So I never really understood that I needed to charge for the event. I was just that simple musician always wanting to play his saxophone to an audience when presented with the chance

I know, but in fact, it is like any other profession. It has to be paid.
Sometimes we do free performances, yes, but musicians also have to pay bills like everyone else :D

After that event, I got to meet the lady dancer and found out she was a professional dancer. It was a great meet!

Oh, that is cool :)))
That is great when we meet some interesting and special people at our gigs 😎
Double happiness :))