Festival volunteers are at the heart of the action across our West Cork arts festivals each summer. The experience fast-paced and hectic. Some events happen at night and the days can be long and tiring, so volunteers should come with plenty of energy and enthusiasm.

In return, you’ll be welcomed into our diverse volunteer community and play a part in making the festival magic happen! You will also be welcome to attend all concerts and events that do not interfere with other duties, where there are seats available.

Our high quality performances and events are possible only with the active participation of dedicated festival volunteers who take on a variety of essential roles from stage and venue management to overseeing rehearsals and masterclasses, ushering audiences, helping with box office, and taking surveys.

As a volunteer at West Cork Music’s Chamber Music, Literary, and Masters of Tradition festivals, you’ll get to witness some truly exceptional music and literature from some of the world’s best musicians and writers.  For some of our younger volunteers, the festivals offer great arts work experience opportunities, while other volunteers enjoy a kind of working holiday here in the heart of West Cork.

Festival volunteers of all ages and abilities are welcome – we’ll help to match your role to your strengths. It’s exhilarating to be part of it all, and many of our volunteers return year after year to their favourite festival. Why not join them?

West Cork Music is an equal opportunities organisation.

West Cork Music offers accommodation and meals to volunteers for the duration of the festival at which they are volunteering.

For more information or to volunteer, please contact our festival teams.

Chamber Festival 2026

Dates: 26^th June to 5^th July

Literary Festival 2026

Dates: 10^th July to 17^th July

Masters of Tradition 2026

Dates: 19^th August to 23^rd August