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What about the breaks. Will there be music provided?
We have a variety of CD’s on hand, and you are welcome to bring a couple of favorites with you that we will gladly play. Actually, we like to schedule your cake cutting, and garter and bouquet toss during the breaks, rather than breaking up a dance set. It keeps the evening flowing, without any gaps.
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May our guests sit in with the band?
Our equipment is expensive and very personal, so we are happy for you to use our microphone for announcements/toasts, or to sing if we are in attendance, but we do not allow others to play on our equipment.
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Do we pay extra for set up and tear down time?
No. We charge you for your contract time. If your contract specifies 7-11 pm, we begin playing at 7, and stop at 11.
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What about tipping the band?
That is always appreciated, but certainly not expected.
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Can the band play softly so we can hear each other in conversation?
Yes. The PA goes all the way to off. We understand that this is a time when many of your guests have not seen each other for a long time and are trying to "catch up." You might wish for solo piano during the cocktail hour, and a small instrumental group during the dinner time to keep the level down. As the evening progresses, vocals can be added and the volume picked up for dancing, but never overpowering the room and guests.
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Does the band expect to be fed?
That is always appreciated, but they only expect sandwiches and soft drinks. From the time the band begins to set up, play, and finish tearing down, the time spent is approximately 7-8 hours. Providing the band with a sandwich tray is a nice gesture and keeps them close to your party, not headed for McDonald’s.
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Will the horns make the band louder?
Not necessarily. It should sound fuller. The horns don’t all play together all of the time, like the rhythm section of piano, bass, and drums. Do they take up a lot more space? No, added horns are simply a horn player, standing with a microphone in front. There is no added PA or amps.
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Should I choose most of the songs for the evening off of your songlist?
No. Tell us your favorite styles, as well as the ones you don't like. Then, take the songlist and check your favorites, and write "no" next to the ones you absolutely don’t want played, if any. The bandleader will refer to that list during the evening.
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Can you stay over if needed?
Usually that isn’t a problem; unless we are playing for you in the afternoon, and have to get to a later job that same day.
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What is the appropriate order of the traditional dances?
After the guests are in the room, the bandleader announces the bride and groom, and they dance their first dance. The Father of the Bride may cut in after several pictures have been taken, or wait for a special dance for the two of them. At this time, the groom may dance with his Mother. Sometimes the dances don’t begin until the end of dinner. Each family should decide what is comfortable for them, and discuss it with the bandleader. There is really no right or wrong on the dances.
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