Weddings, corporate & social events
How much time do you need to set up?
We will arrive at the venue at least an hour before we are due to play in order to set up.
How long do you play for?
It's up to you! It's usually 3 hours ceilidh with a 30 min break or perhaps longer for a disco/ceilidh package. We're very flexible!
Do you bring your own PA?
Yes unless we know the venue has an excellent PA system we prefer to bring our own so we know the quality of music will be as good as it can be.
What instruments will you bring?
This depends on the type of music we will be providing. For traditional ceilidh music we regularly play with accordion, fiddle, keyboard, guitar, banjo, mandolin, whistles, drums, double bass, trombone, trumpet, clarinet or flute. We can sing a variety of songs and add extra percussion if appropriate.
For the ceremony we will play a piano or keyboard depending on what is at the venue. We can also play smooth saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, flute - again we can tailor the music to your needs.
If we are providing jazz then we will have a selection of instruments depending on the venue and the type of jazz you are looking for.
Do you call the dances?
Yes we are very experienced at gauging how much help is required and will gently guide your guests through the dances as they are proceeding.
Will you be too loud?
We make sure that the sound is set so that you are still able to have a chat while the music is playing. There's nothing worse than an event where you have to shout to talk to each other. if we do get a little too loud and haven't realised it then let us know and we'll turn the music down a bit for you - we won't take offence!
Are you able to accomodate children in the dances?
We make extra effort to keep the little ones happy on the dance floor. We can do simple dances like the Grand Old Duke of York, The Flying Scotsman or The Farmer's Daughter, amongst others and will take the littlest ones through the dances to make sure they have a chance of being as involved as possible.
How will you end the event?
We will encourage everybody to come onto the dance floor for an Auld Lang Syne - a traditional Scottish way to end a Ceilidh or a song or dance of your own choice..
Does Alba Ceilidh Band play at many weddings?
Yes. Although we play at corporate functions and parties, we play more weddings than any other type of booking.
How does the band dress for a wedding reception?
We will always be smartly dressed and can wear kilts or tartan trews if you prefer. If the event is outside we may need to wear a few extra layers to keep warm!
What do you charge?
Our costs vary depending on the length of time we are playing, the location, the types of music required - you might wish to have us play for the ceremony if the event is a wedding and then some jazz, then the ceilidh and then to put on a disco.
It also depends on how many musicians will be required.
If the event is a party or celebration then we might be asked to play some jazz or even gentle piano as guests mingle or as they eat.
So it's best to get in touch with us to let us know roughly what you are looking for and your budget and we will do our best to accommodate. We have played anything from a two piece ceilidh band to a seven piece.
How many breaks do you take?
We generally only take one break during the event. Typically, this is whilst the evening buffet is being served as many venues do not agree to guests dancing whilst hot beverages are being served.
What happens when the band takes a break? I don't want my party to stop.
We provide recorded music throughout the break.
Do you allow our guests to take a turn at singing a song?
We are always happy to have your friends and family sing a song or two if they would like to do so. We will however manage the situation to make sure that it does not detract from the event and that it does not get out of hand.
Is it possible to learn a special song for our first dance?
Where possible the Alba Ceilidh Band will always try to accommodate your song choice for the first dance. This can either be our own live version or a recording of the original artist.
Does the Alba Ceilidh Band have Public Liability Cover?
As members of the Musicians Union, Alba Ceilidh Band musicians are insured personally in respect of legal liability that may arise following injury or damage to members of the public.
Do I need to meet the band prior to my reception?
The reception planning can be done in person, over the telephone or via email.
How will you handle the flow of events, the introduction of the bridal party etc..?
Prior to starting the evening off a band member will discuss the protocol for the first dance with the Bride and Groom. We are experienced in working in conjunction with both hotel management and staff.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for considering the Alba Ceilidh Band for your event.