Back when I could actually hold sticks (several months ago) I recall doing several gigs a month for free. I love playing just for the fun of it.

I'll take it a step further. I would PAY to play. Okay, I'm (half) kidding. I earn some $ from shows. It's a bonus but I would absolutely play for no $. As long as I enjoyed what I was playing, that is. I would think this poll will be nearly unanimous. But, maybe not ...

The greatest satisfaction I ever had playing was always for free jamming with friends and being creative practicing, usually sounding best when the cassette recorder ran out of tape too! Open mic nights at a blues bar meeting some great players, networking, etc. I used to pay for a practice space above an old envelope factory with several rooms for bands to practice and have met many talents this way also. It was always for FREE. Getting paid is always great and helps one appreciate the work put into it. I've never done it for a living but if you do, you have to get paid!

I will do it some ,but not a lot, sorry, But I spent a lifetime to learn to play my Instrument, and have big dollars Invested in the equipment, Now for a good cause I have no problem donating my time etc!! but No I'm getting paid when I arrive! band3

I used to play benefit gigs to raise money for the local food bank/shelter. It's a great feeling knowing you can make a difference in someone's life just by playing an instrument that you love to play!

Cheers

I have always played for a living, so, no, I very seldom play for free.

For me, its all about playing good music with good friends. Would happily gig for free (and have done it many, many times :))

I also play for a living.

If we get paid, the cash goes into the band moneybox, because we are currently saving for recording some decent demotape in studio. Because of that, I personally don't get paid, but the band, as a whole, does. We already turned down several gigs, because they were just not worth it. But we, of course, play for free, when we decide it's too good party not to be part of, or when it's some interesting beneficial act.