Arts Consulting Group (ACG) congratulates Folk Alliance International (FAI) on its record-breaking success in 2016. FAI first began working with ACG in 2011 when it engaged the firm to conduct a board planning retreat. Two years later, ACG guided an international executive search process, and FAI selected Aengus Finnan as Executive Director in 2014. Since taking the helm, Mr. Finnan has helped FAI strengthen its mission to nurture, engage, and empower the international folk music community – traditional and contemporary, amateur and professional – through education, advocacy, and performance.
In 2016 FAI published its first ever Annual Report, noting staff expansion, data-informed decisions, improved services due to community input, and broadened engagement as a result of increased outreach. The organization produced its most successful conference, launched a public festival to tremendous response, hosted its second Artist in Residence program, and forged new partnerships with Kansas City Ballet and the National World War I Museum and Memorial. Boasting its highest attendance and membership levels in its history, FAI is currently ahead of pace to 2016-2017 fiscal year financial and organizational goals.
Now in its 29th year, FAI’s annual conference draws more than 2,000 artists and industry professionals who are dedicated to folk music. Attendees from the 2016 conference represented more than 15 countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland, Scandinavia, Mexico, and Japan. FAI will host its next conference, Forbidden Folk, from February 15 through February 19, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri.
As FAI prepares for its 30th anniversary, the organization has a clear vision for continued growth and refinement – one that is progressive, relevant, diverse, inclusive, high-profile, innovative, creative, and fun. As an advocate for the folk community, FAI hopes to become an active partner in business and career development, a presenter of world-class showcases, and an educational resource for folk music and culture.
“ACG congratulates Folk Alliance International on its many achievements in 2016,” said ACG President Dr. Bruce D. Thibodeau. “We are thrilled to see the organization and Executive Director Aengus Finnan doing such incredible work within the industry and the international community. We wish FAI the best of luck as it celebrates 30 years of success!”
Photo Credit: Darlingside by Chad Kirvan
February 2017