What is a House Concert?

Simply put, a house concert is an invitation-only music performance in someone’s home, presented by a host who does not profit from the event. Traditionally, artists are paid by a suggested donation ($10-20) requested of each attendee.

Most house concerts are:

• held indoors
• attended by 15-50 people
• put on inexpensively. Hosts spend from $50 – $125 on food and beverage. Attendee donations pay the performer.
• known to include light snacks, beverages or a pot-luck dinner
• attended by the host’s friends, neighbors, co-workers, and maybe a few fans of the artist
• performed by solo acts, duos and small groups
• performed with a very small sound system or no amplification. Artists usually bring what they need.
• intimate — audiences sit close and are attentive
• stronger for artist merchandise sales than traditional venues
• willing to house and feed the artist for the night

Why are house concerts so enriching and fun?

For fans, it’s an opportunity to hear music in a super-intimate, and often remarkable setting. People are friendly, artists are engaging and accessible, and sometimes the food and ambience are sublime.

For musicians, it’s a night away from the bars, or a chance to get up close to the audience – to see and hear the reactions that are often obscured by big stages and blinding spotlights.

What’s in it for the host?