John Neilson Austin TX Singer/Songwriter
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House Concerts

John Neilson

John Neilson Austin TX Singer/Songwriter
Bio
Store
Shows
Contact Us
House Concerts

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May's Smile

From the recording If By Chance

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May's Smile
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What is a House Concert?

A house concert is a concert in a living room. It's an intimate, casual, one-of-a-kind event that connects musicians and music-lovers. They're happening more and more frequently as artists find that 25 to 40 people can fit into a living room quite comfortably! Hosts have the opportunity to introduce their favorite artists to friends and create a unique musical moment for everyone involved. Musicians and songwriters get attentive audiences, new friends, and new fans.

For these kinds of shows, I travel with my small PA. I usually play one 60 minute set, or two 45-minute sets of original music with a break in between. The host and I usually decide together on a "suggested donation" between $10 and $20. I also sell CDs, T-shirts, and other Merch. Often, hosts offer accommodation for the night. Hosts may choose to do potluck and BYOB,or something more simple like coffee and snacks. Every house concert I play is unique in it's own way, and it's part of what makes them so much fun.

House concerts have emerged as a viable way for acoustic singer/songwriters to tour and build a fan base without relying on the typical clubs or venues. That said, making a house concert financially viable is essential. I prefer to work with the host on a show-by-show basis to come up with the best way to make a show work. Sometimes we go with a higher "suggested donation" for a smaller crowd, for example. I have found that people are generous when they feel that they've seen and heard something really special, so making sure the show is a great experience is always my priority.

There are plenty of great resources for learning more about hosting a house concert (one of the best is www.concertsinyourhome.com), or I can talk you through it if it's your first time! The most important factor is that the show is advertised as a "sit down concert" - audience expectation will be the difference between having a party with background music and having a true concert. These are great shows for me to play as an acoustic performer.

Would you like to host a House Concert?

Contact me at johnneilsonmusic@gmail.com if you'd like to host a house concert.

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