globalFEST is one of the most dynamic global music platforms, growing from an acclaimed festival/showcase in 2003 into a catalytic non-profit service organization for curators, artists, and the performing arts field.

Through its work, globalFEST (gF) encourages networking and cultural diplomacy; deepens cultural understanding among its constituents; builds audiences for international music and creates new opportunities for artists leading to a more robust and sustainable ecosystem for world music in the United States. Artists that participate in gF programs represent diverse musical styles from all corners of the globe, ranging from traditional to contemporary, and everything in between. gF believes that by strengthening opportunities for artists to reach broader audiences, it also facilitates a more inclusive cultural sector and a healthier society where diverse voices are heard. This creates more equitable economic opportunities for artists and reaffirms the cultural imperative to maintain an industry that supports culturally specific music from every continent, every year, since its inaugural edition in January, 2004. globalFEST’s flagship festival takes place each January and is one of North America’s most important and genre-defying global music events, attracting a large number of music industry professionals, members of the press, and music fans. As a direct consequence of performing at gF, most artists go on to tour at theaters, events, and festivals across the country and around the world. Tours and cultural exchanges, as well as press features and articles, that result from participating in gF have built an ever-widening audience for global music and, by extension, an increase in international cooperation and collaboration. gF was able to expand that reach through its growing partnership with NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert series in 2021 and the first “Tiny Desk Meets globalFEST” series.