Hire a wedding band that makes people jump up and dance
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
I'm an entrepreneur who happens to be a musician, audio engineer, and Dj. I have been in the music industry since 1989. We are close to hitting the 3,000 events mark, 80% of that is weddings.
How did you become a band?
I never get tired of seeing both the melancholy and happiness in the eyes of Dad or Mom during their first dances. It's a sense of accomplishment for everybody, and music is always the background.
I studied classical piano from the age of five. As a teenager, I founded and directed the high school band, which was very popular. After graduating from high school, I started playing professionally as a very high tech one-man band, adding band members slowly until we became what is today Fondo Blanco Latin Band.
There are two aspects of my job that I really like. As an audio engineer, I love the technology involved in our performances, always adding the latest in sound and lighting to enhance our shows. As a musician and entrepreneur, I am obsessed with the social and psychological aspect of weddings. I have embedded in my mind the importance of music in social events, and without music, there is no wedding (reception!), at least in Latin culture. This job let us be part of one of the most special days in the lives of couples. I never get tired of seeing both the melancholy and happiness in the eyes of Dad or Mom during their first dances. It's a sense of accomplishment for everybody, and music is always the background.
How would you describe your style?
Our main strength is performing Latin and American repertoire with great confidence, keeping the idiosyncrasies of both cultures intact.
Our main strength is performing Latin and American repertoire with great confidence, keeping the idiosyncrasies of both cultures intact. That's why many of our clients are mixed couples. From "Despacito" to "Sweet Caroline" we've got you covered.
One of the words that always come from our audience is Energy. We put all our effort into offering a very high energy show with nonstop, fun music. And during our breaks, the Dj always rocks the house. In the end, our main goal is having a packed dancefloor full of happy people, which translates into very happy newlyweds/clients.
What are the most common questions that couples ask you at the first introductory appointment?
The first contact is always about rates, options, and availability. Once couples decide we are within their budget and we are all committed, the next subject is always about repertoire, music genres, first dances, and especially!! the Not Play List, which is the most important for me. The success of my career is based on what I do not play. Unless you are a thrash metal lover, this process of song selection is almost always very smooth.
Is music necessary for a wedding ceremony?
Absolutely, the ceremony feels like a movie for the couples and family. Imagine a movie without music...
What's the best music for a wedding ceremony?
We don't perform in ceremonies. We focus all of our energy in the reception.
How much does it cost to hire a band for a wedding?
We offer various formats, from a 6-piece band to our flagship 13-piece band. The rates change dramatically depending on the day of the week and season. We also travel to other cities and states, so the costs vary depending on many factors.
How much of a deposit is required? What is your policy on cancellation or refund?
We ask for a 20% nonrefundable deposit. If the event is canceled less than 30 days before the event, we ask for the payment of the full amount agreed on the contract.
What was the most memorable wedding you played at?
We have performed in many high-end, huge weddings, but I never forget one tiny wedding, maybe 20 guests, where the groom was crying and looking at the bride so intensely that I started crying uncontrollably. I truly felt that love, it was very special for me.
Was there ever a time you had to improvise?
Oh yes! There are times of technological horror, where you have to fix things in seconds with what you have. Or there are times where the guy who is paying, maybe a grumpy dad, wants that reggaeton song cut right away! You have five seconds to stop the band and get killed by the young audience or make the bride interfere. Sometimes a very important guest wants to sing a song after ten drinks, and you just have to become a karaoke band in the spot. The list goes on and on.