"A week to develop connections, new discoveries, and full of inspirational moments, is what the Folk Alliance provides," admits Terry Costa, "of which MiratecArts was part and had the opportunity to announce a new program for Cordas, which fits into the objectives of the Folk world, the Cordas Academy."

By creating this new program, MiratecArts intends to welcome more artists during the World Music Festival, which takes place annually in the municipality of Madalena, on the island of Pico, Azores (Portugal).

"Some artists visit the festival without being part of the lineup. With the Academy we want to encourage this to happen more and more, but by providing structures so that visiting artists can gain more knowledge and experience working with local artists and international artists, who regularly travel around the world." Cordas Academy will include a conference program, workshops, the opportunity for jam sessions, the creation of a unique show and visits to emblematic places on the island with photo and video sessions, thus developing promotional materials for each participating artist.

Academy artists also have the opportunity to propose concerts, recitals or other educational programming.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: MiratecArts;

Applications are open for the first edition of the Cordas Academy, to take place in 2025, when the Festival Cordas celebrates its tenth edition. Artists with chordophones (plucked or bowed) are encouraged to apply by downloading the official document available at www.festivalcordas.com and submitting via info@mirateca.com email.

The Folk Alliance International Conference, presented by Folk Alliance International, is the world’s largest gathering of the folk music industry and community (crossing a diverse array of genres including Appalachian, Americana, Blues, Bluegrass, Celtic, Cajun, Global Roots, Hip-Hop, Old-Time, Singer-Songwriter, Spoken Word, Traditional, Zydeco, and various fusions). At the conference, there are many panel sessions on relevant industry topics, featuring experts like agents, labels, festival presenters, artists, and more. The next event will happen in February 2025 in Montreal, Canada.