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The Folk Music Ontario Conference 2023 is just around the corner, taking place from October 12th to October 15th in the beautiful city of London, Ontario. In the past two years, NERFA has strengthened its collaboration with this fantastic event. Both organizations have shared important resources and worked together to facilitate cross-border connections, enabling NERFA to extend its reach into Canada and providing valuable opportunities for American artists to showcase their talent in Canadian settings. NERFA Member Exclusive Offer: We understand the importance of community and collaboration in the world of folk music.  NERFA members are entitled to a $100 discount off the Regular Registration Rate of $539.30 (CAD) for the Folk Music Ontario Conference 2023. Yes, you read that right – $100 in incredible member benefits! How to Claim Your Discount: To seize this opportunity and secure your spot at the conference, follow these simple steps: Visit the official registration page by clicking on the link below: Folk Music Ontario Conference Registration During the registration process, enter the following promo code: 30nerfa2023 With this exclusive code, you’ll instantly enjoy $100 off the Regular Registration Rate, making this event even more accessible and rewarding for our NERFA members! NERFA’s FMO Showcase We are also elated to share that NERFA will be hosting a showcase at this year’s FMO Conference showcasing some of the best artists to have participated in NERFA. Congratulations to our showcasing artists: Shanna in a Dress The Bombadills ILYAIMY Rachael Kilgour Quote the Raven  Les Royal Pickles

Apply to be a Volunteer! What do they do? Volunteering at NERFA works the same as going to NERFA. Volunteers, or Routers, are given a free registration to the event in exchange for being part of our team. We call our volunteers Routers because, simply speaking, their job is to get folks where they need to go. The routers help make NERFA a great experience for attendees. Routing is work. You’re still working, so you have to be on time and work well with others. Also, you will be working with attendees, so being service oriented, or having customer service experience will be helpful. NERFA Routers are primarily responsible for making the event awesome and ensuring the attendees have a good time. Some of them do this from a ‘customer service’ standpoint — interacting directly with Attendees — while others work behind the scenes, doing the 1001 unseen jobs required to make an event like NERFA function. To clear up misconceptions sometimes held by new Attendees: Routers do not generally act as security guards or bouncers. Very rarely, if there’s a critical failure, some Routers do have to put a ‘security’ hat on, and there are a few Router managers whose role is purely security-related. In general, though, the team’ role is to manage details, answer questions, and run all the behind the curtain knobs and switches that make the NERFA machine tick over so nicely. If you are excited to meet and work with the NERFA team, and nearly every attendee we would love for you to join the team! Organization Volunteers are typically assigned to a department, and generally also to a morning, afternoon or evening shift. (They do get to voice their preferences but are not guaranteed to be assigned their choice of work area). Each department is overseen by a manager and one or more Deputies, who are generally on-shift for most or all of NERFA. Some departments operate the physical locations that Attendees can visit, such as Exhibit Hall and Showcase floors. Other departments, such as Entertainment and Logistics, are responsible for various other tasks required to make NERFA run smoothly. If you ever have comments, good or bad, about a Router, the first step is to let their area Manager or Deputy know. If you can’t find them, or if it concerns a manager or Deputy in the first place, you can come to the Registration Desk and ask to speak to the Info Desk Manager or Director, who will pass on your comments to the appropriate parties. Visibility All volunteers will receive brightly colored shirts to aid visibility at the event. And so, NERFA Routers wear red shirts. Where do they come from? Can I be a Volunteer? NERFA makes recruitment calls to the community as needed. The aspiring Router fills out a form or questionnaire and sends it to the NERFA staff member responsible for onboarding the Router. Applicants are reviewed and those who best meet the established standards are asked to join the team. Apply to be a Volunteer!

Are you ready to shine the spotlight on your favorite musicians at the NERFA Conference? Private Showcases are your chance to do just that! These showcases happen in individual hotel rooms, which can either be your own room or a separate one that you book exclusively for this purpose. The shows run on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, starting at 10:30 pm and continuing as late as you’d like. The only requirement? You must be a registered conference attendee to host a Private Showcase. What’s New this Year This year, we’re thrilled to announce our revised pricing structure. For just $100 per night or $200 for all three nights, you can secure your spot as a Private Showcase host. Many presenters choose the three-night option and share a room with fellow presenters to make it even more cost-effective. To sweeten the deal, given the increased hotel room costs this year, we have a special offer for those who book all three nights: following the conference’s conclusion, we’ll issue you a $75 refund! How to Become a Private Showcase Host Register for the conference today: Register Now Fill out the Private Showcase form: Submit Here Make your hotel reservation: Book Now Remember, you can use your own sleeping room for a Private Showcase, but it does mean you’ll be sleeping in the same space where the showcases happen. While you can’t reserve a specific room for your showcase, you can specify the room size you prefer, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to share your musical passion and be part of NERFA 2023’s vibrant community. We can’t wait to see you there!

