house concert host guide

download this guide (PDF) > | host a house concert page >

book a concert date

1. Review the Host a House Concert page on Sorcha's website

2. Submit a House Concert Host Request Form (allow 1 Week processing time)

3. Confirm Date + Finalize Details with Sorcha (ideally 2-3 Months Ahead)


invite guests

4. Create + Send an Invitation to Guests (1-2 Months Ahead)

Once you gather a guest list that fits the size of your space, try using one of these invitation templates:

Canva Invite Templates | Evite Online Templates (built in RSVPs)

What to include in the Invite:

  • House Concert Date, Time (Gather / Music), Suggested Donation.

  • Musician/Band Name, Photo + Short Bio, Website, Link to video (Sorcha will provide these details).

  • Location (as a private event, most Hosts keep it general — Portland, ME — then share their street address once folks RSVP and confirm.

  • What to Bring (ex: BYOB & potluck dish to share, chair/blanket, donations).

  • Parking details + other helpful directions (ex: enter through the garage doors; the garden is around the back of the house; etc.).

  • Include “Space is limited” if you expect a strong turnout and alert guests if you near capacity or “sell out.”

  • RSVP Contact: Host Email / Phone #.

5. Send A Reminder to Guests (1 Week Ahead)

  • Gather latest tally of RSVPs and share with Musicians (Sorcha).

  • Add any new parking info or event details.

DAY OF CONCERT

6. Prep: Set up Chairs, Table for food/drinks, Table for Musician Merch, Suggested Donations Basket

7. Welcome Sorcha/Musicians ~ expect Load-In & Set Up approximately 2 hours prior to concert

8. Welcome Guests, Introduce Sorcha/Musicians ~ Encourage Guests to show appreciation via Donation Basket

9. Enjoy the Concert!

10. In Closing:

  • Finalize Musician Payment: Donation Basket or Guaranteed Fee

  • Encourage Guests to share media with Sorcha’s “Fan Photos + Videos Upload” Folder in Dropbox


post-concert

11. Send Follow Up Notes (Day after Concert)

  • Optional: Send a note to Sorcha (exchange any feedback + bask in the glow.)

  • Optional: Send a note to Guests (perhaps to say…same time, same place, next season or next year?)

  • Upload any photos + videos you wish to share with Sorcha to her Shared Dropbox Folder

  • Give yourself a Hi-five. You just did a wonderful thing for independent musicians and your community.

ready to host?

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