Frequently Asked Questions

Can you also provide ceremony, cocktail or even rehearsal dinner music?

Yes, we offer many different styles of music including steel pan, acoustic guitar and classical/ traditional instrumentations. Please ask us for more details.

What are the power/ electrical needs of the band? Stage size?

Ceremony and cocktail music: In the case that any of the selected instruments require an electrical connection, musicians and instruments must be on a flat surface, not directly on the ground, to avoid electrocution. Client is responsible for having one regular outlet within reach of where you’d like the musicians to set up. Reception: The tent company/ venue must provide two 20-amp receptacles, which is standard. Suggested stage size: 8-piece band or less: 12’ x 16’ minimum 10-piece band and up: 12’ x 20’ minimum Beach ceremonies, cocktail hours and reception may require a generator if more than 100 feet from electrical source.

Do you have a calendar of events so we can pick a date to see the Sultans perform live?

Because most of our events are private, we do not publish when or where we will be playing. If you have not seen the band perform and would really like to, please contact us for an upcoming public date in your area.

How many songs do you play in a four-hour set? Do we select a play list/ every song?

Depending on toasts, special requests, time devoted to dinner, slide shows, etc. on average the band plays around 35 to 40 songs in a four-hour set. We ask that you review our song list which is available on our website. It is helpful to provide us with a list of songs you really want to hear and a list of songs you do NOT want to hear. It is best to give the bandleader the liberty to read the crowd and select songs guided by your likes and dislikes.

How many songs NOT on the Sultan’s song list can we request and how long before our wedding day do we have to notify you of them?

The Sultans will learn up to 3 songs not already on our song list, these requests must be made at least 3 weeks prior to your wedding date. Occasionally we require that the client provide us with the sheet music and/or an MP3 recording for these requests to avoid confusion on the version of song and artist.

Can we play a prerecorded version of our requests?

Absolutely. We understand that sometimes the original song is preferred so we don’t mind plugging in your MP3 payer to our PA system.

How many breaks does the band take in one night? Is there any music during the breaks?

The band takes approximately two 15-minute breaks in a 4-hour reception but are somewhat flexible to work with your schedule of toasts, cake cutting, etc. The band brings an iPod of softer background music to play during the break. You are welcome to bring your own iPod with your own play list if you’d like as well.

I have a family member/ friend that is a professional musician/ singer that would like to sing a song with the band, is that ok?

We’re happy to accommodate your friends and family if they would like to perform with us but please let us know ahead of time if possible. If you do NOT want your family/ friends to join in with the band, please let us know beforehand as well.

Can we use your microphone/ PA system for toasts/ announcements?

You are welcome to use our equipment for announcements and toasts during the hours of the reception of which we are contracted. We do not have a PA system set up for the cocktail hour or ceremony as we only need amplifiers for our purposes. If you would like to rent an additional PA system for any part of the event beyond the reception, please contact us for pricing and availability.

Who acts as Emcee for the event?

We will Emcee as much or as little as you like. If you prefer a friend or family member made the announcements they are welcome to. If you would like us to make announcements please provide us with a detailed and phonetically spelled list of everyone we are to introduce in the correct order of introduction.

Do we pick a song for our introductions?

Some clients do pick an introduction song and others leave it to the band. Please keep in mind that if you want the band to perform it live it should be done instrumentally. Songs with lyrics sound chaotic when you have a vocalist singing and another trying to make announcements over them through the same PA system. We recommend the intro song either being instrumental if the band is to perform it or the client having the recorded version on an iPod so the band can easily adjust the volume as announcements are made.

Do we have to book hotel rooms for the band?

Hotel rooms are only necessary if the event is more than a two-hour drive from Boston with the exception of Martha’s Vineyard and New York City. The financial responsibility of travel costs is outlined in your contract.

Who makes the travel arrangements?

We will book all flights and ferries. If hotels are necessary and you are getting a group rate or know of a small economical motel/ hotel in the area, you are welcome to make the arrangements on your own but please notify us. We require that each musician have his/her own bed in a clean room.