In the music world, there was big controversy over Amanda Palmer’s invitation to musicians to play with her, onstage, during her tour, gratis — beer and high-fives aside.  Roundly criticized by some, local musicians (including my husband), signed up in droves, hoping for the chance to add to the “big noise”.  (She’s since rethought her stance and is now offering pay. I hope budget considerations don’t limit how widespread the opportunity will be.)