Aug 5, 2011
05:38 AM
Volunteers: the Unsung Heroes of the Litchfield Jazz Festival
For the past sixteen years, the Litchfield Jazz Festival has been a signature summer event in Litchfield County. Drawing renowned jazz musicians from all over the globe, the Litchfield Performing Arts Association’s main event will take place this weekend, August 5-7 at the Kent School. The festival will bring thousands to Kent to see such acts as The Jimmy Heath Band and The Bronx Horns.
Although attending has become a tradition for music lovers, this weekend will also continue a tradition for festival volunteers. Because the event is presented by a non-profit organization, volunteers are the backbone of its success. Alison Magistrali, former Volunteer Coordinator for the Festival says, “The small Litchfield Performing Arts staff can only be in so many places at one time, this is where the volunteers come in. They are the eyes and ears of the festival and we rely on them to help us in every aspect throughout the weekend.”
Every aspect means that volunteers are those directing traffic in the parking lots, ushering and helping guests to their seats, taking tickets at the front entrance, and even assisting the musicians in the Artist Tent. Magistrali’s job, to organize and direct the duties of all volunteers during the weekend, started out as a volunteer opportunity as well. She says, “I came across the internship posting online and immediately applied. The company and the festival seemed like a great experience for a college student and a place where I could learn a lot. And it was absolutely that and more.”
The festival appeals to volunteers of all ages, united by their eagerness to help and their desire to hear some amazing jazz. Noel and Mark Croce, who have been volunteering since the late 90s, got started when their 15-year-old son wanted to attend, and learned that students under 16 could not volunteer without a parent or guardian. Noel and Mark agreed to help: “I wasn't so happy when he got off the phone and told me that he had signed us up for all 3 days! Anyway, that first year we had 3 different assignments - served food at the Gala, sold tickets and ushered. We had a great time - met wonderful people and heard great music. From that moment we were hooked.” The Croces, who are now the festival’s head ushers, always work all three days and enjoy it so much that they schedule in it as vacation time.
Come out to support the volunteers and hear some great music tonight, tomorrow and Sunday. Tonight’s acts include The Clayton Brothers and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. Festival Grounds open at 5:00 on Friday evening 11:00am both Saturday and Sunday with music on Friday from 7:30 to 10:15, from noon to 10pm on Saturday and noon to 8:30pm on Sunday. Click here for more info and to buy your tickets.
Email
Print
Feed
