Document Type: FAQ
For: Musicians and venues with detailed questions about participation
Location Questions
Where can musicians play?
In Vermont, think creatively:
- Town greens and commons — the heart of many Vermont communities
- Front porches — classic Vermont! Play while neighbors stroll by
- General stores — acoustic sessions outside iconic country stores
- Libraries — many have outdoor spaces perfect for family-friendly music
- Farms and orchards — partner with agricultural venues
- Covered bridges — natural acoustic spaces with Vermont character
- Parks — contact your town for any permit requirements
What if I want to play at a location that's not listed?
Create your own! If you have a relationship with a space (your porch, workplace, favorite café), register it on the website and match your performer profile to it.
What if I want to host a friend's band that isn't registered?
Register your location first, then either ask your friend to sign up, or create a profile for them. Match the profiles together.
Performance Details
Who provides equipment?
Make Music Vermont provides the coordination framework — the rest is up to you. Artists and locations work together to handle equipment needs. This includes:
- Amplification and PA systems
- Power/electricity
- Chairs and shelter
Unlike most festivals:
- Vermont itself is your stage — we're not building platforms
- You have complete artistic control
- Everyone can participate, regardless of genre or skill level
Can I perform multiple times?
Yes! Scheduling more than one performance is fine. Just allow reasonable time for travel and setup.
How long can I perform?
Within any time guidelines for your location, your performance can go as long as you want. Want to play a 3-hour set? Find a location that's up for it!
Logistics
What if I sign up and have to cancel?
Once your event is confirmed, we're counting on you to perform. If you must cancel, try to find another performer to take your spot and let everyone know ASAP.
Can I sell CDs or ask for donations?
Generally, soliciting donations or sales isn't the spirit of Make Music Day. However, musicians are encouraged to:
- Pass out flyers about upcoming shows
- Ask listeners to sign their mailing list
- Promote themselves and their other work
What will Make Music Vermont do to promote my event?
We list all performances on the website and include them in promotional materials. We may pitch specific events to media.
But we also count on you to promote your own show — email your list, post on social media, call your friends.
Special Projects
What if I play an instrument but don't have a band?
Join a participatory event! Many chapters organize:
- Drum circles — show up with percussion or borrow on-site
- Ukulele/guitar strum-alongs — bring your instrument and play together
- Jam sessions — informal group playing
How do I curate a show with multiple artists?
Each artist should register separately (we need unique descriptions for everyone). Then have each artist match to the same location at different time slots. If there's a theme, put it in the location description.
Weather
What happens if it rains?
June 21st weather in Vermont is hit or miss. If it rains:
- Outdoor events can move to covered areas, lobbies, or storefronts
- Keep a door or window open so music is audible outside
- Locations indicate their rain plan during registration
Questions?
Contact Make Music Vermont through vt.makemusicday.org