Meraki Jazz FAQ’s
How much does it cost to hire Meraki Jazz?
There are many variables such as band lineup, location, set lengths, time on site and any venue changes that can impact the cost, therefore it's difficult to give an accurate price until we find out a little more about your event. If you would like an initial quote, head down to the contact section and either send us an email with as much detail about your event as you can, or give us a call to discuss your wishes!
* We have special rates for restaurants and residencies, enquire.
Do you take a deposit?
Once all the details have been agreed and finalised, we ask for 50% of the total fee in advance to secure the booking (non-refundable) The remaining 50% should be paid 1 month before the event. If the event is in less than 1 month's time, we take payment in full to secure the booking. If any details change after the deposit has been taken, we may need to adjust the price accordingly. We accept payment by bank transfer and do not charge VAT.
How far do you travel?
Provided that our travel expenses are covered, we will travel all over the UK. We will also travel to most countries further afield so please get in touch if you would like to discuss an abroad booking.
Do you provide your own sound and lighting equipment?
We provide all of our own professional sound equipment to achieve the best sound quality for your event. We can also provide ambient lighting around the performance space to enhance the atmosphere. Staging and stage lighting is not included as standard.
How long will you need to set up and sound check?
We need to allow 1 hour minimum to set up. The band leader will arrive earlier if possible, around 2 hours before playing. Ideally, we will have a short sound check by playing through a couple of numbers, however we are happy with just a quick line check if you would prefer we didn't make too much noise. If needed, get in touch to discuss early arrival options to avoid us setting up in the middle of dessert! If we need to move venues within the same building between sets, another hour is required to set up. More than 4 hours on site or a venue change may involve a small extra fee. We pack down as soon as we are finished playing as standard.
What sort of performance space do you need?
We will happily perform almost anywhere, on or off stage, inside or out (weather permitting - we have sensitive electronic equipment and requite a tent or gazebo for outside performances in case of rain). We need to be nearby a couple of power sockets and we ideally need about 4mx3m of space for the quintet or quartet, 3mx2m for the trio or duo. We also ask that a green room is provided for the band to store cases, change and wait in if needed.
How long do you play for?
Our standard playing time is 120 minutes, typically split as either 2x 1 hour sets or 3x 40 minute sets. We tend to charge the same rate for any amount of playing time up to this so it would be the same price for 90 or 60 minutes. If you would like 30 minutes or less of playing time, we may be able to alter the price for you. If you would like more than 120 minutes of playing time, this is no problem and the total price can be adjusted accordingly.
Do you take requests?
You are welcome to request any songs from our repertoire list. For 120 minutes of playing time, we usually prepare about 30 songs at most. If you only have a few requests, we will fill in the blanks to make sure the set flows well! You can also request three songs from outside our repertoire list - great for a first dance or songs of particular sentiment. We ask that you let us know all of your requests 6 weeks in advance.
Do you provide a playlist during your breaks?
Yes, we have a playlist of suitable music that we can put on after setting up and during any breaks. If you wish, you can send us your own playlist via Spotify.
Do we need to provide food and drink for the band?
We ask for water and soft drinks free of charge for the duration of our time on site. We also ask for a hot meal to be provided for the band and at least half an hour allowed to eat. If you are not catering, we will be able to make other arrangements and a small meal buy out fee applies. We are happy to eat in a green room.
Do we need to provide parking?
Yes, if possible, parking is to be provided at the venue for all vehicles. Any parking, congestion or toll charges are to be reimbursed following the event. We will need to park as close as possible to the venue for unloading, after which the vehicles can be moved.
Are you insured?
We have public liability insurance up to 10 million through the musicians union. All of our equipment is PAT tested for safety. We are happy to send our documents over to venues as proof.