Searching
for the right musical act for your function or special occasion can be a
little daunting at times.
Let’s
Jam aim to make organising the right entertainment as simple as possible for
you.
Below,
we have answered many of our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that isn’t
answered below, feel free to ask
your question here.
( * An asterisk indicates additional charges apply)
How
many sets will you perform at our function, and how long do they last?
Generally
speaking, we base our performances around the 4 – 5 hour duration that
most function and reception venues allow for their functions, including
pre-dinner drinks. We understand
that many function schedules don’t always run on time. Therefore, we’re
flexible with how many sets we play and how long our sets are to coincide
with the venue’s function manager and the formalities (eg. speeches,
presentations, etc.). We aim to perform 3 – 5 sets of roughly 30 – 45
minutes each, but at the same time, we’re not timing them to the split
second. Once again, we’re flexible enough to happily play, for example, a
20 minute set if any formalities are running a little behind schedule.
In
most cases, we find it more suitable to have pre-recorded background music
playing earlier in the occasion. This allows your guests to enjoy
conversation before spending more of the occasion on the dance floor while
we’re performing.
Can
we choose the songs we want you to perform?
We
encourage you to make your selection from the list of songs we currently
perform on our extensive
repertoire. We ask you to keep in mind that we will perform as many of
your selected favourites as time and formalities allow, as well as the
enjoyment of the majority of your guests. On some occasions, we have had
many songs selected for us to perform which have been personal favourites of
one or two people only. For obvious reasons, these people’s functions
wouldn’t have been very successful if we’d performed all the love songs
they'd chosen, only leaving minimal time to party a little harder. Each
member of Let’s Jam, including any additional musicians for 3 piece
line-ups, have experience in “reading” their audiences, and can usually
predict which songs are more likely to create a positive reaction. In other
words, we’re more than happy for you to leave the song selection up to us.
After all, it’s what we do as our profession!
Do
you take requests?
If
there is a song that isn’t on our repertoire that you’d really like to
have played at your function, all you need to do is ask us. Let’s Jam have
thousands of songs on file, however it would be extremely difficult to list
them all, let alone, learn them all (although it’d be great to know that
many songs). With prior notice, we can search our files, or possibly have
access to your requests elsewhere, including songs in languages other than
English. In most cases, additional charges would not apply for requests,
unless we had to buy a backing sequence or pay someone to create one
specifically for you. We will always suggest options to keep your costs from
increasing, and if we weren’t able to perform your request live for you,
we’d be happy to play a pre-recorded version on CD. Alternatively, we may
suggest you consider booking Let’s Jam as a 3 piece combination*,
which would increase the size of the repertoire. If your requests include
international songs, for example, Italian, we could perform as a trio*,
incorporating a vocalist whose Italian repertoire would make ours more
extensive.
Is
a Master Of Ceremonies (M.C.) service included in the cost of booking the
entertainment?
We
like to provide you with the option of whether or not you would like us to
take on the role of M.C. and therefore do not factor it into our price.
Why pay for what you may not need from us?
An M.C. service can certainly be included, for an additional
fee which covers our extra time and effort, both before and on the night.
We pride ourselves on providing an M.C. service that is extremely
professional and personal and not just a distant announcement from behind a
band microphone. We take care of all general introductions and announcements
during the reception using a wireless microphone, out in the main body of the
room where we can be easily seen and heard by you and your guests – also
giving quick and easy access to the microphone during speeches.
More importantly, as M.C. it is our job to ensure the evening runs
smoothly to plan by liaising with the function co-ordinator and staff and
generally executing all of the night's events as you have detailed in your
running sheet. This requires a
lot of organization and consideration of every fine detail that is unique to
each wedding.