It’s with great excitement and enthusiasm that we introduce you to this year’s Formal Showcase Artists at the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance’s (NERFA) conference in Asbury Park, NJ. Selected from an impressive pool of over 150 applicants, these artists stood out and captured the hearts of our esteemed judging panel comprised of Fosalyn Dennett from Folk Music Ontario, Beth & Perry Stein of the Ethical Brew, Lisa Schwartz booking manager of the Cambridge Folk Festival, and Ron Olesko of Folk Music Notebook. Their performances moved and inspired us, and we are thrilled to showcase their incredible talent and passion for folk music in November! Meet this year’s Artists: Acoustic Nomads Alice Howe & Freebo Big Sky Quartet Cricket Blue Ellis Paul with Radoslav Lorkovic  Flamy Grant Geneviève Racette Jillian Matundan Katie Martucci Madeleine Roger Rebecca Loebe Ryanhood Sam Robbins Sarah Peacock Scott Wolfson and Other Heroes Shauit Suzie Vinnick The Pairs Tim Ball & Upstate Crossroads Youth in a Roman Field These remarkable artists represent the heart and soul of folk music, offering a diverse range of styles and voices that promise to captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression. From soul-stirring ballads to foot-stomping anthems, you can expect a musical journey like no other at NERFA’s 2023 conference. Join us in celebrating the spirit of folk music and the incredible talent of these artists. Get ready to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained as they take the stage at the conference in Asbury Park. Stay tuned for more updates and information about the conference, including performance schedules and special events. We can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with you.

We are always seeking ways to empower and inspire our vibrant community of artists and enthusiasts. That’s why at this year’s conference we are thrilled to introduce a brand-new series of workshops that promise to take your skills and passion to the next level: “Master Classes.” We are very proud of the content offered at the conference, but we have long been asked about opportunities for more in depth hands on courses. The “Master Classes” evolved from that request and this year we are opening the conference a day early for those who sign up for these courses. Are you looking to hone your craft, connect with fellow musicians, and elevate your presence in the folk music scene? Look no further – NERFA’s “Master Classes” have got you covered. These immersive four-hour workshops offered Wednesday afternoon are designed to provide you with in-depth knowledge, invaluable insights, and practical tools that can transform your artistry. What to Expect: Expert Instructors: Our Master Classes are led by industry professionals who are masters in their respective fields. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from the best. Interactive Learning: These workshops are hands-on and interactive, ensuring that you not only gain knowledge but also apply it to your own work. Networking: Connect with fellow artists in a small group, build meaningful relationships, and expand your network within the folk music community. Here’s a Sneak Peek of Upcoming Master Classes: Songwriting Secrets – with Ellis Paul Elevating Your Musical Career with Patreon with Rebecca Loebe Ready to take your folk music journey to the next level? Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out! To reserve your spot and explore the full schedule, visit our conference registration page. Elevate your craft, connect with fellow folk enthusiasts, and make your mark in the vibrant world of folk music with NERFA’s “Master Classes.” We can’t wait to embark on this educational journey with you. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and announcements from NERFA. Together, let’s celebrate the richness of folk music and take it to new heights.

