On this page, we've taken a few moments to create a "frequently asked questions" section for our clients who are planning to have music for their non-wedding special event or party. While we can't cover every possible scenario related to the music/performance here, these are some of the questions that have come up frequently enough to warrant inclusion on this list. We will continue to add to this section as time passes, and as we perform at more and more special events. If your question can't be found here, simply give us a shout, and we'd be more than happy to address it!
Event and Party Music FAQ
What are your live music and entertainment offerings for parties in the Sarasota area?
We're always adding new things to the mix, so be sure to check back often, or consult with us about music ideas for your event. Â We also have a pretty big network of musician friends. Â So, if there's something we can't offer you, we probably know somebody who can. Â Currently, David Turner Music offers the following musical acts and entertainment for parties and special events in Sarasota:
- Violin
- Strolling Violinist
- Flute
- Classical Duos, Trios, and Quartets including String Quartets
- Saxophonist with background tracks
- Strolling Saxophone with or without background tracks
- Jazz Duos, Trios, and Quartets
- Party DJ
- "Live Music" DJ (DJ is also a professional sax player)
What types of events do you play for?
Charity Events, Fundraisers, Corporate Parties, Anniversaries, Birthday Parties, Mitzvahs, Gallery Openings, Sunday Brunches, Rehearsal Dinners, Engagements, Holiday Parties, Award Ceremonies, Grand Openings, Themed Parties and Events, Sporting Events and Sports Celebrations, Art Auctions, Book Signings....did we miss anything??
Do you travel outside of Sarasota?
Of course. Here at DTM, we've done quite a bit of traveling over the years. And, while we prefer to stay a little closer to home these days, it's usually not a problem for us to drive up to a few hundred miles for a gig. That said, we're usually more than happy to travel to the following areas and provide the best music for your party or event, and will try to keep any travel fees to a minimum:
- Bradenton
- St. Petersburg and Clearwater
- Tampa
- Orlando
- Boca Grande
- Fort Myers
- Naples
- Fort Lauderdale
- Miami
- Palm Beach
Can you tell me more about the strolling sax cocktail hour?
The strolling sax cocktail is a nice treat for guests at your event. A lot of venues have a piano sitting around for cocktail hours and such, but it really tends to fall short for most events. When a room becomes crowded, it can become nearly impossible to hear a stationary piano that isn't mic'd up. Yes...you want background music, but you don't want the music to be non-existent. And, of course, let's not talk about the condition of that piano...out of tune, keys sticking, we've seen it all. With the strolling sax cocktail, your guests will hear great music coming from a sax player who is walking around the room and interacting, and playing to nice background tracks (coming through a small PA). It's a unique and perfect entertainment solution.
Will my guests at the party be able to hear you ok? Will you be too loud at my event?Â
We always strive to achieve a perfect balance when it comes to volume. Many bands and entertainers seem to have trouble with this, for one reason or another. We understand that there are moments where guests will want to mingle or have dinner, etc.. We also know there's a time to dance and have a little fun at your party, and we'll turn things up a little when it becomes appropriate.
How early do you show up for my event?
This depends on the act you've hired. For example, classical and string groups, acoustic music groups, and similar entertainment sets up pretty quickly...sometimes in as little as 5-15 minutes. Expect these type of acts to arrive around 30 minutes before the event, unless otherwise specified. For musicians using a PA system, larger bands, and DJs, expect an arrival one to two hours before the event, unless otherwise specified.
Do you offer overtime, if everybody is enjoying the party and wants to keep the entertainment going?
Yes. Overtime terms will be specified in the contract and will include both the rate and a list of the individuals at the event authorized to request overtime. I will only be able to do overtime if the appropriate and authorized person is requesting it.
Can you dress up for my themed party or event?
If I have the appropriate clothes, I'll try my best. If not, we can try to work something out. I'm certainly willing to try my best.
What is your policy regarding outdoor events, rain, etc.?
Quite simply, musicians and DJs cannot be asked to perform when there is a   reasonable imminent risk of rain at an event. DTM requires payment in full for all events, rain or shine. Additionally, the musician/DJ makes the call at the event site. For that reason, we recommend you have a reasonable rain backup plan in place, and make the call as early as possible, to avoid delays and overtime charges. Waiting until the last minute to move things inside, depending on the size of the musical act involved, may delay the start of the entertainment by 20-30 minutes, or even an hour in some cases.  Also, the Florida heat, humidity, sun exposure, sand, and salt spray can be very damaging to musical instruments and electronics.  This is especially true with classical instruments like violins and such (they can be irreparably damaged). In certain instances, we may ask that you or your venue be able to provide a secure covered area for the musician(s) and/or DJ(s).
