Our sound/lights crew would like to arrive at least three and a half hours prior to guests entering the room where the band is located. It is important that the stage-riser be completely set-up by the time our crew arrives. If for some reason less time is available please contact our Production Coordinator, Erin, as soon as possible so that the crew can be notified and prepared. Also, your contract is written such that the band finishes setting up and soundchecks (checking volume and sound quality for your venue's acoustics) just prior to the event start-time. If for some reason the band and crew is required to be set-up and out of the room more than thirty-minutes prior to your event start-time, an "early set-up" fee may apply. The band and sound/light crew will need approximately one and a half hours, after your event ends, to break-down the equipment and depart.

Staging

Sound Connection is a visually entertaining band and so we suggest you arrange for a stage riser so that all your guests can have an unobstructed view. However, at some venues it is best to have the band on the floor because of architectural, or space, constraints. When this is the case, Sound Connection's singers will spend some time coming out onto the dance floor to help your guests feel a connection with the band.

Regarding a stage riser, when space permits, our first choice is to have a 16' X 30' or 16' X 24' stage. Our minimum requirement is at least 12 X 24 feet. The stage will need steps leading up to it. The dance floor should be located directly in front of the stage and guest tables should be located at least ten feet from the front corners of the band stage where the PA speakers are located. If any tables must be located near the band speakers we recommend younger guests be seated there. Also, in order to provide the best sound quality possible we request our sound engineer be located out front, across from the band, and as close to the dance floor as space will allow in which case he will also need to place a taped down cable on the floor to the stage. Otherwise, he will need to be located against a back wall across from the band or as a second choice, against a side wall. Some kind of backdrop such as black or some other color of pipe and drape, or a fiber optic curtain, as wide as the stage and as high as possible, is recommended behind the band stage though this might not be necessary at some venues.

ELECTRICAL POWER

Audio

We will need a minimum of 40 amps distributed power at the stage just for audio and backline. Often, outlets on the walls are on a single circuit. In this case two 20 amps/120 volt dedicated circuits (not wall outlets) are needed.

Lighting

We will need an additional 40 amps distribution power at the stage for lighting alone. A minimum of two 20 amps/120 volt dedicated circuits (not wall outlets) are needed for lighting. Many facilities will provide a power distribution box at the stage for an additional charge though this charge is typical and provided at most venues regardless of the band that is hired.

Note: If the audio and lighting is being provided by the contractor, power requirements will change. Please contact the contractor for power requirements.

Volume

We are very sensitive to concerns about sound volume. The amplification equipment we use is state of the art and allows for complete control of individual sound levels. We constantly monitor our overall volume and are receptive to requests by the client-in-charge to increase or decrease the amount of sound volume. Be aware that there is always at least a bit of a conflict between giving enough volume for your guests to dance to and a low enough volume for others to talk over. However, we usually begin the night at lower volumes and then raise it after the entre is finished when most of the dancing takes place. Our sound engineer will only take instruction from our client or someone authorized to make such decisions.

GREENROOM

We require one or two private spaces located nearby in which to eat, rest, and change outfits before, during, and after our performance. If the event is taking place at a hotel, it is often possible to secure nearby unused conference rooms. The greenroom should have at least 12 chairs with table(s), refreshments throughout the evening consisting of at least spring water, coffee, hot tea, and sodas. If possible, we would also like to request one stand-up mirror, 10 hand towels, and one or two clothing racks.

BAND MEAL

Our sound & lighting crew often ends up spending 8-10 hours at the venue while the band and production coordinator spend 6-7 hours. Therefore, we would like to request some kind of meal to be served in our Greenroom either one hour prior to the engagement start-time or set-up sometime prior to your guests' serving of their entrees. If this is possible, we have a total of twelve people.

VENUE PARKING

Parking arrangements are requested for all band and crew. Normally, we use whatever parking validation is arranged for your guests whether it is valet or self-parking.

OUTDOOR RIDER (when applicable)

If the event is outdoors, additional provisions are necessary for the performance and safety of everyone. If the power is being supplied by generator, it must be supplied and operated by a professional contractor with enough power reserve for all that is using the power source. The generator should not be audible from the stage area. The entire stage and mix position must be covered with roll up/down walls to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment from the elements. When the band's production crew arrives to start loading in and setting up, a decision must be made at that time by those in charge whether or not to move the band indoors. There is a one-time set-up policy in order to ensure the safety and time restraints for the event to be successful. If our equipment truck is not able to back-up to the stage area, the client must inform our Production Coordinator at least 7 days prior to the event to work out logistics. If this is the case, we may require the venue to assist in unloading and moving equipment particularly during inclement weather for safety and in order to protect our equipment. Also, for the safety of the group, the leader of the group holds the right to refuse to perform or stop the performance due to weather or "Acts of God." If your event is taking place outdoors, this portion of the rider must be provided to your venue contact well in advance.

Cocktail Hours And Special Ceremonies

The members of Sound Connection are pleased to provide additional music such as solo piano, guitar, sax, vocals, and various combinations such as a duo, trio, etc. If your venue cannot provide a piano our keyboardist will need to provide a synthesizer and amplifier and will therefore require approximately ten to fifteen minutes to re-set at the band stage. Please feel free to consult with your event planner for pricing and logistical information. Please contact our Production Coordinator, Erin , at least two weeks prior to your engagement if you or your venue has any questions or concerns. We always try to be as flexible as possible. Sound Connection wants to make your event a memorable one.