This past weekend, I realized again at why I like to volunteer at various jazz festivals happening in the Toronto area. It’s been a while since the last time I did this, but this past weekend was a good reminder as to why I do this despite my busy schedule.

It was about two or maybe even three years ago that I volunteered for the Distillery Jazz Festival, Toronto Jazz Festival and the Toronto Blues Festival. After a silent few years, I got an email from the event coordinator asking for volunteers at The Art of Jazz, another small jazz festival happening at the Distillery District. I thought it would give me a good break from all the things that’s been happening with me so far, so I decided to sign up for it. Afterall, I do enjoy a good night with some lively and smooth jazz bands.

Part of the attraction for me is the fact that I get to go behind the scenes of the event. Places normally not allowed by the general public. For example, at the Blues Festival – which is no longer happening – I was right on stage with the Blind Boys of Alabama, listening to them, taking photos of them, and basically enjoying their music throughout the entire concert. They smiled, laughed, and even posed for my photos as they were very receptive to me.

This past Thursday was no different as I was literally right on stage sitting right behind the pianist and percussionist enjoying their music, and seeing all the action right up close. I was even able to see all the fancy footworks of the tap dancer dancing along to the jazz beats. It’s just a shame I didn’t have my camera with me that evening as my job was ushering.

In any case, doing something I normally don’t do, helping out wherever I can, listening to good music, being behind the scenes, and best of all, getting into concerts for free is all the motivation for me to volunteer. It’s fulfilling, fun, and just a good time.

Yeah. Why don’t you try it too?