If it's playing with friend's or for friends, that's what I like best and I'll even incur expense to do it. If it's playing for any sort of commercial organization (and this includes charity fund raisers)I am going to get paid.

If I have to prepare special material, travel a long distance, set up a lot of gear, put up with a lot of B.S., then I am going to get paid proportionally.

Think of the huge investment in your instruments and equipment. Think of the hours of practice spent in to bringing your craft to it's present standard.

Your talent is worth a great deal. Never give it away if someone else is making a buck off it.

Always share it freely with your pals, though.