The Arcadias Most Frequently Asked Questions
Below are all of the questions we could remember having been asked in the past. If you have a question that's not on here, please feel free to email enquiries@alivenetwork.com or call our agent, Alive Network, on 01782 740839.
How much space do you need?
We recommend a minimum of 5x3m if possible but understand that this is not always possible and are able to work with a minimum of 4x2 metres if needed.
How is it best to time things?
All events are different so we always suggest a tailored schedule for each event working around the timings of the following;
- Guest arrival
- Cake cutting
- First Dance
- Evening food being served
- Event curfew
We understand that all events are different and are happy to be flexible to your needs.
Can I pick the band's playlist?
Please do feel free to look through our repertoire list and let us know which songs you like and any that you don’t, we will then use this to create your personal playlist for the night. Please be aware that some songs may need to be substituted to aid in the ebb and flow of the setlists and to also allow the band to read the room on the night and change things up if necessary.
Where will you travel to?
The band are London based but will travel anywhere within 2-3 hours of this location.
Can I see you play live?
The band only performs at private events unfortunately but we do post live videos of events on our social channels so please do follow us so you can see what we will sound like at your event!
Will you learn our special song?
Every booking comes with a free First Dance request and, provided it is replicable live by our lineup of instruments or is suitable for a sparser arrangement if needed, the answer to this is yes! If your request is not for a first dance then we are able to learn songs not from our rep list for an additional fee (with the same guidelines as above).
Is the video on your website a true reflection of the band?
100% yes! The videos in the Alive Network studio are recorded completely live plus we have live videos on our social media channels that can attest to the fact that we do sound just as good at events!
How do I book you?
All bookings are through our agent Alive Network, either through the booking form on this website, email or by phoning 01782 740839.
Are you able to DJ in between sets?
Absolutely! All bookings come with a free tablet DJ service if booked within 7 days, and playlist music between sets as standard.
Can we make DJ requests in advance to my event?
Of course! You can either send us a song list or create a Spotify playlist for us to use in conjunction with our DJ equipment.
Can we use your sound system for speeches?
This is no problem at all and incurs no extra charge if the speeches take place while the band are scheduled to be onsite. If your speeches are earlier than this then the band can arrive to set up our PA and mics early for an additional fee.
What equipment do you use?
We use a top of the line 2000 watt PA system and professional high-end guitars, basses, microphones, drum kit and amplifiers. If your event requires us to be quieter (due to a sound limiter at your venue or just the individual needs of your event) then we also have a limiter-friendly set up, including electric drums. In short no room is too big or small for The Arcadias!
Do you have lights?
We have excellent stage lighting able to do a range of colour palettes and effects to create an amazing ambience for your event.
How long do you play for?
Every booking comes with up to 120 minutes of live music included- this is typically split into either 2 x 60 min sets or 3 x 40 min sets. We are able to perform shorter sets (eg 2 x 45 min sets) if needed or increase the 120 minute limit for an additional fee.
What time do you start and finish?
This entirely depends on the timings of your event, as standard we include arrival from 6pm and finish up until midnight. These timings can be extended either way for an additional fee.
How long do you take to set up?
We advise allowing 90 minutes for setup but can reduce this to 60 minutes if needed, providing the load in and parking at your venue is straightforward.
Can I provisionally book you?
We are not able to take provisional bookings unfortunately.
What if the band split up before my event?
This is extremely unlikely as the band members rely on this income to support their facilities. If the unthinkable did happen then every effort would be made by both the band and the agency to find a suitable replacement.
Can my sisters/bosses/daughters dog sing with your band?
We are absolutely open to this but prefer that this arrangement is made with the band in advance, and that the person in question has some experience singing in a live environment.
What will the band wear?
The band will dress in line with the outfits we are wearing in our promotional photos and videos. If you would like us to dress differently/more smartly then please let us know in advance.
Does the band have PAT and PLI certificates?
Yes we do, please just ask and we’ll send them over to you in advance of the event
Why should I book The Arcadias?
We’re highly experienced and passionate professional musicians who love performing live at events! We have an amazing rep list, sound system and lights plus we work really hard, both in advance of and during events, to make sure that yours goes off with a bang! We take immense pride in the service we offer and guarantee you will be extremely well looked after right through the initial enquiry, pre event planning and event delivery stages of your booking. Your guests will dance all night long and you will hear all your favourite songs delivered impeccably well!
How much does it cost to book the band?
Our prices vary depending on time of year, venue location, booking options and the timings of your event so please click here to get an instant quote!
Can we see some previous client testimonials?
Yes you can! Please click here to see reviews from our previous clients.
Do The Arcadias have any specific requirements?
We require an electricity source (ideally a minimum of 2x main plug sockets either side of the staging area), onsite parking (if this is not possible then we can work with this but parking costs are reimbursable by the client), 4x hot meal/buffet/hog roast and soft drinks and a room to change in/store cases (we do appreciate that a dedicated room is not possible at every venue though so you can still book if not don’t worry!).
What type/size venues are you able to play at?
The band have played at a huge variety of different venues; theatres, festivals, huge marquees and ball rooms all the way to intimate clubs and private residencies.
How loud will the band be?
We can be as loud or quiet as you like! We have a sound limiter friendly set up that incorporates IEMS, amp sim pedals and electric drums if your venue has a sound limiter and our PA is loud enough to cater for large rooms if needed. We conduct a thorough soundcheck before commencing the first set and if at any point you want us to be quieter (or louder!) then please just let us know.
What is the band power requirement?
Ideally a minimum of 2x 13amp sockets either side of the staging area.
Do The Arcadias offer any additional services?
We offer solo acoustic sets (solo/duo/trio/quartet) perfect for daytime drinks/meals, additional song requests and earlier/later finishes.