Private Showcase Application

October 14-18, 2026 (Sheraton Hamilton Hotel (Downtown), Hamilton, ON)

MusicOntario and CION are teaming up to present two nights of private showcases during the Folk Canada conference in October 2026!

Taking place in Hamilton, ON, this year, Folk Canada is the premier annual gathering of Canada's folk, roots, and world music community, and an essential platform for artists, presenters, buyers, and industry professionals from across the country and around the world. Now in its 40th year, the conference plays a vital role in connecting Canadian artists with market opportunities, supporting professional development at every career stage, and positioning Canada's folk and roots music sector on the international stage.

If you’re not familiar with private showcasing, they’re the bonus after-hours showcases after each day’s conference programming and official showcasing wraps for the evening. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with peers, industry, and international delegates and to perform acoustically in an intimate setting. We welcome applications from folk artists from across Ontario and from any folk tradition.

PLEASE NOTE:
  • You must be an Ontario-based artist to be eligible.
  • Showcases are brief – 15 minutes each, with 5 minutes to change over.
  • Showcases take place in a hotel room in the host hotel, so you must have an acoustic configuration, with only light percussion permitted.
  • In order to perform, you must be registered for the 2026 Folk Canada conference.
  • We suggest you start exploring funding/grant opportunities ASAP if you hope to offset costs related to attending a business and showcase conference like Folk Canada.
  • Preference will be given to MusicOntario members in good standing. Not sure if you’re part of the crew? Get in touch and we’ll let you know.
  • If you are applying from northern Ontario, you can also contact CION directly to apply, as MusicOntario will be co-producing these showcases in collaboration with them!
Application deadline is August 12, 2026.

All applications will be adjudicated by MusicOntario and our showcase

Question Title

* 1. Name of Artist/Group:

Question Title

* 2. Which Ontario city are you based in?

Question Title

* 3. Email Address:

Question Title

* 4. Phone Number:

Question Title

* 5. Who will be representing you at the conference? List all applicable names:

Question Title

* 6. Please provide links to you social media platforms, if applicable:

Question Title

* 7. Please provide one link to stream your music online:
(include the full URL - for example: http://www.yourmusic.com)

Question Title

* 8. Please provide one link to a video of your live performance:
(include the full URL - for example: http://www.yourmusic.com)

Question Title

* 9. Please provide a brief biography/description (150 words):

Question Title

* 10. Please list any notable performances/tours that have taken place in the past 3 years:

Question Title

* 11. Showcase times will be between 11pm - 2am on October 15th and 16th. Please indicate any potential conflicts on those dates:

Question Title

* 12. Please list the names of each musician who would be performing with you during your showcase if selected, along with their instrument, keeping in mind that this is strictly acoustic:

Question Title

* 13. Any additional information that may be relevant to your application:

Question Title

* 14. How did you find out about MusicOntario and CION's showcasing initiative at Folk Canada 2026?

T