I go to NERFA every year, and I've been to several of the FA conferences - I just can't afford to attend the international every year.

I find the guerrilla and private showcases serving an important purpose - even if the conditions are not prime for exhibiting their talent.   As house concerts continue to grow, the conditions of the guerilla showcase give a good opportunity to see how a performer relates to an audience in such an informal and up-close environment.

For me, as a broadcaster, it is a great way of hearing songs. I've probably "discovered" more talented songwriters and songs to play on my radio show at the guerrilla and private showcases than I have at formal or Performance Alley events.

I also think it is great practice for some of the less experienced artists to hone their skills among their peers.   

The social aspect and community building is probably THE most important aspect of these events. An artist would be foolish to go to such an event and have an agenda of booking their schedule or being discovered. Like any "business", it is a networking opportunity that builds the framework for the future.

I feel that the biggest issue is the separation of the "business" from the "art".   The focus seems to be on building the "entertainment" end of the business, but the grass roots efforts to perpetuate traditional music has never been fully recognized or embraced. Traditionalists shy away and the FA has not been able to come up with ways to improve.

Still, it is a wonderful organization and great events. I strongly suggest that people with an interest in making a "career" or even an "unpaid vocation" of presenting this music check out these events in the future.