How to Hire a Marching Band

When you hire a marching band for an office party or social event, you're making a big statement and a loud one. If you've never seen a marching band perform live, ask someone who has, before you agree to hire one. They can be a lot of fun, but they can also be a lot of noise. But if it's pomp and circumstance you're going for, there's no better way to do it than to hire a marching band.

Things You'll Need

• Venue
• Money or credit card
• Telephone

Instructions

Hire a Marching Band

1. Decide what kind of instrumentation you want in the marching band you are going to hire. This is dependent on the event and venue in which they will be performing. Do you want a lot of brass? Woodwinds? Is heavy percussion in order, or are you looking for a softer sound?

2. Pick the songs you want the marching band to play. If you don't have any preferences, the band can supply a range of choices.

3. Pick the bands that interest you. You may also find several booking agents listed here; it is not uncommon to hire a band through a booking agent, though it may be more expensive due to the agent's commission.

4. Call several bands and agents to get competitive pricing. Describe your event in detail, and tell the band or agent exactly what you are looking for in a marching band.

5. Book the band and pay any deposit required. Be sure to get the booking date in writing.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all marching bands are the same. In fact, they vary widely, in terms of look, style and breadth of song library. It is perfectly reasonable to request a CD or DVD of the band's performance work. If you have the chance, go to see the band play live before you make your decision to hire.

• Ask about variations. While a band or agent might try to sell you the biggest package, they may not mention that they have smaller, less expensive arrangements available.

• Consider the nature of your event carefully before you decide to hire a marching band. It's one thing to have a symphony orchestra performing in the background; it's quite another to have them marching through your back yard. Events for which a marching band might be suited are award ceremonies, large scale competitions, fireworks shows, etc. Events they may not be so appropriate for include intimate dinner parties, chess tournaments and baptisms. Let discretion be your guide.