Re: [Harp-L] Appropriate compensation for gigs

["Chris Michalek" <Chris@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I slightly disagree with Tobe Terrel.  I play because I like to play
but I like to make money too. Who doesn't?  Frankly not everybody is
cut out to be an entrepreneur especially creative types.  I
personally feel,  playing for free without cause (ie: public benefit
etc) or for next to nothing degrades the local music scene.

It's a catch 22 for both parties.  The Clubs bring in musicians
because they want more people to come and spend money.  The musicians
want to be paid well for what they do and play the high profile clubs.

I'm an entrepreneur but I don't like playing for a percentage.  I
like a fixed fee.  My trio usually doesn't play for less than $450
per night.  If we play for less then the club will not get our real
show, we tend to make it a jam session or and night of improvised
jamming.  

We have a considerable following and the guys in my band are some of
on the planet (with respect to the instrument they play). For the
clubs that are worth a hill of beans they have their own following
and the music is a value added service for their customers.  To me,
adding value to an establishment is better than trying out any podunk
band that will lower themselves to play for the door. Sure, fellows
like Tobe will save money but at the expense of almost always having
bottom rung or inexperienced bands.  THis is not valuing the customs
and frankly I think Tobe's et al attitude towards music cheapens the
musicial experience for all.  It's clear that he not really trying to
coach the bands on how to make money for them.  He wnats them to make
money for him.  Guys like Tobe are in it only for the $$$ and that
goes against the love of music.

Respect your customers and respect the local artisans. Respect and
love is what creates unity and success.  Musicians brings a unique
vision and experience to any club.  Give them what they are worth and
that's at least $150 per man per night.  Want to make sure they bring
in people?  Hire only the established bands that will add value to an
evening at your club.  That way any new band that can break into your
club and play will feel honored AND they will be paid what they are
worth.  This is a win win situation for all.

If I brought in a party of thirty to eat at your restaurant would you
give me a free meal? I think not.  Your bands are not employees and
they are not chumps.  Think of them as the beautiful flowers, table
cloths or fine silverware that grace your establishment.  Quality
stuff costs $$$ and you know it pays off in the long run.

I don't need cloth napkins but prefer them over paper napkins.

No offense to Tobe....





 


>
>
>
>---- Original Message ----
>From: MundHarp@xxxxxxx
>To: tortoise@xxxxxxxxxxxx
>Subject: Re: [Harp-L] Appropriate compensation for gigs
>Date: Thu, 21 Jul 2005 16:30:43 EDT
>
>>
>>Well said Tobe Terrel
>>
>>
>>PLAY BECAUSE YOU WANT TO.... The money is a bonus... Today I played
>a gig at 
>>a secondary (high) school... For free.... It was one of the best
>gigs I have 
>>played in years.... And If just one of those teenagers that heard my
>harp 
>>playing get "inspired "... Then perhaps my performing today might
>have encouraged 
>>"the greatest" harp player ever!  in just a few years time.....
>>I play for the love of the music... OK, I DO make a profit (just!),
>but that 
>>is NOT why I play...
>>Best wishes
>>John Walden
>>London
>>England
>>_______________________________________________
>>Harp-L is sponsored by SPAH, http://www.spah.org
>>Harp-L@xxxxxxxxxx
>>http://harp-l.org/mailman/listinfo/harp-l
>>

Chris Michalek

www.michalekstrone.com
CD Available
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/michalekstrone