What does it take to help bring one of Orangeville’s most loved festivals to life?

In this episode of Rock n’ Realty Podcast, I sit down with Norm Trudeau, Volunteer Coordinator for the Orangeville Blues & Jazz Festival. Norm has been part of the festival for 22 years in multiple roles, and in this conversation, we go behind the scenes of what it really takes to run a major community event powered by music, volunteers, and a whole lot of heart. The 2026 festival runs June 5 to 7 in Orangeville.

We talk about:

• how Norm got involved
• what the volunteer team does behind the scenes
• what makes this festival such a big deal in Orangeville
• the impact it has on the town, local businesses, and visitors
• why music and community are such a powerful mix

Learn more about the Blues & Jazz Festival in Orangeville here: https://orangevillebluesandjazz.ca/

Want to Volunteer this year? https://orangevillebluesandjazz.ca/volunteer/

I’ll also be at the festival this year with Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, so if you’re heading out that weekend, come by and say hi to win some cool prizes!

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Your backstage pass to real estate, community, and the people who help make it all happen. Rock n’ Realty is featured on Teresa Gabriele’s YouTube channel and podcast platforms.

Questions about your neighbourhood? Drop a comment or contact me at:

Teresa Gabriele, REALTOR®

Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage

2-119 Broadway, Orangeville Ontario

(519) 943-0860

teresagabriele@ronanrealty.com

Connect with me today and book a 15-minute call: https://linktr.ee/teresagabriele_realtor

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Blues and Jazz Festival

00:23 Norm's Journey with the Festival

03:39 The Community Connection to Orangeville

05:54 Planning and Execution of the Festival

10:49 Volunteer Recruitment and Roles

13:12 Stories of Dedicated Volunteers

15:41 Why this Festival is so Special for Orangeville

20:26 Festival Admission and Free Events

23:43 Main Music Acts at this Year's Festival

25:45 Festival Growth and Community Impact

27:30 Community Pride and Volunteerism

30:21 Accessibility and Inclusivity Initiatives

33:19 Recognition and Motivation Behind the Festival

35:18 Myth-Busting Festival Misconceptions

36:45 Norm's Musical Journey and Passion

39:53 The Emotional Connection to Music and Community

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