Performance Experience
Find out how long the band has been in business and how many private events the band performs for each year. If your event is a wedding, ask how many of those events are weddings. Private event experience is much more important than public event (clubs, concerts, etc.) experience because the focus is on the host or wedding couple and their guests (as it should be) rather than the band. For weddings, make sure the band is experienced in acting as your emcee for announcements, introductions, etc. Ask to see the band’s wedding event planning form.
Musical Repertoire
Ask for a copy of the band’s song list. Make sure it’s long enough to cover your event time (with ample margin!) and includes adequate examples of the genres you want.
Coordination Interface
Find out who you will be dealing with throughout the pre-event coordination period. Make sure it’s your band leader rather than someone who may not even be present at your event.
Band Members
Find out if the band always uses the same group of musicians when it performs. Make sure that the musicians performing on the band’s demo are the same as those who will be performing for your event.
Client References
An experienced professional band will have ample references. Always ask for several and check them out!
Dress Code
Find out how the band members will dress for your event. You probably won’t want them appearing in t-shirts and blue jeans at your formal wedding!
Hidden Costs
When requesting price quotations make sure the prices are complete and that there are no additional costs for other items such as sound system, travel, lodging, food, etc.