[Dixielandjazz] Play for pay!

[Randy Fendrick]

I just read Larry's viewpoint about the big band that was getting $200 
for a gig.  I agree with most of what he says and am disturbed at the 
direction that music is taking re: pay.  Several years ago, rock clubs 
in California discovered that they could charge bands X amount for the 
use of their clubs and that groups would pay so they can gain exposure. 
  Whatever that means.  I was brought up to believe that person should 
charge for his/her services.  A group in our town has begun a jazz 
workshop to benefit youth, that is teach youngsters how to play jazz 
and have a place to jam.  While the intent is good, the result is to 
cheapen the craft that we all love.  They have asked our group to come 
in a do a 45 minute set for gratis and demonstrate how to play what we 
play.  Most in our group say, why not, the co-leader and I just shake 
our heads.  This month, I am playing the show "The World Goes Around"  
at a dinner theater  One of the tunes in that is show is a tune we all 
should keep in mind,  "Money, Makes The World Go Round."  Remember 
also, the first law in economics, "There is no such thing as a free 
lunch!"
later,
rf
Randy Fendrick
Southside Chicago Seven
Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra