Each October, around 200 artists, venue representatives, agents, managers, and others from the music business congregate in Austin at the annual Southwest Regional Folk Alliance. Similarly, each February, around 2,000 people from all over the world meet in Memphis for Folk Alliance International. This one-day event will attempt to bring that experience to everyone in Far West Texas & Southern New Mexico who either doesn’t know about or can’t afford the cost of the larger events.

All involved or wanting to be involved in the music business are welcome and encouraged to attend including artists, venues, promoters, booking agents, record label representatives, radio, media, music publishers, film archivists and music educators. The day will provide artist showcases, panel discussions, and networking events.  Songwriters and performers are encouraged to apply for showcase slots during the conference.

This special event will be hosted by Mountain House Concerts (Austin, TX), musicians & radio hosts The Border Blasters and SWRFA Executive Director & Kerrville Folk Festival Producer Dalis Allen at the Historic Hotel Paisano in Marfa, August 7, 2010, from 9:30am-5:00pm.  Lunch will be provided with a $5.00 per person donation for attendees going to SWRFA conference scholarships.

In addition to the mini-conference agenda other fun and informal activities are planned, including an open mic Friday evening on the Hotel Paisano Patio.

SWRFA is part of Folk Alliance International and holds a regional conference each fall.  The region includes Texas, New Mexico, Colorado and Oklahoma. This year’s conference is Sept. 30 – Oct. 3 in Austin, Texas.

This is a great opportunity to learn what Folk Alliance can do for you, showcase your music, share your ideas and talents with other music professionals and build a stronger music community in our area.

For more information please email swrfita @ gmail . com or call toll-free 1-888-262-7910 (leave message).

¡SWRFITA is proudly sponsored by the Southwest Regional Folk Alliance, The Hotel Paisano,  KRTS Marfa Public Radio and TransPecos Guitars.  If you would like to be a sponsor let us know!