How to Have a Great Night Out

The essence of music is live performance. But over the years I've been surprised how few people know know how to have the best possible time when they go out to coffeehouses and clubs. Here are some observations.

Difficulty Level: easy     Time Required: two sets, encore optional.

1. Make your presence count. Call in advance for reservations. This eases the tension of both artist and presenter in the hours and days before a show, and increases the energy and good will.
2. Bring friends. They will marvel at your great taste and sophistication in having discovered this underground scene. Because there's no advertising, this is the best way to swell the ranks.
3. Work hard - remember that in any concert, the audience is half the show. I've seen too many musicians perform badly or leave unhappy because they thought the audience was unresponsive - or because one person in the first row frowned the whole time.
4. I won't even mention loud talking, crying babies and rowdy kids.
5. How to say hello: Go ahead, introduce yourself; don't assume they remember your name unless and until they protest. Folkies are people oriented and like to know their fans.
6. Do your conversations go: "I loved your music/song/set." "Um, thanks."? Try asking a question about a particular song or show. Artists appreciate proof that someone's actually listening. They're also likely to ask you something in response. Then they can remember you, too.
7. If you have a special request, ask beforehand or at intermission. Most folkies like fulfilling requests, but also like to plan their sets carefully, so the answer might be no. Making heartfelt requests in the middle of a show can lead to embarassing moments....
8. If you're gonna buy a CD, buy it at the show. Otherwise the performer won't see a penny. Also, the CD will have more sentimental value every time you play it - it will feel more live.
9. Musicians - like baseball players in olden days - are always flattered to be asked for their autographs. It's not fawning - the goal is to make the CD more connected to the live show.
   
   IF IT'S A CLUB:
10. Buy food and drinks. Folk fans are notoriously sensible patrons, which is why sane club owners have karaoke nights and book Eagles cover bands instead.
11. To do this, when you go out, go all out. Make it a night. Remember you're supporting the venue as well as the artist: if every couple orders a coffee and water, the artist will have a hard time getting booked again.
12. It probably doesn't need saying, but be good to the staff. If they're happy, everyone's happy. If not, nobody's happy (clinking glasses, order-taking in the middle of quiet songs...).
13. Tipping - make the waitstaff look forward to your favorite artists' shows as much as you do. A waiter asking the owner, "So, when's Christine Lavin coming back?" carries as much weight as her booking agent.
    

Tips:

1. If it's a coffeehouse run by volunteers, make sure to thank them. Also, consider volunteering yourself. Getting involved actually enhances the experience of folk music.
2. Say hello/thanks to the club owner and let him/her know if you liked the show. Remember that every folk club owner is this close to buying a karaoke machine....
3. Choose a place and become a regular. You'll start feeling more like a host than a guest.
   

Related Features:

• How to Spread the Word
• How to do a House Concert
• How to Enjoy the Festival

Hugh Blumenfeld, Editor
hugh@balladtree.com