House Concerts

A.K.A. Secret Shows

Building Community One House Concert at a Time

Turns out you don’t need a dozen semi-trucks and a light show and a corporate scam and ticket sniping bots to experience music in its most primal, immersive, and sacred form— live and close-up, shared as intimately as conversation; a concert that is a communion of you, your people, and the performers. When you present live music, you’re not just promoting “the arts,” you’re building community— something the world is in dire need of.

 

What is a house concert?

  • A house concert is a concert in someone’s home, presented by a host who typically does not financially profit from the event.
  • Audiences sit close and are attentive. You can set this expectation in you invitations, and when you introduce the artist at the start of the show. This will create a truly exceptional and special experience for everyone. Also: if introducing the artist makes you nervous, have no fear! We can provide a short script. And besides, we’re all friends here.
  • Artists put on a tight, polished concert. 45 minutes / 15 min break / 30 min is a good format to keep audiences energized and wanting more— and they can always ask!
  • A unique part of the house concert experience is getting to know the artist/performers, who typically mingle with the audience at break and before/after the show.
  • There is usually plenty of time for socializing among audience members too. An audience that knows each other is the very definition of community— being part of it is warm and uplifting and essentially human.
  • Music pulls people together fast at a house concert— the more comfortable the audience, the more they feel, and the more they feel, the more energy they give the performers, who give it right back to them in a virtuous circle. Levitation can occur.

Singer-songwriter Franz Schubert playing a house concert in the 1820s.

 

Who attends house concerts?

  • Attendees will primarily be your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, social group members, acquaintances etc.
  • Most house concerts are billed as private, invite-only, non-commercial events—this protects you from various legal hazards and the odd party crasher. What this actually means in practice varies from host to host— some post widely on social media; others are more selective. Our calendar will list your city and state, and your concert series title if you like, but we will never list your email or street address unless you request it.
  • Occasionally a few of our fans will ask to contact you to request an invite, and we generally oblige— let us know if you’d rather we didn’t.

 

How do performers get paid for their time and expenses?

  • Not only have performers dedicated a lifetime to their craft and career, but they often travel hundreds of miles to perform, and usually have many business expenses beyond travel.
  • Some hosts simply pay the performer a flat fee, and present the concert as a generous gift to their friends.
  • But there is another way: simply ask each audience member to pay a $20-30 suggested donation to the artist. Having everyone pitch in builds community, and it also lets people know that they are in for an exceptional, high-quality experience, something to savor and enjoy. This is how most house concerts operate. It’s a win-win-win for host, performer, and audience members.
  • House concert hosts often provide lodging and meals for the performers, which helps mitigate the artist’s financial risk when there is no flat fee. Some hosts also offer a guaranteed minimum amount.
  • Artists will also need a small table for merchandise.

 

How many people attend a successful house concert?

  • House concerts are usually attended by 20 to 75 people. 20 feels quite special and cozy, 30 is really happening, and more than that marks the kind of stand-out success that keeps performers on the road. You can fit a surprising number of people in your living room, especially if you line up chairs. And then there are yards, basements, garages, barns, and even community centers.

 

How do I invite people?

  • Most people find that inviting people personally, face to face, is extremely effective, along with several general invites and staggered reminders, starting a month or more in advance. Some people print posters and postcards; other people go all digital.
  • We recommend requesting RSVPs, which will help you see how promotion is going. A strong turnout makes these special shows possible.
  • Snacks, beverages or a potluck dinner also help! Breaking bread together is an instant community builder, especially if this is your first house concert. Some hosts (and/or potluckers) go all out as an opportunity to share their cooking skills, which of course is always a treat. But even a few boxed cookies or chips (or popcorn!) or a pot of chili go a long way to make people feel at home. 
  • Remember, you are not only offering your friends a unique experience, but an insiders’ deal. According to 2025 data from Pollstar, the average stadium concert ticket in the U.S. costs $128.64. An arena show is $98.78, an amphitheater is $70.72, a theater $75.09, and a club show $43.95 (plus egregious drink minimums that might add $20 or more and give you a headache). And these are for average seats. But who has the best seat in YOUR house? EVERYONE.

