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!
Listen to Rock n’ Realty Podcast
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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