FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My objectives are simple: - Make sure we are a good musical fit for the client - Find an ensemble that fits the client's budget - Pay the musicians that are working for me at a rate that reflects the level of professionalism that I expect from them Because of my large musical network of professionals - I typically will have a number of different options for a request. These will include different size groups at different prices. This allows me the flexibility to find a group that fits my client's musical preferences at a price that fits their budget. I will not always be the lowest bidder. I respect the professionals I work with enough to pay them well for what they are able to do. In return, I have a wide network of the top professionals in the area who enjoy playing for my clients!
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The most important thing for me, is to make sure the client trusts that the music we provide will be perfect for their vision of the event - and that we'll perform in the most professional manner from the moment we arrive. Once we've reached that comfort level, the rest falls into place easily. We discuss the event - how the client wants it to look, to sound, to feel - and come up with the best musical group that fits their vision and their budget. We then put the details in a written agreement - typically with a small deposit that secures the date in our schedule.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
In terms of education, I have a bachelor's degree in music education (as a classical saxophonist) and a master's degree in jazz arranging (as a pianist). I'm a member of a number of organizations for music professionals and music educators. I've been selected to present clinics to my professional colleagues at national conferences almost annually. In terms of experience, I have been professionally leading all types of ensembles for over 20 years - from small ensembles up through full big bands. That translates to a comfort level on all kinds of events - from intimate performances for small audiences, to large-scale events at performing arts centers and stadiums, as well as radio and television broadcasts. My process is professional and organized, as I typically manage over 100 events with 45-60 musicians per year.