Photo by Jay Blakesberg

The Americana Music Association Foundation (AMAF) is putting on Thriving Roots: A Virtual Community Music Conference on Sept. 16-18, which will feature “intimate conversations between pairings you won’t find anywhere else.” (Quote via press release.) The AMAF announced that participants will now include the likes of Bob Weir, Oteil Burbridge, Béla Fleck, Sierra Hull, Chris Thile, The Avett Brothers and many more.

According to a press release, “Weir will sit down with fellow Dead & Company member Burbridge as they explore the inspirations and influence Black musicians have had on the Grateful Dead.” In addition, Judd Apatow “will sit down with The Avett Brothers to discuss the intersection of film and music, as well as the fine line between fine art and commerce.”

Fleck and Hull will host a discussion titled “Music Without Boundaries,” which will explore “how roots music transcends and connects with a wide range of audiences.” For their part, Thile, Sarah Jarosz and John Leventhal will moderate a discussion called “World On The Ground,” which will “delve into the connections forged between the artist and producer.”

The virtual conference will commence on Sept. 16 and run through Sept. 18. Passes are available now; for more information and to purchase, click here.