I know it is not fair to ask what each of you charge for gigs, especially since we are so geographically diverse and our services are so different (one-man band, singing, accordion, PA systems, etc.) so perhaps I can best ask what you think would be reasonable to charge for my situation:

One-man band accordionist with arranger. No singing, concentrating on standards and ethnic Italian songs in California. I used to play an old Excelsior accordion for years at functions in my community for around $100-$150US but that was over 15 years ago. I'm just now getting back into it as an adult and have no idea what to charge. I imagine I will be playing weddings, anniversaries, and private parties.

Thank you.

The Accordionist

The sad fact is that wages for live performance have not changed much in 15 years and most musos I know still charge under $200 a night for club performances and whatever they can sell themselves for to private and corporate affairs. The amount clubs are willing to pay vary a great deal depending on what they can get musos for in their area and what kind of clientel they serve.

Charge what the traffic will bear, relative to what you think you're worth ... and as Uncle Dave advises, NEVER underprice yourself...
You might want to get an idea as to what the going rates are in your area... you could call some 'one man band' (I really dislike that phrase, although I'm not sure why) type entertainers, pose as a potential client, and try to get prices, or call a local booking agent, again as a potential client, and ask about prices...
If you're just trying to get back into the business, you may want to hook up with an agent yourself..... Just make sure you have the details about payment in writing before you do any gigs (jobs) ... some of these guys are notorious for paying late... I worked for one here in RI and I was sure he paid so late hoping you would forget he owed you the money ...
t.
PS ... How do you do the 'bellows shake' on a reedless accordion?!? ....
t.

Funny ...... of all the high priced gear I've had, the BEST belly shakin' squeezebox was on the Farfisa G7 ! It was awesome!
(if you like that sort of thing)

Hi Accordionist,
I live in Southern California and will play at a Irish Dance at a senior community. I am a "one man band" (sorry Tony), no singing, but play mostly Big Band, a little Latin, jazz and a little country mixed in.
I will be playing for 3 hours, have two 10 minute breaks and dinner included. I live in the community and know most of the people. I set my fee for 3 hours at $150.00. I would go 4 hours for an additional $25.00, since I am all set-up. They kind of balked at the fee, but I feel my investment of the keyboard, speakers, time and etc. are worth it. I don't consider myself a pro as Uncle Dave is, but I have played for weddings, parties, church and dances occasionally. Hope this info helps in forming your own fee. Good luck and happy playing.
Best Regards,
Dave

Dave,
$50 per hour is a bargan rate. don't discount the O/T either. Prorate the time, or even INcrease it. There's alot to the planning, and pacing of a party that needs to be addressed with energy and finesse, so don't give away the last hour for nothing !

Dave S ... Sounds like the rates in your area are really quite reasonable, if that's what most are charging... Around here (Rhode Island), most guys I know of are charging $75 to $100 (some more) per hour ...
I also agree with UD on the O/T ... It should be at least the same price as the other hours ....
t.

The average in this part of the world (people's republic of Maryland) is the same as it was 30 years ago, about $50 per hour with a $200 minimum. Some really good musicians that I know play for a lot less when it's a regular, four to five night a week job. They're probably averaging about half that at $25 to $30 an hour plus tips. Depending on the gig, the tips can vary from just a few bucks to a couple hundred.

Good Luck,

Gary

Yes...that $25/hour seems right (at least for a "newcomer").

My first gig was $60 for 3 hours (but that includes 45 mins break).

Hi Gang,
Thanks for the advice on setting a fee for playing, especially the last hour, your right Uncle Dave, it's just as entertaining as the first hour and I sure agree that it takes triple that amount of time in preparation.
Happy Playing to All,
Dave Shively