FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL SERVICES
What kinds of events do you play?
Weddings (ceremony, cocktail hour and reception), corporate events and galas, multi-day destination events, milestone birthdays, anniversaries and private dinners.
Do you play alone or with a band?
Both. Solo voice and nylon-string guitar, sometimes with live looping; a duo or trio with piano, flute or a second guitar; or a full band with sax, keys, drums and more, sized to your event. Many clients mix them: solo for arrivals, a duo at dinner, the band for dancing, all under one agreement.
Can you stroll through the room?
Yes. I can play as a roving guitarist with wireless gear, moving between tables or through a cocktail hour, then settle into a set when the program starts.
What languages do you sing in?
English, Portuguese and Spanish. I also play instrumental sets whenever the moment calls for quiet, like a ceremony or a dinner speech.
TRAVEL & DESTINATION
Where are you based?
Los Angeles. I play events all across Southern California.
Do you charge a travel fee?
Not for events within about an hour of travel. Beyond that, a travel fee may apply, and I'll include it in your quote up front.
Do you travel for destination events?
Yes. I put together a custom proposal that covers travel, so you know the full cost before you book.
EQUIPMENT & SETUP
Do you bring your own sound system?
Yes. I bring a professional system sized for your room and guest count, with an elevated system for larger rooms. For big productions, I work alongside your sound, staging and lighting company.
Can you provide a microphone for the officiant or speeches?
Yes. I can provide a microphone and a wireless microphone for the ceremony, toasts and announcements.
What do you need at the venue?
A safe, level performance area and a standard power outlet within reach. For a band, I send the venue a simple stage plot ahead of time.
How early do you arrive?
About an hour and a half before the first note, to load in, set up and sound check quietly, before your guests arrive.
What if the event is outdoors?
I play outdoors often. I just ask for lighting on the performance area after sunset and a covered backup spot in case of rain.
MUSIC & REPERTOIRE
What kind of music do you play?
Soul, jazz, pop and Brazilian music: Stevie Wonder and Al Green next to Tom Jobim and Djavan, plus a few of my own songs. The Repertoire page has the full list.
Can we request songs?
Yes, and I encourage it. A song of yours, arranged for your moment, is often what guests remember most. Each new arrangement is built from scratch, so send requests as early as you can, ideally at least four weeks before the event (for shorter notice, just ask). A do-not-play list helps just as much.
How do you handle volume?
I plan it with your planner and the venue, then read the room on the night: soft enough to talk over during dinner, fuller when it is time to dance.
How long do you play, and do you take breaks?
It depends on your event. A common rhythm is 45 minutes of music and a 15-minute break, but I build the sets around your timeline, and continuous music can be arranged.
BOOKING & REQUIREMENTS
How far ahead should we book?
The sooner the better: the best dates go about a year out, especially weekends in spring, summer and the holidays. If your date is closer, ask anyway; sometimes a date opens up.
How do we hold our date?
A signed agreement and a 50% deposit hold your date. The balance is due seven days before the event.
Are you insured?
Yes. I carry $2 million in liability insurance and can send a certificate of insurance to your venue on request.
Can you keep playing if the party runs late?
Yes, if my schedule allows. I check with you or your coordinator first, and extra time is billed by the hour at the end of the night.
Do you need parking or anything else from us?
Complimentary on-site parking or valet, and any vendor rules from your venue, such as load-in routes or sound limits, as soon as you have them.