Questions to Ask When Choosing Bands or Musicians

Music can absolutely make or break your event, so choose wisely. Look online for reviews (easyeventplanning.com may have reviews for musicians in your area) and be sure to ask your venue contact if they’ve had experience with the band. Here are some questions to help you make an informed decision:

Experience

1. How long have you personally been playing music (or singing, whatever)?

2. What made you want to become a musician?

3. Have you attended school for it?

4. What were you doing before?

5. How long has your band been together?

6. Have you played at my venue before?

7. What types of events do you typically play?

8. Do you have a sample of your music on CD?

9. Do you have videos of past performances?

10. Do you typically play indoor or outdoor events? Are you able to easily do both?

11. What’s your musical specialty?

12. Have you ever had a band member get sick at the last minute or not make it? How did you handle it?

13. Do you have experience as a Master of Ceremonies?

14. How do you encourage guest involvement?

Songs performed

15. Do you take requests at the event itself?

16. Can I pick out my music selections ahead of time?

17. Do you have a song list for me to choose from?

18. Will you learn a song if need-be? How much advance notice would you require?

Other

19. Have you scheduled any other events that day?

20. Would you personally be performing at my event?

21. How much time do you need to set up?

22. How much space do you need?

23. What are your electrical requirements?

24. Do you provide your own lighting?

25. Do you need any other equipment to be provided?

26. Do you have backup equipment?

27. If your event is outdoors: Are there any special considerations for an outdoor event?

28. How many band members are there?

29. Will you need meals for all band members?

30. How many breaks will you take? How long at your breaks? What break times do you prefer?

31. Do you have an upcoming performance I can attend?

32. What is your event attire?

33. Do you carry insurance?

34. Can I talk to the last 3-4 people who’ve hired you?

35. Can I have a cell phone number for at least two band members?

36. Are you able to receive emails on your cell phone?

37. Do you have a website?

38. Why should I hire you over other musicians/bands?

Rates

39. How do you charge? By the hour/event?

40. Is there a minimum number of hours required?

41. What is the cost of overtime?

42. Are you available for overtime on my event day?

43. Are there any travel costs?

44. Are there any additional costs to emcee the event?

45. Do you provide all of your own equipment or do you need the venue to provide anything?

46. What is your payment policy?

47. Are gratuities customary?

48. What is your cancellation policy?