Sell choral concert tickets like public radio

“For the next hour, thanks to a matching gift from Sally Spofford, your donation will be doubled!”

That message opens checkbooks for local public radio stations. Why not adapt the idea for your upcoming choral concert?

Here’s how. First, ask a regular donor to donate with a new premise. For example, if Sally Spofford is regularly willing to donate $100, this time the $100 is pledged towards tickets discounted by $5.

Then, assign a specific discount code to that donor, (e.g., xyz789 or friend-of-SallyT). The donor can distribute that code to friends and family.

Ideally, your website supports discount codes. If not, honor discount codes at the door. Make sure to practice how to handle eavesdroppers who also want to save money. (One model is from store cashiers who are generous with the “store” discount code.)

I would also suggest that singers and staff be given individual codes at no charge. This removes some awkwardness in approaching folks who may be weary of years of showing love to their musicians.

Return your donors’ generosity with your own. If their friend circle goes “over” the donated amount, be quietly grateful. Smile at your increased audience.

If you have experience with this technique or have further suggestions, post below.

photo by Children’s Alliance, creative commons license