In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Daniel Desjarlais. Daniel delves into the origins of the Sakawinow Music Festival, sharing the inspiration behind its creation and the story behind its name. He also discusses his process for curating the lineup and his passionate commitment to showcasing and uplifting local talent. Additionally, Daniel chats about his background in finance and culinary arts, explaining how these diverse experiences have shaped his approach to planning the festival. Find Sakawinow Music Festival online: Instagram Website Volunteer at the next Sakawinow Music Fe ..read more

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Terry O’Brien, a key figure in the UK folk scene. Terry offers an in-depth overview of the current folk music landscape in the UK, highlighting the many folk festivals and renowned folk clubs there. She delves into the English Folk Expo and outlines the many opportunities this conference presents for artists. Terry also provides valuable insights and advice for Canadian artists looking to enter the UK market, including strategic tips on booking and promoting a successful tour there. Join Sound Roots Connect, a brand new platform offering artists ..read more

Today, we are excited to release the second episode of our series, ‘On the Air’, where we delve into the fascinating world of radio. This week, we chat to Kwende Kefentse, the Executive Director of CKCU-FM. Kwende shares his passion for radio and the ways in which it connects and builds community. He also discusses the history of CKCU and shares his thoughts on how radio has changed and evolved over the years. Find Kwende online: Instagram Find CKCU-FM online: Website Instagram Get involved with CKCU by volunteering or donating. About Kwende Kefentse Kwende Kefentse is the Executive Directo ..read more

In this week's episode, we sit down with grant writer and funding strategist, Samantha Matusoff.  Samantha shares her extensive knowledge of securing grants for artists and songwriters, detailing the various opportunities available at both the provincial and national levels. She also provides practical advice on the best approaches when applying for these grants to increase the chances of success and reveals her top recommendations for crafting a standout funding strategy. Funding programs recommended in this episode: Canada Council Explore and Create: Research and Creation Canada Council ..read more

Today, we are releasing the first episode in our series, ‘On the Air’, where we explore the wonderful world of radio. In this week's episode, we chat with Art Menius about the specialized field of folk radio promotion. Art provides valuable insights on the state of folk radio and discusses the vital role that radio still plays in the music industry today. He also shares his process of promoting records to radio programmers and provides tips for artists on promoting their live shows through local radio. Download Art Menius’s eBook, ‘The Basics of Promoting Recordings to Folk Radio’ here. Find ..read more

In this week's episode, we chat with folk artist and herbalist, Sarah Jane Scouten. Sarah Jane shares her philosophy on how musicians can achieve career longevity by prioritizing their health and discusses the benefits of using various herbs to help alleviate the mental and physical pressures of being on the road. She also provides tips and recommendations for what a touring musician's herbal toolkit should include. Additionally, Sarah Jane talks about her experience as a mentor for the FMO Developing Artist Program and her newly released record, ‘Turn to Gold.’ Buy / Listen to ‘Turn to Gold ..read more

In this week's episode, we chat with Liana White, the Executive Director of the Canadian National Office of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada, otherwise known as the CFM. Liana provides an in-depth overview of US immigration and visas, focusing specifically on the requirements for Canadian musicians looking to work and perform in the US. She explores various scenarios to clarify when a visa is necessary and offers detailed guidance to address common questions. Find the CFM online: Facebook Website About Liana White Liana is the Executive Director of the C ..read more

Welcome back to the third season of ReFolkUs. In this week's episode, we chat with Jennifer Roe, the Executive Director of Folk Alliance International. Jennifer dives into all things Folk Alliance, sharing insights about the organization's history, growth, and exciting plans for the future. She also discusses their annual conference, highlighting what makes next year's 2025 event in Montreal, Quebec unique. Additionally, Jennifer introduces FOLK+, an online music conference featuring expert panels, networking opportunities, showcases, and more. FOLK+ is taking place from June 5-6th, 2024. Regi ..read more

Today, we are releasing the sixth episode in our series titled ‘The Art of Booking’ where we speak with Artistic Directors of music festivals from across Canada. In this week's episode, we speak with Samir Baijal, the Artistic Director of Hillside Festival on Guelph Lake Island in Guelph, Ontario. Samir chats about his process of booking both the lineup and the workshops and the importance of fostering community through the festival. He also delves into how Hillside serves as a model for a 'green festival' — designed to minimize its environmental impact after the event ends. Find Hillside Fe ..read more

Today, we are releasing the fifth episode in our series titled ‘The Art of Booking’ where we speak with Artistic Directors of music festivals from across Canada. In this week's episode, we chat to Doug Cox, the Artistic Director of Vancouver Island MusicFest in the Comox Valley in Courtenay, BC. Doug discusses the format of this campground festival, which includes six distinct stages. He also explains his process of booking artists for the festival each year and dives into why he looks for artists that want to engage with the festival in more ways than just playing their set on stage. Find V ..read more