It's the end of February. Not quite summer - not even quite spring, but... time to start thinking about summer gigs. I like this picture because it was from the beginning of my adventure last year. Notice I changed the name of the blog to just, "Festival Express." No need to have to change the name every year - I intend to keep riding this baby!Last year was what I called the "investment year". I volunteered my time with Rex Foundation as well as on crews at festivals with the express purpose of being seen in action - doing what I do. I have learned that in the music business (like most businesses I suppose), it's not necessarily who you know - but it's who knows you. I think I accomplished my goal. I met a lot of people and made lots of connections last year, and enjoyed every moment of it. I am now finding out upon whom I actually made lasting impressions. Happily, I can report that I think it was more than a few.
Some highlights from last summer include connecting with Lisa McCory while selling merch at Delfest, being the "answer girl" and getting to reunite people with their stuff at Mountain Jam, being everyone's favorite beer wench at All Good, dancing with David to Michael Franti at High Sierra, the monsoon at the Vibes (ok, maybe that was a low light - but it was exciting as hell!) and of course the big jam after the Vibes. All that on top of meeting so many great folks, hearing so many great bands, and raising so much good money for Rex Foundation. I am so looking forward to see what this summer holds!
While nothing is 100% set yet, I can say that things are looking hopeful. I don't want to mention any specifics until things are definite, but I feel confident that I can say I have a 99% chance of employment with 2 festivals, about a 95% chance at a third, and probably an 85% chance at yet a forth. I am 100% certain that those chances are absolutely due to my work from last summer. Plus I still have pans in the fire regarding several other events and positions for which I think I have a relatively good shot.
The Rex Foundation gig afforded me a great deal of opportunity, for which I am eternally grateful. The Rex Jams were an absolute blast - I totally dug working with the bands and being on stage speaking to everyone about Rex and the good work they do. I also appreciated being part of the host committee, and the event production team of The Black Tie Dye Ball, in November. My experience with Sandy and Theresa was great, and they have been so wonderful about offering references and helping me to make connections this year. I know they have been instrumental in helping me to get to this point. I will always take any opportunity to work with them in the future as it is not only rewarding, but a tremendous pleasure.
So - for now, I continue to make my plans, fill in my calendar, and look forward to the warmer weather. ....I can't wait to get my tan back!
