The 2009 International Folk Alliance Conference is underway in Memphis, Tennessee. Unfortunately I could not attend this year, but I am looking forward to some exciting live broadcasts from the event.

Once again, XM Satellite Radio will be broadasting live from the conference. Last year they broadast the annual awards ceremony, and this year they have expanded their offerings. Mary Sue Twohy, who along with Robert Aubrey Davis have been responsible for the amazing 24/7 folk channel offerings on XM’s “The Village”, have scheduled 3 live broadcasts from this years event.

Tonight, Wednesday February 18th, XM will present the Folk Alliance Lifetime Achievement Awards & Honors Ceremony. Special guests include Roger McGuinn, Rosalie Sorrels, Joe Crookston, and more! The broadcast begins at 6pm ET.

Thursday Feb 19 at 7 PM ET you can join in for a live broadcast that will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Club Passim, a folk club in Boston, Massachusetts. Anne Heaton, Tim Mason and more, including Philly’s own Hoots & Hellmouth! The program will be hosted by the legenday Gene Shay, radio host on WXPN and the emcee for the Philadelphia Folk Festival.

Friday, February 20 at 7 PM ET: Live showcase performances from Canadian Jay Semko, Amy Speace (NJ), Spring Standards (NY), Randy Weeks (TX) and Lucy Wainwright Roche (NY). Host will be Bob McWilliams, KANU.

All programs will be offered on Channel 15 – XM’s THE VILLAGE. You can also listen online at www.xmradio.com