Volunteer at the NFA Annual Convention
By Kate Blair
The NFA is looking for volunteers to help out at the 45th Annual NFA Convention. In case you’re not familiar with the convention, it’s a four-day event packed with everything flute, including performances, workshops, masterclasses, presentations, a flute industry trade show, and much more. It’s an inspiring event that leaves attendees invigorated and ready to put all their new knowledge to work in performance, teaching, or whatever their passion may be. This year, the event takes place August 10-13 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, and we are very excited about it!
For months now, we’ve been gearing up for the convention, finalizing events and tweaking the schedule, but we could really use your help to make sure things run as smoothly as possible on the ground. Volunteers can help us out with crucial tasks that ensure the convention runs smoothly and that everyone is having a good time. Even taking on one shift can go a long way in helping us make the convention a fantastic experience that everyone can enjoy!
It’s not all about us, though. There’s plenty in it for you if you volunteer! Interested? Read on!
Why volunteer for the convention?
You get a chance to give back to the NFA and see firsthand what goes on behind the scenes at the largest and most anticipated annual flute event in the world! On top of that, convention attendees can also receive cash vouchers to help offset convention costs. For every three events you volunteer, the NFA will thank you with a voucher redeemable for $10. Plus, you’ll have a chance to meet other volunteers who are equally passionate about supporting the flute community!
How does it work?
The volunteering schedule registration takes place online to provide maximum flexibility and convenience. You get to choose when and for which events you volunteer! There’s no limit to the number of events you can take on, and you can sign up for as many (or as few) shifts as you’d like. As a volunteer, you will still have plenty of time to attend concerts and workshops, visit the exhibit hall, or simply enjoy the city!
What positions are available?
There are many options, including door monitors, page turners, stage crew assistants, and competition runners. Since a significant number of attendees are international visitors, the NFA is also looking for volunteers that can provide language interpretation services. If you are fluent in Spanish or an East Asian language, we could especially use your help! Let us know what your abilities are, and we’ll be in touch.
Who can volunteer?
Anyone can volunteer! You don’t even need to be a flutist as long as you’re enthusiastic about helping out. Your non-flutist friends and/or significant others are welcome to volunteer as well! (Visit the volunteering page on the NFA website to read a Q&A with veteran volunteer Sam Louke, a trombonist who has become a familiar face at NFA conventions). However, only those registered for the convention are eligible to receive cash vouchers.
How to Get Started
You can indicate your interest in volunteering by checking the appropriate box during your convention registration, and we will follow up with you soon with more details.
Looking Ahead to 2018
Not attending the convention this year? It’s never too soon to start thinking about the 46th Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida! If you’re a student, you may also want to consider applying for a convention internship next year. Convention interns work hands on with the Equipment Chair, Convention Director, and Membership Manager and will receive a behind-the-scenes perspective of convention operations and planning. It’s a great way to gain workplace skills and make new connections!
Please contact Volunteer Coordinator Townes Osborn Miller with any questions or visit the volunteering page on the NFA website learn more. We hope you’ll consider lending a hand this summer, but either way, we look forward to seeing you in Minneapolis (or a future convention)!
We hope you’ll consider lending a hand at the convention this summer, but either way, we look forward to seeing you in Minneapolis!