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Quick Start Guide: Performing at Make Music Vermont

Everything a musician needs to know to have a great Make Music Vermont experience.

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 in parks, sidewalks, storefronts, porches, and public spaces.

Anyone can perform — professionals, students, amateurs, and first-timers. No auditions. No fees. Just music!

Getting Started

Sign Up

Visit your local Make Music Vermont chapter's sign-up form
Tell us about yourself and your music
Share your availability and preferences
We'll match you with a venue and time slot!

What to Expect

Performance slots are typically 30 minutes to 2 hours
You'll be assigned a venue (or can request one)
Performances are free to attend — no ticket sales
You bring your own instruments and equipment (unless otherwise arranged)

Before June 21st

Connect with Your Venue

Once you're assigned a venue, reach out to your venue host to discuss:

Exact performance location (inside/outside, specific spot)

Load-in time and parking

Power availability (if you need it)

Sound equipment (what they have vs. what you bring)

Any restrictions or considerations

Weather backup plan (if outdoor)

Prepare Your Set

Plan your setlist for the allotted time

Rehearse!

Make sure all equipment is working

Prepare for the acoustic environment (outdoors can be challenging)

Have business cards or a way for fans to follow you

Spread the Word

Post on social media about your performance

Invite friends and fans

Tag @MakeMusicVT and use #MakeMusicVT

Share the event details (date, time, venue)

Day Of Checklist

Before You Leave

Confirm with venue host that everything is still on

Pack all instruments and equipment

Bring extension cords if needed

Check weather and dress appropriately

Bring water and snacks

Bring business cards or sign-up sheet

Charge your phone

At the Venue

Arrive 30-60 minutes early for setup

Introduce yourself to the venue host

Set up in the designated area

Do a quick sound check

Start on time!

During Your Performance

Introduce yourself and explain it's Make Music Day

Engage with the audience

Have fun!

Mention where people can find you (social media, website)

After

Pack up promptly

Thank your venue host

Take photos before you break down

Post to social media with #MakeMusicVT

Complete the musician feedback survey (organizers will send)

Performing Outdoors: Tips

Sound

Outdoor sound disperses quickly — project!
Acoustic instruments work great
If amplified, point speakers at the audience, not buildings
Wind can be your enemy — secure music stands and lyric sheets

Weather

Have a backup plan (move indoors, under cover, or cancel)
Bring sunscreen and water — June 21st is the longest day!
Shade your instruments from direct sun if possible

Audience

People may come and go — that's normal!
Passersby may stop — welcome them
Engage with listeners; they're curious about what's happening

Equipment Checklist

Essentials

Instrument(s)

Cables, stands, picks, sticks (whatever you need)

Tuner

Setlist

Water

Sunscreen/hat (if outdoors)

If Amplified

Amplifier or PA

Microphone(s) and stands

Extension cord (at least 50 ft)

Power strip

Backup batteries/power if possible

Nice to Have

Business cards or QR code to your socials

Tip jar (optional — some performers use them!)

Merch (CDs, stickers, etc.)

Small fan (if hot)

Folding chair or stool

FAQ

Do I get paid?

Make Music Day performances are volunteer. You're participating for the love of music, exposure, and community!

Can I sell merch or accept tips?

Usually yes! Check with your venue host and local organizers.

What if no one shows up?

It happens, especially at quieter venues. Play anyway — you never know who might wander by. And you're still part of a global celebration!

What if it rains?

Have a backup plan with your venue host. If the venue can move indoors, great. Otherwise, you may need to cancel — safety first.

Can I perform at multiple locations?

Yes! Some musicians do a "tour" of several venues throughout the day. Just make sure you can realistically get to each one.

I'm nervous — I've never performed before!

That's okay! Make Music Day welcomes first-timers. Start with a short set, invite supportive friends, and remember — everyone is there to celebrate music, not judge.

Key Contacts

Your Chapter Organizer:

[Name]

[Phone]

[Email]

Your Venue Host:

[Name]

[Phone]

[Email]

[Address]

Why Participate?

Share your music with your community
Connect with new fans and fellow musicians
Be part of something global — 1,000+ cities worldwide!
No barriers — all skill levels welcome
It's fun!

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Thank you for being part of Make Music Vermont! Musicians are the heart of Make Music Day. We're grateful you're sharing your gift with the community.

Questions? Contact your local Make Music Vermont chapter organizer.