Artists can no longer count on recovering production costs from the sales of CDs and digital downloads in a world of streaming music. In order to make quality recordings, asking for donations is becoming more and more common. Many people have no idea how expensive it is to record. My previous recording “Celtic Shores” raised money by offering to give CDs and downloads to veterans and their families. I was able to do that because I was working as a therapeutic musician at Walter Reed Medical Center at the Bethesda Naval Base Campus. But I am no longer there and it's hard to give away even downloads now in a world where younger people prefer streaming their music.
So this time I am coming up with ideas for ways to encourage people to donate to this project. I still work in DC-area hospitals and I often tell patients how to find my music on YouTube. Whether I sell a CD or not, my music is out there helping people. Perhaps you will want to contribute to bringing a bit more joy through music to the world. Contribute at www.karenashbrook.com/crowdfunder. I and all who enjoy my music will thank you!