The House Concert Experience

     For those of us who grew up on big, spectacular rock shows at arenas and

stadiums, the idea of a house concert must seem pretty odd. A band? In a house?

Where will they set up the stacks of amps, the lighting rigs, and the smoke machines?

     A house concert is, of course, quite different. The cost is generally a lot less

than a show at a formal venue, often as low as $10-15. The performer is around

before the show, meeting and talking with the guests. Everyone brings a snack or

pot-luck dish, which are shared before the show. The performance is usually

completely acoustic, although sometimes a small amp is used for a bass or electric

guitar.

     Seating is usually folding chairs set up in a living room, and the people in the

first row are close enough to touch the performer. 

     After the show, the guests generally stay a while, to chat with each other, to

speak to the performers, and to have one last cookie for the road. CDs are usually

available, which the performer will be happy to autograph.

     A house concert is a great way to get to know a performer, as an artist and as

a person. If you've never been to one, please give it a try.