Sue Parish
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where do you play?
Wherever we're asked to (within reason!). Private functions such as weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties and other celebrations; Sue even recently sang at a vicar's ordination party! We also play at corporate events - product launches, conferences and presentations. And of course public gigs, from music festivals to restaurants, clubs and pubs.
Do you do background music or dance music?
We do what you want us to. If you want us quiet we'll be quiet, and if you want us loud we'll be loud. Obviously the level of impact also depends to an extent on the size of the band. We're not specifically a dance band, although our audiences often do dance, and we can make things lively and toe-tapping to get them up on the floor if required. But we can't force them to dance if they don't feel like it - and we're not a disco!
How long do you play for?
We usually work in sets of between 40 and 50 minutes - typically three sets in an evening, with short breaks of between 10 and 20 minutes. During breaks we keep the atmosphere going with appropriate background music (yours or ours) played over the PA system.
Have you got a recording I can listen to?
I have a short demo CD, which gives an idea of how I sound. Or ring me to find out where else I'm playing soon.
What do you wear?
Whatever you want (again - within reason!). For formal events, usually evening dress (black jackets and bow ties for male band members, cocktail dresses or evening gowns for Sue and female players.) Or smart casual dress if preferred. Just let me know what you think is appropriate for your event.
Do you sing other things than jazz?
Not really. If you want hits of the sixties or Madonna covers, we're not the band for you. But if you fancy jazz in the main and yet there's a special song not in my repertoire that you passionately want to hear at some point in the evening, let me know in advance and I'll do my best to include it.
What do you charge?
This is a difficult one. It depends on what sort of event it is, how many musicians are involved, how long you want us to play for, how far away it is. And, to be quite honest, how much you want us - and how much we want to do the gig! So the cost varies - occasionally we do free charity gigs for good causes, and if you can offer us regular work we'll be happy to do a bit of a discount. For a short, local engagement with a small ensemble it will be in the region of £200. For a larger band playing until dawn the cost will be higher. Call for a chat - you won't know if you don't ask.
