Re: advice on setting the right atmosphere for a private party

["Bob Maglinte" <bbqbob917@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Dennis,
Even though what I do is Blues, I have done functions like this as well as
weddings, both of which are usually the domain of what would usually be
called GB bands (general business bands), who do these and Will is
ABSOLUTELY correct on this. Being able to get that intensity you normally
might do at 100% but at 50% volume, with dynamics and polish will do you
much more good and if anything will make your musicianship considerably
better, and will open up lots of other gigging possibilites that the guys
who freak out about the volume too low to get their good chops and sound
will never be able to play, and besides, it'll give your ears a break,
especially when you've been used to electric bass players who are too loud
and busy (BTW, ALL hearing specialists will tell you that the bass, bass
drums, and cymbols, and THEN the guitar will do the most damage to your
hearing). Remember, the focus is what is centered around what the party is
about, NOT you and playing too loud will detract from it and may leave you
with a bad reputation you really don't need.

Sincerely,
Barbeque Bob Maglinte
Boston, MA
http://www.barbequebob.com
MP3's: http://music.mp3lizard.com/barbequebob/


- ----- Original Message ----- 
From: Will Vogtman
To: Dennis B. Alters MD ; Harp-L
Sent: Saturday, June 26, 2004 10:08 AM
Subject: Re: advice on setting the right atmosphere for a private party


Dennis,

I've done several of these with a 5 piece band (gtr, bass, drums, vocalist,
harp/sax player).

The key seems to be to bring the people to you, not for you to take your
show to them.
Quiet intensity is the key.  Your show should be kisck ass within a radius
of 30 feet(i.e., same room).  Outside of that, the level should allow party
goers to have a conversation.

Later in the evening, when the folks are lubricated, the volume will creep
up.  Be Careful!  Still play at only 60-75% of your bar volume.  People will
be impressed.

Quiet intensity is the key.  Stick to your guns at do your show, just do it
at a low volume.

Also, keep in mind the noise ordinances of the community.  Often the band
will receive the noise fine($50 - $100), not the home owner.  Most of thes
laws do not go into effect until after 11 pm.

Don't be afraid to charge more for the private shows.  Since you are not
expecting repeat business, most private shows/weddings/etc. start
negotiations at double an established venue.

Good Luck!

Will