The Presenter’s Peer Group meets every second Tuesday of the month at 8:00PM.  Register Here! Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85711035108?pwd=V2VDd20ranZOWisyVDB4aWtNbFZGQT09 Dan Gottfried Barbara Shiller During the unprecedented halt of the live music industry caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a dedicated and resourceful community refused to allow the silence to persist. This community, united under the banner of the Presenters Peer Group, is an initiative by NERFA designed to support small venue presenters and house concert hosts through monthly Zoom meetings. These meetings are thoughtfully moderated by Board Members Dan Gottfried and Barbara Shiller, who bring their expertise and leadership to guide the conversations. The initiative rapidly gained momentum, with members joining from across and beyond the NERFA region, including as far afield as Texas. Participation wasn’t restricted to smaller venues; the group also welcomed musicians and representatives of larger festivals, such as the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and the Woodstock Folk Festival of Woodstock, IL. In the early days of the lockdown, the group acted as a forum for expressing shared challenges and frustrations induced by the pandemic. Members introduced themselves and their unique venues, and they candidly discussed their struggles. As the world adapted to the crisis, the group’s dialogues mirrored this shift, moving from shared concerns to actionable solutions. As the prospect of live music’s return became tangible, safety measures took precedence in discussions. These included mandating vaccination proof, enforcing mask requirements, and redesigning seating arrangements to maintain social distancing. The pandemic, while demanding adaptation, also necessitated sacrifices. Cherished traditions like house concert potluck dinners were paused, and due to reduced audience capacity caused by social distancing, attendees were asked for higher contributions to support the artists. Undeterred by these setbacks, the group was keen to explore digital avenues for performances. As restrictions eased, the group’s narrative transformed from one of survival to one of revival, with members now sharing success stories. Today, the Presenters Peer Group continues its monthly meetings, with conversations now revolving around experiences and insights from hosted concerts and attended festivals. The discussions have evolved into a resourceful platform, leading to new artist bookings. The story of the Presenters Peer Group, deftly moderated by Dan Gottfried and Barbara Shiller, serves as a testament to the resilience of community and adaptability. It’s a heartening reminder that in the face of adversity, the music need not stop; we can adapt, survive, and ultimately thrive – together. RESOURCES: Example House show artist agreement: LINK

Livingston Taylor to Grace NERFA 2023 as Second Keynote Speaker We are beyond excited to announce that the legendary Livingston Taylor will be joining us as the second keynote speaker at the NERFA conference this November! Livingston’s career as a professional musician has spanned over five decades, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. Known for his storytelling that’s as captivating as Mark Twain and his musical talent that’s seen him write top-40 hits for his brother James Taylor, Livingston is a true icon in the music world. On Friday, November 10, Livingston will take to the stage to address our attendees. We can’t wait to hear the insights and stories he has to share from his illustrious career. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJW8DT-bBrI But that’s not all! Livingston will also be running one of his famous performance workshops. This is a rare opportunity to learn from a musician who’s shared the stage with the likes of Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, and Jimmy Buffet. Livingston’s music spans a range of genres – folk, pop, gospel, jazz – and his performances are always a delight, whether he’s sharing upbeat storytelling, touching ballads, or full orchestra performances. Livingston has been teaching stage performance for over 30 years, beginning at Berklee College of Music in Boston in 1989. He’s passionate about passing on the extensive knowledge he’s gained from his long career on the road to the next generation of musicians. Livingston Taylor is not just a musician; he’s an airplane-flying, motorcycle-riding, singing storyteller who’s been delighting audiences with his charm for over 50 years. We can’t wait to welcome him to NERFA 2023! Stay tuned for more updates about the conference, and in the meantime, check out some of Livingston’s music to get you in the mood for what’s sure to be an unforgettable event! Register Now