Alternatively,
if you have a friend or relative you’d like to take on the M.C. duties, we
are more than happy to assist if they aren’t confident or experienced in the
role. This option is definitely
more popular and rest assured that we still provide the same level of
assistance and interaction to help keep the night on track - and it won't cost
you any extra! Bear in mind also
that if we don't take on the M.C. duties with the task of having to organize
everyone, naturally enables us to provide more music, which is, of course, our
main priority.
Should
you require a member of Let's Jam to provide an M.C. service, please be
advised that additional
costs may be incurred if this member needs to make a personal
visit to discuss your function details with you. We encourage all
communication to be made via phone, e-mail, fax or good old fashioned snail
mail, just to avoid you paying any additional and unnecessary costs.
What
is included in the cost we’re quoted if we choose to book Let’s Jam?
No
matter if you book Let’s Jam as a duo or trio, the
general inclusions are basically the same...
Performers
Let’s
Jam as a duo includes Freddy as the male vocalist / guitarist alongside a female
vocalist, accompanied by backing sequences with full instrumentation. You
will always have a professional female vocalist as part of the duo line up. In
some circumstances, you may be able to select your preferred singer, however,
you can rest assured that Freddy will choose the perfect singer for your
function.
If
you prefer to book Let’s Jam as a trio*, your choice
of additional performers can include another male or female vocalist, saxophone player or percussionist, all subject to availability. These combinations
also include accompaniment of full instrumentation backing sequences. One of
the advantages of booking a larger line up is a more extensive repertoire can
be performed, although we have several hundred songs to choose from in the duo
line up alone.
Equipment
Unless
advised otherwise, we provide our own audio and lighting production,
incorporating a vocal P.A. system, and stage lighting. Our audio system,
suitable for rooms that hold a capacity of up to 400 people, includes a CD
player,
two mini
disc players, two 300W speakers and a mixing console able to
accommodate most additional audio sources you may require. For example, you
may require amplified sound from a laptop computer for a corporate
presentation. We can also provide access of our wireless microphone to
responsible guests for speeches, presentations, etc.
Please note that our CD player does not have the capability to play any files
such as mp3, iPod or similarly compatible formats, other than standard CD
files. If you have songs you'd like played in any other format, we would need
to be advised prior to your function, and would certainly be happy to
accommodate these requests.
Upon
being given the specified times, we can have our equipment set up prior to your
guests arriving, which we actually prefer. We like to allow enough time to load in, set up our equipment
and sound check before guests arrive to avoid carrying heavy equipment through
crowded areas.
Music
Suitable
background music can be playing by the time your guests start arriving, before
and in between our performances, whenever appropriate. Depending on possible
time limitations, we aim to perform 3 – 5 sets of approximately 30 – 45
minutes each, as mentioned earlier.
Additional
Charges
Naturally,
prices will increase when adding performers to the duo line up, and additional costs will be incurred
for requests which might require further preparation on the behalf of
Let’s Jam. Some of these may include preparing songs that aren’t in
any of the performers’ current repertoires, modifying songs for special
requests, personally meeting with you (or
someone on your behalf) for discussion, as opposed to telephone, fax or e-mail
correspondence, function duration changes and travelling long distances for
the booking.
Bookings
which require loading in and out of the function venue or into the allocated
band area via stairs, without
ramp or lift access, will incur additional costs.
You can appreciate all these
matters can be rather time consuming, however, we will offer suggestions to
hopefully make things more cost effective.
Why
are some duos and trios more affordable than Let’s Jam?
Let's
Jam has always put great pride into the service provided, proving that it's
more than just playing great music and filling dance floors at wedding receptions and
various functions. It's the extra little things and the eye for fine detail
that a lot of people don't even consider, which can actually make a difference
to the success of any occasion. Here is what one of our couples
said about their wedding reception...
