Here’s a list of the questions we are most commonly asked…
How big is the band?
Under normal circumstances The Marley Hill Band performs as a four piece group which includes lead vocalist, guitarist, bassist and drummer. We are, however, very versatile and are able to offer soloists, duos and trios in almost any configuration. We can also add a keyboardist and a saxophone to give you that big band experience.
How much do you charge?
The standard answer is… It depends. But to give you an idea… For our standard four-piece band playing a standard three sets for 150 people within the area we are willing to travel we would charge $2000.00 in total.
Do you charge for travel expenses? If yes, how much do you charge?
Not typically. We serve an area whose boundaries are roughly Ottawa to
Brockville to Belleville and then back to Ottawa. Venues in this region would
not be charged extra for travel expenses. Venues outside this region can be
negotiated.
What is your overtime rate?
We typically do not have an “overtime” rate as we prefer to ensure that the
various portions of the event are well planned out in advance.
Is there a required deposit for booking The Marley Hill Band?
We request a 25% non-refundable deposit to secure your booking date.
What music genres do your band play?
Our repertoire consists of many genres spanning from the 50’s to today We
are comfortable playing Top-40, Motown, Soul, Blues, Classic and Modern Rock,
Country, Dance, Funk, Jazz, Pop, and R&B. That’s pretty much guaranteed to
satisfy!
What is your band’s usual attire?
Generally speaking all events have an expected dress code. Unless otherwise requested The Marley Hill Band will always show up dressed professionally and will strive to be at the upper level of of the dress code your event requires.
Do you offer sample performances?
Outside of our regular wedding and corporate gigs we do play somewhat regularly
in clubs and festivals in and around the Ottawa Valley. As those dates are
confirmed we will list them on our Public Gigs Calendar page. In the meantime
you can check out our “Listen” and “Watch“ pages from the home screen to hear some
recordings and watch some videos.
Are you willing to learn songs that you do not currently know?
Absolutely. Because we specialize in weddings and corporate events, we are always being asked to play specific songs at the event. We are happy to work with you on requests that you have for featured dances, or for your favourites in general. While we are not married to our setlist we would appreciate requests being made in advance of the gig so that we can rehearse them properly and do them justice.
How much time do you usually need for setup?
Depending on the configuration of the band you’re booking (solo, duo, trio, four, five or six piece etc.), and the venue, setup times vary. Our standard four piece band with standard equipment and lights will require three hours of setup time. This would include sound check. Wherever possible we always prefer to arrange for our band to be set up and sound checked prior to your guest’s arrival time.
How much space do you usually require?
It depends on the band size. Our duo is our smallest size, and does not require a large staging area. Our standard four piece band can be set up comfortably in a number of configurations. Examples of minimum configurations would be a stage of 8 x 15 feet or 10 x 12 feet. We can consult with you, your event planners, or the venue, to make the proper space and technical accommodations.
How much electrical service do you usually require?
The standard answer you will always get for events of this size is: “The band will need two separate 15 amp circuits”. That is a safe answer but not necessarily true. Our standard four piece band with PA and lights really only requires one dedicated 15 amp circuit. If we run into trouble (which our sound check should show) we can always run an extension cord over to a different outlet on another circuit to split the load.
Do you have a sign or banner that you use at events? Yes we do. It is small and non-intrusive but we feel that our primary job is to entertain at your event, and not to shamelessly indulge in self-promotion. Should you be uncomfortable with our sign we will leave it at home. We do however have business cards available for those interested in contacting us.
What special equipment, such as disco balls or lasers, are offered
with your service?
If requested we can augment our typical lighting production set-up, with any
number of visual effects and equipment. Requirements for venue, addition
set-up, and additional costs may apply – speak with us to arrange whatever you
want or need.
Are you available to MC the event?
If you do not have your own dedicated MC then we are happy to work with whoever
is organizing the event to make announcements etc. We enjoy interacting with
the crowd and making it fun for everyone. The more advanced notice and
preparation we have the better.
How would you motivate the crowd if no one is dancing?
If we can’t get them up dancing… then maybe no one can? We have our ways. Song choices, interaction with the guests, crowd participation, taking requests, etc. We are experienced at motivating a crowd.
What is your policy on taking breaks?
During most events we would perform three 45-to-60-minute sets with appropriate
breaks in between to ensure your event starts and ends on time according to
your schedule. Special events may require different timing. We are happy to
oblige within reason.
If you need a meal break, do you require that the client provide your meal?
Although we don’t actually “require” meals provided, under certain circumstances we would be greatly appreciative. For example, a wedding generally does not have food available for sale. Given the time necessary to load in, sound check, perform and load out, we would appreciate some food and beverages to be available. We would not expect the same plate you are serving your guests nor would we expect a table setting at your reception.
Do you play recorded music during your break?
Yes. We offer complimentary music during breaks. Our playlists will be chosen appropriately for your event. Alternatively, if you or one of your group has a preferred playlist on their device, we can hook it to our system over Bluetooth or a 3.5mm headphone jack.
If one or more of the band members are unable to attend, what is your backup plan?
We maintain contact with many active professional musicians, and make every effort to cover unexpected events such as illness. The show MUST go on – cancelling a performance is not considered an option.