FAQ
Hiring a live band is a great move and the most important party element hands down. You've been to enough parties to know that a great band can make a party memorable, and that's what the Mustangs will do for you...we have a totally diverse play list & always keep the dance floor packed. Visit us on Facebook to see some live show pictures.
#1 QUESTION: How many pieces are in the band?
The Mustangs are a 9 piece band. 3 lead vocalists -2 male & 1 female , 2 horns (sax, trumpet), piano, bass, guitar, drums.
Also keep in mind that our guitarist, drummer and pianist all sing lead and backgrounds too, so there's big harmonies on everything.
For a bigger sound, you may add more horns and singers to the lineup.
HOW EARLY DO CLIENTS BOOK US?:
Typically 9-12 months in advance. But there are always cases where folks hired us just 6 weeks before a big party or wedding! The point is, don't assume we're booked.COCKTAIL HOUR
The cocktail hour would be the first of 5 hours of music, and it usually happens right before the traditional 4-hours of dinner and dancing time.
We can offer a keyboard player or guitarist for this hour.
SOUND & LIGHTS
Our price includes production, which is our sound system and stage lights. The power requirements for the band are Two 120 volt separate circuits close to band stage. This is imperative in order for our systems to run. Please check with your venue to be sure they have sufficient power.SET UP TIME
Loading in and set up is usually takes about 2 hours ...break down/load out is 1 hour. So we need access to the space at least 2 hours before the event is to begin.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Our lead singers & bandleader will act as MC for your event.LEARNING SONGS
If we don't know your First Dance selection, we will learn it for you. We will need 4 weeks to work it into our rehearsal schedule.ABOUT FEEDING YOUR BAND
We will be at the location for more than 6+ hours from loading in to their departure, so we ask that you provide a simple vendor meal.BAND VOLUME
Our volume is totally adjustable. If you think we are too loud, just tell us. We have a sound man along to monitor the levels as well.
This is never a problem for our clients.BAND BREAK TIMES
This is how we do it- during dinner we will play soft instrumental music until the main course is served. This can make the first set anywhere from 1 hour to 1.5 hours. They we'll take a short break, and when we come back on, the dance music begins. We'll play for 45 - 50 minutes, then break for 15. During the breaks, an iPod or CDs will be played through our PA system.TRAVEL EXPENSE
Engagements that are within a 1 hour driving range are considered to be 'local' for us. Beyond that, each case is different.
In some cases we may need hotel rooms. Honestly, we would rather go home, but if it's going to be a late night, we need play it safe and spend the night.CONTRACTS & DEPOSITS
You pay 50% with when you contract the band. The balance will be due on the day of your event.HIDDEN COSTS
We don't have any! To be clear, what we bring is our sound system, our stage lights, our instruments and amplifiers.Be aware, there are situations that will call for the rental of additional equipment to accommodate the band. In most cases these are outdoor tented weddings and the following may apply:
• Staging: We do not carry a stage. Most venues or tent rental companies supply that. If the staging is cost prohibitive for you, we can play on ground level. However, we will need a hard and flat surface to place our equipment and our feet. Grass or mud will not do. We usually request a stage or an area 16' deep x 20' wide.• Generators: The other cost may be for power generators. We have found in the past that sharing a low output generator to run the band and the tent lights does not work. We'll need one with enough power to run our sound board, lights and amplifiers. Hopefully, there will be a power source close enough to run us extension cords.
•Parking - if there is not a parking lot or street parking available, we'll ask you to arrange for garage or valet passes for the band members who carry heavy gear.
This usually amounts to 8 passes.
ITINERARY FOR THE EVENING
You will build an itinerary for the entire day, which will include information for all of your vendors. You will do this with your bridal consultant or caterering manager. We only need to know what's happening from the ceremony time forward. This is usually finalized 10-14 days before the event. We'll need the final version (there will be a few rough drafts!) 7-10 days before the event.What did I miss? Have more questions? Contact us. Also visit us on Facebook for pictures of the band at shows and more information.
PLEASE NOTE: This is our official web site. You've reached "The Mustangs Band" directly.