I’m a frugal gal, it’s true. I try to be wise with money, save where I can, and find creative ways to share, barter, recycle, cook, create, and trade.
I’m about to embark on my next recording project, a full-length CD to follow the 2008 release of “Paint by Numbers”. A record needs energy, dedication, emotion, talent, taste, and yes, money, to make it to its release – the best part of all, where I get to share it with you.
I walk to a lot, sometimes to my live shows, knapsack on my back, pulling my guitar on my trusty, rusty, reclaimed luggage cart. Sometimes you’ll see me at a gig, munching on grapes that I packed in a reused cream cheese container. I’ve toured with a cooler in the seat beside me. Most of my wardrobe comes from Value Village.
Your support of my last record and your encouragement leading up to this one has been heartwarming. In the spirit of both contribution and conservation, I am inviting you to pre-order my new record-in-progress.
Each donation level offers a treat for your generosity AND a money-saving tip to make it easy to invest that extra dough in independent music:
$20: “Put on a sweater” – they say that you can save 3% on your heating bill by turning your thermostat down just one degree. It’s quick, it’s easy, and if you start to feel chilly, you can cozy into your favourite fuzzy sweater for extra warmth and comfort.
What you get: A personally-signed advance copy of the CD, mailed right to you.
$45: “Pack your lunch for a week” – try packing it the night before, so all you need to do is grab and go! Plus, you won’t have to wait anxiously in line at Subway for three-quarters of your already-too-short lunch break. Lunch at your leisure.
What you get: Two personally-signed advance copies of the CD (you can substitute a copy of my last record “Paint by Numbers” for the second CD) and a handmade card to keep or give away.
$75: “Mix and Match at the second-hand store” – hunting for treasure in the bargain bins may yield your hottest outfits yet, all for the cost of a cardigan at The Gap.
What you get: Two personally-signed advance copies of the CD (you can substitute a copy of my last record “Paint by Numbers” for the second CD), a handmade card to keep or give away, and an exclusive mp3 emailed to you.
$100: “Be a pedestrian for a month” – forgo that transit pass, ditch the gas nozzle, let the cabs pass you at the intersection. Walk. Relax – you don’t need to look frantically for a parking spot and you won’t be on the super-slow streetcar with people sneezing on you.
What you get: Three CDs and I’ll crochet you something practical.
$200: “Brew your own” – make your morning coffee at home, then drink it as you check your facebook status in your PJs, or take it to go in a travel mug. If your daily fix is a Cafe Mocha at Starbucks, you’ll have saved enough money to participate at this level in a month.
What you get: Four CDs and your name in the thankyous.
$500: “Be early for everything” – if you can get yourself caffeinated and you’re on foot anyway, then you’re well on your way to punctuality. Being early means discounts on travel and concert tickets, and you’ll get the best seats. And if you return those library books and DVDs on time, you’ll avoid late fees!
What you get: Four CDs and your name in the thankyous AND…2 reserved seats at one of my upcoming gigs.
$1000+: You’ve got it together AND you’re willing to share. You’re already doing this right.
What you get: Four CDs and your name in the thankyous AND…
If you live in Toronto or the environs, or along any of my tour routes, I’ll play a free house concert for you and all the good people you can squish into your chosen space. If you live farther away, I’ll play a live house concert for you and your friends, recorded in MY home, and send it to you as a secret youtube link.
Questions about the record? Curious as to how it’s progressing? Keep up on facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/shawnacaspimusic
