Looking for a band to hire? Read this first!
Consider what you like and what will
provide great entertainment for your wide spectrum of guests, taking
into account their varied tastes and ages.
Everyone wants an evening band to make the party happen – but
many of your guests will also want to chat. A jazz band is a great
choice as everyone finds well-played live music appealing, but at a
volume all your guests can handle.
Will you hire an instrumental band or one with a singer? If you want a
band to hire for background music or a daytime drinks reception then
you’re fine with or without a singer – your preference. If
you want an evenings dancing then hire a band with a singer. Singers
are a great interface between the band and the dance floor and guests
and can really help the sprirt of the party!
How far ahead should you book?
We take bookings as far ahead as people
want to book them. Once a deposit and email confirmation of the bullet
points of our agreement have been received the booking is confirmed, in
the diary and that date is then taken. The diary tends to fill up on
Saturdays first, then Fridays and Sundays. Also summer is more popular
than spring and autumn.
Once you have settled on a date and secured a venue - as soon as you've found your band to hire, book them.
Paying deposits ?
Pay a deposit, as that ties both parties
into the agreement. Also have some form of written agreement about what
the band will do for you and what they expect from you.
For example - our bullet points are:-
- Names and addresses of both parties.
- Name and description of band (eg is it 4 or 5 players)
- Playing for how long – eg 2 hour-long sets
- Over what time period – when do you want them to start and finish?
- Do you want the band to play backgound music between sets (ipod or cd's through their PA) ?
- Do the band charge extra for this? (We dont!)
- Will the band expect food? We usually ask for light refreshment or to join in the evening buffet if possible. Possibly a hot meal if the day involves a lot of travelling.
- The date.
- The venue.
- The total fee. The deposit . The balance due , and when payable. (We ask for the balance to be paid on or before the day.)
Does your band give you the option of extra playing time on the night
should you need it ? We do – offering an extra 40-minute set for
£30 per musician. Occasionally this option can
save the day!
Problems can be avoided by both parties having realistic expectations
of the other party. Talk it over then get it in writing! A little
effort over nailing down the agreement properly in the early stages
will ensure things run smoothly.
The Oscar Bernhardt Ensemble and the Charleston Charlies are jazz bands available to hire for all sorts of events. Get in touch and tell us what you're looking for.
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