Questions?

How do I book the band and secure my event date?

Check band availability for your date as soon as you can to avoid disappointment as we operate on a first in first served basis. A 15% deposit (invoiced on request) is required to secure your booking with final balance due 1 week prior to your event.



Which band size is right for me?

The flagship 4 piece band is our most popular sized band for weddings and parties. However we can tailor band size from a solosit to a 7 piece band. So whether you’re after an acoustic duo or a 7 piece band with horn section, we can tailor a band size to suit your needs. All our hired musicians are professionals capable of all genres from soul, jazz and funk to pop, top 40 and rock. With versatile instrumentation the instruments are generally made up of female and male lead vocals, guitar, keys, drums, bass or double bass, trumpet and saxophone. The 4 piece band remains our most popular band size for weddings of up to 150 guests. Once you get down to an acoustic trio, the band works slightly differently as we interpret the songs so that they fit the format of acoustic guitar, vocals and drums. You will still have the energy of a live band but some of the elements of the song will sound different because of the relatively few number of instruments. (The trio is more suited to cocktail/lunch time events when dancing is not a priority). When space and budget allows, the band can adapt to add a horn section and have a 'little big band' feel. Still confused on what band size is right for you? Get in contact today and have a chat.



Do you perform at wedding ceremonies and during canapes?

Yes! Our regular ceremony acoustic duo is made up of our female and male lead vocalists and acoustic guitar. We regularly perform at wedding ceremonies and we often receive requests for a soloist to play whilst guests arrive at the wedding reception before the full band kicks in. There are multiple options available which we can discuss with you based on your needs.



How much does the band cost?

A number of factors determine the cost of the band including band size, travel distance and hours on site. To give you a rough idea, you should budget somewhere between $1500 and $4000 for the band (Ceremonies and short appearances start from as little as $360). Get a quote today!



How far will the band travel?

Most of the bands events take place in Sydney and it’s surrounds with the band also regularly travelling to the Hunter Valley and South Coast regions. We are more than happy to travel to greater NSW as well as interstate for special events. The additional fee for travel outside of greater Sydney is purely dependent on the direct additional travel costs incurred such as flights and accommodation.



How long does the band perform? Is there a time limit?

The band generally performs up to 4 sets. Each “set” runs for approximately 45min and you are welcome to fit the band sets in between your proceedings on the night. We generally perform dinner and cocktail music for the first couple of sets and then we’ll get your guests up on the dance floor! Our booking period is up to 6 consecutive hours which includes a 1 hour set up/load in time. For example, if your event runs from 6.30pm til 11.30pm, we would arrive by 5.30pm to set up and soundcheck and be ready to perform for your guests by 6.30pm. Up until midnight, the 6 hour booking period is flexible. You may book the band for a longer period on either end at an additional $100 hourly rate per musician. In regards to ceremony music bookings, our ceremony musicians usually work on a 1 hour call time.



What happens in breaks and when the band isn't playing? Do we need a DJ?

The band provides a complimentary basic DJ service by the continuous supply of background music through the bands PA system so there is no 'silence' during your event except of course when you wish for no background music during speeches or other formalities! You will not need a DJ if you book Ruby Keys band, however we are more than happy to work alongside a DJ if you choose to book one.



Can we choose special song requests?

Yes and it is encouraged. Prior to your event, all song requests will be collected for special moments such a conference opening song, a bridal party entry or wedding first dance. We will ask you to specify whether you’d like the song played live (and if so, which version just incase you have a choreographed dance to a particular version!) or whether you’d like us to play the original track via an iPod. We can accommodate either.



Does the band take requests on the night?

Regularly! If the band knows the song that you or your guests request on the night, we’d love to perform it for you.



Do we need to provide band meals?

For all private bookings over 4 hours, it is a standard industry requirement to provide a band meal and drinks (water/soft drinks) for each band member. Most venues will charge a reduced fee for “staff/crew" meals. Band meals are not required for ceremony only bookings.



Do you provide MC help?

Yes! One of our band managers/vocalists will be more than happy to hop in and provide a basic MC service if you don’t already have a dedicated MC. More often that not, we provide MC assistance if a close friend is your MC as the band will be well versed on the run sheet.



Can we dictate what the band wears?

Your suggestions are very welcome. We are also happy to dress up for themed events and regularly do so.