 

How do I collect the donations?

  • Some hosts use ticket software. Others simply make it clear on the invitation, and remind the audience on show night where the basket is, along with a large and clearly printed sign. Either way can work well. 
  • Artists may also take credit cards/Venmo etc— we do! 
  • Some hosts prefer a hard ticket price rather than a suggested donation. When in doubt, we’d rather include than exclude people who either can’t afford it or who are timid first-timers.

 

How do I schedule a house concert?

  • House concerts are scheduled around an artist's tour schedule, which has often been in the works a year or more in advance. When you book a house concert you should take it as a serious commitment, as cancelling even a few months in advance can leave the artist with holes in their tour schedule, and/or throw off their often precarious budgeting for the tour. Even if they are able to fill the date, the kind of venues they are able to book short-notice are often not ideal. 

 

Where do I find artists willing to play my living room?

  • Well… you’d be surprised at how many well-known artists actually adore house concerts, above all other venues. If you can’t get their agent’s attention, but you can get close enough to get a record signed, just ask them. Your circle of friends might offer a welcome respite on a grueling tour, fill an empty night, or break up a long drive. You might just provide the grounding experience they need to write the next song.

 

If you think your living room should be on Max Hatt / Edda Glass’s next tour routing, drop us a line at manyhatproductions@gmail.com or (406)461-8833. We’re always happy to answer questions, discuss details, and dream up the next show.

When you present live music, you’re not just promoting “the arts,” you’re building community— something the world is in dire need of.

Reviews

from hosts on the Listening Room Network

May, 2025 - "This was the third time that we have had Max and Edda and we look forward to more. Max is an excellent guitarist and plays leads and rhythm using a looping pedal. Edda has a unique voice and writes [the lyrics to] most of their songs. They are excellent house guests and have become good friends. I highly recommend them."
(J. Wolf)

April, 2025 - "Max and Edda were, simply, phenomenal! Max's guitar work was excellent, and Edda...wow! Whether their arrangement of a jazz standard, or an original, they were unique in the most stunning of ways. It was an evening of simply magical, mystical, ethereal, and incredibly beautiful music. At first I worried that the crowd was too quiet, maybe not enjoying, but then quickly realized they were simply rapt by the music...proved beyond doubt by them rising as one for a heartfelt standing ovation!!"
(J. Creamer)

November, 2024 - "Max and Edda put on an amazing show once again. Our audience was awed by Edda's voice and Max's guitar and music. If you get a chance, you should try and have Max and Edda at your venue."
(D. Swan)

November, 2021 - "We happily welcomed Max & Edda back for a return engagement at The Montgomery Court House. They have gotten even more polished during the pandemic, if such a thing was possible at their superior level! Excellent new and familiar material. The audience was impressed and wowed by their talents and personalities. Besides which, Etta & Max are terrific house guests and wonderful conversationalists. Having them appear here is an absolute delight and we hope to do it again in the future! Book them!"
(K. Roche-Zujko)

November, 2021 - "Max and Edda are highly skilled and accomplished musicians. Their varied repertoire and between-piece patter keep the audience engaged and alert to each new composition. Our audience showed rapt attention and gratitude through the entire show. Max and Edda got called back for an encore, and kindly acceded to the request. Pre-show communication with them was a breeze. They were excellent guests and good company. We will gladly host them again, given the opportunity."
(C. Keen)

February, 2020 - “Mesmerizing is a word often found in reviews for this musical duo. Last nights concert proved it to be true! Musically wonderful, warm rapport with the audience and off stage charm made for a lovely evening ending in a standing ovation for Max and Edda.”
(A. S)

