Do you take requests?
We are always happy to take requests. We encourage our customers to let us know what their musical preferences are. We make every effort to include these favorites during the course of the reception at just the right time. There is no need to confine your requests to our song list. Our many years of experience have given us a vast repertoire unequalled in our profession.
Must we pick out every song the band plays?
Heavens no! That task belongs to us. Your requests, combined with our ability to "read the crowd" will ensure just the right mix for your reception.
Just relax and enjoy your party!
We are concerned about volume. Will the music be too loud?
The Tom LaMark Orchestra is acutely aware of the necessity of never being too loud. Conversation is an integral part of any social occasion, especially throughout the meal service. There are family and friends who need to “catch up” on the latest. Our clients are encouraged to let us know if our volume ever becomes intrusive. Acoustics vary from place to place, so your input is important to us.
Can you play the song we have chosen for our first dance? What about our "parent" dances and last dance?
Your choices are more than likely already included in our repertoire. If not, we will be delighted to learn them for you. Just send along a recording of your song(s), and if available, the sheet music three weeks prior to your wedding. We know how special these moments are to you.
When should we have our first dance?
We always encourage our clients to have their first dance immediately after their introduction. This is a wonderful way to set the tone for the rest of the party. You and your guests can relax and feel free to dance the night away.
Who will do the MC’ing?
Introductions and announcements are all part of our service to you. We coordinate all announcements with the maitre d’ or room captain, and, very importantly, with your photographer and videographer. These special moments occur only once!
What about the cake cutting and the other traditional wedding "rituals" such as throwing the bouquet and garter?
We feel that there are no hard and fast rules at anyone’s wedding. It is, after all, your once in a lifetime celebration. Do it your way!
The cutting of the cake can be done very simply with background music, or you may desire the traditional "Bride Cuts the Cake". It is entirely your call.
Likewise, the throwing of the bouquet and garter should always be your choice as well. Your job is to have fun at your wedding in your own way.
How many breaks does the band take?
Our band takes no more than two breaks during the course of a typical wedding reception. Breaks are always taken when dancing is not an option. The first break occurs during the main course service. The second may be during dessert or a bit later depending on the flow of the party. We will never leave a dance floor full of people because it’s time for a break. You and your guests are our primary concern.
What happens during breaks?
During our breaks we provide recorded background music. We are happy to play any CD’s supplied by our customer if so desired.
Is continuous live music available?
Absolutely! For a nominal charge, continuous music will be provided during breaks. This service is often provided by one or two musicians, but may include the entire band as well.
Another very elegant option we offer for break music is a violinist or even a group of string players. They have the ability to “stroll” from table to table playing any special requests your guests may have. This is always a memorable addition to any celebration…that extra special touch your guests will rave about!
When does the band begin playing?
Our musicians will be set up and ready to welcome you and your guests as they enter the “grand ballroom”. The starting time on our contract should be as close to this moment as possible. We can help you with this decision.
What about over-time?
If at the end of the four hour booking time your guests just don’t want to leave that dance floor, you always have the option of extending our time with you. Additional music can be purchased in half-hour increments. Just let us know a few minutes ahead of time.
Can music be provided for our ceremony and cocktail hour?
Certainly! These are services we often provide for our customers.
We can offer you a wide variety of musicians and vocal soloists for your ceremony. Our roster includes: organists, keyboardists, trumpeters, flutists, pipers, violinists or even a string quartet. Male and female vocalists are an option too. Classical, religious or secular traditions are all honored. We are happy to offer guidance in this area.
May we suggest music for your cocktail hour as well? The right music is a real mood setter as your guests enter the room.
Does your orchestra travel?
We do indeed! We have entertained all over the Northeast, from Bar Harbor to Newport to New York City. Our home base is Boston, so there is a charge for travel outside a 40-mile radius.
Do we need to meet with you?
We would be delighted to meet with you if you so desire. Please do not feel pressured to do so. The majority of our clients who have meetings with us will say at the end of our time together, "Gee, we really could have done this over the phone". The choice is yours. We want you to feel at ease with your decision.
Are there any additional charges?
Absolutely not! All charges are clearly stated in advance including the rate for overtime. This is the only possible variable.
Do you have any special technical requirements?
Only an adequate source of electrical power, and if outside, shelter from the elements and a level playing surface not in contact with bare ground.
Must we provide meals for the band?
We only request meals if extensive travel is involved. Otherwise, we do not require, but greatly appreciate this consideration. Our workday begins three hours before your reception, and exceeds it by another two.
