Hi, here's my two cents on venues for JPF metings. We have a mix ranging from amateurs to semi-pros, and we also have a mix of styles of music that prople create and perform, so it's not really appropriate to consider us *entertainment* for a venue. I think it's more like a company that has an awards party once a year, so they rent a room at the Holiday Inn. Or it's like a wedding. Think about it. If a venue wants entertainment, they know what style they want, and the also select out who they think is going to attract people to come, or to stay after they've arrived. They wouldn't ordinarily let a whole hodge podge of performers in the door.

Because of that, I'm afraid we all have to be willing to shell something out for somebody to be nice enough to let us make noise at their place. Either that or do it at somebody's house.

Another thing to add is that I notice 99% of the focus this past year has been on showcasing for each other. But back when we started, we also had interesting guest speakers with information to share on various aspects of the music business. So #1, I wish we had more of that these days, and #2 because I think we should, that is another bullet in my argument that we are not there to entertain people in sombody's restaurant/bar. We are there to MEET, exchange information, ideas, help, etc. Not just to play our music on a stage.

I agree with Jak in the sense that if a skilled artist is performing for free, it constitutes a great GIFT he is giving. But I think when we come to a JPF meeting and decide to play, that has to be the spirit of it. I'm sure many new artists have learned from watching Jak do his thing up there. That's the whole purpose of JPF, isn't it?

So, incidentally, I vote for Java Junction as a place to meet, and we should work out with Bob L. what would be a good amount to guarantee that expenses are covered, and any additional help from non-JPF members.

Frank

Frank J. LaRosa "Frankie Fingers"
North 2 South