February, 2020 - "We would highly recommend Max & Edda to anyone and everyone! They have such a unique sound which is so refreshing and was appreciated by the full house of listeners that we had! On top of their immense talent, they were wonderful people and guests that we got to spend some time with! If you haven’t seen them live, you should!!"
(G. Cohen)

February, 2020 - "Max and Edda were a great duo. Many songs they wrote along with their take on old standards. Edda has a dreamy voice and the crowd enjoyed their performance. They are both very friendly and outgoing and were great guests."
(K. Eberly)

February, 2020 - "Edda and Max gave a wonderful performance in our house concert series. The songs were sometimes fun, sometimes full of soul. Edda has a beautiful voice, and Max is a virtuoso on the guitar. They gave a truly enchanting performance."
(M. Fromherz)

January, 2020 - "A sell out crowd and two ovations says it all. Max and Edda quickly became fan favorites. As others have commented, Edda's voice and Max's guitar integrate into a powerful performance. They are incredibly talented musicians who are masters of their craft and pay attention to details making sure they produce the best sound in your space. Max and Edda have excellent engagement and connection with the audience. Additionally they are wonderful and appreciative house guests."
(P. Kane)

October, 2019 - "A most enjoyable evening listening to the unique stylings of Max and Edda as they brought new life to old favorites along with fresh songs from their hearts. Delightful house guests as well as we enjoyed a broad scope of conversation. Audience was thrilled for the opportunity to hear them. Highly recommend."
(J. Braymen)

August, 2019 - "I asked Edda if she could describe her voice, she is so unique. Rarely have we had performers who show as much attention to detail as Edda and Max. They are wizards with sound. His music and her lyrics are magic. They are fun, witty, and incredible musicians. It's been a very long time since I swooned over Bossa Nova. The audience was entranced. This was our second ever sellout and I'm sure a lot had to do with the desire to hear "different" music. Max says it's sort of a fusion of jazz & folk."
(H. Lipson)

July, 2019 - "Max and Edda were great. Talented duo that were truly a joy to host. Def not the typical performer and thats what makes them great. Jazzy with a cool vibe. So glad we were finally able to make dates work!!"
(J. Michienzi)

July, 2019 - "Edda's unique voice combined with Max's great guitar sounds was a joy to listen to. They put their own twist on several familiar songs that you owe it to yourself to listen to. Many of my audience members said afterwards that they really enjoyed this show because of the uniqueness of the sound. Max and Edda are great people, were entertaining, and I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for a sound that is a little different and unique. I'm glad I was able to host them."
(P. DeSmet)

June, 2019 - "Sometimes you've just gotta book a show that YOU want to see, which is what I did for Max and Edda when we hosted them on 

June, 2019 - "Consummate professionals, consistently top shelf. Only one guest had heard them previously; of course the others were awestruck. Always a pleasure to host M&E!"
(L. Bolton)

May, 2019 - "Max and Edda put on an incredible show. At our request they did a lot of bossa nova and a number of tunes from the Great American Songbook, usually with a bossa nova twist. Our audience ate it up. Max's guitar is beautiful and Edda's voice defies description. Together they produce wonderful music, with just the right amount of technical sophistication. We will have them back again if they are willing. What a great experience!"
(D. Swan)

May, 2019 - "We simply loved hosting Max and Edda! They stayed for a few days to relax and to perform two shows in the area. As house guests, they were great to have and were considerate and helped with everything. As musicians, they were really, really lovely! Would love to see Max and Edda return in the future!"
(D. Small)

April, 2019 - "What a FABULOUS performance!!! Max and Edda have their own unique and distinct style...hard to describe but EASY to love! They were just as nice as could be. We enjoyed hearing their stories of their life on the road. The communication prior to the show was good, too. They are also very courteous house guests. It was a pleasure to have them play at our venue and we definitely recommend them to anyone."
(M. Tyler)

March, 2019 - "Max Hatt and Edda Glass were a joy to have perform for my concert guests! Edda's incredible voice that, at times, shocked us with her abilities, combined with Max's outstanding talents on the guitar left us begging for more! Their arrangements were the most unusual I have ever heard and so clever!! The crowd adored them and I can't recommend them highly enough!!"
(P. DeLorenzo)

February, 2019 - "The left me feeling mystified! What a spectacular evening of music, wine, and friendship! Max and Edda brought it all together with their perfect sound. Absolute darling people to have in your home and amazing musicians! 5 stars all the way!"
(B. Poston)

January, 2019 - "Max and Edda were back for their third appearance with us. Max plays a hollow body electric guitar with gorgeous tone and an elegant style. Edda sings and writes a lot of their lyrics. I highly recommend them."
(J. Wolf)

November, 2018 - "Wonderful act that creates a very unique vibe. Max and Edda delighted our audience, were generous with our guests, and lovely to have around during their visit. Super-enjoyable and chill evening."
(F. Snyder)

November, 2018 - "Max and Edda are an absolute DELIGHT, musically and personally. Our audience was blown away by the music and virtuosity on display. Clever, jazzy arrangements, a bit of Brazil in the mix, and a clear love of the genre. Book them while you can!"
(K. Roche-Zujko)

November, 2018 - "Max Hatt / Edda Glass performed an unforgettable show for us at Lakeside Music. Edda’s voice is soft and sensuous and a perfect match for Max’s remarkable guitar. Our full house was delighted with the unique sound of this duo and it was a pleasure to host them. This duo is as professional as they come and any host would love to host them. "
(D. Goodband)

September, 2018 - "What a delight! A friend in attendance grew up in Brazil, and Edda sings in Portuguese! I thought that was really special. Max and Edda performed great for our little crowd and connected well with the audience."
(K. Harper)

April, 2018 - "Max and Edda presented their wonderful songs for us, so beautifully. Edda's unique vocals, along with Max's superb guitar playing, mesmerized our audience. It was a show experience, that most had never seen or heard before. They were excellent guests in my home, and were easy to deal with, while setting up the show."
(B. Fulton)

May, 2017 - "Max and Edda were back for their second show with us at our request. Max is an excellent guitar player with superb tone. He writes most of the melodies. Edda has a great voice both vocally and in terms of her song writing. The lyrics are thoughtful and thought provoking. Both Max and Edda make adroit use of looping pedals to enhance the sound. Their pedal work is an artform in itself. I highly recommend them and hope to have them back."
(J. Wolf)

May, 2016 - "Max and Edda came and charmed our audience with their dreamy and deft music. We were excited about them before they came, and they were even more wonderful in person. Catch them whenever you can!"
(T. Kohlenberg)

December, 2015 - "Max Hatt and Edda Glass put on a great performance. Edda has a marvelous voice and she makes good use of chimes and percussion to back up Max's excellent guitar work. They do a lot of bosa-nova which is a different sound from our normal artists. Edda also writes excellent songs. It was nice to be able to vary from our more typical singer/songwriter musicians."
(J. Wolf)

November, 2015 - "A beautiful twist of fate brought Max and Edda to the Cozy Cabin and we're all the richer for it. The audience loved their take on the American Songbook and bossa nova. My husband, the resident bossa nova expert, said "I think everyone got a true taste of Brazilian bossa nova, sung the way it's supposed to be sung and played the way it's supposed to be played." With her smoky, dreamy voice, Edda was born to sing bossa nova, and Max's guitar playing was pure visual and acoustic poetry. Lucky us!"
(L. Bolton)

November, 2015 - "Great show last night from Max and Edda, who were en route to Lincoln Center NYC. CIYH is light on jazz artists, so we were excited to have them play. Max is a brilliant jazz guitarist whose playing is enhanced by looping and subtle effects. Anyone who is a fan of jazz guitar will be very happy. Edda's got a very soulful voice and together it's a perfect, mellow jazz, "break out some martinis" or, if it's summer, your favorite "boss nova friendly drink" kinda night for your audience."
(D. Bober)