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Q: How much do you
charge?
A: There are many variables that determine my fee for a performance.
(i.e., season, availability, location of event, number of guests, required
duration of performance, time of day, etc. Since all of the above are
taken into consideration before giving a quote, and each event is unique,
it is impossible to state a fee on this page.
Q: Do you use pre-recorded backing tracks or
sequences?
A: I do not use any pre-recorded backing tracks or sequences. I am an
accomplished vocalist and musician, not a Karaoke show. However, I do
sometimes employ the use of a drum machine and a "looping
device" whereby I perform certain parts of various songs
"live", and then perform other parts simultaneously to give a
fuller, richer sound. This is particularly effective later in the evening
when the dinner or cocktail hour has passed and your guests may be feeling
a bit more lively and energetic.
Q: Do you work only as a soloist, or are you
able to work as a duo, trio, etc.?
A: Upon request, (based on availability) I am able to hire other
musicians to work with me, such as a flute player, additional guitarist,
keyboardist, percussionist, etc. The energy of two musicians combined is desirable with
larger audiences and can offer a more diverse mix of music, and can often
be very exciting from a visual perspective.
Q: Are you able/willing to learn material that
is not already on your song list for a particular event, such as a wedding
ceremony, etc.?
A: Depending on my schedule, difficulty of the requested song, and given
there is enough time to learn the piece, I may be able to learn material
specifically for your event. Naturally, extra generosity on the part of
the buyer is always an incentive to learn specific requests.
Q: Do you travel outside of the Charlotte,
North Carolina area to perform?
A: I am able to travel anywhere within the U.S., or Caribbean for your
event. For travel outside of a 100 mile radius of the Charlotte-metro
area, additional travel expenses and over-night accommodations must be
negotiated.
Q: What is considered a typical performance
time (duration)?
A: While each event is different, I generally prefer to perform no
more than 2-3 hours. However, depending on your budget, and the energy of
your guests, I can perform a maximum of 5 hours. I feed off the energy of
my audience. When the guests are having a good time and enjoying the
music, food, and other guests, that energy multiplies and perpetuates
itself and ultimately leaves a long-term lasting impression for everyone.
Q: What types of music do you perform?
A: I am extremely versatile. I am very comfortable performing genres in
jazz, blues, R&B, soft rock, folk, etc. Please see my song list page
for my current material and various artists that I cover. I also perform
original material that I have written.
Q: Do you have any special requirements that
the buyer should be aware of?
A: Yes, but nothing out of the ordinary. The following terms should be
adhered to:
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To power my equipment, I use standard U.S. household 110 V
power. However, the circuit (min. of 20 amps) should be dedicated for
my use only, and no other appliances of any kind should be running on
the same circuit. Failure to provide me with a dedicated circuit could
result in power failure, damage to my equipment, and ultimately lead
to a failed event.
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If I am to perform outdoors, I must have a durable covering, such as
a tent, roof, large awning, etc. This applies even if no rain is
forecasted. The reason for such a covering is to protect myself and my
equipment from direct sunlight, dew, possible rain, etc. If the
temperature falls below 55 degrees F. or exceeds 90 degrees F, or
winds above 15 m.p.h., I am
unable to perform outdoors.
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I should always have a supply of bottled water and the offering of a
small meal or fresh fruit available to me. Setting up, performing, and
breaking down my equipment is time-consuming and requires considerable
energy, and I perform my best when I am nourished and hydrated.
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If your event is formal, there should be an area where I can
comfortably change my attire prior to my performance.
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If the performance area is located more than 50 feet from the
available load-in area, I will require one person to assist me with
loading and unloading my vehicle.
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Optimally, I need a space of no less than 10' x 10 to set up my
equipment.
Q: What happens if my event is
scheduled for outdoors and has to be cancelled due to rain?
A: My engagements are not contingent upon weather. When planning an
outdoor event, reasonable contingency plans should be considered by the
buyer for an alternate location, in case of rain. If hazardous weather is
forecasted for the area, I reserve the right to decline performance
outside. Additionally, if there is audible thunder or lightning present
(with or without the presence of rain), I will not perform outdoors,
because of safety reasons. If I have already set-up my equipment, and
inclement weather begins after a performance, I reserve the right to cease
the performance. Any terms of payment will apply, regardless of weather
conditions.
Q: Why
don't you list where you are performing on your website?
A: About 85% of my work is at private venues. If you would like to know
when/where I am performing locally/publicly, please email me and I'll
happily add you to my contact list.
Q: If I'm
unable to make a commitment right away, can you hold a date for me?
A: As much as I'd like to say: "Yes"... I'm unable to hold
dates open. This is especially true for the months of mid-November
through mid-January and April through
September. Once
a mutual commitment is made and a deposit is secured, however; you can
rest assured that I WILL be there for your event.
Q: I like
your sound. I want to book you for my event! Now what?
A: Simply email me and
we will get the process started right away!
Q: How can
I find out more about Sabra Callas?
A: CLICK
HERE!
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