In this episode we chat with musician, booking agent and grant-writer, Sage McBride.

Drawing on her experience as both a touring artist and industry professional, Sage shares practical advice on everything from tour routing and self-booking to writing stronger grant applications. We also talk about what makes a showcase stand out, why live videos matter, and how collaboration can open new doors for artists.

Connect with Sage McBride on Instagram and at Midnight Agency. Also, be sure to check out her band, Shred Kelly and catch them on their run of Canadian dates this summer.

About Sage McBride

Sage McBride is a Canadian booking agent, musician, and grant writer based in Kenora, ON. She works at Midnight Agency, helping artists expand opportunities across North America through strategic touring and career development. Sage is also a member of the alternative folk-rock band Shred Kelly, contributing to their national and international success. As a grant writer and coach, she has secured funding through programs like FACTOR and Music BC, helping artists achieve their goals. Passionate about live music, Sage volunteers with Knox on 2nd in Fernie, supporting sustainable touring and creating accessible opportunities for artists and audiences alike.

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Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this episode we chat with Chris Frayer, the Artistic Director of Winnipeg Folk Festival.

We get into the evolution of the Winnipeg Folk Festival and what it takes to build a lasting music festival. Chris also shares insights from his decades in the industry, including how he approaches artist booking, balancing emerging and established artists, and creating meaningful experiences for audiences.

Don’t miss Winnipeg Folk Festival 2026 happening July 9th-12th. For more information on Winnipeg Folk Festival, tickets and on their year-round concert series, visit their website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

About Chris Frayer

Chris Frayer has been active in the Canadian music industry for over 27 years, serving as Artistic Director at the West End Cultural Centre and Jazz Winnipeg, and for the past 21 years as Artistic Director of the Winnipeg Folk Festival. In addition to leading the festival’s four-day event each July, he oversees its year-round concert series and the Young Performers Program.

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Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this episode we chat with the Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest, Mercedes Caxaj.

Mercedes takes us behind-the-scenes of creating a diverse and internationally focused music festival. She shares the story of how Sunfest began, how they bring artists from around the world to the stage, and the work involved in producing a free-admission festival. We also discuss how representation and community engagement shape the festival’s mission and create opportunities for artists and audiences to discover music from across the globe.

Don’t miss Sunfest 2026 happening July 9th-12th in London, Ontario. For more information on Sunfest and their year-round concert series, visit their website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Folk Canada is also sending a big congratulations to Alfredo Caxaj, Founder and Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest who recently received the Order of Canada!

About Mercedes Caxaj

Mercedes Caxaj is Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest in London, Ontario, presenting thoughtful, innovative global arts programming year-round. Sunfest, a free-admission global music and jazz festival, will celebrate its 32nd edition July 9–12, 2026, in downtown London’s Victoria Park. She also collaborates with national and international partners, including international export missions, to promote underrepresented artists in global music markets.

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Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn