“The world’s largest” folk music conference will bring about 35 bands and artists to Geelong in a series of concerts next March, according to council.
US-based Folk Alliance International would bring its annual ExChange conference to Geelong in the lead up to Port Fairy Folk Festival, council announced on Monday.
The event would bring Geelong’s laneways and arts precinct “alive” with the world’s best folk music, council’s arts chair Jim Mason said.
“We have a strong live music culture here in Geelong and having so many top acts performing at our local venues will be incredible. I’m sure the city will be buzzing.”
Port Fairy Folk Festival founder and Geelong Folk Club alumni Jamie McKew was thrilled with the announcement.
“The timing is perfect,” he said.
“Geelong is booming with a dazzling renaissance of new young energy, culture and ideas.”
Mr McKew recently attended Folk Alliance International’s conference in Montreal and could “only marvel” at the “musical force” of the event, he said.
“We are truly excited and honoured to be chosen for the next featured international ExChange right here in a bunch of our favourite venues.”
The conference runs from 2 to 4 March, 2020, with a series concerts featuring artists and bands from across Australia and the World.
The conference also includes forums with about 100 Australian and international delegates, presenters and keynote speakers.
Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood expected the event to “generate valuable extra business” for local restaurants, bars, hotels and shops.
