I understand that performing at my House Concerts isn’t a path to riches, but I do everything I can to make it a worthwhile and respectful experience—one that honors the value of your art. While I can’t guarantee attendance, I work hard to fill the space and create a warm, attentive audience. I must be doing something right—my House Concert Series has attracted incredible talent from across the country and even from Europe. Many Artists have expressed interest in returning, which I take as the highest compliment.

I have a pretty cool bar in the house, which I think makes this “venue” memorable, and that helps keep my attendance up.

I typically schedule concerts about every two months, which seems to strike the right balance for keeping my regular attendees engaged and enthusiastic. I aim for variety in musical styles and instrumentation to keep things fresh and interesting. I receive more offers to perform than I could ever accommodate—turning people down is never easy—but I’m very selective about who I invite. I know my regular audience well and do my best to keep them happy, while also introducing them to new sounds and experiences. It’s a fine line, but one I enjoy navigating.

Most of the performance requests I receive are from Country Artists. While I know Country is the most popular genre in the U.S., my loyal attendees have specifically asked that I limit the number of Country shows. I’ve hosted some outstanding Country performers who were very well received—but the bar is set high.

Details and Fine Print:

• I generally send out about 140+ invites to friends and regulars by e-mail and Facebook. People are encouraged to bring friends. Artists can promote it on their social media as well – It is open to all. I generally get between 20-40 people to show up. I had a couple shows with 50. If you have a big following in the area—I might need to control the numbers— but I never had anyone complain it was too crowded.
• There is a Pot-Luck Happy Hour party before the show—usually 7pm to 8pm. Most guests show up for it to socialize and bring something interesting to share —Food or Drink. It is a great time and there are some interesting people.  Some Artists join in on the fun… some avoid it.I have tried several times— but no one seems to RSVP, even when I insist. So, head counts in advance are very difficult to confirm. ALSO worth noting: a lot of people often show up a late.  It can be frustrating, but does not affect the performance.  
• You can do whatever you want. Music usually starts about 8-8:830p.  Most artists have performed 2-sets. With a set lasting  about 30-45 min, followed by a 30-45 min intermission. Artists usually socialize, sign-up followers, and sell Merch during intermission. I estimate about 10% will buy merch.  I/We might want to re-think 1 vs 2 sets.… about 40% of the guests leave after the 1st set.
• I collect the “Door” when I announce the intermission break or the first/final set ends. I wait until then because some people show up late and I think if they like the music they might be more generous. I ask everyone to donate $20-25 for the artist. I always remind everyone that the life of an Artist is hard — finances unpredictable and that you traveled far to perform for them. 100% of whatever is collected goes to the Artists.

I have a large music room that is about 18 x 18. The room is open to a large foyer—with 24-foot ceiling and steps to sit on. I put chairs in the music room and half of the foyer. The foyer has a wide archway opening into another room I converted into a bar. There is plenty of seats and standing room.

– Sound System –

I have a BOSE L1 Compact Tower sound system and a Behringer FLOW 8.  It is 8-Input Digital Mixer. I had a couple artists perform here with a BOSE L1 and it filled my “space” with rich crystal-clear sound. It is amazing.

I bought the Mixer based on an Artist Friend’s recommendation. She uses it and her husband is a processional sound engineer. Her House Concerts always sound like I am in a recording studio.

I do not know anything about the Mixer… so, if you want to use it, you should familiarize yourself with the setup and features. It has a app and you can control the mixer wirelessly.

I have a Mic stand that can hold a phone/tablet, but  I do not have Microphones or any cables… so that you need to bring— if you plan on using my setup.

I also have a tuned Baby Grand Piano that you can use.

The room as 2 LED Spot lights that are color that you can use.