Gerard Carelli Orchestra

Band

Large (6+ musicians), Medium (4-6 musicians), Small (1-3 musicians)

50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, Acoustic, Big Band, Blues, Calypso, Classic Rock, Classical, Country, Dance, Folk, Funk, Gospel, Hip Hop, Jazz, Latin, Motown, Oldies, Orchestra, Pop, Punk Rock, R&B, Reggae, Rock, Soul, Strings, Swing, World

Yes

How many pieces are in the orchestra?

We have several groups within our company for you to choose from. The typical size for a wedding of 200 guests is 7-9 pieces. Within each of our groups there is some flexibility based on budget, size of the venue, number of guests and style of music. We won't try to sell you a 16 piece orchestra for 50 guests at a small restaurant unless you specifically ask for it. The style of music will also determine the number of pieces needed, such as drums for dancing or a female vocalist for the repertoire you request.



What instruments are in the orchestra?

At the very minimum, you need a chordal instrument such as guitar or keyboard, drums for dancing and at least one vocalist. Many of our instrumentalists both play and sing. There is some flexibility but the typical five piece group includes piano or keyboard, bass, drums, male guitar/vocalist and either a female vocalist or one horn (e.g. brass or sax). Our saxophonists double on flute and clarinet.



Do you do provide music for ceremony and cocktails?

We provide all forms of music for the ceremony and cocktails by using musicians from the dance band or bringing in a separate group such as string or brass ensemble. We have harpists and mixed ensembles such as harp, flute & cello as well as classically trained singers for your ceremony. Our classical groups can also be used for cocktails. If you don't know what you're looking for ask us and we'll give you some great options!



How do the musicians know what to play?

After years of experience and playing thousands of gigs, our band leaders know what to play, when to play it and how. We ask for your favorite 6 or 8 songs that you definitely want played. By watching and responding to the guests, we are able to determine what will make your party a success. We'll get everyone on the dance floor or stay in the background at the appropriate time.



When do we tell you what we want played?

Along with our contract and rider is an event “check list” that gives you the opportunity to tell us a few of your favorites as well as your pet peeves. Return it to us at least 1 month before your event so we have time to write an arrangement if necessary and rehearse the music. If you don't know what to chose that's fine, we have plenty of suggestions to help you plan your music.



How do you get people up and dancing?

We know the “money” tunes - the songs everyone loves. We don't play for ourselves. We engage the crowd, take requests (if you allow us) and can visually see if folks want to be romantic or in the groove. We can change gears in an instant, shorten or lengthen a song especially if they're dancing fast to slow songs or slow to fast songs. We want what you wantm, an infectious energy with everyone having a great time.



What about songs that are not on your list?

It would be impossible to list every song we know. And we're not opposed to learning one or two new ones for your event. Our musicians are schooled professional with the amazing ability to play many different styles of music.



Do you take breaks?

As long as we have two chordal instruments (piano & guitar) we should be able to provide you with continuous music. The players spell each other so that there's pleasant background music while you're dining and the full band will be ready to go when it's time for dancing. We firmly believe that if you're not eating or chatting, you should be up and dancing!



What do the musicians wear?

We have several options for you to chose. We can be as formal or as casual as you'd like us to be to match the setting of your wedding. Pretty much any attire from tuxedos with bow tie and women in long formal dresses to tan slacks, blue blazer & matching ties.



How much time do you need for set up?

It will depend on the size of the orchestra and it's sound system. One hour is the least amount of time for 5 to 8 piece to set up. We will coordinate with your venue as to when they would like us to arrive and how much time we have to get set. Everything is handled before hand with class and integrity so there is the least amount of stress and no surprises.