farwest-roomshot

Goal: getting younger acts to appreciate the roots, shining light on traditional music

Challenge: most artists more interested in participating than listening

Idea: create opportunity for artists to participate in a great new presentation of traditional songs. Main stage, 1 hour program.

FA and members:

  • select 6 traditional songs to be performed (i.e. 2 old timey blues, 2 bluegrass, 2 celtic)
  • select 3-5 piece ensemble for each pair of songs. (including soloists)
  • select 4-6 vocalists for each song

Very inclusive - many participants with minimal setup.

  • each vocalist gets to sing a verse and ensemble the chorus
  • each instrumentalist gets a short solo in their pair of songs
  • Each song lasts 4-6 minutes (avoid overkill, but allow room to stretch)

SELECTION PROCESS

  1. To be considered for performance, or help select participants, you must be registered for the conference by January 1.
  2. Artists submit their name and instrument online
  3. Voting page created - Registered FA Members vote.

Results announced promoted by January 15th.. allows 1 month to select song key and get charts etc…

Benefits:

  • well attended event (many people take part in voting or onstage) placing emphasis on a core value of fa
  • encourages early registration of participants and voters
  • showcases many artists
  • help bridge the gap between old and new
  • transparent voting keeps it from feeling like “insider only” event (i.e. americana awards)
  • getting some of the most popular/talented artists of FA to embrace or at least educate themselves on traditional music.

Anyone have comments? Any suggestions to improve the idea?

Either way, I’ll see you there! — fran

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