We’re still deciding between a band or
a DJ. Any advice?
Bands can certainly be great at parties, but they do have a lot of
limitations. Regardless of how talented a band is, it's impossible for them to
sound just like the original artists. Also, no matter how large their repertoire
is, it’s still quite limited when you compare it to what we offer; we can play
literally any song that you'd like to hear. Another important difference between
a band and us is that we don’t take breaks; the music will be continuous from
beginning to end. One more thing: We can easily control the volume from a single
switch and keep it at an appropriate level at all times. It's very difficult,
however, for a live singer not to powerfully belt out a tune or a percussionist
not to whack the drums so hard. See Top Ten Reasons to Hire DJ
vs. Band.
How long have you been in the disc jockey business ? daSilva's DJ Service has been providing great entertainment in the Eastern MA area for 10 years. You can be sure we will be in business when your special day arrives.
Do you take Requests ? Sure we do, unlike many other DJ services. You will have the chance to provide us with an advance request list before the event. Also, guests are always encouraged to come up during the function and place a request.
What if we want to hear a song that’s
not on the playlist?
Beyond what you see on our "most
requested" playlist, we have a master music library that contains
thousands of songs. So, if you don’t see a particular selection, there’s a
good chance that it’s in our library. If it’s not there either, we’ll get
it for you at no cost, as long it's still in print. Or, if you'd like us to use
music from your own collection, we can do that, as well.
How much choice do I have in the music
selection? As much as
you'd like. Occasionally customers decide to hand-pick each and every song
that's played at their function, which is perfectly fine, but it's not
necessary. We'll ask you to highlight as many specific songs and genres that you
like to hear and ask you lots of questions about your preferences. With this
information, we'll craft a custom-designed music menu for your reception.
There are songs that we definitely don’t want played at our event. How do we make certain that we won't hear those wretched tunes? We'll strongly encourage you to give us a "don't play" list of music, and we will absolutely abide by it. You won't hear any unwelcome surprises at your event.
How much gratuity is appropriate?
Please note that many DJ companies suggest tipping the disc jockey
10% to 15% of the total payment. Even
though you are always welcome to tip, daSilva's
DJ Service
gives no such suggestions as we quote a fixed price with no hidden
surprises.
Are we required to feed the DJ?
That’s your choice. Customarily customers do provide a meal for
their DJ.
Do you take breaks during the event ? ABSOLUTELY NOT ! We provide continuous music for the duration of your event.
How will you be dressed at my event ? Tuxedo Attired, unless you request otherwise.
Will you be having any cocktails at the event ? We NEVER consume alcohol during any event.
Who has control over the volume of music ? YOU have total control over the volume throughout the evening.
Will you sub-contract my party like some other disc jockey companies ? ABSOLUTELY NOT. We trust no one to do the job we are capable of doing.
What time will you arrive at the
facility?
We will arrive about an hour before your scheduled start time to set
up the equipment.
Do you put up any signs or banners? Absolutely not. We’ll be at your event to entertain, not to advertise.
If we book you for a certain amount of
hours and then decide that night that we’d like you to perform longer, is that
a problem?
As long as it’s an evening wedding, we’ll stay for as long as
you’d like for a minimal fee as stated in the contract.
Can we see you perform ? Unfortunately no. We realize some companies allow this, but daSilva's DJ Service thinks it is rude to invite someone into YOUR party. There are many ways for us to show you that we are the right entertainment company for you. This is not one of them. We may be able to invite you to a public event from time to time but we generally don't invite outsiders to private events.
Can we afford your services ? Yes you can. Call today for prices and availability. Odds are that if you can't afford us then you will not be having a professional DJ at your event. We're very reasonably priced due in most part to our non-existing overhead.
- Does he appear professional?
The acoutrements of business (cards, written contracts, etc) indicate a seriousness of purpose and a degree of professionalism. Sure, you can hire a DJ who will "work for beer," but do you really want that guy at your function? As a whole, Disc Jockeys tend to be an informal fun loving lot; but should still behave professionally and treat customers accordingly. - Is the DJ enthusiastic?
When talking to him does it sound like he enjoys what he does, or is it "just another job." Let’s face it: Disc Jockeys get to go to lots of parties, talk to lots of happy people, buy a gigantic stereo, and get paid for it. Why would we not be a cheerful bunch? - What about experience?
Ask how long he’s been in business, experience, background.... - Does he have any pictures of prior events?
It might be helpful to see him "at work." Photographs or videos can help you get a feel for how the DJ conducts an event. - What kind of equipment does he use?
There is a difference between consumer-grade home stereo components and professional P.A. equipment. Common "Pro" brand names are Crown, QSC, JBL, Gemini, EV (Electrovoice), Denon, Rane, Mackie, and Shure. Notice that home stereo giants Sony and Sharp are not on the list. Secret hint: DJs who use multi-disc carousel CD players tend to be amateurs. - Does he have a play list of all his songs that
you can look at?
Surprisingly, the preferred answer here might be "no." A typical DJ will carry thousands of songs, making a hefty play list for anyone to browse. The reality is that a four hour party is only enough time to play about 70 songs (the right 70 songs, of course). A better suggestion might be to ask for a "most requested" song list. - Are you comfortable with them?
At one end of the spectrum are DJs who are always on the microphone and like to be very visible. At the other end are DJs who lack any personality and do nothing but play the music. Others are an even mixture of the two extremes. Usually you can get a feel for style simply by talking to the DJ. Or just ask. The bottom line, though, is to hire someone who listens to what you want, and are comfortable with.
since 08/27/03.