Your Value

I. Contextualizing Your Worth

Before you determine the ticket price for your performance, remember the unique cultural and artistic inheritance you offer, which is built upon significant investments of:

• Time/Effort: Countless hours, years, and decades of practice honing your craft, often beginning in early childhood.

• Education: Extensive financial investment in conservatories, summer festivals, and private lessons.

• Material: The physical value of your instrument, which is often a six or even seven-figure ‘museum piece.’

You are not just charging for a 60-minute performance; you are charging for the decades of preparation that makes those 60 minutes possible.

II. Consult with Your Host

If your host is familiar with those that will be attending, they can help you to better understand the demographic of your audience. Set your price point based on the attendee profile:

• Older/Affluent: Target a higher, premium price point (i.e., $50 and up)

• Younger/High-Energy: Consider a lower price point and prioritize building new relationships and gaining valuable performance experience/exposure (i.e., $15-$25)

III. Revenue Models

There are three primary ways to handle money at your event. While all are options, in our experience one stands out as the most suc

1. The Standard Model (Ticketing)

• The traditional approach of charging a flat fee upfront. It creates predictability, but can also sometimes cap your potential earnings.

2. The Hybrid Model (Small Fee + The "Ask")

• Charge a $3, $5, or $10 reservation fee upfront, state a minimum required contribution, and make a direct ask for this contribution at the performance.

• Why it works: Attendees are more inspired during and after a performance., and are frequently willing to give more than a standard ticket price once they’ve experienced the music.

3. The "No Upfront Cost" Model — Least Advisable

• The Risk: High "flake rates." If a spot is free, people claim it on a whim and often don't show up.

• The Solution: Even a "token sum" ensures follow-through and a full house.

💡 Pro-Tip: The "Bureaucracy" Advantage

• When you perform independently, you step outside of large bureaucracies that often absorb a significant portion of the revenue. In this model, the financial fate is in your hands. If you choose the right host and stand in your value, they will be your greatest ally.

📥 Reflection Activity

• Identify your "Token Sum": Based on your current audience, what is a small reservation fee that feels accessible but still encourages "follow-through"?