HOUSE CONCERTS
... a house concert is like a private party - generally in the organiser's home or garden, but occassionally in a small hired venue/room.
Because of the small, intimate nature of a house concert, ittle or no amplification is necessary. Dave can play completely acoustically (audiences up to 10 people), through a small acoustic 'cube' amp (for up to about 20 folks) or, for larger rooms/more people (up to 30 or 40 folks) he can bring a unobtrusive state-of-the-art HK Audio PA system (UK only!).
Because house concerts are played to attentive, interested audiences there is no need for ear-splitting volume – and you don't want to annoy the neighbours (better still, invite them!)
...because house concerts are private events, hosts cannot 'charge' entry to their home/garden/venue. As a guide, Dave has to cover transport costs (the concert will usually be arranged to coincide with tour dates or other events in your area) and needs a minimum fee of £150. Some house concert hosts pay the artist an agreed fee up front and suggest a 'donation' of between £10 and £15. They may ask guests to pay their donation in advance to help avoid 'no-shows'.
Depending on the numbers invited – and the level of donation – hosts may provide food/snacks/refreshments etc which can be subsidised by any surplus cash after the artist has been paid.
The host will usually provide a room for Dave and his partner for the night – this may be as a guest in their home or in a local B&B/hotel.
...audiences get the chance to see/hear Dave 'up close' in a comfortable, informal and intimate setting without the intrusions of behaviour that can spoil the show at an outside venue.
Also, there's the chance for guests to have a good ol' blether with Dave about the music, guitars or any other topic of conversation. He's full of interesting stories!
- a comfortable room that has space for Dave to perform and however many guests you wish to invite.
- friends/guests! A house concert could have as few as 10 guests or as many as 50.
- a shared love of live music
...there are no set rules and you will discuss and agree with Dave what is suitable for your concert. Generally, though, the programme goes like this:
5/6pm: Dave arrives and you run over how the night will go and any special requirements. Dave will set up his guitars and any sound equipment that is being used.
6.30pm: Usually the host/s will provide a snack or meal and spend some time with Dave.
8pm: guests arrive
8.30pm: Dave plays the first of two half-hour sets
9pm: a 20-30 minute break for chatting and refilling glasses. If there's any food for the guests they will usually have it during the break
9.30pm: Dave plays his second set
10pm: with the 'organised' live music finished,you your guests and Dave share a drink and some conversation until your party finishes.