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. There is something magical about a live performance and hearing a talented singer bring real meaning to a lyric. EAST COAST has personality and a talent for keeping the dance floor packed. The band members are enjoyable to watch, treat guests with respect and play at just the right volume.

What makes EAST COAST unique?
EAST COAST plays music that will make each affair unique and memorable, and includes great songs that are not your typical wedding band fare. We love to entertain. 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 about our performance that they become our biggest supporters and best advertising. 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 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, Frank Sinatra, The Drifters, Mary J. Blige and Earth, Wind & Fire all in one set and still make it all work. We take great pride in not being easily categorized. Please check our song list.

What types of occasions do you normally play?
We like variety and believe that it keeps our music fresh and energetic. For over twenty years East Coast has logged thousands of performances throughout the tri-state area and beyond. These performances have included corporate parties, country club functions, charitable fund raisers, dinner dances, nightclubs and as an opening act for major recording artists. Couples have been so confident in the band’s abilities that they have enthusiastically arranged for East Coast to perform at upscale weddings held at the Four Seasons (Boston), the Chevy Chase Club (outside Washington, D.C)., the Plaza and Hotel Pierre (N.Y.C) and at other interesting locations like New York’s Grand Central Station. East Coast also has the unique track record of only playing weddings where the bride and groom remain married forever!....

Will the people I see (at a showcase or on video) be the exact people playing at my event?
EAST COAST is proud to be as much a family as a business. The band has been in existence for over twenty years and has lived the motto “the show must go on.” We are not an office that contracts out work and take pride in the fact that the band you see is the band you get.

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 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, and some songs are even more enhanced with additional horns or vocalists. We have a large library of songs arranged for our four piece horn section that are well rehearsed and stylistically accurate.

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 if we are given adequate notice. We usually ask that you allow 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?
Absolutely, EAST COAST helps clients celebrate their heritage by playing horas, Irish waltzes, polkas, tarantellas, and other traditional songs. Please consult our song list for suggestions.

Does the band take breaks?
Our experience enables us to coordinate with the banquet staff to keep the party moving and break times to a minimum. Our major goal is to make sure the party maintains 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. At some point you will certainly want to give your guests a chance to catch their breath and the musicians a chance to freshen up. EAST COAST has the capability to play pre-recorded dinner music and often the client may wish to provide some of this interlude material on CD 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.”

Will music be provided for the cocktail hour?
One or more band members usually perform at the cocktail hour and we like to feature our jazz trio (upright bass, sax, and guitar). We can also provide classical ensembles, Caribbean music or strolling violins. Music for wedding ceremonies is also available.

Will the band dress appropriately?
The band dresses formally (tuxedos) unless otherwise instructed.

Are you insured?
Absolutely. Proof of insurance can be faxed to catering establishments as required.

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! This is your event and we’re sure that you have a good picture in your mind of how you would like things to go. With your ideas and our talent and experience, you can be sure that yours will be an event to remember!
F.A.Q. contact bio schedule songlist live showcase