NERFA proudly presents its inaugural concert series, the Coffee & Wood Concert Series, designed to bolster touring artists with a regular lineup of Thursday night performances. In collaboration with West Brookfield Library and the Mass Cultural Council, we’re thrilled to showcase members of our esteemed 2022 Formal Showcase artist group. Following a prolonged pause due to the pandemic, this series serves as a platform for artists to reignite their touring calendars, courtesy of the Mass Cultural Council’s sponsorship. Our concert series, happening on every third Thursday of the month, offers community concerts for audiences of all incomes. Conveniently located, it’s just an hour’s drive from Boston, Northampton, and Hartford, and two hours from NYC.Join us for memorable evenings of music and community at the stunning Merriam-Gilbert Library, and help support the revival of live music in a post-pandemic world. For more information and to take part, please visit Merriam-Gilbert Library website. May 18 – The Rough & Tumble The Rough & Tumble are a folk/Americana duo, consisting of Mallory Graham & Scott Tyler. After forming in 2011, they’ve spent the last 8 years traveling full time in a 16ft camper with two big dogs and one small hamster. Equally at home in festival settings, listening rooms and house concerts, their commanding stage presence, engaging performances and affecting songwriting won them The Listening Room Network’s Artist of the Year in 2019 and the Independent Music Awards Americana Song of the Year for their song “The Hardest Part. In 2021, they released We’re Only Family If You Say So, an album about what it means to be family, and what it means to lose it. With singles debuting on American Songwriter, The Bluegrass Situation and Grateful Web referring to the album as “a must listen,” it has been embraced by fans for its stark honesty, unique storytelling and well-crafted melodies. June 15 – Rees Shad & The Conversations Songwriter, storyteller, multi-instrumentalist Rees Shad is a master of alluring melodies and short story songs whose characters interact and reoccur in eloquent musical vignettes. An accomplished musician, composer, and creative, Shad has an impressive catalog of wide-ranging music and narratives. Shad grew up absorbing the NYC music scene and immersing himself in vintage blues, jazz, folk music, country, classic rock and punk before moving to upstate New York to embrace a more rural lifestyle. An experienced studio engineer, musician, and producer, he has happily and determinedly reinvented himself musically over the decades evolving and honing vision and craft. Imbued with a style & wisdom rare in contemporary music, his new album One Glass at a Time, strikes a fresh vein of meaning and melody, imagining a flourishing, reflective future built upon the loves and life lessons of the recent past. July 20, Aaron Nathans & Michael G. Ronstadt Cello-guitar duo Aaron Nathans & Michael G. Ronstadt never lose their capacity to surprise. On their upcoming collection of songs, they put new spins on American history and legend. There’s an ode to Alan Turing and the birth of the computer, as well as a pop song about the minting of a new programmer; a ballad about the last days of a beloved ballpark; and a whimsical tonal country-tinged tribute to a long-lost atonal musical trend. They combine wild musicality with soaring beauty and accessible hooks. They respect the roots of folk tradition, while always trying something different. Nathans, from the Philadelphia area, is an award-winning leader in the Philly songwriting community. Ronstadt, a member of his famous family from the Arizona-Mexico borderlands, is now a Cincinnati-based cello bandleader, teacher, touring artist, and much in-demand studio sideman. August 17, Grace Morrison Nashville-based singer-songwriter Grace Morrison brings a cast of relatable characters to every performance. She’s a daughter, a loner, a confidant, a partier, a restless rambler seeking an escape from small-town life, and finally, a mother. She has written with Nashville based multi Grammy winner Lori McKenna and country hit maker Barbara Cloyd. In 2022 she has already completed a cross country tour from Cape Cod to Utah and back with a busy festival season forthcoming. Awards have piled up along the way. A 2022 Songwriter Serenade and New Song finalist; in recent years she has also been named the Grand Prize of the New England Songwriting Competition (MA); the Wildflower Festival (TX) performing singer-songwriter contest and the WPRI Rhode Show Big Break. Grace was selected to be an Official Showcase performer at SERFA (TN), SWERFA (TX), and she was selected for the Emerging Artist Showcase at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival (NY). September 21 – Rod Abernethy Rod Abernethy is a unique blend of an authentic southern folk troubadour, master acoustic guitarist and award winning composer for film, TV and video games. Rod is the 2021 Overall Grand Prize Winner of the International Acoustic Music Awards and the 2019 Winner of American Songwriter’s Bob Dylan Song Contest. His latest album “Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore” produced by Grammy nominated producer Neilson Hubbard (Mary Gauthier, Kim Richey, Glen Phillips) includes songs and instrumentals that revolve around family, friends and places across the Deep South. Rod has scored and produced music for over 80 video games including Electronic Art’s blockbuster hit Dead Space which won a BAFTA Award in 2009 and Tolkien’s The Hobbit for Vivendi Universal winning Video Game Soundtrack of the Year in 2003. Rod is also an adjunct professor of music composition at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston Salem, NC. October 19 – Kemp Harris Kemp Harris defies categorization. He is a singer-songwriter; a master weaver of American musical styles; an actor, activist, author, storyteller, and educator who taught young public school students for over 40 years. Kemp has acted in films and TV shows such as SMILF, and is comfortable sharing the stage with artists like Taj Mahal, Koko Taylor, and Gil Scott-Heron, as well as performing shows with his smokin’ band. Kemp’s powers of observation, his unique gift for shining a light on our modern world and

Registration Now Open! We’re excited to announce that registration is now open for the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA) Conference, taking place in Asbury Park from November 9-12, 2023! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be a part of a dynamic community and grow your artistic career. Early registration pricing is available on a first come first serve basis. We are currently in the “Earliest Bird” phase with registration starting at $250. Get up to date information on opportunities and registration now at https://nerfaconference.org!   Showcase Opportunities This year’s conference will feature a wide variety of showcasing opportunities for artists, providing you with the chance to perform and connect with fellow musicians, presenters, and industry professionals. Be prepared to immerse yourself in an uplifting community experience, as we come together to celebrate our shared love for music and the arts. Visit the NERFA Conference website for more information on these opportunities!   Panels, Workshops, and Peer Groups (oh my!) In addition to the amazing performances, you’ll be able to attend workshops and panels led by industry experts, aimed at equipping you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in the music industry. From networking to marketing, from performance techniques to career planning, our workshops and panels have you covered. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us for an unforgettable experience at the 2023 NERFA Conference. Secure your spot today!