Guest Artist Housing

What type of accommodations are needed?

Our guest artists are professional adults, and we aim to offer clean, comfortable, and quiet accommodations. Typically this means a single-occupancy bedroom with a full-size bed or larger, and a private or semi-private bathroom for the artist’s stay. A “semi-private” bathroom is one that is not shared with another member of the household during the visit. Please let us know on the housing questionnaire if you have pets or young children in the home, so we can make a good match.

Artists are often out during the day for rehearsals and may not return until late in the evening after a concert. They appreciate peace and quiet as they prepare and rest, and are generally happy to let themselves in and out — we recommend providing a spare key or garage code. If you have questions about your specific space, please reach out to our Executive Director..

Do I need to provide transportation or meals?

Artists are generally responsible for their own transportation, whether driving in personally or arriving by air and renting a car; in some cases the Symphony arranges a ride from the airport or between hosts. Meal preparation is not required, although many hosts offer coffee, tea, and a light breakfast, which is always appreciated. Some artists may ask to use your kitchen to prepare their own food — we ask that hosts leave a little room in the refrigerator for this. Many artists also choose to eat at nearby restaurants between rehearsals and performances. If an artist discloses a dietary restriction (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), we will pass that along to you, though there is no obligation to provide meals or accommodate diets.

When will I receive details about my guest artist?

The Symphony typically confirms guest artist engagements several weeks to a few months ahead of each concert weekend, once travel and rehearsal schedules are set. As soon as a match is made, we will contact you by phone or email to confirm dates, the artist’s name and instrument, and any special information. We will also share your contact information with the artist so you can connect directly ahead of their arrival, along with a general rehearsal and concert schedule for that week.

How long will an artist stay with me?

Most Salisbury Symphony guest engagements run 5–7 concerts across our season, and a given artist’s visit typically covers the rehearsal-and-concert period for a single program — commonly 2–5 days, most often including a weekend performance. Occasionally an artist in residence or a special engagement may run longer. Please indicate your availability on the housing questionnaire, and we will do our best to match accordingly.

How will I coordinate the artist’s arrival?

Once we send the introduction email connecting you and your guest artist, we encourage you to reach out directly to confirm arrival time, directions, and any last details. If you haven’t heard from your artist as the visit approaches, feel free to contact them using the information in that email, or reach out to the Executive Director for help.

What if my artist asks to bring a guest, family member, or pet?

Any request of this kind should go through the Executive Director. Artists are asked to disclose these needs before being matched with a host, so there are no surprises. Some hosts are glad to accommodate an additional guest or a pet, while others are not — either is completely fine. If you find yourself being asked for more than you agreed to, please contact the Executive Director right away so other arrangements can be made.

What if a personal conflict comes up during the stay?

If any conflict arises during a homestay, please contact the Executive Director right away, and we will work with you and the artist to resolve it.

What if I need to cancel my hosting commitment?

We understand that plans change. If you need to cancel, please contact the Executive Director as soon as possible by email or phone. If you know of another host who might be able to step in, that is always a great help.