I am a surgeon by training and currently work in cancer prevention research at the National Cancer Institute.  I am not involved in the music industry at all– but have made some interesting connections over the years.  

I have been hosting house concerts since I moved to Woodbine, MD in 2013.  I host about 5 concerts a year on Fridays/Saturdays. A week day house concert would not be well attended where I live.

I am surprised and grateful for the amazing Artists who are interested in performing at my House Concerts Series.  Music is like a religion to me. It clears my mind, displaces stress and can bring me back to special times. It is better than any medicine or therapy I know of.   The world is a better place because some very special people are willing to pursue their dreams.

I recognize that you will not be getting rich performing at my House Concerts.  I do everything I can to make it worth your while, and show you the respect you deserve.  I make no guarantees on attendance – but I work hard to fill the space.  I must be doing something right, I have managed to attract amazing talent from all over the country—and so far everyone is willing and interested in coming back.

                                                                   Gary Della’Zanna

 Details and Fine Print:

1. I generally send out about 100+ invites to friends 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.  Prior to COVID-19 I had a couple shows with 50.  
2. There is a Pot-Luck Happy Hour party before the show— Most guests show up for it and bring something interesting to share—Food or Drink. It is a great time and there are some interesting people.
3. You can do what ever you want.  Most artists perform 2-sets. The 1st set usually last about 45 min, followed by a 30-45 min intermission. Artists usually socialize, sign-up followers, and sell Merch during intermission. I estimate about 15-20% will buy CDs
4. I collect the “Door” when I announce the intermission break.  I wait until intermission because some people show up late and I think if people like the music they might be more generous. I ask everyone to donate $15-$20 for the artist. I always remind people that the life of an Artist is hard—and that you traveled far to perform for them.  100% of whatever is collected goes to the Artists.
5. 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.
6. I do not have an AMP or Mics. Most artists bring their own. I have a Baby Grand Piano and some LED Spot lighting.
7. Artists are welcome to stay the night and I will make sure there is something for breakfast.  I have an in-law suite in the basement with a separate entrance. There are 2 bedrooms with queen size beds, a kitchen, full bath, TV room, game room, and wireless internet.  If you do not need 2 rooms, I might put out of town guests in the extra room.  I sometimes get people from NY, NJ, PA to show up for my House Concerts. 
8. You are welcome to stay a few days (before and/or after) my House Concert if you have other gigs in the area and don’t have a place to stay.  No Room Service, but Free is always better than paying Baltimore and D.C. hotel rates.  The in-law suite allows for some privacy- you will not be in the middle of everything.  If you stay with us for a few days, you are welcome to join us for dinners–but don’t expect fancy.  We generally eat dinners together– you’re on own for Breakfast and Lunch.