Hey all,

I’m considering the idea of performing some House Concerts!  Do you want to host?  Email me and we can discuss.  I am specifically interested in the following areas for now, but am open to others:

In or around Boston, the Connecticut coastal towns, Philadelphia, New York City, DC, and Baltimore.  If you don’t know what a House Concert is just read below for more info.

Thanks!!

-Steven

What is a House Concert? 

The definition's flexible, but generally, it's a show that's presented in someone's home, apartment, or a nearby private space.

• The audience capacity is usually from 20 upwards.


• The money collected usually (but not always) goes straight to the performers, with no "profit motive" on the presenter's part other than the joy of hosting a wonderful night of music.


• House concerts are usually conducted by invitation-only, with audience members making a donation rather than members of the public buying tickets. This is very important as it gets around the need for a license.


• Unless there is a large audience performances are usually done without a sound system.


• The concert can be a one off or part of a series.

What does a House Concert need?

It is much like throwing a party but with a few important extras:

1. The performers need a space to perform, typically in a living room.

2. The audience need chairs and room to move in and out during the evening without disrupting the show. Cushions on the floor will be fine for the younger members of the audience.

3. Food & Alcohol can be served but this is optional.

4. Parking for your guests.

The Performers

The format for the show can be flexible. It could be a solo performance, a double bill, headliner plus opener - whatever you want. Acoustic shows work best.

Many well-established performers are happy to do House Concerts and can often fit them into their touring schedule when they have a free night.

The Money

Performers need to earn a living but are not expecting to get rich! Remember you are not selling tickets but are asking for donations which have a recommended amount, typically $10. This will go to the performer as this is how they earn their living.  This is a private party and not a public concert. Everyone in your home is an invited guest.

The Audience

To start with your audience will be family and friends. If you do a series of good concerts then word of mouth will increase your potential audience.

You should decide on a realistic capacity for the room and get people to make a reservation as you need to know how many are coming. Ask people to cancel if they can’t make it so their place can be given to someone else.

Ask people for their e-mail addresses so you can build up a mailing list.

Refreshments

This can be simple or elaborate, it’s up to you.  To keep it simple, just ask each guest to bring a bottle of wine.  If you have the time and energy, make it a potluck.

Performers will appreciate being fed so check on any dietary requirements they may have.

The Show

It’s your house and your show so if you have any particular requirements you should discuss them in advance with the performers. A typical format for a concert would be to start at 8:00pm. Use the first half-hour for guests to mingle, then a 30 to 40 minute set by the artist. Take a twenty-minuet break for more mingling, refreshments, restrooms, etc, then a second 30 to 40-minuet set finishing around 10pm.

It’s good to have a person to welcome everyone and introduce the performers when the show is about to start to get everyone’s attention. If you aren’t comfortable doing this yourself ask a friend.

After the show please remember that the performers may have had a long journey and have worked hard. They may not want to party late into the night if they have another show and a long drive the next day.

Most important of all: a House Concert is meant to be fun!