Giggers… What’s the going rate?

[terryj47]

I play bass in a group of seniors living in our 55+ community. We play a 1 hour performance every other month. Mostly standards from the 1900s. We draw a "crowd" of 25-50. We don't charge. They do seem to like us. More applause than I ever got as a teen!

[Laughingboy68]

I get $200-250 for 3 hours plus meal and small bar tab at a small restaurant. Love the place and the owner. The food is phenomenal. Because it's small, I don't need much gear (Bose S1 does it nicely). It's the least I've ever been paid.

$350 for 4 hours at a Gastropub.

$500 for community festival gigs (Rib Fest, Car Show). Usually clocks in at about 3 hours.

These are all solo gigs; I usually supply my own gear. Occasionally there is a good PA already set up.

In contrast, in 1986-87 we had a 5-piece cover band that played for a percentage of the gross at the bar. We typically made between $3000-4000 for the weekend at a hotel lounge in our home town.

The wages for musicians certainly haven't gone up in the last 38 years.

[Dave Hicks]

It's been a while since I've gotten paid, but last time was a memorial service, $200 for 2 players. Previous time was $150 solo, 2 sets.

D.H.

[PapaLobo]

$150 for a solo 2hr acoustic show / $450 for a 2hr band show

[leew3]

Originally Posted by Gordon Currie

Thank you for being respectful of the larger ecosystem! I was taught the same thing many years ago.

It's easier to ignore that and just do what you want, but so much more satisfying if you can get what you want WITHOUT messing it up for others.

Glad to help where we can. Last summer we were double booked with a local singer/songwriter and the venue generously kept both commitments and paid us both. We went on first and did two sets, during which I talked up her talent to our crowd. As she was setting up she was very appreciative of this. As I told her, we're a couple retired guys with an expensive hobby, you're trying to build a career. My wife and I stayed for her show and she did a great job as usual.

[BillyH]

I'm throwing a party at my house June 29th. Will be outside with BBQ catering and a cornhole tournament. Band will play 6pm to 10pm with 3 breaks. $3000 for a 5 piece.

Regards,
Billy