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QUESTION: I play very little piano and I don't want to make a fool out of myself in front of an audience I plan to pre-record my repertoire I figure approximately four sets at with 5-6 songs a set. With your experience:
1. Are four sets too many sets and is it a good idea?
2. Since the songs are ASCAP / BMI registered should I just take donations?
3. Which is the best way to approach the director?
4. Should I push CD's (donations) since these folks are on fixed or no incomes?



For starters (and not that it would or should hold you back from getting your feet wet ASAP) I would do my best to become more proficient with an instrument, in your case the piano Not that I think you "must" play an instrument on these gigs, as I know two - three acts locally here who sing to backing tracks only. I say this because the two - three I know are definitely in the minority as 99% of the solo or duos play at least one instrument. But again I would not let that stop me, I would let that be an incentive to do a little woodsheding on the piano. Heck with the realtracks now available one instrument does not have to carry a melody for an entire gig or even an entire song. Sing a chorus or two, play a solo on the piano then let the realtracks take a ride or tow . . . life is good!

1. Are four sets too many sets and is it a good idea?

In my retirement communities (60 of them presently) they like a one hour party. With this said I would recommend one long set. But how your break it down will depend on you and your audience.

2. Since the songs are ASCAP / BMI registered should I just take donations?

What I hear from my directors is that if they are any ASCAP etc. fees to be paid it is done by the establishment. However most of these communities are non-profit I am guessing that they have away around this because of their status.

3. Which is the best way to approach the director?

Do an internet search for retirement communities in your area and then just make a call, or either drive by in person to introduce yourself. I would have a recent CD or at least a website where they can go to audition your act.

4. Should I push CD's (donations) since these folks are on fixed or no incomes?

Heck man everyone is on a fixed income, some are just better fixed than others. Don't fool yourself some of the communities have very wealthy clients/residents, especially the Independent and Assisted Living communities. On a personal note I don't push CD's but I do give some away to certain residents who make from time to time request one.

Remember 99.9% of retirement facilities have entertainment budgets and that included the nursing homes not just the upscale Independent and Assisted Living properties. So don't be afraid to ask your price once you determine what it is of course. My experience has shown if they don't tell you right up front they can't afford the price, your asking price is within their operating budget. I know in my area acts get anywhere from 50.00 - 100.00 for a straight 1 hour music gig.

And of course for a starting point, I would factor in the competitive set i.e. what acts are currently charging and how your act stacks up to theirs, but keep in mind in many communities the residents have a lot to say about the entertainment booked in their respective communities

Hope this helps, let me know if I can be of assistance.

Now Break A Leg!

Later,

Danny C.
www.dannycampo.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Danny-Campo/379776252109306?skip_nax_wizard=true

The More You Drink The Better I Sound