Everything a venue host needs to know to successfully host a Make Music Vermont performance.
What Is Make Music Day?
Make Music Day is a free, worldwide celebration of music held every year on June 21st — the summer solstice. Thousands of cities participate, with performances happening in public spaces like parks, sidewalks, storefronts, and porches.
As a venue host, you're providing the stage for this celebration!
Your Role as a Venue Host
You provide: A space for music to happen
We provide: The musician(s), promotion, and coordination
What You're Agreeing To
- Allow a musician to perform at your location on June 21st
- Provide access during the scheduled performance time
- Welcome attendees who come to watch
- Display any provided signage/banners
What You're NOT Responsible For
- Paying the musician
- Providing sound equipment (unless you want to)
- Feeding or housing the musician
- Handling ticketing (it's free!)
Timeline Checklist
Before June 21st
Day Before
Day Of (June 21st)
After
Logistics FAQ
How long is a typical performance?
30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the arrangement. This will be confirmed with you in advance.
When should the musician arrive?
Plan for them to arrive 30-60 minutes before the performance for setup, depending on their needs.
Do I need to provide sound equipment?
Not unless you want to. Most performers bring what they need, or perform acoustically. Discuss with your assigned musician.
What if I have a business to run?
The performance can happen outside, in a corner, or in a way that doesn't disrupt your operations. Many venues find that music actually attracts more customers!
What if it rains?
If your venue is outdoors, have a backup plan (move indoors, under cover, or cancel). Discuss contingencies with your musician in advance.
Can I sell food/drinks during the performance?
Absolutely! Make Music Day performances often bring extra foot traffic.
Communicating with Your Musician
Before the Event
Reach out at least 1-2 weeks before to confirm:
- Exact location of performance
- Load-in time and parking
- Power needs (outlets, extension cords)
- Sound equipment (who provides what)
- Any venue restrictions
- Weather backup plan
Sample Email to Your Musician
Subject: Make Music Day at [Your Venue] — Logistics
Hi [Musician Name],
I'm excited to host you at [Venue Name] on June 21st!
Here are the details:
Performance time: [Time]
Load-in time: [30-60 min before]
Location: [Specific spot — front porch, parking lot, etc.]
Parking: [Where they can park/unload]
Power: [Available / not available]
Sound: [What you can provide, if anything]
Please let me know:
- What equipment you'll be bringing
- Any other needs I can help with
- A cell number for day-of communication
Looking forward to it!
[Your name]
[Your phone]
Making It Great
For the Musician
- Offer water and a place to set down their things
- Give them space to set up without being rushed
- Introduce them to the crowd if appropriate
- Thank them warmly after the performance
For the Audience
- Make the performance visible and easy to find
- Provide seating or standing room
- Consider shade if outdoors in June
- Have water available if possible
For Your Business/Space
- Promote the event on social media and in-store
- Make special offers to attendees (optional)
- Take photos for your own marketing
- Network with the musician and attendees
Troubleshooting
Problem | Solution |
Musician is late | Call them; have organizer contact as backup |
No one shows up | It happens! The musician still performs; passersby may stop |
Noise complaints | Keep volume reasonable; check local ordinances |
Equipment fails | Improvise acoustic; most musicians are flexible |
Weather turns bad | Move indoors or under cover if possible |
Key Contacts
Your Chapter Organizer:
[Name]
[Phone]
[Email]
Your Assigned Musician:
[Name]
[Phone]
[Email]
Why Host?
- Community building — Be part of something bigger
- Visibility — Bring new people to your location
- Culture — Support local music and arts
- Fun — Free live music at your place!
Thank you for being a Make Music Vermont venue host! You're making it possible for music to happen all across our state.
Questions? Contact your local Make Music Vermont chapter organizer.