Here are some of the most commonly asked questions. If your query is not covered please contact us via the enquiry form.
How long does it take you to set up?
We usually arrive at the venue 45 minutes before the start time to set up. The band members are very quick at setting up with minimal disruption.
We usually play for 3 hours with a 1/2 hour break; or 2 hours straight through with no break.
This depends on the line up, playing times, distance to venue etc so please make an enquiry and we'll get back to you with a tailored quotation.
Yes. Our callers are used to dealing with complete beginners and will usually start off with the easier dances. We adapt the speeds of the dances to the dancers.
We've never had a problem triggering sound limiters, though we have encountered them in several venues.
We tend to dress smart casual, though a bit smarter for weddings and more formal occasions.
It's up to you, but we recommend playing background music, which we can provide, through the sound system to keep the atmosphere going. Feel free to bring your own playlist on a phone. We have the necessary cables for Apple and Android phones.
Normally 3 spaces will be enough. We'll need to unload close to the playing location.
Mainly Irish and Scottish for the dances. With a few English/American/French/Finnish tunes where appropriate.
Mainly fiddle, button accordion, guitar, bodhran. But we know lots of great musicians who can guest with us. Let us know if you would like to hear a particular instrument.
Yes, we have some dances suitable for children and would suggest a maximum of one hour duration.
Yes. We make sure that we renew these every year. If the venue asks for these documents let us know and we'll send copies. Our insurance covers up to £5 million.
Yes. We have an excellent PA system.
A couple of household 240V 13A sockets is required within 5 metres of the band's playing position.
For 4 musicians, about 4m by 2m ideally. For 2 musicians only 2m by 2m should suffice. If space is tight please let us know and we'll see what we can do.
We're used to working alongside DJs. Please ask them to leave space for the band as described in the above question regarding space.
Yes. Please mention any dances you would particulary like on the enquiry form.
Yes, this is quite common, especially for weddings. He/she would be very happy to talk to you.
There is a variety of approaches to the first dance. It could be a couple dance initally featuring the bride and groom. Or you could go straight into the ceilidh. There are other ways of handling the first dance too. Whichever way you choose, probably after discussion with the caller, he/she will soon have everybody involved.
Our callers are very experienced and have a wide variety of dances. Here are some of the dances they use:
The above dances use a variety of rhythms including reels, jigs, hornpipes, waltzes and slip jigs.
Yes, they can work. You can dance on level grass, but a hard floor is preferable. For outdoor events we require a covered area, large enough to contain the band, their instruments and their electrical equipment. A small marquee/gazebo with the front open is ideal.
The band really appreciates something to eat during the break, and ideally some drinks. If you're happy to provide alcohol then a few bottles of real ale should help to oil the instruments!