Today is a wonderful time to address an increase in free performance requests that I have been receiving along with my other colleagues. Most of us have been studying music since childhood. We have had private lessons, various rehearsals for different types of ensembles, recitals, church performances and the list continues. Music is not a hobby. It is who we are and what we do for a living.
It is extremely disrespectful for someone to ask for a performance without the proper compensation. It takes a certain amount of finances just to perform let alone continue as a professional musician especially in this economy. Collaborations are welcome; however, please expect to pay for the time and expertise of the musician.
I applaud myself and my colleagues for their hard work and dedication to their craft and look forward to navigating proper negotiations when it comes to being treated as human beings that earn a living.