Plan the perfect event with The Big City All-Star Band.
Frequently Asked Questions
We want to book you! What do we do?
We want to play for you! Click here to send us your contact info, event date, and any other details that might be important. If we have the date available, we will send pricing information along with a description of the services we provide. Details can be worked out over email, or we can set up a meeting to talk through your plans and wishes. Once we’ve figured out the right solution for you, we will send out a contract, including payment instructions. From there, we require a 50% retainer due within 2 weeks to lock everything down, with the final 50% due on the date of your event.
What’s sizes of bands do you offer?
Band sizes start with the 8 piece band, covering keys, guitar, drums, bass, percussion, and 3 vocalists. We offer numerous options all the way up to the 15pc Big City Orchestra, featuring horn and strings section for those that want to go big!
What kind of payment do you accept?
We accept e-transfer, EFT (electronic funds transfer), or cheque. Payment details and breakdown of costs can be found right in the contract.
How long do you play?
You have the band for up to a 4-hour span.
What if we need you to play longer?
It’s something that we may be able to negotiate.
How many breaks do you take? Can you play without breaks?
We giver hard all night, usually playing from one song directly into the next, so while our breaks are essential, rest assured that we do our best to minimize our downtime so we can get back to partying with you. If you only require us to play for 2hrs, we can play a single 2 hour set with no breaks. Up to 3 hours of performance requires one 20 min break. A full night of music up to 4 hours will require us to take two 20 min breaks.
Do you play any music on breaks? What about earlier in the evening?
No problem! We have DJ services available as an add-on to cover everything you may need throughout the evening. Please contact us for specifics and pricing.
Any other options?
Yes! We also offer various sizes of instrumental cocktail bands as an add-on to the full band package.
How many songs do you typically play in a night?
We may get through as many as 50-60 songs in a 4-hour span.
Can we make song requests?
We love requests! With over 1600 songs in our repertoire, there’s a good chance we know the song you want to hear. Let us know ahead of time, or write it on a post-it note at one of our gigs, and we’ll do our best!
Can we get you to learn a new tune?
Yes, this is usually something we can accommodate for a small charge, depending on our workload and schedule.
Do you need a stage? How big of a stage do you need?
We always recommend a stage as it presents better in the room and allows for better visuals between the stage and dancefloor, but we are also flexible and will do our best to work within space constraints, etc.
For the 8-12pc band sizes, we prefer a min 24×16 stage. With the 8pc band we can get away with as little as 20×12 if space is a concern. 11-14pc band sizes we prefer a minimum of 32×16. The 15pc Big City Orchestra should be no smaller than 36×16. The larger the stage, the more room we have to move and entertain, but we will also work with you to accommodate any space restrictions you may be working with.
Do you provide lighting?
For all our regular band sizes of 8pc and up, some basic stage lighting (a fixture on either side of the stage) is provided at no cost. 4-light lighting trees at the rear of the stage may be added to the package. For custom smaller band configurations, lighting may not be included. We always recommend adding custom lighting by industry professionals such as Event Light to really dress up your event as good lighting can have a huge impact.
We need some musicians for our ceremony. Can you help us out?
Absolutely! Please contact us for options and pricing.
Actually we’re going to need a mic for the officiant as well, plus a mic for the MC. Help!
We can help with that too! Let us know what you need, and we’ll do our best to make sure all your needs are covered.
Do you provide your own sound equipment?
Yes, everything is provided for you. We own top of the line equipment to cover any size of room, and always have our professional sound technician, ensuring you will always be able to hear everything clearly while being mindful of the volume for your guests.
Do you travel?
Yes, within a reasonable local perimeter. Fly-out performances are also negotiable. Surcharges will apply.
When do you set up?
Setup is typically done in the afternoon on the date of performance, with our soundcheck being complete and stage cleaned up before guests arrive.
Do we need to feed the band?
You are not required to feed the band as band members will only show up 30 mins prior to our performance start time, although meal would be required for the DJ if those services have been added during meal service. It may also be necessary if adding earlier cocktail band musicians during that time.
How much power do you need?
We request three 15 amp circuits that are not shared with any other lighting, appliances, etc. or two 20 amp circuits, located at the rear or side of the stage.
We really wanted you, but you are already booked! Do you have any other suggestions?
Yes! We work closely with our sister band, the Little City Band, where you may also spot some Big City musicians performing. They always give a great experience and know how to get people dancing! Please inquire for contact details.