Frequently Asked Questions

"What is it that makes Jerry Kravat the best?"

When it comes down to it, it's simply the great music! The fact that we have the five top New York orchestras here at Jerry Kravat gets our name around fast. If you haven't seen one of our bands, call 212.686.2200 and make an appointment today. We would love to WOW you! You will find that in every detail, from booking the right band, to handling all the details, right through to the party itself, we will dazzle you with courtesy, professionalism and service that is uncommonly good. We will go the extra mile for you every time.

"How soon should I secure the entertainment for my wedding reception?"

Begin looking as soon as you have your date set. However, remember, most couples wanting a great band for their wedding know to book at least twelve months in advance. This gives you more choice; the top groups get booked first! Planning early is a lot less stressful too.

"How many bands should we see prior to making a final decision?"

This is subjective, but a good approach is to speak to several music companies on the telephone then, based on their responses, choose to meet with three. You will know when you see the right one!

"Can I be sure the band I see will be the band I get?"

The name Jerry Kravat is synonymous with integrity. With a deep respect for our clients and over twenty-five years of performing at the best parties, our success is based on our commitment to your total satisfaction. Every Jerry Kravat orchestra is a set unit. This means no surprises for you on the day of your affair. In the event of a situation beyond our control, we will provide a suitable replacement, no matter what the cost to us.

"Will I be able to see the band perform prior to my affair?"

This is sometimes possible. However, please be aware that we perform mostly for private parties.

"How can I see and hear the Jerry Kravat orchestras, DJ's & classical ensembles?"

This is just one of the reasons Jerry Kravat Entertainment such a pleasure to work with. In our multi-media facility, you will get to audition some of the hottest entertainment around, all in a relaxed environment, at your own pace. When you make an appointment to meet with one of our music consultants be prepared to get an education.

"I'm too busy to meet anyone. I have no time!"

Hiring the very best music for your wedding party should be one of your highest priorities. It does take a little time but I assure you, on your wedding day, you will not regret it for a moment. I haven't met anyone yet who wasn't glad that they had researched their music thoroughly.

"Our taste in music is rather eclectic! Can you help us?"

Firstly, each and every party should be unique and secondly, we go to great lengths to ensure that the ambiance created by the entertainment reflects your musical and personal taste. Finally, we. re with you, guiding you all the way, attending to all the details asking the right questions, using our expert knowledge and experience.

"Will our band learn a new song for us that is outside of the traditional play list?"

Our music department will prepare special music arrangements, often at no charge. We will be as accommodating as possible with special requests. One caveat though: too much new music that may be outside of the mainstream may impede the flow of the music. It's best to be very selective. If in doubt, ask our opinion.

"How do we choose the music that will be performed at our affair?"

Our web site is a very useful tool and will be of great help to you in the initial planning stages. Keep a file on any musical ideas you have. Take mental notes when you attend other parties. As the day approaches you may want to set up a personal appointment to discuss everything. We are available to meet you at your convenient at our office during business hours if you wish. However, for our out of town or very busy clients we also utilize the fax machine, e-mail and the phone to finalize everything. A great party doesn't happen by accident!

 

"Will our band take requests during our affair?"

Some couples choose to limit this due to a fear that guests may request their favorite songs! Others leave this up to the discretion of the bandleader. You can trust his or her judgement. Your bandleader will have the experience and sensitivity to handle this in the most appropriate way.

"What is the norm regarding gratuities?"

People often ask this question and it's always difficult for us to answer. Firstly, we believe that only excellent service, above and beyond your expectations, deserves a gratuity. Of course, we do intend that the quality, professionalism and energy of the musical entertainment will awe you, your family and friends. A gratuity is a small thank you for a job well done and is given entirely at your discretion.

"What kind of sound system does the band use? Will the band play too loud?"

When Jerry Kravat Entertainment performs the sound is always impeccable. At most affairs we include, at no extra fee, a sound engineer to set up all the equipment ahead of time and then to balance the sound during the reception. Our sound systems are the best! Bose, JBL, Lexicon etc. and our sound guys always keep levels appropriate. Whether we're performing a cool Brazilian bossa nova played softly by the flute and jazz guitar or a chest thumping dance number during the last hour, you will know the sound is always right.

"Will I have continuous music throughout my reception?"

Yes, in most cases, although it is not practical or even a good thing to have your entire orchestra perform right through. At some times the music should reflect the mood and at others, create it. This does not mean that the dance floor should be 100% packed all the time. Leave it up to your band leader to keep the party moving by weaving styles and selections into the party ensuring that all your guests are included in the fun. Relax, you. re in good hands.

"Do I have a responsibility to feed my musicians?"

Bandleaders rarely have time to eat! However, if your musicians are traveling some distance or you have an extended party it may be appropriate to provide a snack for the guys in the band. You should consult with your catering manager regarding this.

"Does the band work with the banquet manager in coordinating the party"

Absolutely. The bandleader will consult with the maitre'd to finely tune all the details. We will respect his or her wishes entirely in regard to timing. It will be our pleasure to work hand in hand with your venue staff. Be clear in your pre-planning that all the appropriate people are informed as to your wishes. It's also essential that you stress the importance of the entertainment to your banquet facility. This will ensure that musicians are offered every courtesy by the staff when arriving, setting up and during the performance.

Thank you for choosing Jerry Kravat Entertainment

307 Seventh Avenue, Suite 2003 - New York, NY 10001 - [voice] 212-686-2200 [fax] 212-686-6301