House Concerts

A house concert is an opportunity for us (Sarah and Karisha) to share blessings for one’s home and community through song and intention. We see this as both a great honor and a joyful responsibility. There is a sort of magic that ensues as we all gather in this type of intimate setting: stories are shared by MaMuse that might not typically be, questions are welcomed by audience members, and we all feel a lot more like family when the whole thing is sung and done.

How?

Contact us via email: hello@mamuse.org and say that you’d like to book a house concert with MaMuse.

Choosing a Date

A date will be chosen through email or phone dialogue between host and MaMuse.

Invitations and Promotion

The internet is a great tool for inviting guests. MaMuse has available a bio/photo page which you can send to guests with all the details of the event. You can also lead people to our press page where song samples are also available for those new to MaMusic: www.mamuse.org/press/

You have the option of keeping this a private event, and we are also willing to post the event on our website if there is space for more guests. It’s a great idea to request RSVPs for the event so that chairs are ensured to be filled, especially if there’s a waiting list.

The Performance

Generally there will be two 45 minute sets of music performed throughout the course of the event. This can happen with a break in-between or not. Often times people enjoy serving a desert in between sets or a meal or potluck before the show. This is up to you as the host to be creative and design the party as you like.

Considerations

  • Parking space for guests?
  • Chairs or cushions for guests, or a note in your invitation for guests to bring their own.
  • Will you be needing amplification for this event? Generally if there are more than 35-40 people, we like to have some sort of small PA set-up so that all can hear. There are possibilities for MaMuse to supply one upon request for a little additional charge.
  • Sometimes a written agreement or contract will be made between MaMuse and hosts. This is to ensure clear communication and ease.
  • Do you have support? Make sure you’ve got a couple of friends who are willing to be “helpers” for preparation and during event. We all can use “a little help from our friends.”

Money

MaMuse aims to make at least $600 for house concert events, although we are also flexible depending on the nature of the event and location. Often this money is generated by charging guests to attend with a set ticket price or by setting a “suggested donation” amount or sliding scale to accommodate all. Money can be collected ahead of time or at the door. It is understood that hosting a house concert can be a big deal, so although hosts do not generally take a percentage of money generated, MaMuse is always willing to make an offering to hosts for their organizing efforts.

MaMuse Loves

  • MaMuse loves to share a meal before the event with hosts, although this is not a requirement.
  • MaMuse may occasionally love to be given overnight accommodations by the hosts, although this is not a requirement.
  • MaMuse loves it that you love MaMuse!

We hope to see you in your home or sacred space soon.

Blessings,
Sarah and Karisha

House Concert Resources Online

http://acousticroof.ca/archives/documents/houseconcertguide.pdf

http://www.dannyschmidt.com/houseconcerts.html – Another example of artist house concerts… (we love Danny!)