EAST COAST MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT F.A.Q.
Why hire a band instead of a DJ?
A band brings a level of sophistication, elegance and entertainment value that is not possible with a D.J. After all, watching someone spin records is not as engaging as experiencing a singer bring real meaning to a lyric. EAST COAST keeps the dance floor packed, is fun to watch, treats guests with respect and plays at just the right volume
What makes EAST COAST unique?
EAST COAST makes every effort to personalize each event. From the very beginning you deal directly with the people who will actually be performing. We want every client to be so ecstatic with our performance that they become our biggest supporters and best advertising. EAST COAST plays music that will make each affair unique and memorable, not the same mediocre renditions of songs that you've heard at the last ten weddings. We love to entertain. Our ultimate goal is to combine input from our clients with our own experience and expertise to yield a party that's sophisticated, elegant and high energy.
What types of occasions do you normally play?
We only play weddings where the bride and groom stay married forever!
.Oh yes, we also play corporate parties, country club functions, dinner dances and anywhere else we'll be appreciated. We make regular performances in Tri-state area nightclubs and invite all to come to these events. We like variety and believe that it keeps things fresh and energetic.
What music do you do best?
What defines EAST COAST is the band's ability to play an eclectic repertoire with stylistic accuracy. On any given day we may play songs from George Gershwin, John Coltrane, Bob Marley, The Cure, Jimmy Eat World, Marvin Gaye, Dave Mathews, The Drifters, Mary J. Blige and Earth, Wind & Fire all in one set and still make it all work. We get a big kick out of not being able to be categorized.
Are you willing to learn special songs I want played?
If by chance we don't know a wedding song or dedication, we have no problem adding it to our repertoire given adequate notice. We usually ask that you give us 30 days to properly prepare.
I have certain songs that I don't want played...is that okay?
Many clients use our song list to highlight favorites and more importantly point out songs they do not want to hear.
Do you play ethnic music?
Yes, if it be a hora, an Irish waltz, polka or tarantella EAST COAST helps clients celebrate their heritage. Don't forget to consult our song list for suggestions.
Will the people I see (at a showcase or on video) be the exact people playing at my event?
For over twenty years, EAST COAST has been proud to be as much a family as a business. This is not an office that subs out work. We all rely on each other and live the motto the show must go on. We invite clients to come see us at any of our nightclub performances ---you will always see the same faces on stage. Please refer to our bio for more of the band's history.
What size ensemble will be best for my wedding? Wouldn't nine pieces be too loud?
The number of musicians is really a matter of taste, space and budget. Except in the most extreme environments, the number of musicians should not really affect volume. EAST COAST'S core group is the seven musicians (bass, guitar, keyboard/trombone, sax, drums male vocalist, female vocalist) that have been performing together for years. Everything in our repertoire is possible at this size, but obviously some things sound great with additional horns or vocalists. We have a large library of songs arranged for a four piece horn section that are well rehearsed and stylistically accurate.
Does the band take breaks?
Many people relate horror stories that go something like: Just when we got up to dance, the band stopped playing. We see this is as a lack of communication between the client, caterer and band. Our major goal is to make sure the party retains momentum and there are no situations where the guests are idly waiting for something to happen. Food service determines much of the flow of any banquet, so make sure you convey to your caterer your desire to have the band be allowed as much time for dancing as possible. We make every effort to coordinate with the banquet staff to keep the party moving and break times to a minimum. At some point you will certainly want to give your guests a chance to catch their breath and the musicians a chance to refresh themselves so they can return to the stage with renewed energy. The band has the capability to play pre-recorded dinner music and often the client may wish to provide some of this interlude material on CD's or cassette tape. Alternatively, the band may divide into smaller units to provide background music, perhaps a few vocal standards or small group jazz. Please understand that the band relishes the opportunity to impress your guests, not have them say, Gee, they were great but they took too many breaks.
What is continuous music?
Some large entertainment offices claim to provide continuous music as a way of assuaging concerns that their bands don't play enough. Using musicians' union guidelines, the entire band plays a forty minutes set, the guitar or piano player then takes over for fifteen forgettable minutes and everyone then breaks for five. This is defined as continuous. As you can see, the issue of maintaining momentum is never addressed... EAST COAST would much rather make each note meaningful and memorable and will gladly comply with any format negotiated with the client.
What can I do to assist the band in living up to my expectations?
Don't be afraid to ask questions and speak your mind!
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