Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our bands and booking process.

Booking a Band

How do I start the process of booking a band?

Explore our website to find videos, photos, music samples, song lists, client reviews, and price ranges for our bands. To check availability or get price quotes, complete our info request form or call 866-726-4455. A booking manager will respond promptly to discuss your event, offer recommendations, and guide you through the process.

Why should I hire a band through Sam Hill Entertainment?

We represent experienced, dependable bands that delight guests at any event. Our booking managers have years of experience helping clients choose the perfect band, and we pride ourselves on being responsive, attentive to your needs, and providing personalized recommendations. After booking, we maintain communication to assist with organizing details as your event approaches.

What is the cost to book a band for an event?

We offer bands for nearly every budget, starting around $2,000 and going up to $15,000+. Most dance bands range between $3,500 and $8,500.

Do bands provide their own instruments and sound equipment?

Bands bring instruments and sound equipment for most weddings and events, covering up to several hundred guests. For larger events, additional sound support can be arranged for a fee or through a vendor you provide.

Do bands provide lighting?

All bands provide basic lighting for their performance area, but this isn’t decor lighting for the whole space. Light stands typically feature a few white or colored LED or par cans. Some bands can adjust lighting to fit the event, or they can skip it if you’re working with a separate lighting vendor.

How long can I expect the band to play?

Special event bands charge a single fee for up to a 4-hour block, including breaks. They’ll play a preset playlist during breaks, scheduled around natural pauses like speeches or cake cutting. For a 4-hour event, bands need at least 45 minutes of break time, usually split into two 20-25 minute breaks. Some bands offer a three-hour no-break option and can add overtime for an extra fee.

What does the band’s fee include?

A band’s fee typically includes up to four hours of performance time, all equipment, setup, breakdown, travel, and lodging. Additional costs may include meals, parking, tolls, or special requests in the band’s rider, which outlines needs like performance area, electrical access, and dressing rooms. Overtime or unusual setups may incur extra fees.

How far in advance should I book a band?

Spring and fall Saturday events often book a year or more in advance, with popular dates typically securing bands 8-15 months ahead. Non-Saturday events book closer to the date, and we often help clients with shorter timelines (2-6 months) find great bands. Booking early increases your options for in-demand bands, so reach out soon!

Preparing For Your Event

Communication

What is my Event Profile and how do I access it?

After finalizing your band’s contract, we’ll send you a link to your Event Profile in The Hub, our online event planning tool. No password is needed, and you can access it anytime. Please complete your Event Profile at least 45 days before your event. At that point, you’ll be introduced to your band, who will review your details to help finalize any remaining aspects. For an overview of The Hub, watch our video. If you can’t find your link, contact our Support Team.

When will I hear from my band?

We’ll connect you directly with your band 45 days before your event. Ensure your Event Profile is completed so your band can review and discuss any remaining details.

I want to contact my band before the 45-day mark. Can you help?

Our bands adhere to the 45-day timeline to focus on upcoming events. Rest assured, they have a proven system for managing details within this planning window. You can update or add event details to your Event Profile at any time.

The contract rider says I need to provide a meal for my band. Is this necessary?

Yes, providing a meal is important. Bands often travel to your event and can’t afford to lose setup or performance time searching for food. We request an on-site hot meal, though it doesn’t have to be the same as your guests’. Many venues or caterers offer less expensive vendor meal options. A well-balanced, nutritious meal is preferred; please avoid pizza or fast food. Most bands prefer to eat before their performance or during their first break. You can discuss meal timing and any dietary restrictions directly with the band. If an on-site meal isn’t possible, a meal buyout of $30 per person can be arranged by contacting our Support Team.

Can we have a face-to-face meeting with our band?

In-person meetings are often challenging due to the band’s location, performance schedule, and personal commitments. However, your band is experienced in covering all planning details via video call, phone, and email.

What will my band wear?

Attire depends on your event’s atmosphere. Male performers typically wear suits or slacks with a collared shirt, while female performers have a range of formal and evening wear. Tuxedos may be available upon request and could incur additional costs. You can discuss attire with your band when introduced 45 days before your event.

Songlist

Can I get a copy of my band’s current songlist?

Yes. Visit our website to view up-to-date songlists for all our bands. Search for your band, and their songlist is available to sort by music style, artist name, or song name. You can also access your band’s songlist from your Event Profile under the Song Requests tab.

What is the best way to specify song requests?

Your band welcomes your song preferences when crafting their set. They have extensive experience building energy throughout the night and know their strengths, so there’s no need to provide a long list of songs. To start a dialogue, select up to six songs you’d love the band to play and up to six you’d prefer they not play. Enter this information into your Event Profile under the Song Requests tab. Your band will review your preferences and discuss any questions or concerns with you once you’re in touch 45 days before your event.

Will my band learn a song that’s not on their songlist?

Unless otherwise specified, our bands are glad to learn one song for you at no additional charge, subject to their approval. If the band feels they can’t perform the song satisfactorily, they’re happy to play the original recording through their speakers. Many couples prefer to shorten special songs to 2-3 minutes; your bandleader can facilitate this, whether the band is playing live or using a recording. Enter the song request into your Event Profile 45 days prior to your event to give your band enough time to review and learn the song.

