AFF Guest Artist Criteria
(as practiced)
[From the May, 1995 issue of the AFF Newsletter]

Must be source people, having a direct connection to a musical tradition. They can be old or young and have been. They can't be someone who "took up" a music style, having no direct cultural connection to it, however good.

Should have had a major influence on a particular style/tradition, an innovator or otherwise deeply involved in maintaining a tradition.

Should not be commercialized, a big name or hot act. With commercialization tends to come a gradual departure from the traditional roots to satisfy "the market."

Must be affordable.

Music should be a way of life, not necessarily a livelihood.

Must be willing to come to Alaska to jam and interact with the musicians at the Festival, to teach (not just the music, but the culture and history of their tradition). Coming to the Alaska Folk Festival should not be just another gig.

Must appeal to musicians, bring something that Alaska musicians want to learn -- the original reason for having a guest artist.

They must be alive(!) We have had people suggested who turned out to have died.

And the Guest Artist is?????

Nanci Griffith

As practiced indeed, sounds a very good line up I hope everyone enjoys themselves.