist-fan relationship, providing new avenues for creative expression and meaningful connections in the digital age.

A More Equitable Contract: New Paradigms and Resources for the Performing Arts Empire A Relationships drive the folk music sector, but contracts frequently define those relationships. In this session, two seasoned attorneys talk about common problems artists and venues face when they try to “come to terms,” and strategies for using contracts to create a fairer, more equitable, and more transparent sector.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Keynote: David Israelite - The Value of Creativity and Creators

Century C David Israelite speaks on the value to society of creativity and creators, addressing the needs of those benefiting from the use of music to support and respect the contributions of the folks making music.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Meet the Canadians Reception Sponsored by Canadian Independent Music Association Benton’s 20th Floor The Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) invites you to snacks and drinks before their official showcase. In this informal event, you will connect with artists and industry professionals from Canada while getting a great view of Kansas City. Stay after the reception to hear an incredible showcase of Canadian talent.

FRIDAY

Music Festivals and Live Events in 2024: What You Need to Know Empire A Our expert panelists will discuss contracting issues, including negotiated terms such force majeure, cancellation, deposit and payment terms, intellectual property and publicity matters, safety and risk mitigation, and recent events that affect the live performance and event market. This session is part of the Legal Summit. Open to all FAI attendees.

Friends of Bill W Crossroads

12

SATURDAY FEB 24 REGISTRATION 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Washington Park Place 2 INSTRUMENT CHECK 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM Sponsored by Elderly Instruments Penn Valley + 10:00 PM - 3 AM Rooms 704/705 on 7th Floor 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Morning Meditation & Yoga Union Hill East

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Peer Session: Record Labels Liberty This session is a discussion amongst folks who own, run, or work directly with record labels to network with peers. This is not a session for artists to pitch their music.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Keynote: Lucy Kalantari - Producing Alchemy

Century C SaulPaul interviews artist and producer, Lucy Kalintari on transforming creativity while helping artists transform stories and sounds. She will discussing the alchemy of collaboration, when artists work within a genre to push its conventions, and when artists cross “genres” to collaborate.

SATURDAY

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

13

The Art of the (Live) Deal Pershing We are bringing a self-booked artist, artist manager, festival promoter, agent, and a soft/hard ticket promoter together on stage to discuss best practices about remaining effective while being respectful and candid during live show negotiations. They will discuss how to successfully work together in a fragile and recovering live touring ecosystem.

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sight & Sound Eye Care Clinic Signboard 2 Offering screenings, readers, sunglasses, & prescriptions. FREE resource to all in the community.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Your Musical Legacy: What You Leave Behind Sponsored by Northwestern Mutual Brookside Learn more about “the final career phase”, what revenue streams continue to flow, and how they can flourish. Learn the direction you can legally establish to appoint someone who cares and avenues to posthumous growth.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Affinity Group: Young Music Industry Leaders (under 35) Benton’s 20th Floor This session is designed to connect young music industry professionals in a peer-based environment to share ideas, insights, and tools.

This session is for anyone between 18-35 working in the field, from industry to artist to presenter.

Wisdom of the Elders Century C The Wisdom of the Elders panel’s intent is to share and celebrate the stories of the community figures who blazed trails for all of us. This year, the the elders being honored are Dan Navarro, Tret Fure, and Connie Kaldor, interviewed by Art Menius.

Art as an Act of Survival Pershing This panel discussion will explore some of the diverse, cutting edge art emerging from within the Indigenous music community, as well as shared experiences surrounding the heightened risk Indigenous artists face when taking the stage.

Hitting the Road: Canada and the United States Shawnee Mission What should be taken into account when thinking of a routing? What do local promoters need to develop their audiences for an artist? How does the artist make their case to promoters especially if the artist is not based in Canada or North America?

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Affinity Group: Latiné and Hispanic Folks Union Hill East This is an informal session for Latiné and Hispanic delegates to gather and chat, with a focus on sharing their stories and experiences about being Latiné and how this cultural identity translates into what they do.

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.

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Black American Music Summit: Appropriation and Black Music Legacies Sponsored by BlaqOut Washington Park Place 1 We’ll explore the paradox of a genre that adores the artistry of Black musicians while often sidelining or overlooking their contributions.

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Financial Planning Consulting with Hammer Forte Union Hill East Join CFP Jeff Hammer to go over your financial plan or cover questions that you have about your current plans or liabilities. Sign up through our advanced emails or on-site at the room.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Voices of Resistance and Unity: The Power of Music to Transform Benton’s 20th Floor Panel participants will offer an overview of inspiring stories and threads on how the musical voices of resistance and peace have worked to effect change and continue to do so to this day.

Streaming Discovery and Engagement Pershing Join us as we take a look at audience engagement and music discovery on streaming platforms.

We’ll explore strategies for maximizing your presence, ensuring that your music not only captivates but also reaches wider audiences.

Affinity Group: Women Washington Park Place 3 FAI welcomes all women and people marginalized by gender, including transwomen, gender fluid, and gender queer people to join this affinity

Archive Challenge Presented by The American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress Century C Come hear artists from diverse genres play their creative interpretations of songs from the American Folklife Center (AFC) archive at the Library of Congress.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Short Form Video: A Cheat Sheet for Folk Musicians Sponsored by CD Baby Liberty Join Rachel Bearinger, Social Media Manager at CD Baby, as she delves into the world of short form video tailored exclusively for folk musicians.

Rachel will give you a repeatable framework for creating compelling video content that stands out in today’s social media landscape.

Using Radio to Build Your Career Pershing Hear from Crys Matthews and artist team members as they dive into case studies on how to engage with radio and use it to build community, business and career in today’s environment.

Affinity Group: LGBTQ2IA+ Washington Park Place 1 All delegates who identify as LGBTQ2IA+ are invited to join this gathering to share stories, make new connections, and find strength in community.

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM Hitting the Road: Europe Shawnee Mission Europe represents a giant grid of club venues, university towns, theaters, and festivals. What should be taken into account when thinking of a routing? What do local promoters need to develop their audiences for an artist? How does the artist make their case to promoters especially if the artist is not based in Europe?

SATURDAY

Peer Session: Folk Radio Promoters Shawnee Mission This session will convene radio promoters to discuss trends in the field and strengthen collaborative networks amongst peers.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

14

3:30 PM - 5:30 PM

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Film Screening with Q&A: Lead Belly: The Man Who Invented Rock & Roll BOSE Listening Lounge

Meet Memphis: Networking Happy Hour Sponsored by Music Export Memphis

Roanoke Lead Belly: The Man Who Invented Rock & Roll offers a vibrant and uplifting journey through the life of a true musical pioneer. Directed by Curt Hahn, this compelling documentary celebrates Lead Belly’s achievements, sheds light on his significant contribution to music history, and emphasizes the importance of his story in today’s current affairs.

After the film, join us for a Q+A with the producers.

Benton’s 20th Floor Want to book Memphis artists or connect with Memphis music industry? This is your chance to meet Memphis musicians and professionals and Memphis Chapter Recording Academy members - must RSVP to attend.

Friends of Bill W Crossroads

SUNDAY 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Black American Music Summit Showcase sponsored by BlaqOut Garden Terrace

7:00 PM - 11:00 PM

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

Closing Party The Madrid Theater Let’s celebrate another amazing year at FAI!

ESSENTIAL GUIDE sponsored by

This is a compact guide for all daytime events and programming (panels, workshops, etc.). For performances like Official Showcases and Private Showcases, see the Pocket Guide. Help us save paper and the planet by using the app if you can!

15