Question 1

Do you need power?

Accepted Answer

Usually, but not always. If we are playing with background tracks, vocals, amplified steel drums, electric bass, or a PA system in any way, then yes, we need power. If we are playing acoustically only, then we do not need power. This will be specified upon booking and will be noted on the contract.

Question 2

Can you set up under a tree for shade?

Accepted Answer

As long as the tree provides enough complete shade for the area required for the band (see above answer), at that time of day. Often, clients will check the day or two beforehand to see if there’s enough shade under the tree (at the same time of day of the performance).

Question 3

Can you perform indoors? I'm worried about it being too loud.

Accepted Answer

We've done countless performances indoors as background music and as foreground music. We have a lot of flexibility when it comes to volume levels. Steel drums don't have to be loud, and in fact, they can be beautiful at low levels. Accommodations will be made by the musicians to perform inside.

Question 4

Do you do virtual / remote performances?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we've played remotely for personal, public, and corporate events! Please contact us for details.

Question 5

Do you need a stage?

Accepted Answer

No, that is up to the client.

Question 6

How much room do you need?

Accepted Answer

Solo - 6'x4'. Duo - 6'x8'. Trio and quartet - 10'x8'. Quintet, sextet, septet - 18'x16'. **These are estimates based on standard performance equipment, and do not include extra equipment that may be requested by client. Please check upon booking.**

Question 7

Do you need light on you at night?

Accepted Answer

Although it helps feature the band, we don’t need light on us. (If you want to set up lighting, please avoid light that shines directly in the musicians’ faces :)

Question 8

Can you move in-between my wedding ceremony and cocktail hour?

Accepted Answer

Usually. Please get in touch about details.

Question 9

Do I count the set up and tear down time as part of the performance time?

Accepted Answer

No. Set up and tear down is on our own time. So if you want the performance time to be 6-10 pm (4 hours), all you need to specify is 6-10 pm.

Question 10

How long do you need to set up your steel drums/ steel drum band?

Accepted Answer

This depends on a number of factors, but the average is 20 minutes.

Question 11

Do you take breaks?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 15 minutes on each hour. So a 3-hour engagement would have 2 breaks, and a 4-hour engagement would have 3 breaks. The exception to this is when we play for wedding ceremonies followed by a cocktail hour, in which we usually do not take a break.

Question 12

Do you play music in-between sets/ while on break?

Accepted Answer

Usually, unless directed otherwise or if there is not power available or a PA system. The music continues in the Caribbean music genre. If you’d like us to play your music through your house system or iPod, just let us know.

Question 13

Can I make an announcement?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as there is a PA system, microphone, and power. This should be specified upon booking to make sure we have the correct equipment. Running sound for wedding ceremonies or other presentations of length definitely need to be specified to us before booking, and may be subject to additional charge because of the extra equipment possibly needed.

Question 14

Do you charge travel expenses outside the LA area?

Accepted Answer

In general, yes, but they are reasonable. Since there are virtually endless possibilities to location, please contact us and we’ll let you know the pricing.

Nesta Steel Drum & Caribbean Band ~Husband & Wife Team~

About Nesta Steel Drum & Caribbean Band ~Husband & Wife Team~

Nesta steel drum & Caribbean band, led by a husband & wife team

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