[kazinator]

No, it isn't a music venue without musicians.

But the implied flow of money doesn't follow from that.

Suppose I own an empty space with a little stage, a PA sound system, and some 100 chairs. I put a down payment on this place, paid for equipment and upgrades and have to pay property taxes, utilities and mortgage. If nothing happens there, I lose money out of my own pocket. I intend for it to be a music venue. I meet the definition of a music venue owner.

Some musicians have contacted me and would like to have a concert there.

Should anyone pay anyone? Who should pay whom?

How is this for logic: "A house isn't a home without a family! If you want me to move into this house with my wife and three kids to make it a home, you're gonna have to pay me!"

[worik]

It depends.

For many musicians it is not a career, but a hobby. A outlet for creativity. (That is me) In which case we choose venues that are like us. Our most recent gig was at our local Musicians Club https://youtu.be/URwzKL8pjQo?t=819

For others it is a important part of their income, so they should be paid.

Who should pay? If the punters pay a door charge the band should get it (that is the tradition here) if not then, yes, the owner of the venue pays it.

[kazinator]

Musicians making an income simply have to avoid opportunities that they have outgrown: free jam spaces, open mics, and whatnot.

[worik]

Generally speaking musicians are the last to get paid and the first to blame.