Q: What is included in a typical ceremony package?
A ceremony package includes a prelude, the ceremony and a postlude. For a wedding ceremony we arrive early to meet the wedding coordinator, set up and begin playing so that when your guests arrive and are seated there is music filling the air. The ceremony music might include a special song for the seating of grandmothers and mothers, the processional for attendants, the bridal processional, and a special song either for a Unity Candle or an interlude, and the recessional. For purposes of definition: a ceremony consists of time spent playing at one location. When the ceremony has ended and we are asked to relocate for a reception or cocktail hour, our reception (hourly) rates go into effect.
Q: Who decides what music is played and when?
You are free to have as much or as little to do with the decision making process as you like. Some clients prefer to give us guidelines and their preferences telling us what they want or do NOT want us to include. Others say, “You are the experts and we trust your talent and experience. Please choose the music for us.”
Q: Do you accommodate special musical requests?
We try to have an extensive list of songs in our repertoire posted to our website. We frequently add new music to the list, so please ask if you do not see your favorite listed! If you would like us to learn a special song for your event, we usually require at least 6-8 weeks notice to search for music and to get it ordered in time. There may be an additional cost to you if there is a fee for acquiring your special music.
Q: Will you reserve a date for someone?
We do not hold dates for prospective clients who are in the initial planning stages and are not ready to make a commitment. A date is held when a client commits to engage our services and requests a contract. If the contract and deposit are not returned within two weeks, the date is again open for the consideration of others.
Q: Do you attend the wedding rehearsal?
A wedding rehearsal involves assembling a group of people for the purpose of organizing the way they stand and make their entrances and exits. Because of our experience with wedding ceremonies, we do not need to attend wedding rehearsals. On the wedding day, we speak with the wedding coordinator or person in charge of coordinating the ceremony to clarify any questions about timing and cues. These answers provide us with all the information we need to plan our timing as successfully as possible.
Q: How well do the instruments carry? Will you need amplification?
The answer to this question involves different variables. For a wedding ceremony, the “carrying power” of the instruments is not called into question at all – even for very large ceremonies.
Q: Is a deposit required?
Yes, a deposit is required to hire our group and thus “save the date” on our calendar. The remaining amount is due 30 days before the date of services.
Q: Do you play for vocal solos?
We can play for a vocalist, but there are several considerations. Because special arrangements for music and rehearsal time with a soloist are necessary, our fee will have to be amended. Every situation is different so this issue is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Q: Are there mileage or travel expenses?
Yes, for jobs that require travel beyond our normal range.