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Piano / DJ F. A. Q.s
PIANO
How long have you been playing piano?
Since 1971 | | | How many years of lessons?
I studied formally for only three and one-half years, from the ages of 9-12 1/2.. | | | What was your first performance?
A church service, when I was ten, I played ONWARD, CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS | | | What is your favorite song to play?
MISTY | | | How long can you play without a break?
I believe that keeping the music playing is key to "ambience" of your event. I can go for three hours without a break. Most of the time my "break" comes when there is a toast or announcement, otherwise, I keep playing on. | | | What styles do you play?
Popular, Broadway, Easy-Listening, Cocktail, Light Jazz and Standards. Basically, songs that your guests would recognize. I do intersperse several original tunes to give those who like to guess every song a challenge. | | | Do you play "jazz"?
I don not play hard-core, real "jazz", but rather "jazzy" tunes. I do "jazz" up some popular songs so they sound more sophisticated. | | | Do you play "classical"?
No. I have a specialized rendition of THE CELEBRATED CANON, the BRIDAL CHORUS, WEDDING MARCH, and a shortened version of RHAPSODY IN BLUE. Remember, -only three and one-half years of lessons. Some people tell me they "love the classical music I play" at their event. Go figure! | | |
Is there anywhere I can come hear you play live?
Yes:
Though many of my performances are at non-public arenas (such as: Private Parties, Weddings, Receptions and Country Clubs),
I do, from time to time, play public venues. You can visit
the Calendar (on the left) to see any venues that may be current. This is updated regularly, so, please visit often. | | |
Can I meet with you before I book?
Yes, preferably by becoming what I term -Pre-Qualified- that is possible.
Can I meet with you in person to plan my event?
Yes. After booking your event, you have the option to have a comprehensive planning meeting at my home studio: D-Grooves. It's located in Smyrna, GA.. You can hear samples of songs and even edit the length of your pre-recorded "First Dance" song at no charge! You'll hear the keyboard which might be used at your event, too! | | | Do you have a demo tape?
I have a demonstration CD which I'd be glad to send to you. Please include your mailing address with your e-mail request for a quote. | | | | What do you wear when you play? Formal wear (tuxedo or suit and tie) unless you request otherwise. If it's a pool party, then casual clothes would be fine (and preferred), but I don't play in my bathing suit. | | | Can people request songs?
Sure. If I know it WELL, I'll play it. But, your event is not a place for me to "try and play a few bars". Only the person at the piano is aware that I'm "winging it". Your guests deserve the finest performance possible. If I don't know a tune, I politely ask the guest for a second choice. | | | Do you work with a other musicians, such as a trio or band?
I specialize in the solo gig, but if you would like the sound of a trio, that can be arranged, provided you are interested music for background with a slightly jazzy sound. This is NOT a dance band. No vocals, just music. Please check out the talented groups,
musicians, and other professional services offered by other vendors and
clients here at the ByDoug Client Care Center! | | | Do you sing?
Yes, but once again, mainly at church. I do have many talented singers who can be incorporated into your event, for a few songs, if you so desire. Names and numbers are available by visiting
on this site. | | | Can I use my
credit card for payment?
Yes, there is a page online for you to use your credit card through PAYPAL. The event has to be paid in full one week before if paying by credit card. There is a 10% discount for paying in full at the time of your booking. | | | I don't have a piano. Can you provide a portable piano/keyboard?
Yes. A Roland FP-3. It has GREAT sounding piano samples as well as a built in "realistic" drummer. A wonderful instrument to add spice to your event. There is an additional fee of $99.95 if I supply the keyboard. Acoustic upright and grand pianos are available from reputable dealers around town if you prefer. I prefer Cecil White Music, Co. 770-441-1775 | | | Can I book my event online, right now?
Yes. You can get the process completed, start to finish, by clicking here:
Check My Availability and Request Additional Information! | | |
DISC JOCKEY
How long have you been a DJ?
Since 1987. It was a Halloween party. I had ALOT of discs and my church needed party music. A DJ was born! | | | Do you spin from records, discs or both?
Originally from
CD only (I never have done vinyl spinning; missed that whole thing). NEW! in 2007-
Computer Spinning! In February 2007 I began using the
top-of-the-line DJ spinning software SCRATCH LIVE by RHANE to
spin for events. As of May 1st, 2007 I have over 17,000 titles
(and counting) on the computer hard-drive! I use high quality .mp3s
so there is no loss in the excellence of the sound. Physical CDs are
close by as a safe back-up. | | | What equipment do you use?
My sound set-up includes:
GIGRAC 1000 Power Amp, CROWN Amplifier/ KMB floor speakers/
PEAVEY stand speakers/ GEMINI dual CD decks/ NUMARK mixer,
SONY VAIO Laptop PC, SERATO- SCRATCH LIVE Computer Spinning
Software, and a 100 Gig EXTERNAL HARD-DRIVE. | | | How large a group can your system accommodate?
