As I was telling someone just recently, though I don't want to make too much of it, I try to bring artists that won't disappoint. I look for artists that are acoustically-grounded, lyrically thoughtful, and spiritually provocative --- the same things I looked for when I used to sign artists to my record label. I won't always get it right, but I take seriously your trust in me to bring artists who, while relatively unknown, meet these criteria. Without a community that supports the artists and concerts, I would not be doing this. So, thank you.
I also wanted to tell you a little bit more about the costs of the concerts because I want you to understand the challenge and to be candid with my supporters. When I ask artists to come, I generally offer them 75% of the gross proceeds or a guarantee of $400-500, whichever is higher. The 25% I keep usually allows me to pay my costs of chair and light rental, food and drink. I generally offer them no money for transportation or lodging. I feed them and usually (but not always, if they choose otherwise) put them up in our home. Given that they have some significant expense for transportation, I offer a guarantee, sometimes to make it worth their while, sometimes just to ensure they don't lose money, sometimes just to be sure I can secure them. Occasionally I lose money (that is, have to put some in), but not often. I adjust my guarantee based on how many I believe will show up, and I estimate reasonably well, though this has been a learning process! I also know that while most people will give the suggested donation of $15/person, some may not be able to, and I do not want cost to keep folks from coming. I also know from long experience with artists that most live month to month, and many do not even have health insurance, something most of us take for granted. Frankly, I want to send them away with money in their pocket and a soul encouraged by a good response to their music (something they do not always receive), and I'm glad to say that is exactly what happens. You are a good part of the reason for that. So, you see, this is your concert series as well, and you are why I receive warm letters of thanks from many of these artists.
Now, I'm not asking you to put more money in the basket. Rather, my challenge to you is twofold: First, come to the next concert. Don't keep me wondering. Make your reservation. You will not be disappointed. The artists may not be well known but I guarantee a great show and a good time. Second, while I know it is a big challenge, I'm asking you to bring someone new with you who has not been introduced to our house concert series. I'd like to fill our house for a great concert. Will you take the challenge?
P.S. If you are wondering about the relevance of the drawing of Jimi Hendrix above, it's the trust thing --- I promise you, my listeners, there will be no Jimis in the house. No destruction of guitars, no twisted version of our national anthem, and no words I can't understand! And if you don't know who Jimi Hendrix is or don't have the foggiest idea what I'm talking about, better find me at the next house concert.
