The Musicians Monitor

Reverend Betty — Chaihouse Culture Curator
booking@chaihouse.com

Thank you submitting a package of your finest works to Mr. Spot's! Here's some things you need to know about how we do our thing...

  1. We believe the chaihouse is the most magnificent place to entertain and be entertained. Such a lush and diverse planet of wonder! Also this is a free venue. That means WE DO NOT PAY our musician performers in cash. Instead we open our door in prospects of exposing your talent to those who wouldn't normally get the opportunity to experience such artistry. So much love. We are not a club that has an automatic draw. This is the restaurant business and foot-traffic is normally consistently inconsistent. Remember, the only people that will show up are the ones you invite! Your draw benefits YOU. Talk talk talk about your show with the world! Your payment will come from TIPS AND MERCHANDISE SALES. Ask for support from the audience! Most of the time if you are sincere in your request, they will treat you right. Unless you plan to attract over 100 contracted guaranteed paying clubgoers, we never charge a cover or "door-fee". But you may to ask for donations at the door, if you choose.
  2. Do not call the chaihouse to find out if your demo has been reviewed. The demo you submit usually takes 2 weeks to 2 months to review depending on the flow of demand. Email Rev. Betty at booking@chaihouse.com to send a message about your submission if you'd like. You are now on a waiting list and you will be called or emailed directly with opportunities.
  3. You can also send us a message at www.myspace.com/chaihouse
  4. You will be supplied with two drinks or one drink and half off one food item per person not to exceed 6 per party. Bands that wish to supply thier own opening acts are responsible for their guests payment and/or compensation. They will be, however granted complimentary beverages. Please place food orders before 9:30 weekday and 10:30 weekend nights. No "to-go orders please.
  5. Once you've been booked, come prepared to play your show. That includes microphones, cables, monitors, stands, water, towels, merchandise table, eyecatching tipjar, etc.... It's also a good idea to come an hour before your show (or any day prior to your engagement) to check out our Mackie 1202 (12 track mixer), stereo PA, lighting system and electrical outlet selections.

    SHOWTIMES FOR SINGER/SONGWRITER/SOLOISTS ARE M,T,W 8PM TO 10PM.

    SHOWTIMES FOR BANDS (3 PLUS MUSICIANS) ARE FRI and SAT 8PM TO 10PM AND 11PM TO 1AM (21+).

    SET-UP WILL BE AT 7PM or 10PM AND SOUNDCHECK WILL BE AT 7:30PM or 10:30PM.

  6. Lastly, making the environment yours is integral to represent you or your band's individuality so here are some tips... Decorate and rearrange chairs and tables! Set the mood lights! Wear interesting garments! Sell and play like it's the last show you will ever play!
    It always seems to sound better that way.

    Peace and we'll call you when it's right!
Tips for getting people to your show.
  1. Internet! Get your mailing list in order. Send people information about the wheres whens and whos regarding your upcoming display.
  2. Flyer and poster! Go to www.postermidget.com and get busy! Create a colorful and splashy poster and make copies. Hire a grunt to help you stank up them street poles. There's a very bored kid out there who needs a life. GET ON IT!
  3. Get on the phone! Group texting is now all the rage. Figure out how to make it personal and you've got a draw!
  4. Get your band on MySpace.com already. You're just being stubborn if you don't. Give in. There's a party in there and they're waiting for you.
  5. Hire an opening act! This is the best idea of all. Although, tread lightly with this one. Get another musician to open for your act. Singer/songwriters, poets, stand-up comics, etc. This doubles up on the promotion stuff by getting others with street cred to hit the pavement for their own personal gain. Don't get anyone better than you, though! You don't want to be that sucker rocking the venue with the 2 friends you told and the previous bands draw bounced out.
  6. Do not schedule other shows on or around the event! If they saw you last night why would they want to see you again tonight? .... Sometimes the narcissist musician energy is tough to shake. I believe in you. DON'T DO IT!
  7. Put an add in the local rag! The Stranger and the Seattle Weekly are two of the best and affordable local newspapers to advertise your band. If your a broke ass, use the classified or "I saw you..." section. Or just ask your girlfriend.
  8. Gimmicks away! Give a little back. Tell them you are going to light your ass on fire at 9:07pm sharp. Tell them David Hasselhoff is sure to stop by. Raffle off merchandise or hugs. Dancing girls, dollar bill confetti, smell-o-vision, you get the idea...

REMEMBER!! THE BEST SHOWS ARE A MULTI-FACETED ENTERTAINMENT OPPORTUNITY! GIVE YOUR AUDIENCE THE BEST AUDIO/ VISUAL EXPERIENCE THAT YOU CAN! MAKE IT DYAMIC!