Will my band send me a recording of them performing my first dance song request in advance?

Due to busy schedules and recording costs, the band cannot provide advance recordings of first dance requests. Rest assured, our musicians are highly skilled and will strive to replicate the song closely. If you’re concerned as your wedding date approaches, the band can play the original version through their speakers. Many couples prefer this option for choreographed dances.

Can a guest play or sing a song with my band?

This is usually possible if the guest only needs to use a microphone or two. It becomes more complex if they need to plug in an instrument or require reconfiguring equipment on stage, though it’s often feasible. You’ll be able to discuss this in more detail with your bandleader when you’re introduced 45 days before your event.

Timeline

How many breaks does my band take, and how long are they?

Bands typically perform for up to a four-hour block of time, which includes two breaks of about 20-25 minutes each. These breaks are timed to align with natural pauses in the event, such as toasts, speeches, or a meal. During breaks, your band will play a preset playlist or music of your choice to maintain the ambiance.

What time will the band arrive at my event?

Bands usually arrive 60 to 90 minutes before their contracted start time to set up, conduct sound checks, and get ready. If your event requires earlier arrival or a specific setup time, you can discuss this with your band when finalizing details 45 days before the event.

Will my band play overtime if my event runs late?

Most bands can accommodate overtime if the event runs late, but this is subject to their availability and an additional fee. Overtime arrangements should ideally be discussed with the band in advance. On the event day, you can also coordinate directly with the bandleader.

What is the best way to plan my timeline with the band?

Your Event Profile will help you outline your timeline, including key moments like your first dance, speeches, and cake cutting. The bandleader will review your timeline when introduced 45 days before the event to ensure smooth coordination.

Logistics

How much space does the band need?

The space requirement depends on the band’s size. A typical five- to seven-piece band needs a performance area of about 12 by 20 feet. Larger bands may require more space. Bands also need access to electrical outlets near the stage. Your venue manager can help confirm the space and power setup.

Can the band set up in one room and perform in another?

If your event requires the band to move from one location to another, additional fees may apply for teardown, re-setup, and sound checks. It’s best to discuss this with the band in advance to ensure proper logistics.

Do I need to rent a stage for the band?

A stage isn’t required, but it can enhance visibility, especially for larger events. A stage area should ideally be about 1-2 feet high and meet the space requirements for the band. If no stage is used, a flat, stable surface is sufficient.

What happens if there’s bad weather for my outdoor event?

For outdoor events, it’s essential to have a backup plan, such as a tent or an indoor location. Bands cannot perform in direct sunlight, rain, or on unstable surfaces for safety and equipment reasons. Your Event Profile will include space to outline your rain plan, which the band will review.

Will the band bring their own sound and lighting equipment?

Yes, most bands include sound equipment in their fee, and many provide basic performance lighting. For larger events, additional sound and lighting production may be necessary, which can be arranged for an extra fee or provided by your venue.

How much power does the band need?

Bands require one or more standard 20-amp outlets near the performance area. Larger bands or those with additional sound/lighting production may need more power. Your band can provide specific requirements when you connect with them before the event.

How long does it take for the band to set up and break down?

Most bands need 60 to 90 minutes to set up and conduct a sound check. Breakdown after the performance usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If your event requires quicker setup or breakdown, let the band know when you connect so they can plan accordingly.

Does the band require a dressing room?

Yes, most bands request a private space for changing and resting before and after their performance. This doesn’t need to be elaborate—a clean, private room with access to restrooms is sufficient. Dressing room requirements are outlined in the band’s rider, which will be shared as part of your contract.

Do I need to provide parking for the band?

Yes, bands require convenient parking for their vehicles and equipment. If parking is limited or paid, the event host is responsible for covering any fees. Specific details can be addressed when coordinating with your band.

Payments, Contracts & Insurance

When is my final payment due?

Final payment is due 30 days before your event. You can make payments online through your Event Profile or contact our Support Team for assistance.

What is included in the band’s fee?

The band’s fee covers their performance time (up to 4 hours), instruments, sound equipment, and lighting (if applicable). Travel and lodging costs, if required, are typically included in the fee. Additional costs, like vendor meals or parking fees, may apply depending on your event logistics.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my event?

If you need to cancel or reschedule, contact us as soon as possible. Cancellation terms are outlined in your contract and depend on how close the event date is. Rescheduling may involve additional costs or require selecting an alternate band, especially for popular dates.

Are gratuities included in the band’s fee?

Gratuities are not included in the band’s fee but are always appreciated for exceptional performances. A typical gratuity ranges from $25-$50 per band member or 10-20% of the total fee.

Can I add extra time to the band’s performance after booking?

Yes, additional performance time can often be added, subject to the band’s availability. Fees for overtime vary by band and can be discussed when you connect with the band 45 days before your event or even on the event day.

Does the band carry liability insurance?

Yes, most of our bands carry liability insurance to cover potential issues during their performance. If your venue requires a Certificate of Insurance, we can provide this upon request. Be sure to let us know about any specific insurance requirements well in advance of your event to ensure everything is in place.