Hi
Freddy,
Just wanted to thank you so much for making our night so enjoyable. The dance
floor was absolutely packed. All our guests commented on how great you and Lee
were. Thanks for all the extra work you put in and for staying up till 3am
finalising our CD's. Everything worked out perfectly. We can't recommend you
highly enough to other wedding couples. You not only helped with the music
selections, you also helped with our MC and other little things that made our
night so special. Lee also did a fantastic job and we appreciated all the
extra things you did on the night especially taking time to congratulate both
of us and speak to us. We are recommending you to everyone we know who are
planning their weddings.
Thank you once again,
Wesley and Rhonda Folkard
Re:
Wedding at Witchmount
Estate
Winery, Rockbank on April 12th, 2008.
Many
people don't actually realise how much work is involved in what we do as
performers. Some people even find it hard believing we can justify charging
"expensive rates" for what many think is us simply singing a few
songs in a night. A lot of our work is not seen by those who book us, or our
fellow musicians, for that matter. As well as our performances, other factors
to consider as part of our "work day" include travelling distances
(sometimes over an hour) to ensure we arrive early enough to set our equipment
up before function commencement, self-management, self-administration,
self-promotion, and even being available to answer all of our clients'
questions 24/7! We become our own sound engineers and roadies, book-keepers,
music and market researchers, then with any extra spare time, maybe even get to learn a
few new songs to perform, among several other factors. In other words, with
the right choice of entertainment (be it Let's Jam or another quality act),
you're investing in professional musicians who take pride in what they do -
not glorified karaoke stars!
In
the last three years, the awards Let's Jam received
through the Australian Bridal
Industry Academy include...
2007
Winner - Best Live Entertainment
2006
& 2008 Finalist - Best Live Entertainment and
2007
Finalist - Best Master Of Ceremonies
These
awards were based on Brides and Grooms of Victoria who voted for Let's Jam
on...
Quality of Service
Quality of
Product
Attitude of Staff
and
Value
For Money
We
strongly believe that the amount of money you spend on your wedding or
function entertainment is an investment. Whether it's a wise one or not, or
whether you decide to take the risk of cutting corners on one of the most
important factors of any event (yes - the entertainment), is entirely up to
you.
Let's
Jam understands that weddings and functions can be very expensive, especially
in this day and age with prices increasing on just about everything! As
part of keeping up with these difficult economic times, we've added a page of Special
Offers, where you may be able to save money on your special event. Not
only could you be eligible to save hundreds of dollars, but you will also be
encouraged not to spend any extra money if you don't really need to. For
example, why pay for a trio just because you may have heard they're
"better than just a two piece band" when all you may actually need
is a duo? You can trust Let's Jam to help you make the right decision. And
remember - you can make the money back that you spend on your wedding, but how
soon will you be able to make those memories again?
Do
we have to provide meals for the band?
Yes,
please. A main meal, or something equally sufficient, and light refreshments
provided by you or the venue for each member of Let’s Jam would be most
appreciated. After all, musicians need to take breaks and keep their energy
levels up to give an energetic performance!
A
word of advice though; if, for example, you are paying for a 3-course meal for
each band member, make sure to confirm this with the venue’s function
manager BEFORE your function. We, as well as other bands, have been told by
previous clients that that’s what the clients had arranged and paid for, only to
discover at their function that some venues have a “policy” to only provide
a one-course meal or none at all to bands and others who are there to work.
The last thing we want to do is spoil your occasion by informing you that
you’ve been ripped off, not to mention, leaving us possibly unfed.
Can
you perform at our function which is out of metropolitan Melbourne?
We
generally do not travel outside of metropolitan Melbourne, but please ask us
for further details, as some areas are considered, especially during off-peak
periods (May - September). Naturally, prices
will increase and vary depending on the distance of where your function will
take place, but most areas in Melbourne's surrounding suburbs will be
seriously considered. For bookings that require 90 minutes or more travel time
from metropolitan Melbourne, accommodation for each member of Let’s Jam must
be provided. Separate rooms with
own bathroom facilities and off street parking must be included, and will be
most appreciated.
Are
you able to perform longer than the duration we originally booked?
