Become a volunteer.
The Vernon Performing Arts Festival is powered by volunteers. Join the team that supports performers, adjudicators, families, and the community during festival season.
Volunteer roles.
Volunteers fill a few key roles during the festival. The two most needed each year:
Adjudicator secretary
The adjudicator secretary is the adjudicator's right hand during a class. Duties include welcoming performers as they enter the room, ensuring sheet music is in the right order for the adjudicator, distributing comment forms and certificates as needed, and keeping the class running on schedule.
This role is the most needed at every festival. If you have time to commit to one or two days during a discipline week, this is where the festival benefits most.
Greeter
The greeter welcomes performers, families, and audience members as they arrive at the venue. Duties include directing performers to the setup room or warm-up space, pointing audience members to the performance hall, and answering basic questions about where things are and when they happen.
The greeter sets the tone for the entire festival experience. A friendly first contact makes a big difference for nervous young performers and first-time festival families.
Other roles as needed
The festival sometimes needs help with the Gala (March 12 for the 2026 festival), with setup and takedown at venues, or with one-time events like fundraising nights. If you would like to help in a different capacity, mention it when you reach out.
What to expect.
Volunteer shifts are typically half a day or a full day, depending on the role and the festival schedule. The festival runs across multiple weeks (the 2026 festival ran from late February to mid-March), so there are many opportunities to fit a shift into a busy schedule.
You do not need a background in music, dance, or performing arts to volunteer. Adjudicator secretaries are given simple instructions on the day. Greeters are given a brief overview of the venue and the schedule.
The festival does not currently offer honorariums or other paid incentives for volunteers. We rely on the generosity and goodwill of community members who believe in supporting young performers.
Volunteer with us.
If you would like to volunteer, email vpafestival@gmail.com with your name, the role you are interested in, and any dates or weeks you are available. We will follow up with details and the next training opportunity.