Planning Your Special Event

Live Music

There is nothing like a live band to create an air of sophistication and set the mood for your occasion. 

By scheduling your musicians for an early arrival, you will allow the music to welcome your guests.  It will be their first impression of your event; and a lasting one!

Before hiring live entertainment, do your best to hear & see them play live.  You will get a true sense of their style and repertoire this way.

Prioritize & Get The Best

Remember that your guest's attention will be drawn to the music as soon as they enter the room. Don't let your budget dictate the quality of the performance, let the quality of the performance dictate your budget.

If you get a quote from a band that seems too good to be true, it probably is just that.   The saying, "you get what you pay for", is never more true.  While might be more affordable to hire less experienced, non-professional musicians, it is a risk you might not want to take for a once in a lifetime event.

Get it in writing

As with all your vendors, make sure you get a written agreement and/or invoice well in advance.  Book early!  Outline the following details:

·        The name of the performer

·        Date and time of the location; driving instructions

·        Performance attire

·        Pricing terms & deposit

·        Cancellation policy

·        Meals & beverages for your performers

·        Space & power requirements

o        a skirted stage is always preferred, 12ft. by 18-24ft. for an average sized band is more than sufficient

o       wiring and cases can be tucked neatly away & lessen the likelihood of accidents

o       a stage provides a nice focal point for the group & anyone who will be speaking

A good performance agreement from a reputable performer is about as secure as you can get. If you have the opportunity, ask around to see if the prospective band has a reputation for showing up late or canceling engagements.  If so, you might choose to keep a stand-by list of other performers, just in case.

Click HERE for a sample performance agreement (long form)

Click HERE for a sample performance agreement (short form)

For Good Measure

·        Outdoors performance?  What is your contingency plan for bad weather?

·        Are there noise restrictions for your event facility?

·        Special song requests?  If possible, make them well in advance. 

·        Will you have the band leader make announcements or introductions?  Write the information down!

·        Will you need use of the band’s PA (speaker system) to make toasts or speeches?  Make arrangements in the contract.

·        What if you need the group to play longer?  What is their overtime rate & availability?  

·        Do you have a “do not play” list for your event?  Make the parameters very clear, regardless of guest requests.

Ready to Book Kim Snyder?

• Check the calendar for availability & call or email (preferred) for a quote

• Together, we will review the details of your event using the performance agreement

• Though I will consider outside performances, I will not set up my sound equipment on the sand, dirt, or the beach. 

• Likewise, we must be able to get within a reasonable distance to load and unload equipment from my vehicle.

Click HERE for a sample performance agreement (long form)

Click HERE for a sample performance agreement (short form)

• Hold the date with a non-refundable deposit (usually 25-35%), by mail or in person; an invoice will be emailed or mailed to you

• Full payment is due immediately following the performance; unless otherwise specified

Notice of Cancellation is required one week in advance

The week of the event, please call or email to discuss last minute details

Beverages & meals for the group are standard for performances longer than 3 hours