Document Type: FAQ
For: Organizers handling questions about paying musicians
The Core Philosophy
"Make Music Day is for everyone in a community to celebrate through music. If compensation is a requirement for you to participate, that's totally okay and this event might not be for you. We still invite you to come enjoy the performances, take part in a jam, or simply enjoy the day."
Key Principles
1. Make Music Day is for musicians AND non-musicians
This isn't necessarily a "gigging opportunity" for established professionals. It's an invitation for anyone to celebrate their community through music.
2. Open Door vs. Direct Ask
If You... | Then... |
Reach out and say "I need you to play at this location for this amount of time" | Compensation should be in the conversation |
Say "If you want to celebrate Make Music Day, you can sign up, but no pressure" | Artist decides whether to participate for free |
3. The Nashville Rule
"If I'm walking up to someone and asking them to do something for me, then they deserve some sort of compensation."
4. Why Paying Everyone Can Be Problematic
If organizers raise money to pay everyone:
- You're capping the number of participants
- You're judging who is "worthy" of compensation
- Both run counter to Make Music Day's "everyone can participate" ethos
5. Passion Projects
Professional musicians are often more inclined to participate when they can do their "passion project" — something they normally aren't compensated for anyway.
Guidelines for Vermont
For Musicians Putting on Your Own Event
You decide whether and how you'll make money (tips, merchandise, etc.)
For Locations Hosting Musicians
It's up to both parties to agree on terms. Many performances are unpaid, but you're welcome to work out arrangements.
For Organizers Using Musicians to Lead Activities (workshops, lessons, etc.)
Both parties should agree on terms. Compensating workshop leaders is more common than compensating performers.
Ways Locations Can Support Artists
✅ Provide refreshments and hospitality
✅ Promote the performance on social media
✅ Offer merchandise sales opportunity
✅ Provide quality sound equipment
✅ Feature the artist on your website/newsletter
✅ Offer a future paid booking opportunity
France's Approach (for context)
In France, where Make Music Day originated, free performances by unpaid artists on June 21st are not subject to royalty collection. This raises awareness that on the other 364 days, royalties should be paid. The day becomes both a celebration and an educational moment about the value of music.