| It can be expected that you will have
some questions while searching for the perfect band. Here are some
common questions that we hear from our clients. If you have questions
or concerns that are not addressed here please contact
us. |
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We Have Answers
|
| 1. What is the process of hiring a
band? |
| Every event is different and Sam Hill treats each client’s
needs differently. We begin by discussing the type of music
you’re looking for, the type of event, the nature of
your guests and audience, and your budget. Based these criteria
we send you information such as demo CDs, videos, photos,
bios, songlists on several appropriate bands. Most of this
information is also available through this website. In addition,
we can often provide references and a chance to see the band
perform live. Sam Hill will answer your questions, offer advice,
and guide you through the entire process. |
| Once you've decided on a band, your booking manager will negotiate
with the band to get YOU the best price. Once a price is agreed
upon, we issue contracts. You’ll sign and return the
contracts along with an advance deposit. Once the artist has
returned the contracts a completed copy is mailed to you and
the show is officially booked. |
|
| 2. How far in advance should I book
a band? |
| Generally 1 to 3 months in advance. For weddings and holiday
parties, 6 to 12 months is a good guide line. As with most
things, the sooner the better. Waiting longer generally means
that fewer acts will be available. However, last minute situations
do arise, and we often set up shows with just a few days notice.
|
|
| 3. Why should I work with an agency
to hire a band? |
| There are several advantages to using a talent agency.
An agency will offer you a wider variety of acts than you
can find on your own. Also, our booking managers have years of experience
helping clients pick the perfect band for their event and
specifically here at Sam Hill, we only work with proven
dependable acts. In addition, each show is guaranteed with
professional contracts which reduces miscommunication and
virtually eliminates cancellations. |
| Some buyers express a concern that working with an agency
means they will pay more for the band; while we do earn commission
on each show, we tend to get bands at better prices because
we deal with them regularly and know how much they typically
get paid (as opposed to what they will quote to an inexperienced
buyer such as a wedding client or college social chair). This
actually saves you money in the end. |
|
| 4. Why choose Sam Hill? |
| Most other agencies represent BANDS. We consider YOU our
main client, and our job is to get YOU the best talent at
the lowest price. Our job is NOT to make the bands more money.
In addition, you'll get more personalized attention working
with Sam Hill than with larger corporate agencies. (We take
pride in getting to know each of our clients and each band
we suggest to make the best match for your event.) |
|
| 5. What is sound/production/PA? Do
i need it and how do i get it? |
| This refers to the sound system (and often lights) needed
for a band to perform a show. Sometimes bands bring their
own sound systems, and if not we have an extensive network
of sound production companies we can arrange for your show.
The prices we quote you WILL INCLUDE any extra cost for production.
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|
| 6. What regions does Sam Hill serve? |
| We typically arrange shows in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast,
with a large concentration on Virginia and the DC area.. While
the bands we work with come from all over the country, most
are based within this region as well. If you are outside of
this region, please call us to discuss your specific event.
|
|
| 7. How much do bands cost? |
| We’ve worked with hundreds of bands ranging from
$500 local jazz and acoustic groups to $50,000 national touring
acts. For a great party or wedding band, you can expect to
pay something in the $1500-5000 range. We’ve placed
the bands on our website into price categories to help give
you a general idea of what they will cost, but the actual
price depends on a number of factors such as the date of the
event, location, travel, and production requirements. |
|
| 8. What if i can't find a certain
act on this site? |
| There are many acts we work with that are not listed on
this site. Drop us an email or give us a call at 866-SAM-HILL.
Chances are we work with or can find the act you're interested
in. |
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