Northern Ireland's premier
Ceilidh Band
FAQ's
Below are answers to some of the many questions we get asked about the Haste to the Wedding Ceilidh Band
How many band members? Is it always the same line up?
There are five members, Leslie on piano accordion, Pete on guitar, Ciaran on fiddle, James on snare drum and Colin on banjo / caller & singer. Very occasionally one of us can't make a gig but we have a great circle of musician friends that we play sessions with regularly who are always willing to take to the stage.
How long has the band been together?
Haste to the Wedding have been performing together for almost a decade and intend to do so for many years to come. At any one time we've got as many as 40 bookings - up to two years in advance. We've played at hundreds of weddings, formals and other events and we've never been late or missed a gif - EVER!
Do you play any other kind of music?
We specialise in traditional Scottish & Irish ceili dance music - jigs & reels. We also perform some traditional folk songs and will on occasion play specific requests. We can also play recorded tracks of your choice for your 1st dance or during breaks for example.
How long do you take to set up? Do you take breaks during the performance?
Through many years of practice and familiarity with most wedding venues throughout Northern Ireland, we can set up and be ready to go in about 20-30 minutes. We always aim to be at your event at least one hour before start time. Normally we don't take a break during a standard gig, however for longer performances, we may take a short breather to allow for a buffet for example, during which we can play background music.
Can we hear you play before the booking?
As most of the gigs we play are weddings and other private functions which we are focused on the job in hand, we tend to discourage requests to see us live. We will however send you a copy of latest CD which includes some of our most popular dance sets. (Please also see our reviews)
How far will you travel? Are there any other costs involved?
We have played all over Ireland, England & Scotland and even as far as the Middle East. We have a set fee for standard gigs in the greater Belfast/Co.Antrim area. Beyond this travel and other expenses will be additional. Please contact us directly for an accurate quote specific to you.
What are your payment requirements?
To confirm a booking we require a non-refundable £100 deposit. The balance should be paid in cash on the night of the event. If you want to pay by cheque, money or credit card please pay at least 2 weeks before the date of your event (email for details). We prefer not to accept cheques on the night as we have had one or two embarrassing situations over the years!
Do you have any other special requirements - stage, food etc..?
Most venues we play have some sort of stage or platform which is great. If they don't it doesn't really matter. We've never been known to refuse food, but its not a requirement. Just remember if you're having a buffet to check with the hotel/caterers and make sure they are flexible should your timings go awry - they usually do! It's much better for you to have your buffet during a natural break in the evening's entertainment, between Ceilidh and the Disco for example.
N.B. For any other queries or information please e-mail. If we can accommodate we will.