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Hi all, I have something of a philosophical question to pose. I have been playing tuba for close to 30 years, since school I have played with many groups, as a non professional, even though the group has been professional; I was invited to play each time. I have a tuba, and euphonium quartet as well. Our quartet has been playing for 20 years or so together. We play gigs several times a month, and are invited to play more than we have time for. We all have regular jobs, playing is a hobby for us. Anytime money is introduced we donate to charity, the checks are made out directly to the charity of our choosing, none of us takes a penny for our time. That includes the money put in the hat, at our street level gigs. A friend of mine, an accountant, keeps banging on about we are a professional group, with the ability to write off equipment, and repairs, and travel. I do not consider us professional by a long chalk; and like just giving up tine and money for my hobby. What do you think, are we deluded? Or are we on the moral high ground? We have a gig tonight, in one of the resorts on the strip, here in lovely Lost Wages, with all money going to the battered womens shelter.
Music is in the soul, not the instrument; but the instrument helps a lot.
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I think that money for expenses is not unreasonable and wouldn't feel bad about that. I think that what you are doing with the moneys > giving it all to charities is simply wonderful > It really shows your love of music. To bring joy to those with your music and to also help others along the way > Simply Wonderful!
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@StoneDog We try to bring music to the masses; we play anything from classical, we always play the Toccata, from Toccata and Fugue in D minor; to things like a jazzed up version of Phantom of the Opera, and He's a Pirate; which I am tired of playing, but it gets a good group together. Sometimes we get kids, mostly, who are curious, so give them a bash at playing. It is a sad state of affairs when music classes are being axed from school, and sports getting bigger. Thank you for the input 
Music is in the soul, not the instrument; but the instrument helps a lot.
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Grunyon, I think it's good that you are playing for charity, and it's perfectly reasonable to ask / expect expenses. In much the same way as volunteers who work unpaid in charity shops get paid their travelling expenses. it's about being fair.
Your accountant friend is right about writing off costs. I don't know USA legislation, but here in England it can benefit you financially if you follow certain 'charity and helper' rules. By that I mean you are not out-of-pocket, and you have only used your time. Your beneficiaries are unaffected. Another reason for the 'expenses paid' thing is about credibility, fair treatment, etc.
An analogy might be an experienced player on a forum, who helps a beginner by answering that beginner's questions. That's being helpful. However, if that same person asks you to write out sheet music, or make a video, then some offer of reciprocation would be in order, and it would be perfectly acceptable to expect this, and see it through.
Mr Jim
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I think the way you are doing it and have been doing it for years is GREAT! If however it ever became a burden on anyone in the group, and it meant they could not participate, then it would be good to recoup expenses to keep things going.
There is nothing wrong with donating it all to charity..and certainly nothing wrong with recouping expenses, or doing it for a living. 
It was nice to read about your band, benefits and charities. If I was ever offered money to play it would be a happy day... but mostly because it would mean I was playing at a level that was worthy!!
Keep on playing. Blessings to you.
Vibrato Desperato.... Desperately seeking vibrato
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Fantastic to give to the charities that are important to you. I really believe that giving is more fun than receiving. At least most often. 
"The richest person is not the one who has the most,
but the one who needs the least."
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Whilst on this topic, camp corral is one if my favourites also. It is a summer camp for children of deployed military personnel. Anything for kids in my book.
Thank you all for the moral support, most appreciated.
Music is in the soul, not the instrument; but the instrument helps a lot.
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