In
most cases, Let’s Jam are able to perform later than the finishing time
originally scheduled. Some factors may include whether the venue management
will allow it, the overall behaviour of the audience, and the decision of the
members of Let’s Jam. Additional charges apply, and extended performance(s)
will only take place after the original balance has been paid in full, and the
set amount for the extra set has been paid in cash prior. All prices will be
given in writing at time of booking which you would agree to upon completing
and signing a booking
application.
Generally, the
standard prices we quote are based on your function of up to 6 hours, and
concluding at or before midnight.
How
can I confirm Let’s Jam as the entertainment at our function?
Once
you have decided to book Let’s Jam as your entertainment, you will
need to request a booking
application to complete. This can be sent to you either via e-mail or in
the post, for which we will need your postal address. When you have read and agreed to the
booking conditions,
all you need to do is complete and sign the booking application, and return it
with the appropriate minimum deposit amount. This amount varies on whether you
want to book Let’s Jam as a duo or trio. Deposits
will not be refunded, although some conditions
apply.
Please
note, bookings are only considered as confirmed once a booking
application has been completed, signed and returned AND the appropriate deposit
amount has been paid. Paying a deposit only secures the date for your function so that we do
not accept any further enquiries for the date you've chosen. Once you (or
someone on your behalf) and an authorised member of Let's Jam have signed the
booking application, this finalises the booking confirmation procedure.
Deposits can be paid via E.F.T. into our account (which is the most efficient
and preferred method), by cheque, money order or direct deposit. Once your
deposit has been received, you will be issued with a receipt, which also
serves as an invoice for the balance owed on or before your function date.
Can
we book Let’s Jam as a 3 piece combination?
Yes.
If you prefer to book Let’s Jam as a trio, your option
of additional performers can include another male or female vocalist, saxophone player or percussionist, all subject to availability. These combinations
also include accompaniment of full instrumentation backing sequences, along
with the duo line up. One of
the advantages of booking a larger line up is that a more extensive repertoire can
be performed. Booking prices will increase with each additional performer. If
you are considering a line up larger than a duo, it is recommended you ensure
the allocated performance area is of a sufficient size to fit additional
members (at least one square metre per member is usually enough). We ask you
to keep in mind, that unless you have a stage for the band, you may also be
sacrificing the dance floor area, and possibly even space for your table
arrangements, if you increase the size of the band. Please
check the venue or ask us what we think is best. You, or more
so, your guests, may also find it preferable, for the band to be
situated further away from your guests, if possible. This is especially recommended when
musicians like a saxophone player are booked, since the sax is quite a loud
instrument, even unamplified.
What
are the advantages of booking Let’s Jam as a sequenced duo or trio instead
of booking a full band with 4 or more members? (Click
here for the short answer to this question)
There
are quite a few, actually. While having a larger sized band performing at your
function can be great and may be suitable in different situations, with all
due respect to musicians in bands, the following points should be
acknowledged, especially when many factors need to be considered for your
occasion to be a successful and enjoyable one.
a)
Space Required
The
amount of space a duo occupies in a function room, regardless of its size, is
minimal compared to a band with several musicians and their instruments,
amplifiers, drum kits, large P.A. systems, etc. We can usually perform
comfortably as a duo in an area of approximately 3m x 1.5m - and that's with
all our equipment!
b)
Volume Levels
Since
all our equipment and backing sequences ("our band") are amplified,
we can control the volumes and audio frequencies whenever we need to. With a
band that includes drums and bass, for example, some of those volumes and low
frequencies can be harder to control and disturbing to some, especially
those seated close by. Some venues also have noise meters installed, which cut
the power supply in designated areas (mainly the entertainment area) if the
volume is too loud. The last thing you'd want at your event is for the power
to cut out due to volume which was difficult to control when the party is
peaking. In a sequenced duo/trio situation, these occurrences can be avoided
with easy monitoring of our volume.
