English Folk Expo: The Open Fund for Organisations
This project will equip artists with new skills, giving them a platform to grow their careers through new networks, performance opportunities, training and mentoring.
Over 12 months, the project will cover:
Stagecraft – bespoke training with a mentor before showcase and festival performances at FOCUS Wales, Cambridge Folk Festival and Manchester Folk Festival. Artists will perform for new audiences and industry, receive feedback from the stagecraft mentor and have a platform to experiment with new music and stagecraft skills. This will develop performance quality.
Training – bespoke training sessions in Recorded Music, Live Touring, Audience Development, Creative Development and Business Planning.
Networking – attend conferences and events, networking with the music industry, attending panels, promoting themselves at trade fairs and seeing other artists showcasing. Participants attend EFEx, Americana Music Association UK Conference, FOCUS Wales and Cambridge Folk Festival as industry delegates.
Mentoring – each artist will receive a UK music industry mentor to suit their needs. Mentors will offer guidance and advice on career planning including preparing for showcases, festivals and conferences.