As many of you house concert attendees know, since late last year we have faced a ruling from the Raleigh Board of Adjustment that has impacted our ability to host more than three house concerts in a year. A long-running and established house concert venue, Little Lake Hill House Concerts, was cited last year for violating the city zoning ordinance. Essentially, the city defined use of a residence as a house concert venue as a business use of residential property. Thus, a single residence is limited to three such events in one year. (You can read more about it here, if you so choose.)
But my purpose in writing to you is not to lament that interpretation but to suggest that it offers those of us who enjoy hearing music in a home an opportunity and a challenge: we can open more homes to house concerts, thereby letting others enjoy hosting artists and introducing their friends and neighbors to the experience of live music. As I have already hosted two house concerts in our home this year (so I have one more left), would you consider hosting one concert this year? For some of you, this may seem intimidating and a little mysterious, but I'm here to tell you that this isn't rocket science. It's easy! And I'm here to help.
Here's all you need to make it work:
- A willingness to open your home for an evening, provide light snacks and drinks (keep it simple), and help set up and take down chairs;
- A large room in your home or series of connecting rooms that can hold up to 50 people;
- A neighborhood that allows for sufficient street parking and understanding neighbors (remember, you may only do this once a year, so you won't wear them out); and
- A family member or friend who can sell merchandise for the artist.
Here's what I'll do, if you like, and you don't have to do:
- Book and make arrangements for the artist (you can house them, though you don't have to);
- Negotiate their fee and provide their guarantee (I usually offer artists 80% of the door at $15/person or a guarantee, $100-500, whichever is higher, and I have learned the hard way how to set it so I don't lose money) (bottom line: no financial risk to you); and
- Rent chairs and get them to the house and return them to the rental agency.
Part of hosting artists is deciding who to have, so while I have some suggestions, you might as well. I can also send an invite out to my email list, but you can invite your own friends, family, and neighbors.
So what do you think? Would you like to try hosting one concert? Please let me know if you are by emailing me here! It's time to plan for the Fall!
