Bands: Frequently Asked Questions
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+ I'm interested in a fun band. How do I get started?
You came to the right place. On this website you'll find a ton of information about all the fantastic bands we represent. For a full list of available bands that fit your specific criteria, please complete our info request form or call our office at 404-315-6765 to provide some basic information about your plans with one of our professional Entertainment Coordinators. We’ll provide videos, photos, music samples, song lists, recent client reviews, price ranges and more. In most cases, we can often put you in touch with client references who can answer your questions about their experiences working with our company and our bands, as well as speak to the band leader directly. Our goal is to offer you great band recommendations, answer all of your questions, provide as much information and advice as you may want, and generally do our very best to make the band selection process both fun and stress-free!
+ Why should I hire a band through All-Star Entertainment?
We offer a wide variety of fun, unique, and experienced bands that have a proven record of dependability and the ability to delight guests at any sort of special event. From German Oompah Bands to Rock Bands, Variety Dance Bands, Reggae Bands…you name it. Our Entertainment Coordinators have years of experience helping our clients pick the perfect band, and we take pride in being responsive, listening to your needs, asking good questions, and helping you find the best musical match for your event, within your budget. But it’s not over after you've booked your band, we stay in touch with you to help facilitate communication and organization of details as your event approaches.
+ How much do bands cost?
We have a band for almost every budget, and we will help you find one that makes the most sense for you. Local jazz combos or acoustic bands may cost between $750 and $1500, while the region's most popular and exclusive party bands may cost $10,000 or more. On average, most great dance bands for weddings or special events are likely to cost between $2500 and $7500. The actual price of a band for any specific event will depend on factors such as the size and popularity of the band, the season and date of the event, the location of the event and travel distance for the band, and the equipment and logistical requirements of the performance. Please contact us for specific price quotes.
+ Does a band provide all their instruments and sound equipment?
Bands provide instruments and sound equipment at almost all weddings and special events. This equipment typically provides an appropriate level of sound for up to several hundred guests, and is included in the price of the band. For larger events requiring more substantial sound reinforcement, a band can either sub-contract a larger sound production team for an additional fee or work with a sound production vendor that you provide.
+ Does the band provide lighting?
Most wedding and special event bands provide a basic lighting system which includes one or more light stands and generally illuminates the band's performance area. It is not intended as decor lighting for the whole event space, such as uplighting for walls or tented areas or spotlighting on tables or dance floor areas. A band's light stand(s) typically include several white or colored lights (LED or par cans). Some bands may be able to adjust the size and scope of the lighting they bring depending on the size of the event, crowd, or venue. Typically, smaller bands, such as acoustic, bluegrass or jazz groups don’t provide lighting. We provide an entire warehouse of lighting options if you’re interested.
+ How long can I expect the band to play?
Wedding and special event bands typically charge one fee for up to a 4-hour "block" of event time (ex. 7pm - 11pm), which includes the band's performance sets and any breaks. Most dance and party bands do not charge on a per-hour basis, the way soloists or smaller musical acts sometimes do. All wedding and special event party bands that bring their own sound equipment can DJ a pre-set playlist on these breaks via iPod or mp3 player that either the band or you can provide. Bands will always attempt to schedule any break around a "natural break" in the event schedule, such as dinner service, speeches or toasts, cake cutting, etc. In most cases, the actual time spent on stage can vary from 3 hours to 3 1/4 hours depending on the schedule and flow of a 4-hr timeline, with typical sets averaging from 45 to 75 mins each (usually 3-4 sets), and breaks averaging 15-25 mins each (2-3 breaks). Every band will always try to adjust their performance set and break schedule to fit the flow of your event. Some bands also offer a three hour continuous music (no breaks) booking option, and most bands can offer overtime options beyond four hours for an additional fee.
+ What does the band's fee include?
We try to ensure our band bookings are as all-inclusive as possible. Typically, a band fee includes the following: up to four hours of contracted time from start to finish including performance sets and breaks. all instrumentation and sound/lighting equipment set-up prior to the event and breakdown afterward, as well as travel and lodging expenses. The only other band costs that clients typically incur are for meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the event, any mandatory parking fees, tolls, and any other special requests noted in the band's contract rider. We never charge a sales tax in booking our bands. Most of the time, food and water or soft drinks for the band will be the only additional cost a client is asked to cover. Each band has a rider (included as part of the contract) that outlines specific technical, hospitality and logistical requests. Most of these can be provided by your venue, such as performance area, electrical needs, dressing room and bathroom access, etc. Contract riders are specific to each band, so requests will vary. Unusual setup requests or performance overtime periods will also incur reasonable additional fees for musician and crew time.
+ How far in advance should I book a band?
Weddings and special events planned on Saturdays during the spring and fall seasons often book one year or more in advance. We usually start hearing from clients planning for the most popular Saturday dates well over a year in advance, and the general booking season for bands in the wedding and special event industry is usually 8 to 15 months before a Saturday or holiday weekend event date. Events on days other than Saturdays typically do not book quite as far in advance. We work with many clients who plan events (even weddings) on a shorter timeline (two to six months in advance) and we usually have some great bands to recommend for any date, even last minute. As a general guideline, the most popular and in-demand bands often get booked early and fewer acts are available for events booked closer to the date. So the further in advance you can book, the more options you'll have to consider. Get started early since it’s first come first serve.
+ I'm ready to book a band. What happens now?
When you are convinced that you’ve found the perfect band for your event, we will request the information from you that we need to prepare a Performance Agreement. Once you’ve signed the Agreement and returned it with your deposit fee, the band is yours! In most cases, band bookings require a 50% advance deposit, but that may vary at times depending on the nature of the event and how far in advance it is booked. The bandleader and/or an All-Star Representative will sign the Agreement as well, and you’ll have a completed copy for your records.
+ Does All-Star Entertainment work with DJs?
All-Star represents the very best-rated DJs in the area with years of professional event experience. Simply discuss your options with your Entertainment Coordinator.
+ Do you book musicians for wedding ceremonies and cocktail hours too?
Yes! We represent the best solo musicians, from pianists and classic guitarists to classical ensembles from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra! Some reception bands do offer ceremony and cocktail music options, and your Coordinator can provide more details.