Dreaming of getting your music in front of agents, DJs, labels, venues, publicists, and festival bookers from around the world? Want to play your heart out and have it actually lead somewhere? Here’s your shot: Official Showcase Applications are now open for Folk Alliance International 2026, happening February at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel.
This is the global gathering for the folk music world—where booking agents meet bands, publicists scout clients, festivals plan their next season, and artists find their people.
Every Official Showcase happens on a full production stage at the host hotel, in front of hundreds of the people who shape this industry. These aren’t random bar gigs. These are career-building moments. And yes—people get signed, booked, and discovered at FAI every year.
🎤 APPLICATION DEADLINE: JUNE 6, 2025 at 11:59PM CT
📝 ARTISTS ANNOUNCED: September 8, 2025
🎉 APPLY HERE: folkconference.org/showcases
Want the best shot at getting selected? Here’s what you’ll need:
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Bio (keep it tight—50 words, third-person)
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2 high-res square photos (750px, 300dpi)
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1–2 audio links (no downloads or Dropbox, please!)
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1 live video performance link
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Stage plot (.pdf)
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Band member names and roles
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Key press coverage
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Most significant awards or nominations
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And yes—your best touring/marketing plan
FAI Members pay just $30 to apply. Non-members? $60. (So maybe now’s a good time to join?)
And if you want help making your application shine, watch the webinar: Submitting an Outstanding Showcase Application. It’s got tips from FAI’s own Jerod Rivers, Showcase Scotland’s Lisa Whytock, and SXSW’s Nicole Roman-Johnston. All killer, no filler.
So. If you’re serious about building a career in folk, roots, Americana, or any music grounded in storytelling and soul—this is the room you want to be in. And this is how you get in it.
Apply now. Tell your story. Play your song. FAI 2026 is calling.