10 Conferences That Should Be on Every Artist’s Calendar in Early 2026
This post collects information on top 10 North American music conferences in the first half of 2026 — and how and when to apply.
The Dates and Application Deadlines for Our Top 10 Music Conferences For the First Half of 2026
Whether you’re an artist looking for meaningful performance opportunities or a label looking to showcase your artists, or you’re just in need of immersing yourself in some of the most important and innovative conversations happening in the music industry, these conferences have something for everyone.
But don’t hesitate, some applications for presenting and performing are still open! Check all the links below for more information.
Without further ado, here are our Top 10 North American music conferences (and festivals) happening in the first half of 2026.
Folk Alliance International
Where & When: New Orleans, Louisiana — January 21-26, 2026
The Annual Folk Alliance International Conference is the largest gathering of folk musicians and music industry professionals in the world. This is an experience like no other. Music is around every corner. Legends, rising stars, and industry innovators share career-boosting insights. Three days of panels and workshops let you pick the brains of industry experts and legends.
The application period for Official Artist Showcases is now closed. Register for tickets to the event here.
The ASCAP Experience
Where & When: Los Angeles, California — February 12, 2026
The ASCAP Experience is the only event that puts music creators at the center of every session. It’s a one-of-a-kind conference that brings together the vibrant ASCAP community for a day of education, inspiration and networking, designed to help songwriters and composers thrive. Artists can hone their skills, get candid advice from today’s most successful music makers, connect with fellow creators and future collaborators, discover new ways to monetize one’s music, make new industry connections, and see intimate live performances.
Learn more and get tickets here.
Measure of Music
Where & When: Virtual — February 20-22, 2026
Measure of Music is a virtual three-day weekend program to show the impact & importance of data across the music industry and to give current music execs, music industry hopefuls and industry career changers a crash course (and a finished project!) in music and data in collaboration with some of the most influential people and companies driving the democratization of music data around the world.
SXSW
Where & When: Austin, Texas — March 12-18, 2026
The SXSW Music Festival & Conference brings together artists, industry professionals, creatives, and music lovers from around the world to make connections, elevate their careers, and celebrate the magic of live music – from legendary performers to the most exciting new talent.
Artists and labels can apply to be part of SXSW’s Official Showcases here by November 21, 2025. Register to attend the events here.
MUSEXPO
Where & When: Burbank, California — March 22-25, 2026
MUSEXPO is one of the world’s top music business conferences and artist showcase events. It stands at the forefront of innovation, creativity, and connectivity with its premiere panels, keynotes, networking, showcases, and awards events. MUSEXPO gives you access to key decision-makers, influencers, and some of the leading international music companies. We unite the music business together in a unique, profound, and impactful way!
Registration for tickets is open now, learn more here. For artists, you can apply for a 2026 Showcase via FENIX360 by creating a profile here, and submitting your profile with contact info by January 9, 2026 to info@anrworldwide.com.
Winter Music Conference
Where & When: Miami, Florida — March 24-26, 2026
The Winter Music Conference is back and now stronger than ever with a renewed sense of purpose and direction under the umbrella of Miami Music Week, returning in March 2025 with insightful programming for music industry professionals and consumers. Going down at Eden Roc Hotel, Miami Beach, FL, this one has so much to offer for anyone looking to sharpen their skills.
To get updates as more information is announced, subscribe here.
LAUNCH Music Conference
Where & When: Lancaster, Pennsylvania — April 23-26, 2026
LAUNCH Music Conference is a developing artist and industry professional conference taking place over three days and nights biannually in Lancaster, PA, in the spring, and Dallas, TX, in the fall. LAUNCH features educational panels and conference programming during the day and a music festival consisting of 130+ performances in the evening.
Artists can apply to perform until February 15, 2026. Register to attend the events here.
UNSIN
Where & When: Miami, Florida — April 23–25, 2026
UNSIN is Miami’s premier Latin-focused festival celebrating creativity, innovation, and culture. Inspired by SXSW in Austin, it blends live music performances with thought-provoking panels to empower the next generation of creatives. Named after the word “unseen,” UNSIN shines a spotlight on overlooked artists and ideas, creating an inclusive space where diversity thrives, meaningful connections are made, and fresh voices are amplified. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or culture enthusiast, UNSIN is where inspiration, collaboration, and cutting-edge creativity come to life.
Artists can apply to perform until February 2026. Professionals can apply to be a speaker by March 2026. Register to attend the events here.
Departure Festival & Conference (formerly Canadian Music Week)
Where & When: Toronto, Ontario — May 4-10, 2026
The Departure Festival & Conference is a major Canadian music festival and industry conference held in Toronto that was formerly known as Canadian Music Week (CMW). The event features numerous bands and artists across multiple venues, catering to both the music industry and the public. It serves as a platform for discovering new talent and celebrating the creative community.
No application info posted yet. Check here for details.
Music Biz Conference
Where & When: Atlanta, Georgia — May 11-14, 2026
The Music Biz Annual Conference is an event organized by the Music Business Association where professionals from all sectors of the music industry gather to discuss challenges, develop partnerships, and learn about the latest trends. The event features educational panels, networking opportunities, and private meetings for attendees from major labels, streaming services, publishers, and independent artists.
Music industry professionals can apply for presentations until December 3, 2025. Register for attendance here.
