Call for Submissions: Folk Alliance International 2026
- Folk Canada
- Nov 25
- 2 min read
Folk Alliance International January 21-25, 2026 New Orleans, LA, USA Deadline to Apply: November 30, 2025
MusicOntario and Folk Canada are joining forces under the FOLK NORTH banner to host three nights of private showcases at Folk Alliance International (FAI) in 2026!
It’s our 10th year of supporting Ontarian and Canadian artists and businesses at the world’s largest gathering of the folk music industry and community, which celebrates a diverse range of genres including Blues, Bluegrass, Roots, Celtic, Cajun, Appalachian, Traditional, World, Singer-Songwriter, and more. The event offers a comprehensive conference, tailored business opportunities, and hundreds of showcase performances.
Over the years, we have showcased more than 300 artists from Ontario and across Canada at Folk Alliance International, while supporting the businesses who work with them in developing connections in new markets. Our alumni include The Strumbellas, Digging Roots, Amanda Rheaume, Abigail Lapell, Julian Taylor, Tim Chaisson, AHI, Skye Wallace, Jeremy Dutcher, Aysanabee, Shakura S’Aida, Terra Lightfoot, Kaia Kater, Elisapie, OKAN, Ammoye, Lemon bucket Orkestra, and many, many more! We welcome applications from all folk traditions.
Interested in performing? Please note:
You must be a resident of and based in Canada to be eligible to apply.
Applicants will be assessed based on export-readiness.
Showcases are brief – 15 minutes each, with 5 minutes to change over.
Showcases take place in suites in the host hotel. We will have light amplification but recommend an acoustic configuration, with only light percussion permitted.
We will provide a sound technician for performers to access.
Members of MusicOntario and/or Folk Canada receive preferred pricing and consideration for showcase slots.
If selected to perform, each performing musician must be registered with the Folk Alliance International conference - head to https://folkconference.org/register for rates. If you are a member in good standing, you can access our exclusive rate of $300 CAD per artist and $400 CAD per industry member, which reflect savings of more than $400 CAD.
We suggest you start exploring funding/grant opportunities ASAP if you hope to offset costs related to attending a business and showcase conference like Folk Alliance.
Artists are responsible for their own travel expenses and visas, where applicable.
We look forward to your applications! Use the link below for more info and to apply now!
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