Booking a band

Hi there,

Like you say, much will be covered in your contract but some extra questions for you:

1. Do they require a meal / refreshments

2. Do they require a changing area. Does this need to be secure, lockable etc

3. Will all the members of the band in song demos / videos be there on the day. Ask about use of deputy musicians or 'deps'. This is when a member of the band is unavailable and is replaced by someone else. I worked alongside a band once and who had none of the members from their advertised line up (basically a completely different band just using the original band's name!) Even in this case, they should replace them with musicians of equal talent and you maybe you shouldn't know the different (and this maybe in your contract) but might be worth checking to make sure.

4. Do they DJ in between their sets? Is this proper DJing - mixing the music together, taking requests on the night, not a fixed play list. Or is this just a pre-set iPod play list. You mentioned this, but also worth checking how much input you can have in the evening's music. This is potentially quite important if you want the dancing to continue whilst the band aren't playing - not so mch if you're just wanting background msuci in between their sets

5. Space requirements. Depending on the band and how many members, bands can need a great deal of space for setup. Make sure there's enough room for dancing too!

6. Power. Number of sockets

7. Volume. Sure you already have but make sure there aren't any volume restrictions / limiters at the venue. If there are your band may need to check their sensitivity before the day

8. Set times. I'd guided by the band for this if possible, they will know when their sets work really well in the scheme of the evening

Can't think of anything else at the moment, hope that helps!

James

Great, thanks very much!!

Hi Tash,

Awesome points above. Always speak to your band though..a lockable room isn't always a requirement. Also if your venue is a hotel you don't need a bedroom for the band, they usually have a meeting room or staff area that's perfect for the job.

Ask if they can play/willing to learn your first dance?

Also.....tthink about the last song of your reception. This is often forgotten about with the details of everything else but you can't beat an amazing circle of love with all your family & friends!!!

Hope that helps!?

James