Frequently asked questions
The Band
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Citizen always has the same line up. Substitutes are only made during their holiday period. Any substitutes used to replace a band member are close friends of the band and are always rehearsed before the engagement.
Wherever practicable, Citizen prefers not to accept an engagement if the normal line up can’t be offered. The band will always inform clients if a substitute is needed for their engagement.
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Citizen formed in 1988 as a trio. In 1992, female vocalist Kerry Hall joined the band.
NB: Watch out for bands that change personnel often. Groups that have just formed pose the potential for problems if the group breaks up. This isn't to say that established bands don't break up, but over half of all bands formed break up before their first anniversary. The longer they have been together, the more likely they will be to remain together until your wedding date.
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Performing
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Definitely, YES! The majority of Citizen’s engagements are now weddings. Many of the UK’s top entertainment agencies call Citizen first! This is because they are renowned for their outstanding performances and their high standard of professionalism.
Take a look at the testimonials page for further evidence from many of their satisfied clients.
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Citizen can learn one song that is not on the playlist. You may also want to consider asking the DJ to play any special requests.
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We have more than enough material to meet your needs. Citizen are a band which likes to get everyone on the dance floor and normally perform either 2 x 45 minute spots or 1 x 1hr 30 minute spot decided by you on the night.
See the play list for Citizen’s current repertoire. If there is a specific song on the playlist you would like us to play, mention this to us in advance as we frequently alter the set list.
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The normal arrival time is 6:30pm regardless of the day of week. The band is prepared to wait in the wings if things are running behind schedule. It is necessary for the band to carry out a 'sound check' to ensure the sound quality and volume level is appropriate for the room and guests.
The actual sound check usually takes approximately 15 minutes. Where guests are still present in the room, the band always announce what they are doing and ask for their perseverance. If it is possible, it’s recommended in some venues to clear the room during the sound check; as it can be a source of annoyance to older guests with more sensitive hearing, until we achieve the correct balance.
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The length of the breaks, indeed all the timing is specified by you on the night to fit your schedule. Citizen regularly work alongside a DJ and we strongly recommend this if your budget will stretch to it, as the atmosphere is kept going throughout the entire night and can play your choice of first dance etc. Citizen can however provide background CD music through the PA system for no extra charge.
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Citizen normally has all the sound and lighting equipment set up and the sound check completed within 1 hour. Although, corners can be cut if timing is tight.
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It is not logistically viable for a six piece band to accept more than one engagement a day.
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Citizen always dress smartly on and off stage.
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Booking
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The band normally arrives between 6.30pm to 7pm at wedding receptions, regardless of the day of week and normally provide up to 2hrs of music.
At weekends, there is a surcharge for afternoon set up negotiable depending on arrival time and travelling distance and there is a surcharge of £100 for performances after midnight in keeping with Musicians Union guidelines. There are no other hidden charges.
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Citizen requires a deposit of 25% to secure the date in the bands diary. We ask that the balance is paid within 1 week of the performance date either by cheque or electronically. Payment can also be made by cash on the night (minus deposit) at the end of the night or at a point convenient to you. Always make sure you have a written contract with the band you choose and make sure you have all verifiable contact details, postal and telephone and a receipt for your deposit.
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If you are booking Citizen through an agent you may with the agents approval contact us directly to discuss fine details, but out of courtesy and professional protocol, all matters relating to fees and contracts should be should be referred directly to the agent.
Please note that if you book Citizen through an agency, you will not be able to directly hire Citizen for any other event within 12 months, you must use the same agency.
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Yes, Citizen has a written contract. And are happy to make additions to the contract to meet any special needs you may have and will inform you up front if the band is unable to accommodate these special needs.
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Citizen have performed throughout the UK and abroad. However, the majority of our bookings are based in the northwest. As far north as the Lake District down the Fylde Coast to Blackpool, through Lancashire, Manchester, Merseyside, Wirral, Cheshire, Chester, North Wales and down into the West Midlands.
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General
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Citizen has public liability insurance for up to £500,0000. Many venues will not allow bands to perform unless they have public liability insurance.
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No, the band does not expect refreshments, however they normally leave home late afternoon and don't arrive home until the early hours of the morning, therefore anything would be gratefully received! They also do not abuse free bars. Citizen pride themselves on their professionalism.
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