Nope. I gave up doing any free jobs along time ago, even for causes I truly
believe in. I found it was very rare to get any other gigs from doing a
free gig and for the longest time I couldn't figure out why. Then I sussed
it out. Whenever I did a free gig I always found I was treated like some
sort of slave/scum at the event, even if it was something like the symphony
guild. I was no more important than the fountain going in the background or
the flower arrangements on the tables. Often no one even came up to me to
say hello when I arrived. On gigs which I have charged for the attitude it
completely different. They are having to pay for something so you are more
important - and the amount of attention you gets seems to be relative to
the amount you charge.
After being treated like a nothing I decided no longer would I do things
for free. Yes it has angered several people but I just try to gently
explain that I make my living at this.
If there is a function which you feel strongly about, say the Sierra Club
fundraiser, and they "can't" pay you, then suggest in that case that they
write you a letter saying you donated your services. If you would normally
charge $200 to play for three hours, then ask for a letter stating you
donated $200 to the cause. A group who is above board will readily agree to
this. If they don't then all they wanted in the first place was free
entertainment and aren't really interested in your performance, and they
will treat you as such. A sad fact of human nature.
Would anyone ask their surgeon to perform a bypass for nothing - I don't
think so.
Kimble Howard