The Sound Cafe Team With One Of Our Great Discoveries This Year, Minuscule Music
As the curtains drew on the very last Folk Music Ontario (FMO) Conference, it was hard not to feel a bittersweet pang in the heart of the folk community. For many years, FMO has been a cornerstone of the folk music landscape in Ontario, emerging from the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals to become a vibrant hub for artists, industry professionals, and enthusiasts alike. The recent conference was not only a showcase of extraordinary talent but also a poignant farewell to an organization that has fostered countless connections and careers.
A New Chapter: The Merger of Folk Music Ontario and Folk Music Canada
The decision to merge FMO with Folk Music Canada (FMC) heralds an exciting new era for the Canadian folk community. Discussions dating back to 2019, and culminating in this year’s conference, focused on creating a unified national arts service organization, Folk Canada. At a dazzling red carpet reception at The Living Arts Centre in Mississauga, the new logo was unveiled, symbolizing this transformation and the promise of a brighter future.
Showcases: A Melodic Tapestry of Talent
Our time at the conference was marked by a series of showcases that featured an impressive array of artists, from emerging talents to established names. The diversity of genres and styles was nothing short of inspiring, echoing the rich tapestry that defines Canadian folk music. Many of the artists we encountered had previously graced the pages of The Sound Cafe, but we also stumbled upon remarkable new voices that we are excited to feature in the near future.
Among the standout performances was Minuscule Music from St Catharines, Ontario, whose haunting melodies and poignant lyrics resonated deeply with the audience. Their set was a reminder of why we cherish these gatherings — the opportunity to witness raw, unfiltered talent. Similarly, First Nation artist Adrian Sutherland brought a refreshing energy to the stage, blending traditional folk rock with modern sensibilities, captivating both seasoned folk fans and newcomers alike. We will touch on individual performances in a future article, but one special mention has to go to singer-songwriter Zoe Wren, who came all the way from England to showcase, we had heard Zoe's releases many times on our former platform, Blues & Roots Radio, she was a firm favourite of the English Radio hosts, so it was amazing to see her perform and meet in person after all theses years of listening.
And how lovely it was to meet award winning singer-songwriter Terra Spencer, who hails from Nova Scotia, Terra was a winner of the Blues & Roots Radio's Album Of The Year Award, among her many other great achievements.
Anne Connor, Terra Spencer and Stevie Connor.
The Good, the Bad, and the Missing Magic
While the quality of music at this year’s conference was outstanding, there were some notable shortcomings in the overall experience. The hotel, chosen as the venue for the conference, left much to be desired. The lobby felt cramped, lacking the welcoming spaces we had come to expect from past conferences. There were few areas for casual conversations, a vital component of the conference experience where friendships and collaborations often blossom.
The showcase rooms, did not possess the warmth and charm that characterized previous events. In years past, the conference would take over entire hotel floors, with independent artists showcasing their music in creative and unconventional spaces, infusing the atmosphere with a sense of spontaneity and excitement. This year, however, those grassroots opportunities felt noticeably absent. The late-night jams that had become a staple of the conference experience were missing, leaving a void that was felt by many attendees.
It’s important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that went into organizing the conference. The sound technicians, artists, and event co-ordinators all played vital roles in bringing the event to life. We are grateful for their commitment to creating a platform for artists to shine, despite the challenges of the venue.
Looking Forward: A Call to Action for the New Organization
As Folk Canada emerges from the merger, there is a unique opportunity to re-evaluate how the new organization can support independent artists. Many of these musicians are the true road warriors of the folk scene — those who tour tirelessly, often without the backing of labels or publicists. It’s crucial that the new organization prioritizes these artists, ensuring they have avenues to showcase their talent.
Perhaps future conferences can integrate late-night showcases or informal meeting spaces that encourage organic interactions. This would not only foster community but also allow emerging artists to gain exposure in an increasingly competitive landscape. The magic of folk music lies not just in the performances but in the connections that are forged through shared experiences.
Celebrating the Talent of the Future
Despite the challenges we faced at this year’s conference, there is no denying the immense talent that continues to thrive within the Canadian folk scene. From soul-stirring ballads to foot-stomping folk-rock, we witnessed a breadth of creativity that leaves us excited for what lies ahead. The artists we met and the music we heard reaffirmed our belief that folk music is alive and well, ready to evolve in new and innovative ways.
As we bid farewell to Folk Music Ontario, we do so with gratitude for the countless memories, friendships, and inspirations it has provided over the years. The organization has played an instrumental role in shaping the folk community, and while this chapter may be closing, it opens the door to a new one filled with potential.
Stevie Connor & Jo Louks of The Sound Cafe.
A Team Effort: Connecting and Creating
One of the highlights of this year’s conference was having a fantastic team of four attend the event: myself and Anne Connor, along with contributing writer Jo Louks and singer-songwriter Kae Shelby. Together, we certainly covered a lot of ground, engaging with artists, attending showcases, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. This collaboration not only enriched our experience but also ensures that we have some fabulous content coming your way. With each of us bringing our unique perspectives and talents, we’re excited to share the stories and sounds that encapsulate the spirit of this memorable conference.
A Farewell to Remember
Our time at the last Folk Music Ontario Conference will linger in our hearts as a celebration of what has been and a hopeful look toward what will come. The artists, the music, and the spirit of community that defines folk music are not confined to any one organization — they live on in every note played and every song sung.
While we acknowledge the areas for improvement, we are grateful for the experiences that were offered. As we transition into a new era with Folk Canada, we remain optimistic about the future and are eager to continue showcasing the incredible talent that Canada has to offer. Let us carry the spirit of FMO & FMC forward, ensuring that the heart of folk music continues to beat strongly across the nation.
Here’s to new beginnings and the magic that lies ahead!
FOLLOW FOLK CANADA
We'll let one of our favourite discoveries of this years conference have the last word !
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