Help For the Musician(s) and Guide To Fees

A Client's Guide to Keeping the Musician(s) Happy :-)

(Also known as the small print on the contract that nobody bothers to read.)


For events that take place outdoors:
-On hot days especially, it is essential that there be water or other liquid refreshment available to the musician(s). Note: I try to remember to bring water with me, but sometimes in the rush of leaving for the event, I forget. Providing liquid refreshment insures that the client will get a better and certainly more continuous performance.
-Shade on warm-to-hot sunny days, and shelter on inclimate days is a must for any performance lasting more than a few minutes. Note: Exposure to extreme weather conditions (ie., very hot or cold, excessive wind, rain, etc.) may necessitate more "breaks" (than usual) and/or a shorter than scheduled performance with likely no adjustment in the musician's fee.

For events that take place indoors:
-A separate tune-up room (for the bagpipes) located some distance from the performance area is helpful, and may even be a necessity.
-Liquid refreshment is necessary for performances lasting more than a few minutes.

For any event:
-For performances lasting more than a few minutes, a sturdy armless chair may be requested by the musician(s), and must be available for continued playing.
-For jobs lasting more than one hour, the client should provide the musician(s) with a "break room" (if available). In situations where food and/or refreshments are available and being served, said items, or like items (ie., 'party tray(s)' and drinks - coffee/tea and/or sodas) should be provided, or be available to the musician(s).
-The musician(s) has the right to assess the physical conditions of their performance area, and if deemed unsafe or unhealthy, demand a change in performance location and/or venue. If this cannot be accomplished, the musicain(s) has the right to refuse to perform. Any deposits or advance payments made to the musician(s) are therefore considered forfeit.

When in doubt about any of the above, or if unforseen or changable conditions and/or situations occur, the client's sensitivity to the musician's comfort and needs will generally insure the musician(s) cheerful demeanor and best possible performance. Every effort is usually made to fulfill the terms of a contract, but the musician(s) comfort, health, and safety always take precedence.

Fees

Performance fees are based upon the type of event, and the number of hours engaged. There is a minimum one hour charge for any engagement, with additional hours usually charged at a lesser rate. Generally, band engagements are a minimum two hour charge, especially if signifigant travel is involved.

In addition to the performance fee, other fees may apply, such as:
-The musician(s) having to travel some distance to perform at your function. In such cases, a per-hour 'trip fee' is assessed in relation to the travel time involved, and will be included in the total amount quoted, as will parking fees and other expenses such as bridge tolls.
-A "learning fee" may be applied if the musician(s) is requested to learn tunes or music other than that of the usual reperoire.
-Performances on some major holidays and holiday weekends may be charged at a higher rate.
-Call or write Alan for a quote.

Booking Information

For booking information, or to request a free brochure and/or demo tape of Alan or his groups, contact Alan by email (use the 'Contact' button on the navigation table below, or go to Alan's 'Home' Page for address),
or
telephone Alan at: (650) 964-5279

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last update: 10/17/06