“FMO is unparalleled in its approach to community, career and industry development. It's a unique, refreshing conference that puts artists first.” - Corey Poole, Music Officer, City of Mississauga
About the Folk Music Ontario Conference
Cliquez ici pour lire en français.
Established in 1987, The Folk Music Ontario Conference has been the largest gathering of the professional Folk Music community in Canada. Since the inaugural gathering as the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals, FMO has connected artists and presenters through showcasing, one-on-one meetings, networking, peer sessions, panels, mentorship, and other career development opportunities.
The Conference is the premiere networking event for the Canadian Folk Music community, and we welcome international participation by artists and industry delegates. Networking opportunities through receptions, gatherings, and our online Lightning Talks helps you connect with other delegates to do business and develop relationships.
Showcases are an integral way to facilitate discovery and opportunities for artists at any stage in their career. Official Showcases are selected by a jury of industry professionals, through an open application process. Spotlight Showcases can be applied for, or presented through our industry partnership program.
All artists selected for an Official Showcase are eligible for our Export-Ready Program, which connects artists and their representative for B2B meetings and networking opportunities with international buyers.
Artists ages 25 and under are encouraged to apply for the Developing Artist Program, for hands-on training and mentorship throughout September and October, and showcase opportunities at the conference. Application deadline: June 13, 2023.
Panels, Workshops, Round-Table Discussions, and Peer-to-Peer Sessions are available and open to all registrants of the FMO Conference.
The second annual Folk in Film Festival celebrates music in film, music videos, and all ways that the two mediums interact through screenings, workshops, and panel discussions taking place during the conference.
The Ontario Folk Music Awards is taking place Sunday, October 15th, 2023 to uplift and celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of our community through the presentation of awards, and performances by select artists. Applications for nominations will be open from May 19 - June 16th, 2023.
“I had an incredible time at FMO! It is such a special thing to be able to connect with artists and industry professionals from across North America.” - Angelique Francis, Official Showcasing Artist & JUNO Winner
SHOWCASES
This is your chance to perform for Folk Music industry from across Canada and around the world, from the Festival Directors who program Folk's biggest stages, to House Concert Hosts who program concerts in their living rooms, and every type of live venue in-between! We also host all facets of the industry including Folk DJ's, Managers, Agents, Labels, Performers' Rights Organizations, Funders, Music Supervisors, and more. With our new model of showcasing, you have maximum opportunity for visibility and discovery during your time to shine!
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The Conference is a great opportunity to learn from industry leaders and share best practices with your peers. All Conference attendees will have access to panels, workshops, and round-table discussions. Panels are an opportunity to hear industry leaders weigh in on a topic, interact with one-another in a moderated discussion, and field questions from the audience. Workshops provide a hands-on opportunity to learn about a specialized topic with an industry mentor. Peer Session discussions are for peer groups to connect with one another in a facilitated discussion about their experiences in the industry. Check back as more information about our PD schedule is released as we approach the conference.
NETWORKING
Folk Music Ontario is the largest gathering of Folk Music professionals in Canada. It's an opportunity for all facets of the industry to celebrate the work we do and the music we love. Before, after, and during the conference there are many opportunities to network, from the more structured online One-On-One Meetings (aka. B2B meetings, Lightning Talks) to the relaxed atmosphere of Sponsored Receptions, there are opportunities to connect with other delegates at every turn. This year we are centring the conference around the DoubleTree ballroom to create a thriving hub of activity morning, noon, and late into the night. The DoubleTree Hotel will host our Official Showcases, Receptions, Professional Development Sessions, Trade Show Booths, and more, and will be the best spot for spontaneous interaction throughout the conference.
Partners & Sponsors
Interested in partnering with Folk Music Ontario? Our partners have the opportunity to present their own spotlight showcase, advertise to our growing folk community, present panels or professional development activities, host a reception or meet-up, and much more. Please contact us for more information.