Frequently Asked Questions

“That Band Looks Enormous- will we fit it into our venue?”

The full Dearne Big Band consists of three or four trumpeters, two or four trombonists, five saxophonists, two or three singers, a bass player, a pianist, a drummer a guitarist and an MD. Between seventeen and twenty one people. It will fit happily on a stage three metres deep by eight wide.

“We can’t fit all that in! Can you bring less musicians?”

Yes we can, although you lose visual and sonic impact as you reduce the size of the band. We can go all the way down to a thirteen piece, which can fit on a stage three metres deep by five metres wide.

“Aha! So what’s it going to cost?”

That really depends on what and where your event is. The band is Barnsley based, so outside the S postcode we have to consider travel expenses. Best thing is to ring or email our Booking Secretary, Andy for a chat.

“And what do we get for our money”

As a rule, we quote for 120 minutes of music finishing before midnight, divided up any way you want. Most people opt for two slots of an hour, but we have done three 40-minute sets We bring all our own staging, speakers, music stands and lights, but we leave the dance floor to you.

“What happens on the day of the event then?”

Band members will turn up early, and have the whole thing fully and discreetly set up before your guests arrive. The rest of the musicians and singers will arrive 45 minutes before the band is due to start playing. 

“What happens during the band break?”

If you’ve not booked a DJ, we will play recorded music over our speaker system. Lots of people these days like to prepare a playlist with all their favourite songs on. We are happy to play these during the breaks.

“Can we borrow a microphone for speeches”

Yes of course. 

 Do you have public liability insurance? 

Yes we do. All our electrical equipment is PAT tested in accordance with protocol. 

“We’ve spent four months learning a dance routine to our favourite track- can you play it for us for an opening dance?”

Usually we can. Have a look at our sample repertoire. For special requests, have a word with our Booking Secretary, Andy.