Organising A Small Home Concert

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In our front room we can comfortably fit about 30 people. For each pupil who plays there is usually mum and dad,brother and sister, possible grandparents etc...so restrict the number of players and guests to the size of your room,

One idea we had was to arrange concerts for different age groups providing interest with the varying standers of playing.

Restrict the concert to a few pupils also allows for each player to perform more than one piece.

Mums can bring their favourite cakes for a buffet in the interval, drinks can also be provided. Arrange for plenty of help from older pupils with the washing up ! Paper plates are recommended.

The benefits of small house concerts are many the most important being the informal situation which helps to overcome nerves.

Pupils of all standers can become accustomed to playing in front of a sympathtic audience who will provide the applause at the end of each piece even for the newest and most inexperienced player.

At a house concert we change a nominal entry by ticket purchased before the event not on the day. To cover tea & coffee the cost of invitations and certificates awarded a ticket charge of 75p for adults in not expensive, performers free. The music teacher should never be out of pocket by staging a concert. Cover all costs.

Immediately after your concert, make notes on any points that you liked and want to repeat in your next concert also any points that you want to avoid in your next concert.

Plan of action

Preparation time; 3 to 4 months minimum.

1. How many people can you fit in your home?Number of seats, room for instruments etc (i.e Bowing room for cello's) and music stands. Check with the neighbours if Brass or percussion instruments are being used!
2. Who is going to play? What standard? What age? An advanced pupil playing as well as preparatory can provide players, that the younger and less experienced pupils can identify with.
3. A theme and narrator will connect pieces.A highly recommended technique to make your concert extra special. i.e; 'Peter and the wolf would not have been so special without the narration' preferably a story pre-written and devised by the music teacher or by a willing parent, clearly written on prompt cards. No improvising.
4. Distribute the music to the pupils as soon as possible. Try to make sure that each pupil can play 2 of the pieces for the concert in case some one is unable to attend at the last minute.
5. Aim to have the pieces ready, 2 or 3 weeks before the concert for a dress rehearsal with narrators. This will assist in a smooth running and polished performance on the day. You could incorporate a little fancy dress Holiday clothes for the summer holiday etc... purely optional.
6. Organize tea & coffee, orange & biscuits etc. If you wish to, you could ask all the mums to bring a favourite recipe. Our experience is, no savouries. Just as good and less complicated.
7. Enlist the help of older pupils for serving and clearing up.
8. On the day, have your helpers arriving on time, check for an adequate supply of milk, arrange the chairs, relax and enjoy the party.