Talk about D.I.Y. grassroots artist development. In the US alone it is estimated that 300 homes regularly open up their living rooms to small, indie acts (usually singer-songwriters) to host intimate
shows for a gathering of friends and music fans. A few years ago the lead singer of The Smithreens asked fans to host him in their homes on a tour to promote a solo CD.

Dubbed "house concerts" there are several sites including ConcertsInYourHome dedicated to promoting these events and creating more
opportunities for touring artists who seek alternatives to noisy
coffeehouses and clubs where music is hardly the focus.