A few weeks ago, I held a house concert in my home to test the concept in a controlled setting before launching a full-blown tour. Jean-François Garneau and I performed for an hour for an audience of 20, after which we asked a few questions and got some great answers:
1. What’s in it for the host?
A house concert is a win-win event for both the artist and the audience/host.
Because of its intimacy, the house concert offers a rare occasion for non-artists to share a special moment with performers.
Hosts, artists, and guests get to partake in a “feel good” event.
2. What – if anything – might we sell as merch?
CDs (older demographic)
T-shirts (younger demographic)
Some people wondered about the financial viability of a model based on donations. My answer: It’s important that the concert be accessible to as many music lovers as possible, even the cash-poor – sharing music is key.
The test, which provided thought-provoking comments and suggestions, was conclusive – I can’t wait to perform the next show!