How experienced are you at playing weddings and functions & parties?

The band was put together to play at weddings, functions and parties and all the band members have many years experience of these types of event.

 

How long will the band play for?

We play two one hour sets of live music with a break between the two sets. Within our package we also include background/Disco music and disco  lighting for the dance floor before and after the band and in our break. The disco music can include your own selection of songs if provided as a playlist on an Smart phone, iPad, laptop or other mp3 player on the night.

 

What time are you contracted to play until?

We are contracted to finish our last set by 12.30 am. We are happy to leave the disco music running whilst we pack away. Most hotels and other venues will have a pre-determined time when they expect any live or disco music to finish by.  So it's best to check with your venue as well.

 

Do we have any say in the songs that you play?

The band has complete say over the live songs played on the night. These are taken from the current playlist on this website which we have practiced and play to a high standard. We are sometimes asked if we can learn a song for a “First Dance” at a wedding.  Unfortunately the answer is not really. A first dance song of your choice can be played over the PA system before the start of our first or second set. Or you can choose a slow song from our playlist.

 

If we or our guests approach the band to request a song at the function can you play it?

We are not able to play any requests on the night of your function unless they are songs which are already on our current playlist. We have practiced  and play these songs to a very high standard.

 

How long do you need to set up and take down your equipment?

Ideally we require a minimum of two hours to set up the sound and lighting equipment and carry out a soundcheck . At least an hour is required to pack away at the end of the evening before the closing time of the venue.

 

What are your power requirements?

We require a minimum of three separate 13 amp sockets wired separate to the supply and capable of delivering a total of 39 amps. Power supplies for outdoor venues need to be properly weatherproofed and connected via earth leakage circuit breakers (RCDs). The power outlet sockets need to be a maximum distance of 3 meter's from the stage area.

 

Can you set up a lot earlier in the day before the guests arrive at the venue?

On a Saturday we can arrange to set up earlier in the day.  But please discuss this with the band when initially booking. It can increase our fee depending on time and distance needed to travel to the venue. Our standard arrival time is usually 3.30pm onward's.

 

How much space do the band need to set up in?

We ideally require a space approx. 6.5 meters wide x 3.5 meters deep. We will always try and fit in with whatever space has been allocated, but this can mean reducing the equipment we use which can compromise the sound & lighting. If you have any doubts about the size of the stage at your venue it's best to give us a call to discuss it.  We reserve the right to refuse to play at a venue if having  arrived space has not been left to physically fit in the five band members and the required equipment.

 

Do we have any say in how loud the band is?

We will carry out a full sound check to get the best sound and volume level for the acoustics of your venue. Your comments are welcome but we are very experienced at creating the right sound and volume for many different venues. For example what may initially sound loud in an empty room at the beginning of the evening can be far too quiet once it has been filled with people. We are able and are happy to adjust the overall  P.A  and therefore the whole volume of the band in a break between songs.

 

Are we allowed to use a microphone?

We will allow a responsible person use of a microphone for an announcement or speech. Let a member of the band know if you need to use a microphone.

 

Do you allow people on stage with you?

We do allow members of the audience on stage at our discretion to sing a chorus or two from a song we are playing . Due to the terms of our insurance members of the audience are not allowed to use the band's instruments. We do reserve the right to refuse anyone access to the stage area at any time whilst we are playing.

 

Does the band have Public Liability Insurance Pat Test Certificate?

Firestar carry Public Liability Insurance to the value of £5 Million and a current Pat Test Certificate. Some venues require a copy of these which we are happy to provide a PDF of on request.

 

Does the band need somewhere to change, refreshments, food etc?

The band will need somewhere to change, store valuables and stay whilst waiting to start. Please do not offer us the nearest toilet to change in.as this is unhygienic.​ Our contract includes supplying the band with some food and drink before the first set. (We play much better on a full stomach : )  Clients often supply each of us a Club Sandwich meal from the bar menu or a plate of sandwiches or some pizzas and a bowl of french fries/chips for five people plus a drink each. On occasion we are invited to take part in an evening buffet or meal after the guests have finished which is fine and always much appreciated!

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Do you confirm bookings with a contract?

Once you have confirmed that you want to book the band we will email you our Confirmation of Booking contract and Terms & Conditions . Your date can be secured in our diary with a 20% deposit paid by bank transfer . The remaining fee will be due nearer the date of your function. Payments for this needs to be made by Bank transfer, or cash on the night .

 

Having booked the band can we cancel at a later date?

You can cancel your booking with the band at a later date. Please give us as much notice as possible. Your initial deposit is a non-refundable amount.

Cancellation of your booking within 2 months of the date of the performance means we will expect a half of  the payment for the remaining fee, as agreed within the terms of your contract with us.

Cancellation of your booking within a month of the date of the performance means we will expect the full payment from you for the remaining fee as agreed within the terms of your contract with us.
We would always be prepared to discuss a special or unfortunate situation. Our aim is to come to an amicable agreement with you whilst keeping the interests of the band in mind due to a cancellation.

 

What happens if the band have to cancel?

In the unlikely event of this happening we would inform you of this as soon as possible. This would only occur due to serious illness or other situations beyond our control. We would initially put you in touch with another band if possible or a live music agency who may be able to supply you with a band for a similar cost or a Disco.. As a last resort we can supply a selection of pre-recorded disco music played through the bands  P.A. with our light show running to provide some dance music and dance floor lighting run by a couple of band members. (As a note of reassurance this problem has never occurred in the past)