Jamie McGuire Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions which are aimed to help answer any queries you may have. If you require further information then please don't hesitate to contact Jamie McGuire via the contact page...

What can I expect to hear upon booking Jamie McGuire?
Jamie is an acoustic guitarist and vocalist who can perform a wide range of songs to suit all your entertainment needs. Although only 31 years of age, Jamie's extensive repertoire of over 250 songs range from artistes of the 1950's through to current day. Please visit the Repertoire page to see a full list of songs available.

Will the type of music be suitable for my event?
If you are looking for something classy and a little bit different for your event then an acoustic guitarist & vocalist performing for you could be ideal, and far more intimate than employing a full band. If you want a night where everybody is singing and dancing then look no further. One of the best things about booking Jamie McGuire is that he can tailor his act to suit your individual requirements; whether it be a lively atmosphere with everyone singing and dancing, or a chilled out vibe and something as a backdrop. Jamie can cater for all.

What about audio/light visuals?

Jamie does not need a lot of equipment to produce his excellent sound. He has a state of the art Mackie SRM450w (V2) speakers (for up to 250 pax) and Mackie mixer. And so you and your guests won't be in the dark, Jamie can also offer excellent state of the art stage and dance floor lighting including a KAM Par Bar which features 4 LED par cans which can be programmed to run different light patterns in time with the music, and also a Chauvet LED light which creates wonderful patterns of different lights across your venue. All very classy and completely different to a cheesy disco, whilst maintaining a spectacular effect. Jamie also has Public Liability Cover of up to £10,000,000. A Certificate can be provided upon request.

What about attire?

Jamie's usual stage appearance is smartly dressed (Jacket, Shirt & Tie) but if he is required to dress very smartly a dinner jacket and bow tie is also available. Depending on your colour theme, Jamie will do his best to match with his outfit.

What is it about Jamie that is so different from other acts?
Not only does Jamie have a huge passion for his work, he also cares about your event being a success and wants to work with you to make sure that everyone goes home happy, especially you! It may not be your first thought to hire a solo acoustic musician for your event but with Jamie you really do get something special, memorable and distinctly different from most other entertainers.

When booking Jamie you also get flexibility, and where other acts may not be so happy to be told what is wanted from their client, Jamie is happy for you to direct as much as you want. For example, if you are sure you want the music to be of a certain genre, you can request Jamie to play an alternative set of artistes such as The Killers, Keane, Coldplay, Oasis, The Kooks, Supergrass, The Zutons and Amy Winehouse. Or if a night of 'classics' is what is required then you can choose to have songs from the likes of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones & The Kinks. Or perhaps a little of everything?

How much does it cost to book Jamie McGuire for my event?

For Weddings, prices start at £150 for a Ceremony and go up to £250 for a Drinks Reception or Wedding Breakfast (depending on length of time required). Prices for evening entertainment for a Wedding and other events such as Birthday parties and Corporate events depend on the following factors: date, location, arrival time/finish time, travel & accommodation and number of guests. A full evening performance will consist of up to 3 x 45 min sets, full lighting and filler music i.e. the works! Jamie likes to think his prices are competitive and all budgets can be catered for. Please contact Jamie to discuss your requirements so that a comprehensive quote can be given.

What areas of the UK are covered?
Jamie travels to whatever location your event is being held. Events in the Essex area are covered at no extra cost. Other areas involve additional costs to cover for mileage and accommodation if applicable.

Can I book Jamie for an event outside of the UK?
All bookings outside of the UK will be considered. Additional costs such as travel & accommodation or the hire of any equipment (if necessary) will be extra.

How much set up time is needed?
An hour is all that is needed for Jamie to set up and sound check. Arrival, Set up and Soundcheck is up to 90 mins before the performance but this can be done earlier if requested though a small 'waiting fee' may apply.

What happens if proceedings start or finish later?
Jamie is flexible when it comes to starting and finishing as events do over run on the day. The important thing is that your event doesn't suffer so in these circumstances there is an allowance of up to 30 minutes either side of the agreed timings.

What happens if proceedings over run?
If you are having so much fun and you require Jamie to perform for longer than the agreed time, a charge of £75 for an additional 45 mins set will occur.

Will Jamie learn my favourite song for my event?
Jamie is happy to learn up to a new song for you if it is not already in his extensive repertoire of 250+ songs. A fee of £15 is charged for additional songs to cover extra rehearsal time.

What about deposits and cancellations?
A non refundable 20% deposit is required at time of booking. The remainder can be paid up to 7 days before the date. If you wish to cancel less than 4 weeks prior to the event then the balance must be paid in full. If you wish to cancel between 4-8 weeks of the event then 50% of the balance must be paid to Jamie.

What do I need to provide for Jamie?
There are no particular requirements, as long as there is at least one power socket made available. If Jamie is requested to be at your venue for a substantial amount of time then food & drink should be made available in some capacity. With regard to space, Jamie is comfortable performing on the stage or in the corner of a room. If you can swing a cat in the chosen area then it will be fine. (Please do not take this method of measuring literally!)

How long are sets and breaks?
Timings vary but typically you could have either: 3 x 45 minute sets (with 2 breaks of 30 mins or 15 mins) 2 x 65 minute sets (with 1 break of 30 mins). Packages are available as advertised on the Wedding page so please inform Jamie if your requirements are different.

Will there be recorded music played during the break?
Pre-recordable, or 'Filler music', will be played during the breaks, before the performance and after the performance FREE of charge. This is not a DJ service, this is an unsupervised mix of suitable songs through an iPod but you can choose the type of music and have something classical or upbeat, or a little of both. You can also choose to plan your own playlists via a CD player, iPod or Laptop which Jamie is happy to manage for you.

Can I come to see Jamie McGuire perform live?
Jamie occasionally performs in bars in the London & Essex area and is happy for you to come along to watch him live. Jamie is very approachable and prefers to meet potential clients face to face to discuss plans. It is also a good way for you to establish whether you think Jamie will be suitable for your event, rather than judge a CD. Please contact Jamie for details of where he is playing next.

Has Jamie ever cancelled a performance?
No, never! When you book Jamie McGuire you are not only getting a fantastic performer, you can also be assured of a high level of professionalism and commitment.