News Summary
New Orleans will be the host city for the 38th annual conference of Folk Alliance International, taking place in January 2026. This significant event will feature over 150 artists from 34 countries and will revolve around the theme ‘Rise Up.’ Artists include Grammy winners and renowned musicians across various genres. The conference aims to promote diversity and provide professional development opportunities, fostering connections between musicians, agents, and the media.
New Orleans to Host Folk Alliance International’s 38th Annual Conference in 2026
New Orleans, LA will be the host city for the 38th annual conference of Folk Alliance International (FAI), scheduled for January 21–25, 2026. This major event will showcase the diverse talents of over 150 artists from 34 countries, focusing on a central theme of “Rise Up.”
Featured Artists and Performances
The lineup includes a diverse array of performers, such as the Lost Bayou Ramblers, who have won two GRAMMYs for their innovative blend of Louisiana French and Cajun music. Other notable artists include Bruce Sudano, a renowned songwriter for iconic musicians like Donna Summer and Michael Jackson, and Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, who are also two-time GRAMMY winners and gained fame from their feature in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog.
Additionally, the lineup features Chuck Prophet, an electrifying performer recently in remission from stage four lymphoma, and Pieta Brown, known for her “seductive simplicity and lyrical grace.” Other artists include Ramy Essam, an Egyptian revolutionary now in exile, Emily Scott Robinson, recognized by NPR and Rolling Stone, and Beth Nielsen Chapman, noted for her seven #1 hits.
The conference will also present acts like The Steel Wheels, Rainbow Girls, and Tray Wellington, a recipient of the Steve Martin Banjo Prize. Mamadou Diabate & Percussion Mania, who have won the Austrian World Music Award, and Las Cafeteras, praised for their cultural fusion, will also be part of this impressive roster.
Special Recognition and Educational Opportunities
During the conference, Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes, a prominent figure in the local Mardi Gras traditions and leader of Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots, will be honored. FAI Executive Director Jennifer Roe emphasized the global representation of artists at the event, underscoring the diversity of the folk music community.
The FAI conference aims to provide professional development and networking opportunities among musicians, venue bookers, agents, and media. This includes keynote addresses and summits tackling various topics relevant to the music industry, such as legal issues.
Showcase Events
The Official Showcase segment will feature over 160 jury-selected artists, tailored for venue bookers, agents, and media representatives. In addition to the Official Showcase, the event will host late-night Private Showcases, as well as the opening-night International Folk Music Awards (IFMAs), which recognize outstanding achievements in the genre.
FAI’s Commitment and Economic Impact
FAI’s mission includes advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and access within the global folk music community. The arts sector plays a significant role in the U.S. economy, contributing $1.2 trillion and providing jobs for nearly 5.4 million Americans in 2023, illustrating the vital impact of such cultural events.
Looking Ahead
This will not be the first time the FAI has held its conference in New Orleans, as the organization plans to return to the city for future events in 2030 and 2032. The return to this vibrant city illustrates its rich musical heritage and its importance in the folk music landscape.
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Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
