I was hit up to play for an organization that offers support services to
single mothers. It was to be held at a rather exclusive private club.
The club and the caterer were charging full freight. I told the woman I
would play for half price. She argued exactly what your Junior League
people did... very influential people would be there and would ask for
my card. I held my ground. At the gig, nobody really listened to me,
nobody asked for my card and I was sooooooo glad that I asked to be paid
something. Playing for free is one thing... playing for free to people
who aren't listening is intolerable.
Mike Nielsen