Ken Blatt Swings

My fee for most performance jobs ranges between $350- $500.00. The fee is not directly based on the length of time requested by the client, which is just one factor that has already been considered in setting my fee range. If I was hired to perform for an hour, but the customer needs me for an additional 15 minutes or half hour, I do not make an additional charge. I want my customers to have the best experience possible for their event.

When a customer expresses an interest in hiring me through Thumbtack, we then have a conversation (through email or phone) on what the needs of the customer are for their event and how we can best make their event a memorable experience for them and their guests. I will then provide them with a final fee, and will hold the date on my calendar once a deposit has been paid and a simple event agreement of understanding has been sent (emailed) to the client.

I have been working as a professional actor, singer and stage director for over twenty-five years. I have performed for audiences throughout the Northeast and Florida and have entertained hundreds of audiences as a singer and singer/pianist. My education includes two graduate degrees in theatre training: a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Florida Atlantic U. and a Ph D in Theatre from Michigan State U. Aside from formal university training, I am continuously maintaining and upgrading my skills in music and vocal training with private lessons and training courses.

I was working in NYC as an actor/director and started to get roles in musicals. I began to study singing and piano more seriously and started to book singing and playing gigs. I was so busy doing singing gigs that it became my main occupation. I moved down to South Florida for five years and performed all over the state. Eventually, I moved up to the Albany, NY area to be closer to family and have lived here since 2010.

I work with private parties and home concerts and a lot of gigs for retirement communities and senior centers. I also do corporate events such as an Open House for a residential community or builder, a party for a non-profit organization or a show for employee rewards program. I have also provided entertainment programs and concerts for synagogue and church audiences. Finally, I have entertained dining customers at upscale restaurants.

I recently performed for a large senior residence in Albany. I played for about an hour and ten minutes performing a wide variety of different musical genres include songs from Broadway and the movies, American standards, classic Rock n' Roll, and recent "pop" hits. They were clapping and singing along. It was a blast. I have been rebooked for two more shows.

My advice would be to check out the performers videos and their reviews. Don't select your entertainment based on the lowest price. You know the saying "You get what you pay for." A good entertainer/musician has trained in their field for years and must maintain their skills with regular practice. If you want a good performance, select a good entertainer who deserves a fair and reasonable fee.

You show be clear about the type of music you are looking for, how long your event is going to last, and know as many specifics about the venue as possible.