Up to 200 people. The sound is so BIG with my system that police have shown up at one repeat clients pool party for several years in a row to have us tone it down. (Oops!) | | | Do you have lights? Yes. Are lights always included with your setup?
They are only available as add-ons. Two packages are available: Basic Mirror-ball for $49.95; and Expanded Light Kit: Strobes, mirror ball, specialty, 4-color-gelled pinspots and a smoke machine for only $99.95. | | | What do you wear when you DJ?
Formal wear (unless you specify otherwise). Pool parties usually brings out my "Hawaiian collection". | | | Are you a "rowdy" DJ?
I like to have fun! But, I find it very annoying if someone is constantly yelling at me to get on the floor when I'm at a party! So, I use a softer, more playful approach to the microphone. If your guests are NOT IN THE MOOD to party, they won't! If you have a couple party animals in your group, I'll interact wonderfully with them and we'll get the place going. But you won't hear me yell "Yo- Doug is in-the-house" (at least not with a straight face)! | | | What kind of music do you have?
Tons of different styles! Popular, modern rock, classic rock, dance/disco/house, oldies, rap, urban/hip-hop, soul/r&b, blues, country, contemporary Christian, specialty dances, holiday,
... etc.. As of May 2007- Classical music. | | | Can I choose the songs?
Yes. After you book you'll be given a
Group name and Password for you and your guests to choose music online
at this website. Keep in mind that he easiest way to do this is to work backwards. First, let me know if there are any styles or song titles you definitely DON'T want played. Then it always helps to have list of favorites you WANT to hear FOR SURE. The crowd will probably make requests which will fill in the music for your event quite nicely.
Search for songs on the Pianist/Disc Jockey Page. | | | If you don't have a song, can I bring it?
Yes, if on CD. The CD needs to be marked WELL, with the song title and track number clear for my view. I have no ability to play vinyl or tape. One last request, that the songs not be vulgar in nature. "Naughty", I can handle, but cursing and demeaning themes reflect poorly on me as a DJ and can make many at your event uncomfortable (especially if there are children present). This is especially important with rap music. | | | Do you have Karaoke?
No. Do you really want to know my honest opinion about it? :-) | | | How many people in your crew?
For the small setup, it's just me. Full light show: -I'll bring one or two extra people. | | | How long to set up your system?
Small system: little over an hour. Full setup: 2 hours minimum. | | | Do you lead dances?
I have all the party music: ELECTRIC BOOGIE, CHICKEN DANCE, HOKEY-POKEY, MACARENA, LOCOMOTION, CONGA, etc., but can't dance one of them. (There's a reason I stand behind that microphone or sit on that piano bench!) Fear not! There is ALWAYS someone who is dying to be the star and do the ELECTRIC BOOGIE! They will get the group moving! | | | Can you announce the wedding party?
Sure! I just need to meet with someone about correct pronunciation before I get on the microphone! | | | How does the party end?
I like to use the old classic Donna Summer song "LAST DANCE". Depending on how "dance" music friendly your group is, it will be regular or maybe the extended mix. Almost every time, EVERYONE ends up dancing to this even if they've sat around and drank heavily all night! If you prefer something else, of course, I'll oblige, but, this song works very well. (And it's one of my favorite tunes, also). | | |
Can I meet with you before I book?
Yes, preferably by becoming what I term -Pre-Qualified- that is possible.
Can I meet with you in person to plan my event?
Yes. After booking your event, you have the option to have a comprehensive planning meeting at my home studio: D-Grooves. It's located in Smyrna, Georgia. You can hear samples of songs and even edit the length of your pre-recorded "First Dance" song at no charge! | | | Do you have back-up equipment?
I
have a back-up amplifier that I carry with me. Fortunately, I've
had only one problem in the 21 years I've been performing at engagements.
The engagement went well. | | | What happens if an emergency arises or you get sick?
In all the years I've performed that's never happened, but, if it should, a competent DJ will replace myself for your engagement (using my equipment, if need be) and your party will be a huge success. (I played in a band once where I went through two nights of performance while suffering from the beginnings of food poisoning! Didn't miss the gig! I'm a tough dude!) | | | Can I use my credit card for payment?
Yes,
using the automated system, there is a page online for you to use your credit card through PAYPAL.
The link for specials will need to be e-mailed to you for payment by credit
card. Payment of remaining balance is due one week prior to your event if paying by credit card. There is a 10% discount for paying in full at the time of your booking. | | | Can I book my event online, right now?
Yes. You can get the process completed, start to finish, by clicking here:
Check My Availability and Request Additional Information!
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