Future folk musicians development program
Dreaming of performing at Port Fairy Folk Festival?
Future folk is your chance to make it happen!
Future folk program
How to apply for future folk 2027
Are you a young musician from south-west Victoria ready to take the next step? Applications for the 2027 future folk program are open now!
Eligibility
- Open to musicians aged 12 to 25 living in south-west Victoria
- selected artists must attend a compulsory online program overview session.
Program Information
The 2027 Future Folk Artists will embark on a program of professional development, connection building and strengthening song craft & live performance.
Performance Opportunities
20-minute live set at Fiddlers Green Stage during Port Fairy Folk Festival
Featured spot in the Festival Arena program
The chance to be selected for a follow-up performance at the Queenscliff Music Festival 2027
Mentorship and development program with music industry professionals
All selected artists will be paid for their performance at Port Fairy Folk Festival
How to Apply
Apply directly via the Port Fairy Folk Festival website.
Applications open: 16 September 2026
Applications close: 23 September 2026
Artists announced 9 October 2026
Future Folk is delivered in partnership with Port Fairy Folk Festival and Moyne Shire Council’s AMPLIFY program, with funding by the Victorian Government.
Celebrating emerging talent from south-west Victoria
The future folk program is a unique artist development and performance opportunity for young musicians from south-west Victoria. Delivered in partnership with Port Fairy Folk Festival and Moyne Shire Council, the initiative supports up to twelve emerging solo artists, duos, or bands aged 12 to 25 through live performance, mentorship, and hands-on industry experience.
Now in its sixth year, future folk continues to grow with an ongoing partnership with Queenscliff Music Festival, giving participants additional opportunities to perform and connect with new audiences across the state.