HOUSE CONCERTS
House Concerts are certainly not a new thing, the first music ever played in fact was probably in some cave-couple's "house". Kings and queens throughout history have thrown little and large musical gatherings at their "houses" and it was not so long ago in America that most families and friends would gather round a piano in someone's home to sing and enjoy an afternoon or evening of musical whimsy. Over the past couple of decades there has been a resurgence of sorts in house concerts, a number of factors, no doubt, contributing to their new found popularity, just a few of which are - the intimacy of the "venue". For true music "listeners", there are few greater atmospheres to really take in the words and meanings of a songwriter than sitting in the relaxed, stilled confines of a cozy room within a matter of feet from the artist. For others, who do not care for or wish to be a part of the, "bar scene" but truly enjoy hearing live music, it is the perfect compromise. For others, in these ill economic times, the cost of, a night out to take in a band can be quite expensive and therefore, realistically cost prohibitive. And perhaps for some, well, it's a scary world out there and venturing after nightfall into areas where most live music is performed in a lot of towns and cities can be downright dangerous. The security and safety of simply going to a friend's home holds quite a comforting appeal for the leery...
So, how do they work and what's needed to host one? Quite simply, not a lot. Since house concerts are usually held at an early hour, 6 or 7pm, as a rule, and minimal amplification, if any, is used, noise restrictions and such for residential neighborhoods are rarely, if ever, a concern. A comfortable room capable of seating 15 to 30 listeners is usually perfect. Guests are asked to make a "donation" of $10 to $20 and bring their own refreshments however it is often the case that the host will provide snacks or finger foods and, in many cases the evening's first beverage or two. Proceeds from the donations are used to cover the costs of the performer and any incidentals such as the snacks. Performers usually offer for sale their CD's and any other concessions they might have available. A minimal deposit is sometimes required by the performer to cover the costs of traveling to and from the location, especially if the distance is a good ways from the artist's, "home base" or if chances of things such as inclement weather could unexpectedly cause the cancellation of the performance. Lodging for the performer, a guestroom is usually quite suffice, is also made available in some cases.
Just a little note: Unlike many performers, I "do" permit the recording of my shows.
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