F.A.Q.

What are your rates?

Contact Harry with any questions concerning rates. Quotes often vary depending on minimum time requirements, special song requests,
extra equipment needed, mileage charges, extra early set up, holiday dates, or other special event details.
We will do our best to accommodate to your budget. Call or email anytime to discuss.

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What’s your Business Contact Information?

Harry can be reached at (504) 899-8867, and online 24 hours at www.neworleansfinestmusicians.com.
Your email inquiry will be answered on the same day. The fax number is (504) 899-8867.
The mailing address is: Harry Hardin ñ New Orleans’ Finest Musicians 4324 Perrier Street New Orleans, LA 70115.

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Do you have a different rates depending on the day?

We have the same rates for weekend bookings or our weekday bookings. Holiday dates such as New Years Eve have additional charges;
check with Harry.

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What is the deposit needed, does it go towards the total bill, or just to book you?

Yes, the paid deposit is deducted from the total bill. Once received, the deposit will secure the musician or band for your date.
The amount of deposit needed is half of the total bill. The balance can be paid in advance by mail no later then one week prior to the event.
*You may include more than one deposit amount and information on one form if booking multiple music services.

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When will I receive a contract?

An emailed PDF contract (or fax) will be sent within the next 48 hours.
If regular mail is requested, a copy of the contract will be mailed out within days of receiving your deposit payment.

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When is the remaining balance due?

The balance is due by check received at least one week in advance of the event date. Special arrangements may be made for last minute bookings.

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How long have you and your musicians been performing?

All of the musicians that we work with are seasoned performers from the New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and gulf coast areas.
Each of them are very knowledgeable as to what’s expected for performing at weddings and private events.
They are all professional musicians with excellent credentials.

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Do you have a regular core group of musicians and subs?

Yes, the musicians have worked together for many years, and substitutions are only made under extenuating circumstances.
We have a close group of musicians that work and rehearse together regularly, so they are all very familiar with the repertoire.

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Do you play outdoor functions?

Yes, we have portable instruments and sound systems for the groups. Musicians’ instruments must be protected from direct sunlight,
moisture, and temperature extremes. A tent, shade from a building, or canopy covering will be required to block the direct sunlight
and/or rain at most locations. A very shaded, sun blocked area for the band may work if there is also a rain plan in place.
Musicians prefer not to play outside in temperatures below 65 degrees or in extreme wind. Ask your location coordinator about the
availability of power outlets to accommodate lights, amplifiers, etc.

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Do you travel outside the New Orleans area?

Yes. When we travel 30 miles outside of the New Orleans area we charge 75 cents a mile per car for mileage.
If your event is more than 50 miles outside of the New Orleans city limits, we charge for lodging and meals.
The travel arrangements (car mileage/plane tickets, etc.) will be stated clearly in your contract.
A deposit for travel fees may be added. Contact Harry for details.

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How do the musicians dress?

Generally, dress is formal black. You may select tuxes/formal wear, Suit and tie/semi- formal, or special casual attire. Call Harry to discuss.

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Is hearing the musician in person important before hiring them?

It’s not necessary for veteran wedding singers, musicians, and bands to be heard in person first since they have proven
themselves through many years experience. Today many professionals have audio / video demo samples online for
easy planning, as well as hard copy demo for CD’s by mail. You should listen to the samples to find musicians that fit your style.
You can rely on their years of experience and references from couples and industry professionals.
If the singer or band is not typically a professional wedding musician then seeing them, and listening to them in person IS advised.

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Do the ceremony musicians come to the wedding rehearsal?

It is not necessary for the musicians to come to the wedding rehearsal. That time is for your officiant and wedding party.
We can discuss the details of the ceremony music in person, over the phone, or by email to ensure that your ceremony runs smoothly.
We will time the music to you, so you don’t need to worry about the length or tempo of the music.
Arrangements can be made for extra rehearsals at an additional cost if you feel it is needed.
We will always go over the music cues with the officiant prior to the ceremony.

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Do you offer ensembles that mix string instruments with woodwind, etc?

If you would like to hand pick an ensemble for wedding or special event, we will do our best to accommodate your ideas. Call Harry to discuss.

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Will you perform with my provided church organist, or only your musicians?

Yes, we work with church-provided organists and other instrumentalists and vocalists; although, the same music selections may not be available.

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What are the space and electrical requirements for bands / musicians?

4 x 6 ft. for up to three musicians, 6 x 10 ft. for quartet to five musicians, 10 x 12 ft. for the 6 pc. jazz /swing band.
One electrical outlet is required for musicians who bring electrical amplified instruments or vocal microphone and speaker PA.
We can bring all the other equipment needed including up to 100 ft of extension cord if notified.
A covering canopy, tent, or building shelter must be supplied for outdoor events; the musicians’ equipment must be protected from direct sunlight,
precipitation, and windy areas. Many ensembles will require armless chairs to be provided by the location.

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When does the band arrive?

An hour before start time for smaller groups, and 2 to 2Ω hours before start time for larger bands.
Ceremony musicians arrive 45 minutes to an hour before the ceremony.
The musicians are very quiet and respectful during their set up.

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What is your break policy?

We will work with your schedule or otherwise follow the default break policy stated in the contract.
Musicians require breaks if playing over 1 hour, and our bands offer to play appropriate recorded music during their breaks.
The default policy is one 15 minute break for every hour OR as arranged to best fit your schedule for the evening.
You are also welcome to request that your CDs be played during a band break, otherwise we will provide recorded music.

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Will the musicians need to be fed at the reception?

If musicians will be at your event for more than 3.5 hours (including set up time) a plate of sandwiches, appetizers,
or meal is recommended. This is not required, yet it is very appreciated. Let me know if you will be extending any food and/or beverage
invitations, musicians will otherwise make arrangements to bring or buy their meal during one of the breaks.
The musicians do not need to eat in the same area with your guests; arranging for a break area for the band is helpful.
We are always keenly aware of the time restraints and adhere to the schedule regarding breaks so as not to interfere with the evenings schedule.

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Are there any upcoming performances where we could see the band live?

This company of musicians specialize in private events. We can not officially invite our potential clients to our current clients’
private events. We always want to respect the privacy of our clients. Additionally, we like to tailor the music
performed for each event group, and it may be a different presentation than the one you would select.
We hope that you are able to make your musical decision based upon our promotional material.
You are encouraged to email or call Harry with any concerns or planning questions you may have and you will get a timely response.
You are certainly welcome to any upcoming public performances that have been scheduled.

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Do you take requests?

We welcome special requests. If it’s a new special request song we will need the song title, piano/vocal sheet music,
and a recording forwarded to Harry 3-4 months in advance of the performance.
The special request charges vary $30 to $100 depending on the music, how many instruments are needed, and the time frame.
Harry can assist you with the music arrangements, and offer the best way to include your request.
You will not necessarily be charged for a song that is not on the song lists provided.

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Should I tip the musicians?

A gratuity charge is not included in our contracts, and tips are not mandatory.
If you choose to thank musicians for their wonderful service, a tip is very much appreciated.

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Can we use your microphone for announcements?

Yes, but please arrange this in advance. It is recommended to first ask your location if they offer a Microphone or
PA sound system for your toasts and speeches. Many locations have cordless microphones available for their clients if requested.
Otherwise arrangements can be made for an extra corded microphone for toasts and speeches or additional microphones for your ceremony.

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Will you make announcements for the couple’s first dance, the dollar dance, etc?

Yes, we will be happy to make announcements. If you would like to have your own person do that for you we are happy to work with them as well.

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