The Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA) hosts a special one-day mini-conference on Saturday, April 30, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the First Universalist Society in Franklin, MA (home of the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse).

Designed especially to give New England-based artists, presenters, DJs, agents and others engaged in folk music a small taste of what takes place during NERFA’s annual three-day conferences each fall, the day will feature workshops, panel discussions, networking, informal peer group sessions, artist showcases and an open mic. Lunch will be provided as part of the $25 registration fee.

Registration forms and showcase applications can be found online at www.nerfa.org, along with a detailed schedule featuring session descriptions and panelist bios. Early registration is advised since attendance will be limited.

A nonprofit organization for those engaged in traditional, contemporary and multicultural folk music, the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA) is the regional arm of Folk Alliance International that seeks to strengthen and advance organizational and individual initiatives through education, networking, advocacy, and professional and field development. NERFA’s annual fall conference last November in Kerhonkson, NY drew a record attendance of nearly 750 performers, presenters, promoters and others for three jam-packed days and nights of juried and guerilla music showcases, open mics and song circles, informative panel discussions and workshops, mentoring sessions, an exhibit hall, communal meals, and lots of informal conversation, networking and late-night jamming.

Editor’s Note: As vice president of NERFA’s board of directors, I’m helping to coordinate this event and will moderate a panel discussion on “Social Media and Your Online Presence.”