Music is critical to any good party. Having a live band at your party can give it a whole new atmosphere. If you decide to hire a band there is a process you should go through. It takes time to select the right band for any function and you should do some groundwork before rushing out and hiring your little brother's garage band to play your Christmas party.
Firstly when is your event? Most decent bands book out at least a month in advance. You should try to plan the band one to three months ahead. As soon as you select a date and a venue the band should be the next thing on your list.
The second thing you should confirm is the venue allows live music. Some venues have noise limitations. If located in a residential area many venues are required to keep the music to a minimum on week nights or shut down by a certain time. Also check the space where a band would play. How many musicians are able to comfortably perform? Does the venue have a sound system? You should know the restrictions before sourcing a band.
Thirdly decide on the type of party you want. If the event is a black tie sit down dinner a thrash metal band may not fit the mood. The band and the music should be complimentary. Ask friends if they know any good bands or if they used a band at their parties or wedding. Check the paper and the internet. Most bands will advertise.
If you find a band ask to come see them play. Most bands will either organize to play a short set for you or they will arrange for you to see them perform at another event. You should know what you are getting for your money. Take note of the music they play and there interaction with the crowd. Did they play to right music to keep the crowd entertained?
Talk to the band. Tell them what you want. Make a list of the songs you like and compare it with their playlist. Ask them if they know your favorite songs. If there is a special song you want for the event ask them to save it to a special moment. Find out if they will provide the music for break times. If you require the band to dress a certain way be sure to ask them if this is ok. You want the band to add to the atmosphere. If the event is formal ask if the band will wear suits. Be sure to ask as many questions as possible before you decide.
Lastly, make up a contract. This may sound like over kill but if you want to ensure everything runs smoothly it is a good idea to have the details in writing. Agree on a time the band will arrive. Make sure you include time to set up before the guests arrive. You do not want the band doing sound check while your guests stand around waiting for the party to start. Include the dates, venue, price, number of musicians, transport, how many hours the band will play, how many breaks and the duration of breaks, equipment, clothing, food and drinks.
Firstly when is your event? Most decent bands book out at least a month in advance. You should try to plan the band one to three months ahead. As soon as you select a date and a venue the band should be the next thing on your list.
The second thing you should confirm is the venue allows live music. Some venues have noise limitations. If located in a residential area many venues are required to keep the music to a minimum on week nights or shut down by a certain time. Also check the space where a band would play. How many musicians are able to comfortably perform? Does the venue have a sound system? You should know the restrictions before sourcing a band.
Thirdly decide on the type of party you want. If the event is a black tie sit down dinner a thrash metal band may not fit the mood. The band and the music should be complimentary. Ask friends if they know any good bands or if they used a band at their parties or wedding. Check the paper and the internet. Most bands will advertise.
If you find a band ask to come see them play. Most bands will either organize to play a short set for you or they will arrange for you to see them perform at another event. You should know what you are getting for your money. Take note of the music they play and there interaction with the crowd. Did they play to right music to keep the crowd entertained?
Talk to the band. Tell them what you want. Make a list of the songs you like and compare it with their playlist. Ask them if they know your favorite songs. If there is a special song you want for the event ask them to save it to a special moment. Find out if they will provide the music for break times. If you require the band to dress a certain way be sure to ask them if this is ok. You want the band to add to the atmosphere. If the event is formal ask if the band will wear suits. Be sure to ask as many questions as possible before you decide.
Lastly, make up a contract. This may sound like over kill but if you want to ensure everything runs smoothly it is a good idea to have the details in writing. Agree on a time the band will arrive. Make sure you include time to set up before the guests arrive. You do not want the band doing sound check while your guests stand around waiting for the party to start. Include the dates, venue, price, number of musicians, transport, how many hours the band will play, how many breaks and the duration of breaks, equipment, clothing, food and drinks.
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