House Concerts -
How It’s Done

So, what are House Concerts? How do they work? Here’s the lowdown:

House Concerts101:

  • A performer is selected. Says Ching: “Because it’s a 100% labor of love, only those musicians that draw the enthusiasm of the host are invited.” Unlike club venues, house concerts are usually booked about 6 months in advance, and unsolicited materials are often shunned in favor of the presenter’s personal preferences (it’s nothing personal).
  • Invitations are sent. In the case of the Ching’s, those invitations are kept entirely private. In many cases, however, concerts will be promoted on websites, through fliers, and on local radio- all of which will include a contact number without an actual address in order to prevent “party crashers.” Usually, between 25 and 75 people are invited; between 30 and 50 attend.
  • The stage is set. For the most part, set-up is minimal; guests are encouraged to contribute to a potluck dinner, and are seated on foldable chairs, loungers, pillows, and whatever else can be construed as furniture. Occasionally, more established presenters will rent a few extra seats, just to be safe. Amplified performances are rare, and the majority of artists and presenters polled for this piece actually prefer unplugged performances.
  • Tickets? Here, it is important to remember that tickets are not bought or sold. Instead, “suggested donations” are encouraged and collected- usually in the $10-$25 range. According to the Ching’s, “this is a party where voluntary contributions are made with 100% given to the artist. We absorb all costs. Every show is a financial loss for us.”
  • The Performance. Performers usually play two, 45 minute sets, with a meet-and-greet/snack session scheduled in between. During this time, performers have the opportunity to mingle with guests, sell merchandise, and network with other house concert presenters and artists. The atmosphere is informal. As presenter Cherie S. Hall of the Moondilla House Concert Series in Alabama admits, “My guests and performers have expressed a magical natural high feeling. For days after the concert my home feels wrapped in positive energy and a sense of well-being.”
  • The Long Goodbye. Oftentimes (and in the case of the Ching’s), the performers will be provided room and board for the night in a cozy guest room, or a local hotel. This is entirely up to the discretion of the presenter.