I used to belong to the Central New York Bluegrass Association. Each month they would have a Jamboree and it cost $4.00 to attend . The price was to raise money for the CNYBA as operating capital. A price I would pay. Then I was asked to perform at the next show which I said I would. The next Jamboree i went to the gate to play and I said who I was. They checked the performers list and saw I was there. I said great. They said $4.00 please. After a moment of contemplation I paid and then I played.

I played because I was advertised and on the list. I played because friends came from out of town. And I played because I was prepared. But when I finished I questioned the policy with the CNYBA Pres. He said everyone pays because they just do. I asked if it didn't cheapen the music and the art I was willing to give away to a worthy cause by asking for money on top of it? I told him i spend twice that on Coffee, Oatmeal cookies, and cheese cake. He said everyone pays.

I will give away my time because I choose to. I will donate jewelry because I am glad to help a cause. But I will not pay to play a benefit because I'm told too. If the benefit is worthy enough I'm likely to donate more than the entry fee anyway. But to require me to pay to play for free cheapens what I do.

Don