Evan Drachman, grandson of Piatigorsky, travels throughout the country, playing in small towns, nursing homes, schools, etc. He founded the Piatigorsky Foundation, which is dedicated bring live performances to those who would not ordinarily get to hear them and to increase the performing opportunities for young performers. So there is a vast pool of potential listeners to attract. Tell the audiences about the pieces before you play them so that can follow along better. You don't have to play a full two hour recital.
Concerts are never too short.
Always charge for your concerts. It's a question of respect for the professionalism of the musician, and is a symbolic gesture by the audience that they are doing something worthwhile. Don't follow the examples of the people on the panel. The music world is very different today than it was 30 or more years ago. Character is vital and involves perseverance, vision, ambition, and self-confidence.