Programmes
The band usually present three sets of music (over three hours), each lasting about 45 minutes. This can be modified according to the client's requirements. Dances of the same type are frequently paired together and they switch from Ballroom to Latin American fairly frequently. The dance style is always announced before playing but printed programmes can be distributed around the ballroom if required.
The band are highly organised and do not spend a lot of time searching for the next piece of music.
Special requests may be made but advance warning is essential.
Non-ballroom dance music can be included but please be aware that this may not go down well with some ballroom dancers. If you wish to include a mixture of ballroom and other dances in the programme please visit the Radical Rhythm pages.
Sequence and Old Time dances:
By special request, music for these specialist dances can be added to the programme but advance warning is absolutely vital. So, if you want to dance the Veleta, the St Bernard Waltz, the Barn Dance or any other "Old-Time" or sequence dance, this is the band for you.
The Dance Styles and repertoire lists
Click on the links to see a list of dance numbers
BALLROOM:
Waltz (including Viennese Waltz)
Quickstep
Foxtrot
Tango (not Tango Argentine)
INTERNATIONAL LATIN-AMERICAN:
Samba
Jive
Cha Cha Cha
Rumba & Paso Doble
ALTERNATIVE LATIN AMERICAN - if you want us to play this type of music please tell your guests in advance!
Bossa Nova
Mambo
Tango Argentine
NON BALLROOM: if you want us to play this type of music please tell your guests in advance!
Charleston & One-step
COMPLETE PLAYLIST
Alphabetical
Tempos:
All of the band's arrangements are specifically written for Dancing. Correct tempos are used and the style of the music suits the dance step. All dances have introductions so you can get started in tempo and on the correct foot!
Duration:
In general, faster dances are shorter than slower dances. Lengths vary, from just over two minutes to a little under four minutes for some Foxtrots.
Lighting:
The band is equipped with music stand lights so the house lights can be dimmed to enhance the party atmosphere. A couple of discreet disco lights are also used. A robust rope light is placed around the front of the band (if time and space allows) to help dancers navigate the dance floor and avoid dancing right into the band!
Noise:
The Band is essentially an acoustic band. The volume of sound is never overpowering. You and your guests will be able to dance and still be able to hold a "normal" conversation. Your ears won't be ringing, nor will you wake up the next day with a sore throat from having to shout. We can play entirely acoustically at venues with a properly maintained piano but vocals may have to be limited.
Dress Code:
Traditional: Black Dinner-jackets with waistcoats & colourful bow ties.
Contemporary: All black (open-necked black evening shirts with evening trousers)
