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FAQs

Below are questions that The CopyCats get asked on a regular basis.
(Click on a question to view the answer.)

If you have any further queries that are not answered here, please contact us using the BOOKING page.

General Questions

How much will it cost?

Fees vary and are primarily dependant on how long you would like us to play for and where the venue is. Contact us for more information and we can discuss a quote to suit your needs. If you are emailing us please supply date and venue location details.

Where can I see The CopyCats play?

While the majority of our functions are private, we can from time to time get access to venues to allow prospective clients to view the band live. We are also regularly playing live showcases around Scotland, please check our News section for details on upcoming showcases. Please contact us to see if we can arrange a viewing.

What is the band's dress code?

The dress code is formal yet comfortable the guys all wear smart trousers and shirts and the lead singer wears blouse/trousers. Please arrange with your venue that a room suitable for the band to change in is available on the night. Anywhere that is clean and NOT a toilet will do.

How long do you need to set up?

Generally The Copycats need a minimum of 1 hour to set up and sound check their stage show, however, if your event has a particularly complicated 'get-in' (i.e. flights of stairs etc) please let the band know at the time of booking. Pack downs after the show generally take around 1 hour, and you can rest assured that The Copycats will leave the stage and dressing room as clean and tidy as we found it!

We would like some Ceilidh / Scottish music played, can you play this?

Yes - The CopyCats can play traditional Scottish dances within the performance, all fully called by our keyboard player Neil just ask us.

Do you allow guests to use your equipment or join the band on stage?

Unfortunately they can't. Whilst the instruments would probably be taken care of, we simply can't take the chance. If we have to repair or replace anything, this would pose problems for our next wedding usually the following evening! On top of this, our insurance policy does not cover us for this.

How long do you play for?

Typically, we play for three hours within a four hour period, usually between 8-12pm. However, we are extremely flexible and can negotiate time variations to suit your event.

Do I need to provide anything for the band?

Unless previously arranged for larger events, The Copycats will provide everything they need for their stage show (except for a stage), so you don't need to worry about providing any sound or lighting equipment. It is however a pretty standard requirement when booking any band, to provide them with food, refreshments and a dressing room for the time that they are at the venue. This is because the average working day of a gigging musician is generally around 16 hours, so any food you can provide them will fuel an even greater performance! A dressing room is also a necessity so that the band can keep out of the way of your guests, and store any empty boxes and personal items away from the staging area. Parking for a large transit van is also required.

Do you have insurance against accidents and damage at venues?

Yes! - The CopyCats hold public liability insurance up to the value of £5,000,000.

Will you play outside?

Yes - As long as we are adequately protected from the elements and it is safe to do so.

How reliable are you?

The Copycats are EXTREMELY reliable and have never let a client down, we treat the copycats as a business and It goes without saying that under no circumstances would we break our contract with you.

How loud do you play?

We can play as loudly or as quietly as you like! The CopyCats have played at many functions and can tailor the volume to the size of the room and number of people. Please remember you are hiring a live band, and we are more than happy to oblige the bride & groom if we are ever asked to turn the volume down.

Will I also need a DJ?

We are happy to play a selection of continuous music that is mixed together before and between our performances. Most clients find that they do not need the expense of hiring a DJ in addition to the band.

Do The CopyCats use backing tracks?

No - We are a fully live five piece band at all times. Everything you hear is generated by the musicians on stage. You are hiring us to perform, not play a CD!

Will I need to pay a deposit?

The CopyCats ask for a small deposit of £50 on signing of the contract posted or emailed to you. We prefer deposit and final balance payment by BACS (bank transfer) or cash on the night of performance. We cannot accept cheques, please discuss deposit and payment with us.

Cancellations will be charged as follows:

Less than 50 days: Full amount must be paid.
50 – 100 days: 75% of the full fee must be paid.
100+ days: 40% of the full amount.

After Booking:
Once a booking is confirmed in writing or by email, we will contact you whenever necessary if details need to be checked, clarified, confirmed or discussed.

Technical Requirements

Do the band provide their own sound & lighting equipment?

The copycats have a state of the art sound system, and also provide all of the lighting equipment required including lighting onto the dance floor. All the band's gear is PAT tested for electrical safety and the band also holds public liability insurance.

Is your equipment safe and PAT tested?

Yes - Our equipment is tested and certificated. Copies are available upon request.

Stage / Floor Space

The band needs an ideal minimum stage or floor space, we will endeavor to fit into smaller areas when this is not available, or odd shaped stages, note that there is a practical limit as to how much room a full drum kit, two guitars, speakers, mic stands and five people can be fitted. Generally a stage 4m by 3m is adequate for our performance.

Please also make sure that any DJ or Act you have also booked appreciates the space needed by a 5 piece live band and does not set up centre stage or use an unreasonable percentage of any limited floor space. While the band prefers a raised stage (as will most audiences), it is not a requirement.

Power

We need a minimum of 2 x 13 amp sockets and draw around 20 amps with all lights and PA in use.

The Copycats