Why a Frequently Asked Question page?
The FAQ page is here to give you the kind of information most people need to decide whether a Ceilidh / Barn Dance, and The Jellied Reels Band, are what you are looking for. Hopefully there's enough information here to enable you to make an informed decision, or just call for a natter :).

What's so good about Ceilidhs?
It's the ideal thing for big friendly events, and those where you want people to meet people. With a ceilidh everyone gets to dance with just about everyone else. What better way is there to meet your new inlaws, relatives or the supporters of your good cause? Our caller gives you clear instructions and walks you through the dances so that anyone can take part. from kids to grannies

What should we wear?
Comfortable shoes and deodorant.  Anything else is up to you :)

How much do you charge?
It depends on a number of things, type, location, date and time of event. We have special rates for registered charities (pro. ‘Chair-ee-dee, Mate’) (We also have special rates for corporate gigs .. :) ) Please contact us for more details

What's included in the fee?
The Band with two of us doing the Calling (that's the dance instructions), PA and Lights (for gigs up to 175 people - larger venues need more gear and cost more) ... and copious amounts of Jelly Babies

How many people are in the band?
There are 5 members of the band but we normally play with 4 of us. We have two Daves and they can't always make the gigs which is why there's two. Sometimes we can all make a date in which case there will be 5. For really special (and large) dances we may get in a specialist caller as well.

How long do you play for?
Normally from about 8.15-ish to 11.15-ish with a short break sometime. Other times are possible

Are you available on a specific date?
Contact us and we'll let you know

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Do we have to know how to do the dances?
Nah! That's why we have a caller. The caller explains everything to you and shows you all of the moves. Once you start dancing the caller will guide you along and help you remember what to do.

What if we already know what to do and want a challenge?
No problem. We can get in a specialist caller who knows lots of the most challenging dances you have ever met. Fortunately the music for them is just as simple :)

Do you do Gay Gordons and Strip the Willow?
You dancin'? Yes we do traditional stuff - not always to traditional tunes though... 
If you have a favourite, just ask

Do you play stuff other than diddly dance tunes?
Yes. On a typical gig [Hah! What's that then Si? - ed] we play a mixture of stuff. We play traditional tunes for called dances, we will probably play some soul, rock 'n' roll and blues numbers for freestyle dancing and some non traditional tunes for traditional dances. We will probably also play some folkin' tunes whilst people are resting between dances. If you have a preference, let us know

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How loud are you?
We can be almost acoustic but it's not usual. We use a small PA for the vocals, caller and squeezebox unless the venue needs more. In general we will play at the appropriate volume given the audience and venue. We will always turn down (or up!) if asked

How much time do you need to set up before you start playing?
Ideally we like 2 hours but we can do it in less, especially if there are willing hands to help shift the gear

Do you need a stage?
It's not essential but it's a lot better

Our venue has a sound limiter. Is this a problem
Generally we don't play places with sound limiters because of the potential for disruption. Ask us for details.

Can you give us references to talk to?
Sure, just ask. You might also like to read the Quotes bit on the About Us Page..

Can we have our special tune played before you start the diddly stuff?
Yes. We have a CD player plugged into the PA. You can supply a CD or iPod play list for us to play in the breaks or, if it's a diddly tune, we can play it for you.

Can you add a fiddle player to the line up?
YWe tend not to do this but have a chat to us and we'll see what we can do. We know lots.

Will you work with a disco?
Yes. That's not a problem

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Can I buy you all a drink??
Oooo yes please!

Do you need feeding?
That would be nice. Essentially we need to know if there is food for the band so that we know if we need to eat beforehand

Why do you keep playing the start of Robin Hood whenever I walk by?
It's a secret diddly band thing. I'll tell you once you can play the melodeon

If you can't do our gig do you know anyone else?
Yes we know loads of people. Feel free to ask and we'll give you a list.

Do you have any tips for helping our wedding evening / fundraiser / party go well?
Oh yes! After all these years we have loads of ideas. Ask and we'll email you the suggestions list.