BluesFest 2009

Well it's taken a few days, but the glow has faded. BluesFest is over for another year.

There were so many big-name artists this year that it was hard to see them all. We did get to see Joe Cocker, Styx, Jackson Browne, Ben Harper, Blue Rodeo, and of course KISS. One of my favourite artist was there too, Matt 'Stubby Fingers' Anderson.

Matt Andersen in a blur as usual. Freakin' amazing player, singer, entertainer.

Here's some more performers...

Blue Rodeo.

More Blue Rodeo.

Great performance. Loved it.

I just thought he was a cool guy.

I’ve served as a volunteer photographer for two years so far. This year there were five photographers covering the festival with an assignment to capture each of the 30 roles volunteers perform. What a blast! The images were used in a daily online newsletter, for a slideshow at the volunteer appreciation party, and for various promo ads throughout the year.

Here's some of over 100 images I submitted.

Volunteers working at the Internet Cafe

The crew at the wine cafe.

These are the 'Alternate' volunteers, the minute men of the the north.
Ready to race off and fill in the gaps at a moments notice.

Sometimes it's not all fun and games.
These alternates are waiting it out at the 'Village', dreaming of their next assignment.

Another great assignment is to park bikes all day long. Work, work, work...

After or before each shift, we were served an excellent meal at the Volunteer Village where performers entertain on an ‘open-mic’ stage. Really chill!

Volunteers relaxing at the Village

At the village, conversations are easy among fellow volunteers taking a break. There’s a common feel among us that’s very positive and fun. Some I spoke to have been doing this for 9 years and have developed friendships here that have extended beyond the festival.

Our friend, Fran being the boss lady at a beer tent.

Our friend, Jennifer, explaining something cool to
my wife, Joey, and another friend, Lori.

I can't wait for next year. Till then...