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Shebeen Frequently Asked Questions

How do we book you?

Firstly, please read these "frequently asked questions". Then email us at info@shebeen.biz to discuss your event. Try to provide the following information to help us determine if we are what you're looking for, if we are available and how much it would cost you:

1. The nature of the event (wedding reception, party, festival, etc);

2. The date of the event and possible timings;

3. The location of the event and type of venue;

4. Are you thinking of having a dance and would like us to provide dance calling, or is it a concert, or background music, etc;

5. If you are unable to listen to the Demo Tracks and would like us to send you a demo CD.

6. Do you have a budget to work to and if so how much? (answering this question is optional but it can save a lot of time if it's obvious that the budget and our costs are worlds apart!).

Please be aware that certain times of the year (e.g. St. Patrick's' Day and Saturdays in summer) are very busy for us - so BOOK EARLY!!

How much do you charge?

It depends! If we have all the above information we should be able to provide you with a quotation by return. There is no such thing as a "normal fee" as we have many things to take into consideration. We obviously need to cover our travel costs and if the event is some distance from our base in Hampshire, we may need to consider charging for accommodation.

However, let us know the details and we shall do our best to agree a price we can all live with!

If you are booking the band for a wedding reception and want independent advice on hiring a band, including cost, click Here

What's included in the charge?

Band (3 or 4 peice - we will only play as a 3 piece if one of us is unavailable i.e. we will not quote for a 3 piece if we are all available), calling (if required), high quality PA system, travel, accommodation (if necessary).

And what's extra?

Nothing! Once we agree the fee it's fixed (no matter what the Chancellor does to fuel duty!).

How do we know you'll show up? Can we have a contract?

Once we have agreed the fee we will draw up a simple booking agreement. We sign and exchange copies and do so not for bureaucratic reasons, but to protect each other from any misunderstandings or assumptions.

What sort of events do you play at?

All sorts! We play for corporate functions, wedding receptions, folk festivals, birthday parties, school PTA's, social clubs, pubs, sailing clubs, military messes, village festivals, shopping centre/bandstand events, PR launches, etc, etc! Take a look at our gig list.

How long do you play for?

Normally about a 3 hour set. A typical evening event would run from about 8.00 - 11 pm with an half-hour break - but other times are possible. We may need to charge more if you want us to play after 1130pm.

What do you play/sing?

Firstly, if it's 100% Ceilidh that you are after then Shebeen is not the band for you. Our standard set is essentially lively traditional Irish music (we do all the "usual favourites" with the exception of overtly republican/rebel songs); we also throw in a few country and skiffle numbers for good measure. The majority of the set is traditional songs and ballads, however we do play a number or instrumentals and can call a number of dances if required. Experience has taught us that a mixture of Ceilidh instrumantals and traditional songs works best for a complete evenings entertainment. If there is a particular tune/song you'd like, then check with us before the event. If we don't know it, we'll do our utmost to learn it especially for you. To view a complete list of our songs click HERE

Can you play traditional Irish music and songs AND disco type songs and rock music, Abba, U2, etc?

Irish music is played with different instruments compared to pop cover and function bands. Electric guitars, keyboards and rock drummers don't generally really work with Irish songs. It's quite a tall order expecting an Irish band to switch from 'The Fields of Athenry' to 'Dancing Queen' just as it would be to get a pop cover band to do likewise. If you want to have live Irish music and rock and pop covers why not consider booking the band followed by a disco?

How loud are you?

We play traditional instruments and electo-acoustic bass - so there's no rock bass and drum to worry about! We can play an acoustic set - i.e. without a PA system. However, this is only suitable for very small venues. We use a high quality PA and play at the appropriate volume given the audience and venue - we will always turn it down (or up!) if asked! We are happy to discuss our PA requirements with your venue management in advance of the event.

If you are booking us for a festival, etc, then we will insist on discussing our sound requirements with the appropriate technical representative of the venue beforehand.

How much time do you need to set up before you start playing?

1 hour is required to set up. If you are booking us for a wedding reception please be aware of this - it does not create a good atmosphere if we have to carry all our equipment across the room during the Best Man's speech!

We have many years experience of organising successful events - so we'll be able to advise you on the best arrangements.

Do you need a stage?

It's not essential, but we do need sufficient room for 3/4 musicians to stand side-by-side with microphones and speakers, etc. There's nothing worse than having your Guinness knocked over while you're playing or Auntie Maude throwing her knickers onto the band whilst still wearing them!

Can we come and see you play before we book you?

Yes - please do! Come up and say "hello"! We try to keep the Gig Guide up to date. If you don't see an appropriate event do contact us and we'll try to arrange something.

In addition, we can send you a free demo CD on request.

Can we have our special tune played before you start?

Yes. We can plug our CD player into the PA. You can bring your own CDs if you wish.

Do you require refreshments?

For private events, we leave this decision entirely with you - we don't write it into the contract but we have never been known to refuse a drink during performance or a cup of coffee when we're packing up at the end of the night! When booked by licencees, it is normal practice to provide a drink in each half for each musician.

How can we promote the event?

If you've booked the band and want to promote the gig, a poster (.pdf) can be downloaded Here