We used to host house concerts (when the kiddos were younger and we had room to host people).
It was a blast. Definitely would encourage.
Money: We encouraged payment ahead of time (we did paypal, now Venmo, Zelle, Apple & Google pay options are all easy) but welcomed donations onsite. Everyone knew that all money went toward the musicians.
We always had light snacks and some beer and wine - and encouraged folks to also bring. Audience that has had a glass or two are more appreciative and donate more. And buy CDs more.
Keep it relaxed and casual, it's your home so that already makes it an awesome vibe. If you want to kick it up a notch, think a bit about lighting, but that is really over and above.
For the times it was appropriate to the musicians, we had them play 15-30 min of waltzes post concert. Most of our attendees were cross-overs from the dance world.
We did not do insurance - though as a caller I had callers insurance for gatherings.
Seth Tepfer, MBA, CSM, PMP (he, him, his)
Senior IT Manager, Emory Primate Center
From: Emily Addison via Organizers <organizers@lists.sharedweight.net>
Sent: Tuesday, September 6, 2022 6:50 PM
To: organizers@lists.sharedweight.net <organizers@lists.sharedweight.net>
Subject: [External] [Organizers] Dance organizers - any resources for organizing house concerts?
Hey dance organizers,
Seems like many of our communities are opening up for dancing again .... exciting times! I haven't gone to a dance yet but I know so many are enjoying getting back into the groove.
I'm thinking of starting to organize the occasional house concert as we've finished an addition that would be a great space for such things.
Do any of you know of a good tips sheet for how to organize an awesome house concert? I'm thinking about things like (1) how finances work (e.g., collect payments ahead of time?) (2) how to make the vibe really awesome (3) thoughts on insurance.
Any leads on this kind of thing?
Thanks!
Emily Addison in Ottawa, ON