c)
Repertoire
With
an extensive
repertoire like
ours, our quality backing sequences allow us to replicate your favourite songs
with ease. Featuring music styles ranging from jazz, swing and R n' B, to 70's disco,
Latin pop, classic favourites and top 40 dance, our backing sequences include all the
instrumentation that are in the original versions. This enables us to produce
a fuller and tighter sound, as close to what you expect to hear. In most
cases, this also allows us to take requests with minimal notice, whether it be
5 days or 5 minutes prior to us singing them, since "our band"
already "knows" the song. Remember, that with live guitar played by Freddy, as well as the
third member option, the musical possibilities are many!
d)
Cost Versus Value
When
it comes to the dollar value of entertainment, some duos and trios can cost
around the same as a larger band. If a band has quoted you a lower price than
the duo, I'd be asking the band some questions if I were you... like; Are you
experienced? Is this the first wedding you'll be playing at? Have you been
rehearsing the same ten songs for 12 months? If you're seriously considering a
duo, but your focus is on the cost being a bit expensive, whether it's Let's
Jam or another act, you really should think of the more important values your
preferred act will offer you; Entertainment value - which plays a major role
in any successful event; Service value - an act whose experience in organising
detail, understanding your requirements, professional and courteous attitudes
at all times, punctuality and efficiency are a big part of what they stand
for, and should also make you feel comfortable booking them; and the value of
the memories you want to keep from your important occasion. You want everyone
who was at your function, as well as yourself, to have great memories of the
time they had, and so do we! It's
understandable how weddings and functions can be quite expensive to organise
and some people may not want to add unnecessary expenses to them. However,
we believe that where an occasion like your own is concerned, those
extra costs are soon forgotten when you see how well they were spent. Once
again, keep in mind that the
money can be made again, but how soon can the memories be? After
you consider how much more important all those values are, go back and think
about the dollar value of costs like providing meals (even one) and drinks for
each member of a duo, as opposed to a 5 or 6 piece band. We're happy to offer
suggestions to keep your expenses minimal without sacrificing the quality of
what you're aiming for.
We
believe it's important for you to know that once you confirm your booking with
Let's Jam, you're not only paying for the service you expect on the night of
your function. We're there for you from the time you confirm your booking,
whether it be to ask for a special song to be played at your wedding, or to
recommend another useful service to help make your occasion more memorable and
stress free. All this extra assistance comes at no extra charge.
e)
Adaptability & Interaction
Along
with our extensive repertoire and ease of ability to adjust volumes, these
factors allow us to be very adaptable to almost any environment. You want soft
background music during dinner? You got it! You wanna let your hair down and
party? Great! Up goes the volume and we'll see you on the dance floor! Our
adaptability is perfect for whether your event is an intimate gathering in a
small room or a larger occasion, like a traditional wedding. We also like to
interact with our audiences while we're performing, whenever we can... after
all, "jam" is a music term which means "being musically
involved with others". So... Let's Jam!!!
Is
there anything I need to let you know after we've decided to confirm Let's Jam as our
entertainment?
Once
you have decided to confirm Let's Jam as your preferred entertainment, we will
be in contact with the function coordinator at your chosen venue to discuss
some of the following applicable points. If you're aware of any of them, we
would appreciate you to provide as much of the following information as soon as possible.
This will assist us in keeping your function as organised as we can.
a)
Entertainment Allocation
Please
advise us if you, or the management of your function venue plan to have the
entertainment in the same room as your function. Some venues have an allocated
area for the entertainment in a different section of the function room (eg.
around a corner), or even in a separate room all together to where the main
formalities are set to take place. Informing us of these details as soon as
possible will allow us to arrange any additional equipment, if
necessary.
