Booking a live band - frequently asked questions

How do I make a booking?
Simply Swing issues a contract for both parties which conforms to standard industry practice.  A deposit of 20% will be required to secure your booking, with the balance being due 21 working days before the event.

How long do you play for?
We usually play for 2 x 65 minute sets or 3 x 45 minute sets spread over a three hour period.  This can, of course, be revised to suit your event.

If we only want the band for one set, will it be cheaper?
Unfortunately not as our prices are charged per event.

What size band should I have for my event?
We recommend a 5-7 piece band for parties with dancing.  The smaller line-ups are more suitable for drinks receptions or dinners.

When do you set up and how long does this take?
It takes about 40 minutes to set up but we aim to arrive an hour and a half before a performance.  For wedding receptions, we will normally set up once speeches are completed and the room is being cleared. 
If you would like us to be set up earlier in the day an additional 'set-up fee' is usually charged. 

Once set up, can you move your equipment to another room later in the day?
Not usually as this causes disruption.  However, at certain venues this may be possible. 

How much space do you require?
Probably less than you think!  12 feet x 10 feet for the full 7-piece band.  We are, however, experienced at fitting into very small spaces!

Do we need to supply anything?
Not at all.  Simply Swing will supply all sound, lighting and musical equipment.  The venue needs to provide access to 2 x 13 amp sockets.

Can Simply Swing perform without amplification?
If there is a piano available at the venue, we can supply an unamplified quartet. This would not include vocals.

Our venue has a sound limiter, can you still play?
Absolutely. The beauty of Simply Swing is that we are not a loud band. We regularly work with sound limiters and have not triggered one yet!

Can you play outside?
We prefer not to play outside as we use high profile electrical equipment which is easily damaged by rain.  However, if adequate cover can be provided this may be possible.

What refreshments do the musicians require?
Sandwiches and soft drinks are a minimum, with a hot meal necessary for longer journeys and longer duration gigs.

How far do you travel?
We travel worldwide but most of our bookings are within approximately two hours of London.  Bookings beyond this area may incur additional travel expenses and/or overnight accommodation.

Can we come and see you play live?
Yes - we do a variety of public performances throughout the year which are listed on our gigs page.  You will not, however, be able to attend a private event.

Can we request a song?
Yes of course. Even if we don't know it already, we would be delighted to learn a special song for you (free of charge) so long as it's of the same musical genre.  Just give us a month's notice. 

Will you send us a song playlist for approval?
As we tailor our music to suit the individual audience at any given event, we prefer not to use rigid playlists but instead to watch and work with an audience. Any specific songs you wish to hear you may email to us in advance and we will work them into our sets on the night.

Do you use backing tracks?
Not at all.  The band performs completely live.

Can we use your PA system to make announcements or for speeches?
Yes, for the duration we are at your event.

Do you play recorded music during the band breaks?
Yes, we play background music from an iPod which complements our live sets.    If you prefer, you are most welcome to bring your own iPod which we will play through our PA system.

Has Simply Swing ever cancelled a booking?
No.  We have plenty of back-up musicians and singers of the highest calibre in case of holidays/sickness.

Do you have Public Liability Insurance?
Yes we do - up to £10,000,000.