In
our experience, we've found that being in the same room creates a better
atmosphere for your function, since you and your guests will be able to see
and hear us easier. Although we're likely to have a running sheet to know of
the upcoming formalities at a function, it also helps us to be more aware
of any other details which may occur. For example, if we need to be advised to increase/decrease
our volume, or extend/shorten our performances, it helps for us to be able to
see the general activity in the main area. Another example when this is
applicable is when our wireless microphone is being used for speeches. It's
easier to adjust the volume to a suitable level by being able to see the
person using the microphone and hearing the same volume as everybody else in
the room. It's often details like these that can be forgotten and can
effect the enjoyment and success of what is supposed to be a memorable event.
You've invested in having Let's Jam as the entertainment at your function, so
it's in our best interest to ensure that everything in our control is more
than satisfactory for you.
Once
again, please also ensure there is sufficient space available for the number
of band members you have booked. Another important factor to consider is a
suitable dance floor area close to where the band will be situated. Although
most venues have an allocated band and dance floor area, sometimes these areas
can effect the comfort of where your guests will be seated. Whenever possible,
consider discussing the repositioning of the band or seating arrangements with
the venue's function coordinator to ensure the comfort of your guests, both
seated and dancing, as well as the band.
b)
Access Into Venue
Please
inform us if the only way to access entry into the venue of your function is
via a stairwell. This may slightly increase the price you will be required to
pay Let's Jam, due to taking longer to load our
equipment in and out of the venue. We prefer, as you would also, to make this
clear as early as possible to avoid any last minute price increases or
disappointment. We will, of course, speak to the function coordinator to check
if there is ramp or lift access that you weren't informed of at the time of
booking the venue, avoiding the additional cost for Let's Jam loading
equipment up and down stairs.
c)
Personal Song Preference
Prior
to confirming your booking to have Let's Jam as your entertainment,
you may have received a copy of our extensive
repertoire. You'll be encouraged to make a selection of songs from
an updated version of this list that you'd like us to perform at your function. You may also like to
advise us of any songs you don't want us to perform. We do, however, ask you
to understand that we will perform as many of your selected songs depending
on time allowed, occasion formalities, performers’ repertoires and the
enjoyment of the majority of your guests.
If
you have booked Let's Jam for your wedding reception, we will need to know the song you
have chosen for your Bridal Dance. Whether your choice is or isn't in our
repertoire, we ask you to inform us as early as possible. Bridal
Dance songs which aren't listed on our repertoire may incur additional costs,
but only if we have to make a purchase for that particular song ourselves,
although this doesn't apply very often.
Other
examples of songs you may choose to have performed or played on CD can include
when the Bridal Party and Couple are introduced into the reception, a dance
with a parent or loved one, a dance to follow the Bridal Dance or the final
dance of the wedding night. We ask you to advise us with as much notice as
possible of your selection before your function. If you would like any of your special songs played
on CD, we ask you to advise us if
you will be providing the CD, or if you would prefer us to do so.
A
few tips with your song selections;
If
you want us to provide the song on CD, please be specific with the song title,
the artist, and in some cases, the particular version of the song you'd like.
We don't want to play your choice of song performed by the wrong artist, or a
ballad version when you wanted the dance version of a particular song.
With
Bridal Party introduction songs, choose a song which has a long enough
duration to suit the introduction formalities. If the song you've chosen is
short and the Bridal Party includes more than six members, parents,
grandparents, etc, who may have to walk a fair distance from the reception
entrance to their seats, the song is likely to end before the introductions
are complete. We suggest choosing a longer song, and possibly even a song to
follow, or even a separate song for the Bride and Groom.
If
you'll be providing a copy of a CD, possibly a compilation of songs burnt
specifically for your function, we encourage you to check the CD plays without
fault. An experience we had at a wedding once, was when a friend of the Bride
provided us with a CD which was totally scratched to play for the Bridal Dance, causing
the song to skip continuously. Naturally, this was quite embarrassing, and the
couple had to delay their dance to select another song from our repertoire
instead.
We
hope all these answers have made your decision making easier. If you
have an unlisted question, please ask
your question here.
